Tex-Mex generated mucho discussion on the Eats blog last year, but one suspects that, like burgers, it's a subject not easily exhausted in this town. (We'll tackle strictly Mexican restauants next year, after we've combed the area taquerias in earnest.)
As for our critics' picks on this ever-debatable topic: I, being a Tex-Mex outsider, wanted more than to simply consult my colleagues for their opinions and recent experiences on this one. I wanted them to talk about their favorites in their own words, which you will find below.
I add four to the roundup, including two I reviewed last year that impressed me above many others then and continue to do so now, and two in Fort Worth that any Tex-Mex-loving Dallasite should find rewarding to investigate.
So let's continue the conversation. Post a comment in the area below, or email us at dining@dallasnews.com. If your beloved spot is not on our list, tell us what makes it exceptional and what the standout dishes are. We'll publish some of these comments in a print version, which will appear in a future issue of Guide.
Click to see our favorites:
Avila's
Located on Maple Avenue, in the heart of Little Mexico, Avila's may be the only Tex-Mex restaurant with fine art on the walls. The stellar food reflects the Avila family's San Antonio roots, with selections such as brisket gorditas in addition to standards like tacos and enchiladas. The quality of ingredients consistently sets Avila's apart: real dairy sour cream, ripe avocado in the guacamole, exquisite brisket, tender stewed chicken. The beans are seasoned with onion and spices and mashed, not fried in lard, and the long-grain rice is slow-cooked, not parboiled. Anita Avila still oversees the kitchen staff; son Ricardo watches the front of the house. It's been a formula for success since the restaurant opened in 1986. - Kim Pierce
Benito's, Fort Worth
It seems that with Tex-Mex, you often know from the very first bite whether the restaurant cooks to your personal liking. Benito's was that way for me: The chile con carne over the cheese enchilada was brighter in flavor than others, and the queso in question was molten white rather than processed (not that there's necessarily anything wrong with processed; see the Escondido blurb below). The chile relleno possessed a model collage of textures: al dente poblano chile, silky batter, a seductive rush of cheese. Spunky chorizo covered a tostada. This is Tex-Mex I'll drive for. Locals come here after the bars close for late-night breakfasts like huevos Mexicanos. Off the strictly Tex-Mex tract, the granddaddy of all tamales is wrapped in a banana leaf nearly the size of a shoebox and flavored with coarsely chopped chicken and mole. Big Mexican beer selection and a sweet service staff, too. - Bill Addison
Casa Milagro, Richardson
I didn't buy my house because it's only five minutes from Casa Milagro, but its proximity did figure in the deliberations. The food is polished, from the Mi Cocina school of Tex-Mex, which isn't surprising since owners Arnold Nitishin and Eddie Galvan both paid their dues working with the estimable M Crowd and its founder, Mico Rodriguez. (Mr. Galvan also launched the Luna de Noche chain with his sister, Lisa.) Sure, you can get a sloppy-good combo plate if that's your wont, but Casa Milagro's real finds are less-common dishes, such as its cabbage rolls, the addictive carnitas and its array of chiles rellenos, slow-roasted and stuffed with anything from brisket and mushrooms to pan-seared tilapia. The salsa has just enough kick, as do the margaritas, and the staff is unfailingly polite to my three-year-old son. When I'm eating out on my own dime, this is usually the place. - Kim Harwell
Cuquita's
Despite the gentrification spreading along Henderson Ave., Cuquita's refuses to gussy up its humble digs or put on airs -- and I like it that way. Expect straight-forward Mexican home cooking ranging from enchiladas, tacos and pozole (pork and hominy soup) to a few dishes livened up with beef tongue. All fine, but it's the hand-made tortillas served steaming hot and the fresh salsa and guacamole that pack in the regulars right up until the eatery's 4 a.m. close time. (Chef Nick Badovinus says Cuquita's was one of his faves for a light-night fix during his Fireside Pies and Hibiscus days.) One more thing: Don't try to order a margarita here. They don't serve them. Suck it up and order a Corona with lime instead. You'll forget all about it anyway as soon as the tortillas arrive. - Christopher Wynn
Desperado's
Desperado's has better-than-average standard Tex-Mex items: feather-light puffy tacos, pillowy tamales, on-the-mark guacamole and righteous margaritas. Where it shines, though, is in its inventive riffs. I require the house-specialty Desperado tacos (fajita beef or chicken melded with jack cheese in a flash-fried flour tortilla shell, spiked with pico and avocado) at least twice a month, and the crunchy fish tacos aren't far behind. This is the only restaurant in town where I bother to order a grilled chicken breast: The juicy, perfectly cooked white meat comes in multiple versions, either subtly flavored with achiote or rosemary or smothered in complex sauces. The daily guiso specials are worth exploring, too. The Desperado tacos always seem a little better at the original Greenville Avenue location, but the chicken dishes are tastier at the suburban branch on the Garland-Richardson border. - Lawson Taitte
El Ranchito
This Oak Cliff long-timer (open a quarter-century this year) almost didn't make the list because of its divided soul: It is as much Northern Mexican as it is Tex-Mex. But let's be generous and include it, if only to celebrate cabrito a la parrilla, the moist and unapologetically gamy grilled baby goat that is a Tex-Mex specialty in San Antonio. Classic chile con queso and combo plates like the Pedro Infante (chicken enchilada in green sauce, a soft taco filled with fajita-style beef and a cheese enchilada) quell traditionalist anxieties. I'm sticking with the Maria Felix platter, whose chicken entomatada (an enchilada with chile-less tomato sauce) and beef enchipotlada (an enchilada whose sauce contains chipotle chiles) satisfy both the food hound and language geek in me. - B.A.
