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
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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.
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!
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".
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.
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!
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.
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.
Mattitos is greatness. Gloria's Tex Mex menu is hard to be as well.
Great list. My two favorites, Avila's and Cuquitas, deserve their place on it.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Avila's is the best Tex Mex!
Ojedas tastes more like the frozen TexMex dinner.
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!
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.
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.
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.
Mia's, Herrera's, Desperado's are all great. Our fav is in Ft Worth -- El Rancho Grande. Great, fresh TexMex.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
Luna de Noche is out of the list???
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!
I love Mi Cocina----and their queso is awfully good!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I think that Enchiladas on Greenville Avenue and Downtown. Best Enchiladas in town. Plenty of choices. Great Fajita's.
What's up with Manny's Uptown Mexican? We went there today(Sat.), it's closed.
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!!
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????
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.
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.
I'm starving! What I would give for just one decent Mexican Food Restaurant while living in here Taiwan. Longing for Dallas!
Estella's in Arlington is a local foavrite . Cheap great food and people .
Did someone say Ripley Ohio ? You gotta be kiddin'
I will report that one as an objectionable post !
LOL !
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.
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!
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?
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?
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!
Seriously, give Cantina Laredo off the tollway as it is awesome!
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!
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.
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.
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.
Cuquita's is great but it's not Tex-Mex, it's Mexican. Cantina Laredo should also be on the list.
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.
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. :-)
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!
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.
PRIMO'S PRIMO'S PRIMO'S
Best margarita
Best cheese enchiladas
Best sour cream sauce
Go ahead... challenge that.
Coyote Anaya's on Oak Lawn at Hall St. Delicious food, good service, fun atmosphere and strong margaritas.
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"
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!!!
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!
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!)
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?
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!
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.
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 .
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.
El Chico is the original and still the best!
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.
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.
My Dad just showed me this list. Where is El Chico?
What about El Chico? It's a DFW Institution and the food is great! My boys love the enchiladas.
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!!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Gotta Stick with a Dallas tradition were it all beganAl. I go to El Chico for my tex mex fix.
Best enchiladas in town.
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.
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!!
Want great enchiladas?? want excellent Margaritas?? Got to go with EL CHICO!! its been my favorite tex-mex restaurant for a long time.
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.
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.
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!
El Chico!!! Gotta be the best fajita's in the state..
How about Omega's in Deep Ellum? Delicious.
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.
Primo's veggie fajitas!
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!!!!
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.
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!!
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!
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.
El Chico has the absolutely best fajitas. Everyone else has tried to copy the original, without success.
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.
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!
not easy to select just one...but Matt's Rancho Martinez gets my vote. Chile Relleno rocks the house
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.
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!
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.
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.
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...
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.
Enchiladas on Greenville avenue. It is great. I cannot believe it was left off the list. Great food, great service, awesome margarita's. Air conditioned patio. Great chips and salsa. It is never hit and miss. I should be as big as a house because it is true comfort food!!! Keep up the great work
Finally, a Best Of list that actually includes most of my favs. The only additions I'd make to this list would be Casa Navarro on Marsh & Forest (the continuation of a Dallas tradition begun in 1947 as El Taxco), Mario & Alberto at 635 & Preston, Rafa’s on Lovers, a newcomer in Rio’s Fine Tex Mex at Preston Royal, and Via Real in Los Colinas. Oh, and a little west of here it's always worth the trip for Joe T. Garcia's unique take on Tex Mex. I sure miss Arista's formerly in Richardson. Their salsa was special.
Best Tex Mex in Dallas would be El Chico. They are always consistant with great food,great service, and a great family restaurant.
I must admit El Chico and El Fenix are sentimental favorites - who remembers $1.99 Enchilada Wednesdays. I worked for Cullum Cos. and we ate at the Inwood Village El Chico's every Wed.
I thought the picks were pretty good. I love Avilas, Desperados,and have been to many of the other favorites. Don't know that they make my list. El Ranchito in the OC is a landmark, good food, lousy iridescent lime green margaritas. But the maricachis are what make it all taste so much better.
Sorry I did not see Luna de Noche on the list - great margaritas, chips and salas, and La Luna Tacos - my favorite.
I look forward to trying the others.
