The Spread.

Oktoberfest Is Coming. So Is Salsa Fest, A Chili Showdown and The Newest Kitchen LTO Concept.

Welcome to The Spread, our weekly feature that aims to share all the area restaurant, food and beverage industry news that's fit to print. Except, this is the Internet, so space isn't a concern. Also: Good thing, because this is Dallas and this town always has breaking restaurant news going down like whoa.

For its fourth-round concept, permanent pop-up fixture Kitchen LTO announced that former Central 214 chef and The Naughty Kitchen host Blythe Beck has won its executive chef position.

“I am honored and thankful to be chosen as the next chef at Kitchen LTO and appreciate all who voted for me,” Beck says in a press release announcing the move. “I have missed Dallas so much and am excited to be coming home. I can't wait to cook for, hug and see everyone. I love this city, and I love this restaurant concept.”

In addition to a new menu, Beck's concept will feature new artwork from Dallas photographer Salma Gottfried. The spot will officially open for dinner service on Thursday, October 2, with a proposed menu of upscale southern dishes. Before the opening, specials from Beck's menu will run as soon as the coming weekend, giving the staff the chance to practice and guests the opportunity to preview what's to come, according to the restaurant's owner, Casie Caldwell.

Also this coming weekend: Deep Ellum play host to the first-ever Dallas Salsa Fest being put on by the Deep Ellum Outdoor Market folks. On Saturday, September 20, salsa producers from around Texas will be showcased in a celebration of all things chips and salsa, with a chance for attendees to vote for their favorites. The event is free to attend, with unlimited chips available with a $5 wristband purchase. Festivities run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in conjunction with the market.

Spice lovers can also mark their calendars for the fourth annual White Rock Lake Chili Showdown on Saturday, October 18. The public can enjoy samples from up to 20 teams from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Teams looking to enter must register by October 15 with a $25 entry fee, as participation is limited. Tasting tickets will go for $5, and can be purchased in advance at the White Rock Local Market information desk, or ust on the day of the event. Proceeds from the event will benefit WRLM programs.

Meanwhile, on Friday, September 26, all Norma's Cafe locations will be hosting their annual Biscuits and Boobies event to raise money in the fight against breast cancer. Proceeds of the day's sales will go to the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure foundation. The stores will also be selling pink lemonade pie for $2.99 a slice in honor of the event.

Back in Trinity Groves, a new sweet contender called Cake Bar opens this Thursday. The shop will serve southern-style cakes and desserts for on-sight and to-go enjoyment. Expect to find a selection of cookies, quick breads and pound cakes along with cake options and house-made ice cream.

In other opening news: Henry's Majestic, a new bar and restaurant set to take over the old Acme F&B space will be opening on McKinney next month. Expect a rotating menu, courtesy of Bread Winners chef Adam Kovac, who will be serving up dishes such as maple bourbon meatballs and Texas pho.

On the craft beer side of things, Oak Cliff will soon to be home to Small Brewpub. Think of this place as a full-circle restaurant that brews its own beer, including a black peppercorn pilsner that's to be a permanent fixture. The menu, meanwhile, aims for a southern-style, regional appeal, thanks to Misty Norris (FT-33).

Meanwhile, Addison's Oktoberfest starts Thursday, September 18, at Addison Circle Park. Enjoy a range of daily activities starting at $10, with free events on Thursday. Oh, and drinking. Lots and lots of drinking. Festivities run until Sunday, September 21.

Oktberfest cover photo via WikiCommons. Got a tip for The Spread? Email us!