Escondido
No matter how many Tex-Mex combo plates I try, my heart remains ever faithful to the combination dinner No. 1 at Escondido. It includes a guac-smeared tostada (it's always better after adding salt); one cheese enchilada, filled with the processed yellow stuff that melds almost frighteningly well with chili con carne; one soft cheese taco; one crispy beef taco; one tamale topped with chile gravy; and refried beans and Mexican rice. The shattering beef taco, in which the ground meat and tortilla are fried together before adding lettuce and tomato, may be the real masterwork of the plate. That chile gravy works its way into your daydreams, too, though. Mole enchiladas and enchiladas verdes also show off the kitchen's prowess. The lunch crowd from the nearby hospitals makes for spicy people watching. - B.A.
Esperanza's Bakery and Cafe, Fort Worth
As much as we love Joe T. Garcia's margaritas and that lush utopia of a patio, when it comes to Lancarte family Tex-Mex, we'll slip across the street for the food at Esperanza's. Start the day with feisty migas or huevos rancheros, or chow down at lunch on a combo plate of standards made from finely tuned recipes. The cabrito, quite different than the one at El Ranchito, is blanketed with a suave red chile sauce. And I am fanatical about the daily-made aquas frescas, which take these simple drinks to another level of pride and craftsmanship: The cantaloupe version, in particular, is a liquid ode to summer. Sadly, I stuff myself so full of chile relleno, enchiladas and aqua fresca every time I come here that I've yet to even sample the profusion of baked goods. - B.A.
Herrera's
This local chain's good and greasy Tex-Mex spots boast a national reputation, having been featured in National Geographic and The New York Times since the first location opened on Maple Avenue in 1971. While expanding south, north and into the 'burbs, Herrera's has kept it simple: Tex-Mex standards arranged into combination platters, pitchers of salsa on each table and spicy bean soup with dinner. For a good sampling, order the Jimmy's or Primo's specials, which include a variety of tacos, enchiladas and burritos. The basics are among the best (the cheese enchiladas have the right amount of meat sauce to counter that satisfying ooze of queso) but dishes featuring the peppery, stewed steak are a worthy diversion. - Shannon Sutlief
Mia's
Ana "Mama Mia" Enriquez and her late husband, Butch, founded Mia's in 1981. Today it's a mother ship for the many Dallas eateries spun off by Mia's family members: brother Manny Rios' Manny's Uptown; niece Gina Lara's Casa Blanca; and son Mico Rodriguez's M Crowd restaurant empire. But Mia's still has the "It" factor. Tuesday night's special of tender, raisin-studded beef chile relleno is so huge it nearly covers a plate. Carne asada, a thinly sliced marinated rib eye on a bed of rice, could become any steak lover's new favorite Tex-Mex dish. Queso and guacamole both are subtly spiced -- and the kitchen will make the guac without onions, if you so wish. Don't miss the margaritas, excellent whether frozen or on the rocks. Nice touch: Your bottled Mexican beer will be delivered with a frosty-cold mug. - Joyce Harris
Newsletter sign-up: 
Get Breaking News on your cell
E-mail 
Comments
Posted by SPerry @ 7:40 AM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
that's funny, i've lived in dallas thirty years, love tex-mex, and have never heard of any of these places. goes to show, um, something, i guess.
Posted by JWS @ 7:43 AM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
Yea! First to comment. Now - do
I get a BOGO coupon for my combo plate? If not, then I shouldn't reveal my fav tex-mex place, because I may be recognized!
Posted by Darren @ 9:31 AM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
LOVE LOVE LOVE MIA's!
But curious, is that the whole list? Aren't there any restaurants that "qualified" that start with the letters "O" through "Z"? Strange that it ended at "M".
Posted by Glenn @ 10:40 AM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
I'm a huuuuuuuuge fan of Mattito's. Sure, their "new" location is way trendier than their old digs over on Cedar Springs but those cheese enchiladas have never changed. Ooey, gooey, cheesy goodness. Your arteries scream for mercy as your stomach enters paradise.
Posted by Nick @ 11:17 AM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
I agree, this list is a little dubious...
I'll give credit where credit is due, I didn't expect to see Casa Milagro in Richardson on the list. Great food and STIFF margaritas. But Cuquita's is awful. Its more of the Mexico City-type Mexican food. Leaving Matt's/Mattito's off the list is like leaving Jake's off the best burgers list....Ridiculous!
Posted by Lee @ 11:18 AM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
Well, usually people complain about these lists, but since Cuqitas and El Ranchito made the list, I applaud. Those are my two favorites and really the only 2 places in Dallas for good Texas or Norteno style Mexican.