Dallasgirl there was a reason that Tupinamba's was not on the list - that ship has sailed - they were great in the 60' and 70's - no mas.
I have been around a few places all over the south and southwest and for a traditional fav of mine I have to go with El Chico, I love the atmosphere and theyve been doin it right for a while now thas why they are still around Im not much on fancy or fad food just good food.
I Must have my say! El Chico is not on the list! They have been a staple for me and my family for 16 years now. Somebody needs to finish this list!
EL Chico on 183 Irving has been my familys favorite for years. Their fajitas are simply the best in Dallas. Quality of their Beef is far superior to all others.
Me and family pick El Chico when it come to traditional tex mex, good stuff!
El Chico is what Tex Mex is all about. Anything else is just a copy or spin off.
For the best Fajitas I love to go to El Chico. There top shelf fajitas with ribs, shrimp, beef and chicken are unbeatable. They make excellent margaritas too.
All of these places are good, but as a staple for Tex-Mex in Dallas, my family and I were raised on El Chico. Between the enchiladas and the Cascabel Ribeye, you can't go wrong! They've been around for ages.
El Chico still does it for me. Family favorite for years and still the best!
El Chico by far is the best Mexican around--and believe me---our family eats at a lot of Mexican restaurants. When a new one opens---we try it---but always return to our favorite---ElChico. I order their bean and cheese nachos as a dinner. My daughter gets the Sonora. Other daughter likes the cheese enchiladas. They also have the best queso in town.
Did El Chico ask all their employees to write in or what??
mt @ 9:29 is on to something here!
you make me laugh :)
I can't argue much with this list, but El Fenix downtown has to be the standard that everyone else is compared to in Dallas, maybe not the best, but it is the standard. I also love Tejano's in Oak Cliff. Along with El Ranchito it is why I keep driving south. The stacked enchilata's, as well as the spinach and shrimp ones, are as good as I have ever tasted and the Caldo Tlapanea (mispelled probably) is the best buy for the money in the city.
Keep it up Martin and Sam you are the best.
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!
When I think of Tex-Mex I always think of El Chicos. My family and myself have been going there for years and have always received exceptional food and service. This would definitley be my recommendation to anybody that asks.
I first ate at El Chico in Tennessee and loved it. When I came to Dallas it was wonderfull to have so many El Chico's to choose from. And they are all excellent. No contest El Chico IS Tex-Mex. None of the others come close.
El Chico ROCKS. The best tortilla soup in the world. The best top shelf guacamole. I dream about it at night.
The best Enchiladas, Guacamole and Margaritas
can only be found at El Chico's. Service is
superb, food is served hot and delicous. I've
never been disappointed in their food.
As a native Dallasite. I have grown up on El Chico's and it is still my favorite Tex-Mex. My
grandparent's lived out of state and would always go to El Chico's the night they came in to town. My younger sister and her family still do!
I love El Chico. It has great portion sizes and is a good deal for your wallet. I have used them to cater several events and they are always A++
I have been eating El Chico for over ten years. When I want fajitas and margaritas, I just drive to El Chico, Always hot and fresh. Best Tex-Mex food in town.
El Chico has been a family favorite for years. The service is always quick and friendly and it's one of the best places to go as a family.
El Chico is by far the best. Their food is consistently great. Wonderful top shelf guacamole and their enchiladas and taco are fab. You know you will always get great food. Service could not be better. Always satisfied.
Agreed! El Chico has been and continues to be the best Tex Mex out there. I judge a Tex Mex restaurant by their Guacamole, Fajitas and Margaritas... El Chico is by far the best in all areas!
I find it annoying when restaurant PR machines (in this case El Chico) flood the board either through bogus comments or comments generated through a mass email campaign. It really changes the dynamic of the forum.
I love El Chicos Restaurant. They have the best Tex Mex food and the best service, too. Try it out if you haven't already!
I'm with you, Jami ... though I'm betting our grumbles will go unnoticed by the El Chico posters, who probably don't even read the other comments.
Lived in Dallas for over 30 years and love, love, love El Chico!!
I thought my grandmother made the best guacamole until I had a chance to visit El Chico's in Nashville. They make a "top shelf guacamole" right at your table and it is absolutely out of this world. If you have a chance to visit El Chico's try their "enchilada suizas" and "Four Amigos" margarita. I promise you will leave a very happy customer, I know I did!!! The service is impecible.
I thought my grandmother made the best guacamole until I had a chance to visit El Chico's in Nashville. They make a "top shelf guacamole" right at your table and it is absolutely out of this world. If you have a chance to visit El Chico's try their "enchilada suizas" and "Four Amigos" margarita. I promise you will leave a very happy customer, I know I did!!! The service is impecible.
It’s hard to find great margaritas and great Mexican food at one restaurant. But El Chico has outdone themselves in this regards. Flavorful food and margaritas that will take any stressful day you have away.
My husband and I have eaten at El Chico for 8 years since we moved to Texas and will continue to.
EL Chico's is always my Go To when i just can't decide. As a kid my family and i would almost always hit El Chico's for all our after event dinners.They continue to be best all around tex mex food and value.
I have been a long time fan of El Chico! Not a better place to enjoy a great Margarita, and the Fajita Burrito is amazing!
~Golf M.
I have been going to El Chico Restaurant in Carrollton since we were kids our parents use to take us there to eat,food and service is great,over the years it's been getting better and better,the new menu items created by Chef Lozano are the best in the area,the apple pie w/cinnamon ice cream and brandy butter sauce,scrumptious and muy delicioso!.
I also would vote for El Chico. Come on now. 60 years in business. Mama would be proud. A little concerned that people would think it was a mass email. Its a great neighborhood tex mex place with friendly people. The fajitas are the best.
It's my money and spend I it at El Chico. It's classic Tex- Mex with a 60 year old tradition.
I vote for El Norte!
Gimme, Gimme, Gimme El Chico!!! The salsa has great flavor and just the right spice! Their Chicken Fajitas are very tasty. I'm always impressed by the Top-Shelf Guacamole and Top-Shelf Quesadillas (sun-dried tomato tortillas!!!). And you can't forget the Warm Apple Pie, served on a piping hot skillet with cinnamon ice cream!!! The price is right and the service never disappoints! I grew up on this food and I'm a life long guest!
If it is just the wife and I, Primo's #2 platter with a Meltdown Margarita. Now if it is with the family, El Chico's Beef Fijitas can not be beat.
I love El Chico! They have the best Tex- Mex around!
While I only get to Dallas a few time a year these days, tex mex is the first thing on my agenda when I arrive. With all due respect to Jami and Bill, El Chico's is a mandatory stop for me. The flavor is an addiction for me. But I continue to do research. Love that research!
El Chico is the best. for the service and the food. especially the chips and salsa.
El Chico has been a staple in Big D and one of my Favorites over the years! It takes a lot to be around this long and keep up great food!
El Fenix is my Fav and all my buddies fav for their Hot Sauce and Thin crispy chips! I also love the fact they put dressing on their taco lettace!
Since I was little (and that has been a while!) My family always went to El Chico for a family night out. It is comfort food at it's best. The real deal with Mexican Food!
Amazing - El Taxco on Forest.....takes me back to the 60's... Our new favorite in Plano (Ave K) is Tino's Too. Great salsa using roasted chilis, Mexican Candy - (broiled jalapeno's with oil, salt and lime),Carne Guisada, Carne con Chile Verde (Pork and Tomatillo),Bkfst and homemade tortillas!! Tex-Mex???
oooop's you left out El Chico's! I have been eating there since the 50's. Everyone I knew gathered at El Chico's on Lovers Lane every Sat. and Sun.. It remains my very favorite Mexican restaurant. Love the new Top Shelf items that are made right at the table to my specifications! With so many new locations, I can now eat there even when I travel.
Whenever I want Tex-Mex, I always look for an El Chico. I know the food will be delicious and served by friendly attentive staff. The Top Shelf items are great and the food always has good portion sizes. Whenever my friends and I get together for a night out to eat and catch up on gossip, El Chico always makes the list.
I had friends tell me Escondido was the best Mexican food, my wife and I tried it and thought it was terrible. Escondido food was stale, the service was slow.
Elchico is the best tex mex food around the rideye is the steak around and the ench are the best
EL NORTE in Plano is awesome! Even Southern Living magazine recently selected their queso as being one of the best in the South. It's our family's favorite Mexican restaurant and always our first choice when we crave Tex-Mex!