Posted by Lee @ 11:23 AM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
Nick, I know these things are subjective and you may not like the food, but Cuquitas is nothing at all about Mexico City type Mexican. The owners are from Monterrey and make the food of Northeastern Mexico, which is so familiar to those of us from the Rio Grande Valley. I take my parents there every time they visit. The corn tortillas are the stuff of dreams. I will go out of my way for their beef soup and for the machacado.
Posted by Matt B. @ 12:17 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
Mattitos is greatness. Gloria's Tex Mex menu is hard to be as well.
Posted by Bill @ 12:27 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
Great list. My two favorites, Avila's and Cuquitas, deserve their place on it.
Posted by Lisa @ 12:52 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
Where the heck is Matt's in Lakewood? We're talking TexMex here people. Overall, Gloria's is not a Tex Mex restaurant. I hear a lot of people rave about Esparza's but I think it is because they had too many of their margarita's. I found it a little in the blah department. Haven't been to Desparado's in years, need to go back. I'll have to try Casa Milagra as well.
Posted by sudek62 @ 1:12 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
Viva Herrera's! I love the 2b.. it's pretty much all I order. But it sounds like I need to go to Benito's.
I love Chile Relleno, but it's hard to find places that do it right.
Posted by Kelly J Kitchens Wickersham @ 1:20 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
Venture over to Beltline and N. Garland Rd for the 2nd location of Mexicali. They make you feel like your at home. Their Chicken Fajitas are especially tasty.
Posted by Betty Phelps @ 1:58 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
We just don't get to the outlying cities to the places chosen, but we do drive to Mesquite from our home in East Dallas. We think you can't beat Martinez for Tex-Mex.
Posted by Owlcook @ 2:55 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
I never understand the fuss about Avila's. It wasnt real special when I went there.
For basic family Tex-Mex, my family love's Ojeda's on Maple.
Posted by sdavis @ 3:13 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
Herrara's is my favourite lunch and dinner spot. They are experts at the combo plate style dinner known by true Texan's simply as a "plate". It reminds me of the inside album cover of the ZZTop record, Tres Hombres. Just makes you hungry thinking about it. My favourite plate there is I think the 14-b. Cheese enchilada, guacamole tostada and a taco. The tortillas are perfect, the chips and salsa are perfect. Cuquitas has the best breakfast in town. The huevas a la mexicana are insane. Gonsalez rates high for breakfast in my opinion and has the best flour tortillas in the world. Mattitos is horrible, Matts is great, Mia's is great, Ojeadas is great and suprised they were missed, and Avillas is great. God I love Mexican food, why did ya'll do this to me.
Posted by Nicole @ 3:41 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
Avila's is the best Tex Mex!
Ojedas tastes more like the frozen TexMex dinner.
Posted by LAG @ 3:47 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
We have been big fan's of Anna and Butch of Mia's since they owned the El Chico franchise on Mockingbird just E. of Central..... Herreras 14b is my absolute favorite combo plate in the city.
Great list!
Posted by Bob @ 3:51 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
The list really needs to be done by dish-for example my favorite for Chulupas & bean soup is Herrera's; enchiladas, El Fenix downtown; seafood' La Calle Dolce Skillman.
Bravo for having Herrera's on the list, though.
Posted by JKR @ 4:33 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
How could you possibly live IN Dallas for 30 years and not know of Herrera's, Desperado's, Mia's and El Ranchito? Cuquita's has been around almost as long and I think was into New Wave the first time I went to Escondido.
Matt's in Lakewood is the high temple of Chile Rellenos. Bob Armstrong is now being imitated elsewhere. Where else can you sit at an outside bar seeing your neighbors and old classmates and then decide to climb the precarious steps to the Lakewood Theater Balcony Club for a Jazzy nitecap? I can even stagger home from there.
El Fenix Downtown or on NW Highway is a communal event on Wednesdays. El Chico did the unforgivable and 'upscaled' the oldest store to a Cantina Laredo because Lakewood is now 'too-upscale' for the original (we hate that) - but Paul still works there after 50 years. Primo's is good but even better is the patio of the pretty and pretentious - a distillation of how Dallas is seen by the rest of the state (mostly unfair).
If Herrera's could only go back to the little adobe on Maple.. But then we would lose The Grapevine Bar.
Posted by JKR @ 4:42 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
OMG I left out Mariano's where the frozen margarita was invented. I think it opened in 1972, less than 10 years after Mariano left the hallowed halls of Woodrow.
Posted by clb @ 4:45 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
Mia's, Herrera's, Desperado's are all great. Our fav is in Ft Worth -- El Rancho Grande. Great, fresh TexMex.
Posted by 2bcb @ 5:10 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
The Desperado's (Garland/Richardson) is great for their combo platters. Dos Charros (Beltline and Plano Rd) best chicken enchiladas. Luna de Noche for great tortilla soup and shredded beef enchiladas.
Posted by Lois @ 6:02 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
So if you were brought up on Tex-Mex as it's done in San Antonio, and you were REALLY picky about enchiladas, where would you head in the DFW area?
Posted by Chuck Bloom @ 6:20 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
Uncle Julio's in Addison used to have good margaritas and decent fajitas.