I wonder how much El Cheapo--I mean El Chico--paid all of their employees to vote for their employer? A little too obvious.........
I appreciate the service at Escondido almost as much as the food (amazing chicken flauta, in my opinion). Maria is the most gruff waitress ever but we love her!!!
And I couldn't tell if anyone mentioned Gonzales in Oak Cliff and Pleasant Grove because of all the El Cheapo references, but if you haven't been to Gonzales-GO! NOW! Their flour tortillas are like pancakes. I've been going there since I was at least ten-I'm 36 now-and the food hasn't changed a bit! It's amazing!
In my business I've found El Chico to have the best Tex Mex. From Texas to Kentucky they are always the best in food quality and service. Try the Top Shelf Fajitas, the best I've ever had.
El Chico is the best in the metro plex hands down!
I love Tex-Mex! Its the best comfort food. When I'm wanting some cheesy enchilada's, I always return to El Chico. I've been going there for years. I Wish I could give it up, but I just can't!
El Chico is the most horrible Tex Mex out there, stay far far away!
my family been going to El Chico since i was a baby now a grown man i take my wife and kids. so as you can tell they are consistent on food quality at el chico.
I would not consider Cuquita's Tex-Mex not to take anything away the food is very good. Herrera's and El Ranchito on the other hand are good, but the best place for real Tex-Mex would have to be Gonzalez. Since my wife and I discovered this place, we can not seem to get enough. The homemade flour totillas are to die for. The only thing I wish were better would have to be the salsa and chips.
Everything else is what true Tex-Mex food is meant to be. Sad to see it did not make the list.
Obviously you are getting tons of opinions from LOTS of Mexican food lovers! I have been in Dallas area for over 30 years.....you will NEVER catch me in El Chico......I'll go to El Fenix, but my favs are
#1 Avilas
#2 Matt's
#3 Herrera's.....but greasy
#4 Manny's, Mias, etc
If there is one thing this area needs it is a reliable guide to weed through the endless options of the bland same ol, same ol Tex-Mex. Bravo to you for a great list. I'll eventually check them all out but doubtful anything will top Avila's. If you can't appreciate the greatness of this place that's just one less table for me to compete for!
We like to find new and different atmospheres with the familiarity of our favorite food...tex-mex.... Travel up to Denton County and try out Michelito's in Krum (byob) or Sanger (full bar).
Very good and reasonable price. Skip the newest location in Denton..
Stop it with the Matt's talk. Just stop it. It is clearly the most overrated "Tex-Mex" restaurant in DFW. Take that stuff back to Austin.
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I don't find any of the Tex-Mex in Dallas to be all that special, honestly. Beans are out of a can. The rice is, at best, a second thought. Plates are slopped together without care.
The chains are all quite poor quality. Mi Cocina is a scam, a lot of flash and no execution. For instance, the kosher salt [fancy, huh] won't come out of the shaker top because the holes are too small. A perfect parallel for the style before function approach to ripping off their lemming customers. El Fenix, El Chico, and Cantina Laredo [new owners=down hill] all have filthy dining rooms ....we haven't even hit the food yet. Bland boring, scoop and serve plonk that has no personality. Orders completed in a kitchen that is more like a factory fabrication a work order for faceless widgets.
Matt's isn't even that good...blasphemy! The Bob Armstrong Dip is good, when you can get it served hot. Rice, beans, and soup are served lukewarm and the food is greasy. Not that a little grease is a bad thing, but residual grease, like the kind from putting too much cheap canola oil on the flat top in order to "cook" something then it pools on the plate after the excess has run off of the food, that is not appetizing.
At least you could have put Joe. T's on the list.
I guess it doesn't matter where one enjoys to shovel slop down one's throat, as long as it make one feel good. And there is a large quantity of food. And it is cheap.
Enjoyment is very subjective.
ps Cuquita's is not Tex-Mex.
El Chico comments look suspicious. I would never consider El Chico with the many choices in Dallas. To me, they suck. SO many other great tex-mex choices.
El Chico was good - 40 years ago. Now it has gone national and is basically the "Chili's" of Tex-Mex. I think we should stick to supporting our locally owned mom-and-pop restaurants, if for no other reason than civic pride. Same goes for Cantina Laredo.