Besides, I judge a quality Tex-Mex place on whether the flour tortillas are handmade and served piping hot.
My vote goes to numero uno -- El Ranchito - although Luna de Noche rates highly.
Posted by Thomas Lemons @ 7:45 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
For pure TexMex, the wife and I love Escondido.
Our 2nd favorite is Casa Navarro.
Herrera's has the best hot sauce & bean soup.
Mi Cocina has the best margs with Luna De Noche being a close 2nd.
Posted by snootyfoodie @ 10:01 PM Fri, Aug 29, 2008
As a few others have said, I really don't see how you can compile a Tex-Mex list and exclude Matt's in Lakewood.
Posted by Armando Delgado @ 6:10 AM Sat, Aug 30, 2008
Luna de Noche is out of the list???
Posted by Katy McD @ 8:58 AM Sat, Aug 30, 2008
When I want GREAT enchiladas it's always El Fenix downtown!! I love their tortilla chips, salsa, sour cream chicken enchiladas and the soft cheese taco. Oh man! I need to get my fix ASAP!
Posted by Denise @ 9:12 AM Sat, Aug 30, 2008
I love Mi Cocina----and their queso is awfully good!
Posted by Jerry @ 9:35 AM Sat, Aug 30, 2008
Two that are left out so far in all the comments:
If you are going to Tanger Outlet Mall in Terrell or on the way to 1st Monday in Canton, stop at Carmona's at Tanger Outlet. Excellent Tex-Mex and service. Also has a GREAT queso, outdone only by the Bob Armstrong at Matt's, IMO.
In Dallas, I love Pepe's & Mito's on Elm St. in Deep Ellum.
Posted by Jes @ 9:50 AM Sat, Aug 30, 2008
I grew up going to Esperanza's in Fort Worth. To tell you the truth, their salsa verde enchiladas have not met a counter in my travels yet.. and I love Tex-Mex.
I am glad to see that they have made this list, but in the same sense it was fun knowing one of Fort Worth's best kept local secrets.
It is worth the drive to let Esperanza's food speak for itself.
Posted by Sriram @ 9:54 AM Sat, Aug 30, 2008
Gotta put Matt's Rancho Grande and Mattito's on any short list of Tex-Mex. The cowboy style chicken fried steak is to die for.
Posted by CC @ 10:29 AM Sat, Aug 30, 2008
I used to love Matt's in Lakewood until they started substituting their cheese. I used to order a side of shredded cheese with my fajitas until one day they came out with a tiny bit of frozen cheese shreds. The fajitas were not as good either that night. I know times are hard on restaurants, but please don't sub the good stuff, just give out less of the good stuff.
Posted by Bill @ 10:31 AM Sat, Aug 30, 2008
Bravo Nichole. I totally agree about Ojeda's. Has to be the worst in town. Like a TV dinner or airplane version of Mexican food.
Posted by Charles @ 2:32 PM Sat, Aug 30, 2008
I think that Enchiladas on Greenville Avenue and Downtown. Best Enchiladas in town. Plenty of choices. Great Fajita's.
Posted by Wanda Lou @ 4:49 PM Sat, Aug 30, 2008
What's up with Manny's Uptown Mexican? We went there today(Sat.), it's closed.
Posted by Jim in Austin @ 11:10 PM Sat, Aug 30, 2008
Dallas Tex-Mex sux! I visit there all the time and am so grateful to come back to where the best Tex-Mex really lives, in AUSTIN, TX, USA!!! Dream all ye of the prairie of what it means to live, and yes eat real Tex-Mex, in the real Texas!!
Posted by John S @ 11:23 PM Sat, Aug 30, 2008
Pancho and Lefty's - Buckingham and Plano Rd. in Richardson. The place is a dump but the margaritas are strong AND cheap and they have some of the best fajita quesadillas around, serious.
Posada's (and the look alike cousin Jalapeno Tree), Pappasito's are all too expensive, relative to the taste.
Where are some other good hole in the wall places????
Posted by Sf @ 12:32 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
i used to live on DFW area, the best anywhere is Happy Enchiladas in Ripley, Ohio. When in Ripley...it is a can't miss.
Posted by themexcellentone @ 1:53 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
How did you not go to Tipico's over on Northwest Highway and Bachman Lake!????
The tortillas alone will make you slap your Mexican mama.
Seriously, Bill...you NEED to go there and eat to your heart's content. The caldo de pollo is second to none, and the tacos al carbon are divine.
Posted by Longing for Dallas @ 3:47 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
I'm starving! What I would give for just one decent Mexican Food Restaurant while living in here Taiwan. Longing for Dallas!
Posted by Barry DeWalt @ 7:56 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Estella's in Arlington is a local foavrite . Cheap great food and people .
Posted by Barry DeWalt @ 7:59 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Did someone say Ripley Ohio ? You gotta be kiddin'
I will report that one as an objectionable post !
LOL !
Posted by Liz @ 8:17 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
I think Enchaladas has a great frozen strawberry margareta, especially with the whip cream topping. But, the best Tex-Mex food I have eaten is at Monte Alban in Rochester, New York. Can you believe it? I have been there repeatedly since it opened approximately 3 years ago, and have not had a bad meal or experience yet. I go there when I miss my peeps in Texas.
Posted by Lindie @ 9:10 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Processed cheese in any mexican food!!! Are you kidding me! Blegh! When you live 1,000's of miles from Texas (now a transplant Texan) you seriously do not take 2nd best when it comes to tex mex food!
Posted by the frog @ 9:18 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Thanks for all the comments- we have some places to try and try again. I agree with the Ojeda's comments- last time I was there the chicken nachos main ingredient was grease! Gotta love Mia's, too. On a side note, I am still missing the Flying Burro from lower Greenville. It was New Mexican, but can't help longing for Winnie's Killer Queso and the stacked enchiladas. MMM, drooling just thinking about it. Anyone find anything like that recently?
Posted by Brian @ 9:31 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Herrera's used to be one of my favorites but the last time I went, about a month ago, the chips and taco shells were different. What about Gonzales in Oak Cliff with their enormous flour tortillas?
Posted by Judy @ 10:03 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Los Jalapeno's in Carrollton is wonderful. Chicken enchiladas especially! Family owned, one of a kind (no chain.) Herreras in Carrollton used to be great but the only thing good there any more is the bean soup!
Posted by Brian @ 10:03 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Seriously, give Cantina Laredo off the tollway as it is awesome!
Posted by bill @ 10:26 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Im shocked that Pepe and Mitos in Deep Ellum has not been mentioned yet! Their margaritas and delicious and the food is amazing! I recomend the fajitas and enchiladas!
Posted by TexMexLover @ 11:24 AM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Herrera's has the same chips, shells & salsa since the original location on maple. Best taco's in the metroplex!! Shells never break. Don't forget Joe T. Garcia's in Ft. Worth.
Posted by Forrest @ 1:31 PM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
It's hard to read all these comments and not see more of them touting the greatness that is Mia's.
Mia's is the gold standard of Tex-Mex. Their house specialty, brisket tacos, are divine and decadent. If you haven't had one, you just have to try it to understand.
Everything from salsa to tacos to enchiladas to chile rellenos at Mia's is about as good as it gets.
You like sour cream chicken enchiladas? Mia's has the best ones you'll find. The sour cream sauce is to die for and it goes well as a side on other items too.
Mia's rice and beans are flawless. I could dive headfirst into a big pile of that rice.
Another winner is the veggie quesadilla. Lots of good stuff on that one. You can't go wrong at Mia's.
I don't work for Mia's or anything...I'm just a very loyal longtime customer and wanted to give them some props.
Posted by JKBEAN @ 2:03 PM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
I've been a fan of Herrera's since we used to wait in the lunch line with a beer filled paper bag for one of the 9 tables at the adobe shack on Maple. Jimmy's special has always been my favorite. I agree you must include Matt's in any DFW TEX-MEX discussion, but I'd also expect to hear about Joe T. Garcia's in FTW. I've enjoyed Casa Milagro near my home, but another place I treasure is La Adelita on Military Parkway near Buckner. They have wonderful complimentary soup with lunch most days and on the spot Tex-Mex classics. I usually order the chicken chimichanga. Happy eating.
Posted by JD @ 2:40 PM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Cuquita's is great but it's not Tex-Mex, it's Mexican. Cantina Laredo should also be on the list.
Posted by jmeiners @ 4:37 PM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Viva Escondido, Mia's, El Ranchito and Herrera's et al.
I was happy to see someone mention Tipico's on NW Hwy. Primo cheese enchilada plate, good chips and salsa, and good breakfasts.
I like Rosita's on Maple also but it's a tad behind the places mentioned above.
Went to Joe T's last week with some out of towners.
It was greatness. I have been disappointed there a few times but last visit was so worth the drive.
Saved room for a concrete at Curly' too.
Posted by Donna Diorio @ 6:08 PM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
It doesn't get any better than Rupert's Special at Herrera's. Love the basic cheese enchiladas plus the extra guacamole tostado. This is a best loved takeout dinner (and lunch the next day) for me at my Carrollton Herrera's.
If it ain't TexMex, don't bother. :-)
Posted by CH @ 6:23 PM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Didn't care for Desperado's, Luna de Noche, or Posados... our favorites are Panchos and Lefty's in Richardson (their margaritas make everything all better!) for just about everything (fajitas and fajita quesadillas are the best), but they also know my kids and don't even have to ask what they want. Another favorite is Dos Charros... especially their spicy queso and Sunday brunch. It's not as "elegant" as Blue Mesa, but not as expensive either and really good!
Posted by Michael @ 9:23 PM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Ojeda's on Maple may not have the best food, but their top shelf Margarita is perfection. Thank God Matt's and Joe T's didn't make the list, extremely overrated, but you're supposed to love them. God knows why. For the best Tex-Mex, try La Familia in Fort Worth.
Posted by Lily @ 11:05 AM Mon, Sep 01, 2008
PRIMO'S PRIMO'S PRIMO'S
Best margarita
Best cheese enchiladas
Best sour cream sauce
Go ahead... challenge that.