I vote Avila's too, no frills, but consistent, not covered with a ton of cheese. They'll be begin serving margaritas very soon!!!!
No mention of Matt's Rancho Martinez?
Who paid you off?
Love Herrera's and Desperados, but El Fenix should be on the list. Their chips, their tortillas, their enchiladas, rice, beans...too die for.
Tex-Mex begins and ends at Hererra's Cafe, PERIOD!
I've been eating there for 25 years and have never been disappointed. Best salsa in the modern world!
I haven't eaten at most of the favorites on the list so I can't compare them but, my all time favorite is still El Fenix. Best chips and salsa ever and love the Peach Margarita. I never order anything except the Taxco Plate, this is Tex-Mex to me.
El Taquito on East Grand! Best hot salsa EVER! True tex-mex from a true texas barrio! salsa is the best indicator of a good mexican restaurant. If the salsa is not good, I will not go back.
Wow, it appears there are as many opinions as there are Tex-Mex restaurants. I went to Cuquita's once and thought their salsa tasted like it was made with generic tomato soup, but it apparently appeals to many.
In Summary, Cuquita's is Mexican not Tex Mex.
If you like Tex-Mex, Mia's, Avila', Casa Navarro and Matt's are great.
Mi Cocina, Primos's, Luna de Noche and Taco Diner have a great atmosphere, lots of rita and beer selections, but not traditional.
El Fenix & El Chico are cheese and grease, that is why it tastes good.
You should not comment if you include Cantina Laredo, Jalapeno's or Chuy's on this list.
For Fort Worth, Benito's is great, The Original is not fresh and Joe T's has the best atmosphere.
Manny's has a great patio, and nice for sipping ritas.
Joe T's and Manny's have the best patios.
Tacos at Fuel City are great, but not much selection.
Cyclone Anaya, not Coyote Anaya.
Aahh, you guys do know your Tex-mex...Cuquitas, Herreras and Mia's definitely top of the line but you had the best of all the metroplex...Esperanza's... too bad its in Ft Worth becaus I dont get out that way that often but it is definitely the BEST!! Especially the B-fast.
I agree with Carol La adelita on military by jim miller is a great Hole in the wall. Excellent food at good price. You better have something to drink when you dip into their Salsa. OMG I'm going there right now!
Keep singing the praises of these Dallas establishments. It will keep the crowds away from El Asadero in Ft.Worth. The best salsa, hot hot! and fajitas anywhere. Located on North Main Street there are Mexican restaurants to the left and right of El Asadero, accross the street and behind the alley. We have tried them all and keep returning to the best. El Asadero, family owned and operated by Hector Villareal and his family.
Tupinamba's should be on the list. Family-owned, family-operated, family-friendly, and VERY GOOD.
Really not that picky is a fool. He only listed four restaurants when describing why he didn't like Dallas Tex-Mex, and they aren't on the list.
Then he ruined already lacking credibility by suggesting Joe T's should make the list. That place is the most miserable excuse for food in the whole Metroplex. The only reason some Ft. Worth residents insist on always glomming onto that over-hyped, worthless restaurant is because they get WASTED before they sit down. Awful service causes the line to reach down the street forcing people who finally get in the door to get plowed waiting to choose between fajitas or the family dinner with enchiladas and tacos. It's a tourist trap for people who don't know any better. Terrible food, terrible service, okay margaritas, and great atmosphere are the only correct attributes for Joe T. Garcia's.
El Chico's fans...you don't count. Loving El Chico's means you never leave your house or you are mired in a nostalgic childhood that negates recognition of quality. Processed cheese, dirty dining rooms, stringy meat, and generally oily, bland, mushy food explains why they found it necessary to spam this string with "opinions" from employees.
Also, if Luna de Noche or Uncle Julio's are on your list, it means there's either something very wrong with your palate or you don't get out much. Start with this list, and start branching out. It's not too late to learn.
Have lived in Dallas over 30 years, and keep going back to Luna de Noche on Forest at Central. Great food and killer margaritas and now crowds (since they opened one at NorthPark).
I have eaten at all Dallas restaurants listed with the exception of Escondido, so now they are next on my list.......