Posted by Steve W @ 3:07 PM Mon, Sep 01, 2008
Coyote Anaya's on Oak Lawn at Hall St. Delicious food, good service, fun atmosphere and strong margaritas.
Posted by deacus1 @ 4:34 PM Mon, Sep 01, 2008
I love TexMex, but have never heard of "your favorites". My favorite is Mattito's TexMex Cocina, in Dallas at 3011 Routh, and in Frisco at 6129 Main, just east of Dallas Tollway. The beans are not "runny", the rice is delicious, Greatest Fajita's, thick, creamy, lots of chicken, Tortillo Soup, and the best Chicken Fried Steak (yes, I said Chicken Fried Steak) to be found in Texas. Try the Baja Chicken as an appetiser, or Bob Armstrong Dip for "chipdippin"
Posted by kbec @ 11:20 PM Mon, Sep 01, 2008
First, a little love for ANAMIA's in Coppell & FM! Excellent food and service.
Second, no CHUY's!!! And Chuy's special or the Elvis!!
Love Escondito's (been too long), Herrera's, and Mia's. Austin and SA can put whatever they want against those three and get a toss-up!
Also, love the salsas at Luna de Noche!!!
Posted by Truth @ 1:51 AM Tue, Sep 02, 2008
What Dallas residents need to know about Cuquita's is WHO REALLY FOUNDED IT. Because in that lies
it's REAL REASON FOR SUCCESS. Not the current owners. My great grandmother started Cuquita's as a house turned cafe on Harry Hines Blvd long before I was even born (I am 32) It was in this little house in "Little Mexico" that Cuquita's and it's owner known by everyone as Mama Cuca, became known by the Mexican community as everyone's favorite Abuela. I remember playing on the floor with my cousin, jumping from booth to booth, rolling hot wheels down the slanted floor. Her recipes, then passed on to her son in law, when she retired made Cuquita's what it is. He took Cuquitas from the little house by Pikes Park, to the bigger converted house on Henderson. I remember many parties there, and sometimes he would let me "wait tables" mostly for family. His ex-wife my Tia, was and is one of my favorite Aunt's and we used to go there all the time. His kids were like my brothers and sisters. Unfortunately over 1♦ he was murdered in a suspicious manner (it is believed by someone he knew), and ownership transferred coincidentally to his wife at the time. They were no longer allowed to use Mama Cuca's likeness on the menu as it originally was, but they fought in court to keep the name and stole..er won the right to use that legacy. I just want people to know how Cuquita's REALLY came to be, and WHO MADE IT WHAT IT IS, my Abuelita, MAMA CUCA, they still use her same recipes and I loved her food, BUT I WILL NEVER SET FOOT IN ANY ESTABLISHMENT THE CURRENT OWNER RUNS. Besides, I have her recipes as well, and I can cook them just as well here at home.
It has not been proven in a court of law, that the owners had anything to do with the above mentioned heinous acts, so my opinions and feelings toward the situation, or owners should NOT be taken as fact. I just choose not to associate or support people who, in my opinion have questionable morals. And I will always make my OPINIONS heard, even OJ got proven "innocent" in court, so hey in America ANYTHING is possible. And just ask them sometime how did they come up with the name Cuquita's? They will tell you a totally bogus story. I have proof of Cuquita's history, I should know. YOU CAN'T REWRITE HISTORY!
Posted by Michael Doyle @ 9:18 AM Tue, Sep 02, 2008
Great list! I love Mias, Avilas, Escondidos and Herreras. Like others who commented I also rate Mattito's highly. Looks like i need to try out Cucuita's now!
While not quite gold medal finalists like those on the list, i also love going to Cristina's (due to proximity - in my neighborhood); to Chuy's (due to nastalgia - i'm from Austin); and to Dos Charros (due to the large & cheap Sunday brunch!)
Posted by kbec @ 10:19 AM Tue, Sep 02, 2008
LINDIE, LINDIE, LINDIE - I challenge you to find a Tex Mex restaurant that doesn't use processed cheese in it's food. Cheddar and MJ turn greasy when melted, which diners disapprove of. Also, what do you think chili con queso is made with?
Posted by Liz G. @ 12:14 PM Tue, Sep 02, 2008
Aparicio's in Plano - The BEST hands down. (Not to be compared to the one in McKinney...ugh.)
Breakfast there is awesome - ask for Perla. She's the best waitstaff person ever!
Posted by JohnL @ 1:11 PM Tue, Sep 02, 2008
Another vote for Aparicios in Plano. Great selection of Tex Mex classics, along with pure Mex (nopalitos, taquitos guisados, carnitas, etc.) Fresh delicious tortillas (the restaurant started as The Plano Tortilla Factory).
As for waitstaff, ask for Miriam. She's golden.
Posted by Gary Golden @ 4:53 PM Tue, Sep 02, 2008
Where do we get our tex-mex fix up here in North Dallas ? Always, at the Addison El Fenix ! Have been eating there for 20 years and the staff always satisfies..All the plates are served very hot and fresh - the steak & enchilladas are awesome.Fajitas, chicken are a must have. I have at least 8 different selections that are always good.We top it off with a great frozen margarita , chips and salsa .
Posted by Tony G @ 5:50 PM Tue, Sep 02, 2008
I grew up in Dallas and it has always been El Chico for me. I have met several people from the Cuellar family that started El Chico. They are all born and raised here and love it. I have been to most of the spin off's around town. I call them spin offs because most of those proprietors came from El Chico roots. Some of them are pretty good. But when you want the original, you have to go to El Chico.
Posted by Steve Deramee @ 9:42 PM Tue, Sep 02, 2008
El Chico is the original and still the best!
Posted by Dana V. @ 10:56 PM Tue, Sep 02, 2008
I have to say the Guac they make at the table for you @ El Chico is amazing. Not to mention all of their magaritas are the real deal! Not some sour concentrate with tequila in it.
Posted by MTR @ 8:16 AM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
You have got to be kidding without El Chico on the list. I agree with the last couple of entries. They were the original. Grew up eating it.
Posted by The other Michael @ 8:34 AM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
My Dad just showed me this list. Where is El Chico?
Posted by Eve @ 9:29 AM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
What about El Chico? It's a DFW Institution and the food is great! My boys love the enchiladas.
Posted by Tracie Junior @ 9:36 AM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
I love El Chico!! It has got to be one of greatest places to eat mexican food, atmosphere included. I love the cheese enchiladas and my daughters cannot wait to sink their teeth in the delicious nachos. It is a great family place and we always have a great time!!
Posted by Mike T. @ 9:56 AM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
I have to agree with some of the later postings. I think because El Chico has been around for so long it is easily overlooked. They retain some of their classic dishes that made them great, but have added some new dishes that are really exceptional, like the Chicken Chipotle and Cascabel Ribeye for a nice twist on the Tex-mex tradition. I also have to agree with a previous post about the margaritas, another positive change that makes El Chico really stand out.
Posted by Pancho @ 10:55 AM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
Desperados on Greenville and in Garland. Jorge Levy was one of the first in the Dallas area for upscale mexican and they're still one of the best. Their Tex Mex is great also and the best fajitas in town. Great margarita,too.
Posted by Brita @ 11:09 AM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
What about Enchilada's on Greenville? Some of the best Tex Mex around, great atmosphere and great drinks!! If you really want the greatest margarita ever, go to Baja's in Grapevine on William D Tate across from Silver Fox, beware, they are the strongest and I've seen plenty of sick people in the bathroom because of them. El Fenix is classic, but weak drinks.
Posted by dubbs @ 11:36 AM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
Gotta be El Chico's for me. I've been to several of their locations. I've alway's enjoyed the family atmosphere and I love the food.
Posted by Al @ 11:42 AM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
Gotta Stick with a Dallas tradition were it all beganAl. I go to El Chico for my tex mex fix.
Best enchiladas in town.
Posted by Tina @ 11:53 AM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
Cafe Jordan in Oak cliff is my favorite. They make a chili relleno that is different from any I've ever had and just delicious. The chili relleno is always my test of a great restaurant. I love Matt's relleno also - the raisins and pecans with the verde sauce - yum yum!
Also love Uncle Julio's beef fajitas! I think El Fenix is best for enchiladas.
Posted by Jorge @ 12:28 PM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
No doubt...BEST Tex-Mex...EL CHICO!!! its been a tradition for many,many years. Great food, great service. You CAN NOT go wrong with El Chico!!
Posted by Kevin @ 12:32 PM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
Want great enchiladas?? want excellent Margaritas?? Got to go with EL CHICO!! its been my favorite tex-mex restaurant for a long time.
Posted by Datsun @ 12:36 PM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
I've been to several Tex-Mex restaurants in my life, but overall the one that takes the WHOLE enchilada is... El Chico. They just have the know how on Tex-Mex.
Posted by LeeDog @ 1:37 PM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
Absolute travesty El Fenix is not included in this list. Shame. It's like not inviting your grandmother to the family reunion. Just like everything else in Dallas, history means little, cool and trendy defines good.
Posted by Elaine @ 8:14 PM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
El Chico is still the standard for Tex Mex. It is consistantly good and the atmosphere is always welcoming. My favorite, chicken enchiladas, are the best I have eaten anywhere! El Chico has had it right from the beginning!
Posted by Ms. T @ 9:11 PM Wed, Sep 03, 2008
El Chico!!! Gotta be the best fajita's in the state..
Posted by CEW @ 12:56 AM Thu, Sep 04, 2008
How about Omega's in Deep Ellum? Delicious.
Posted by Rambo @ 1:27 AM Thu, Sep 04, 2008
It has always been an easy choice for me when it comes to Tex-Mex food. El Chico by far has the most exceptional food. Atmosphere, great food, and excellent service makes El Chico the perfect place to dine and treat your family to!!!!!El Chico knows that quality and freshness are the priority.
Posted by DC @ 9:13 AM Thu, Sep 04, 2008
Primo's veggie fajitas!
Posted by Ronda @ 10:50 AM Thu, Sep 04, 2008
I can't believe I had to read so far to finally see El Chico! I lived in Dallas for 35 years and El Chico was always a standard in our home. Most family gatherings took place at SH183 and Story Road. They still do!!! I haven't heard of 80% of these other places. Stick with what you know. Whenever I travel back home from upstate New York, #7 on the lunch menu is always on my list, usually several times. You can always count on the quality and that they will always be there. Great, Now I'm hungrey!!!!