These tex-mex places may be good, but El Norte Mexican grill in Plano is amazing! As a person from San Antonio it is hard to find great chicken and beef fajitas, El Norte has made great fajitas for years and they have an awesome family owned, relaxed enviroment. Check it out. I promise you will LOVE it!
Really?? So sad what is considered "good" Tex-Mex. Bill should compose a list of true independent restaurants around the DFW that break away from the EL CHICO and Mi Cocina copycat version of Tex-Mex recipes. It is all fine to have enchiladas, burritos, fajitas, and the like but DO THEM RIGHT! What's up with the Nuclear Orange "mexican rice"? I'm Mexican, and my abuelas' rice has never looked like any of the restaurants' on this list. I think Avila's needs to be recognized for pulling off a great performance from such limited space and equipment. That doesn't excuse the lot of them for the shortcuts in mishandling the ingredients. We should expect more effort from restaurants and represent well the "TEX" part of Tex-Mex. It is the mom and pop shops that stay true to their food heritage that make the best food.
I love this best of series because you know that there is going to be a disagreement every time, guaranteed. While I sometimes question Billy Boy's palette, I think this list turned out quite nicely. This is without a doubt the toughest list to compile (even tougher than the burger one) and I think any one of at least 10 other restaurants around town could have been on here, but I don't disagree with a single selection.
So Bill, and I mean this, great job.
Why would anybody with alive taste buds settle for Tex-Mex when real Mexican an be had?You might as well hit taco Bell!
for real Mexican that will treat your taste buds, La Joya and Taco Dinerboth on MacArthur in Irving, Javier's on Cole, and Calle Doce on 12th Street--naturally-are all excellent.
For the lightweights ,I suppose Tex Mex will do, but I see no point.
Again, 30 yrs. and no mention of Tejano's in Oak Cliff, or Pollo De Oro on Maple.. Shame. I live in Hawaii now, but I cry for my TexMex. Born and raised in Dallas and the majority of those mentioned are trendy newcomers...if all else fails, El Fenix, especially the chips and sauce.
Avila's and Herrera's are both good choices, but where's Tipico's on this list?
Beans from Tipico's are DEFINITELY not from a can...you can taste the lard in them, and it is like heaven.
Their tortillas are the best I've eaten, and I grew up eating homemade tortillas.
Seriously...if you want good Tex Mex, stay away from the big chains. Go eat where the Mexicans eat. We can tell you if the food's good or not. :)
On any Tex-Mex list, you at least have to pay a certain amount of respect to the early players. For me it's restaurants like El Fenix. They've been steady for years, but In my opinion omitting the name "Joe T's" from any sort of mention in Fort Worth is ridiculous. Like it or not (which in my opinion the chicken's a little dry) you'd have to say that it's a great place to take visitors to the metroplex for Tex-Mex. The food is simple but good, and the outside atmosphere is fantastic. Also, they have the best Margaritas in the nation (prove me wrong).
Its got to be La Familia, in Fort Worth...The sign on the door says it all..."If you can find better Tex Mex anywhere, Go There.."....The owner meets you at the door, many times you see him sitting with the regulars, and the fresh salsa/pico de gallo is great...Its just a great place to go...Check it out!
BTW, El Chico Sucks people....give me a break
My favorite Tex-Mex would have to be Tino's Too in Plano. They have the best homemade salsa around! The owner there also will meet you at the door, pour your second, third or fourth glass of the best tea around, and sit down and talk with you,in addition to picking the fresh peppers to grill, right in front of the restaurant.
1. Escondido
2. Mia's
3. Avila's
4. Herrera's
5. El Ranchito
6. Ojeda's
7. Benito's
8. El Fenix
9. Matt's
10. Pepe & Mito's
Nobody should ever copy El Chico. El Chico tried to spend less money but copy El Fenix and Matt's, the originators of the Tex-Mex concept on a grand scale. El Chico is sick. There is nothing good about Joe T's, save the atmosphere. The nasty margaritas are plain and made with Juarez tequila. That's the cheap stuff you can get at a liquor store for about $15 a bottle. A vote for Joe T's is a sad, wasted vote from an inexperienced newbie.
Long live Cuquita's and Avila's!