Posted by JW @ 10:54 AM Thu, Sep 04, 2008
This list just can't be right, ya'll need to get out to Uncle Julio's. I for one, being a native Texan, love my share of Tex-Mex. And although I used to consider my staple dish to be cheese enchiladas with chile con queso, I cannot resist the beef fajitas at Uncle Julio’s on Lemmon. I’ve tried other Tex-Mex restaurants, but the quality of the food at Uncle Julio’s far outweighs others in the area. Their flour tortillas and swirl margaritas are hands down the best in Dallas.
Posted by Kathy @ 10:54 AM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
How could there be a "best of" Tex-Mex list without El Chico? El Chico set the standard for Tex-Mex. They are the best!!
Posted by carol @ 11:50 AM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
the absolute best in "hole in the wall" tex-mex is La Adelita on Military Pkwy. cheese enchiladas to die for. the best hot sauce & chips!
Posted by Fredi @ 12:04 PM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
I'm not sure how there could be a "best of" Tex-Mex list without La Calle Doce, but at least you've got Herrera's down. Some days that place just makes magic happen in the kitchen. El Jordan Cafe is another favorite of mine; probably the best Mexican breakfasts in town.
Posted by Jenny @ 1:44 PM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
El Chico has the absolutely best fajitas. Everyone else has tried to copy the original, without success.
Posted by Tom @ 1:54 PM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
The Top Shelf Quesadillas at El Chico are to die for. I have been eating at El Chico for 20 years and have found no other Tex-Mex restaurant that compares.
Posted by Bruce @ 2:25 PM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
After having met the Cuellar's in the 80's, El Chico still is the best around for Tex-Mex food & friendly people. Their fajitas & top shelf guacamole are truly excellent!
Posted by roger @ 3:01 PM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
not easy to select just one...but Matt's Rancho Martinez gets my vote. Chile Relleno rocks the house
Posted by tex abogado @ 3:29 PM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
There is no way El Chico should be on anybody's best list for Tex Mex. Horrible food! Avilas, Esperanza and Cuquitas well deserve to be on the list. Chuy's has the very best chile rellenos in town by far.
Posted by OldGringo @ 4:26 PM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
I have to put in my vote for the downtown El Fenix,Tejano's in Oak Cliff and Amigo's in Richardson. I have lived in Dallas for all of my 46 years and can still remember driving downtown to watch the lady make tortillas by hand at El Fenix. Tejano's is the only Cuellar family restaurant still owned by the family I believe. These restaurants,El Fenix and El Chico's,are where Tex-Mex was born. Casa Milagro Restaurant in Richardson is a joke,defintely not Tex,barely Mex. I work 5 minutes from there,last time our office went,our waiter was very rude and in such a hurry. There were 8 of us,I sat furthest from the kitchen and never got salsa or tea refills. Guess it helps to be a three year old. Amigo's in Richardson is really good,started by guys from Monica's. It's not really Tex-Mex either,but really good with cheap margaritas. Don't tell anyone about it,already too crowded!
Posted by Teena @ 5:05 PM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
El Chico is the place to be for Tex Mex: I know true authentic Mexican food and El Chico leads the pack. The queso is to die for with every bite you taste REAL cheese!also the salsa amazing, and the fajitas are mouthwatering. The quality of the food is superb, I always receive first class service, and first class food. Don' miss El Chico when in Texas.
Posted by John L @ 5:51 PM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
With so many choices for Tex Mex in Dallas it's hard to choose. I usually frequent El Chico. They are always consistant with great food and great service.
Posted by Dallasgirl @ 6:26 PM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
If you want good mex in Richardson, definitely need to go to Chili Gordo's (Arapaho and Jupiter). Family owned and happy hour seven days a week- yep, all 7 from 3pm-7pm. Great fajitas and potato quesadillas. Almost forgot taquitacos. Not my favorite queso, but the salsa makes up for it.
Also being a native Dallasite, El Chico is nasty. For authentic, longevity, and atmosphere, has to be El Fenix downtown.
Mariano's- the original that WAS in Old Town on Greenville was the best. The new one on Abrams/Skillman isn't even close! How can you be a Mariano's restaurant with Chicken A La Mariano??? Just a shame- if I wanted to eat at Hacienda Ranch, I would. Don't trick us by putting the Mariano name in front. Hate driving to Arlington to get great food and margaritas, but we do for the only Mariano's left.
I miss Flying Burro, too...
Posted by Dallasgirl @ 6:36 PM Fri, Sep 05, 2008
WAIT A MINUTE! I overlooked it, too. What was I thinking???? How can you have a Dallas list without
*** TUPINAMBA'S ***!!!!! Tupy tacos are the bomb!
True family tradition- the owners are still the same family- look at the family picture on the wall when you walk in. Across the street from Jesuit on Inwood near the tollway.
WOW! How did this get missed by all the others? Must be the "old faithful" standard. Forgot because you just assume everybody knows.