Dallas, a city celebrated for its vibrant culinary scene, offers a rich tapestry of flavors, and at the heart of it lies Mexican cuisine. But let’s be clear, we’re not just talking about any Mexican food; we’re on a quest for the quintessential Tex-Mex experience that Dallas does so well. Forget the fancy interiors and avant-garde interpretations for a moment. We’re diving into the heart of what makes Tex-Mex comfort food, exploring those spots that understand the assignment: satisfying cravings with cheesy, chili-laden goodness. Think less about traditional Mexican and more about that beloved, distinctly Texan culinary offshoot that hits just right. As Patricia Sharpe from Texas Monthly perfectly puts it in her Tex-Mex 101 piece, it’s all about “American yellow cheese, chile con carne, and the infinite malleability of the corn tortilla.” If that sounds like your kind of delicious, then you’re in the right place. Here’s a curated list of Dallas establishments where you can find some of the best Mexican food experiences the city has to offer.
Avila’s Mexican Restaurant
Since 1986, Avila’s Mexican Restaurant on Maple Avenue has been a Dallas Tex-Mex institution. This family-run establishment brings recipes directly from the Avila family, with roots stretching back to Texas and Monterrey. The atmosphere is always welcoming and the service consistently quick and friendly, making it a favorite for both locals and those heading to or from Love Field seeking an authentic Tex-Mex fix. While you can’t go wrong with their enchiladas and chile rellenos, don’t overlook the pozole, a dish that sparks passionate debate among regulars – always a sign of a deeply loved menu item. Any time is a good time to argue over which dish reigns supreme at Avila’s, and trust us, it’s an argument worth having.
Casa Navarro
Located on Marsh Lane in North Dallas, Casa Navarro offers a delightful step back in time. Revisiting Casa Navarro is like a nostalgic trip, reminiscent of the days of North Town Mall and classic rock anthems. Having been reviewed decades ago, it’s comforting to find that Casa Navarro retains the charm and deliciousness that made it a favorite then and now. Upon arrival, you’re greeted with complimentary bean soup alongside chips and salsa, setting the stage for a hearty meal. Casa Navarro stands out with its incredibly affordable $10 lunch specials, available seven days a week. The extensive menu, boasting pages of options, is sure to satisfy not just your hunger but also nourish your soul, even those hidden corners that crave comfort food.
Image alt text: Desperados Restaurant’s signature lightly fried tacos, filled with fajita beef, Jack cheese, pico de gallo and avocado, showcasing best mexican food in Dallas.
Desperados Mexican Restaurant
Situated on Greenville Avenue, Desperados Mexican Restaurant lives up to its name with its wildly popular Desperados tacos. These aren’t your average tacos; they’re a unique creation featuring two lightly fried tortillas generously filled with Jack cheese and your choice of beef or chicken fajita. They’re then beautifully topped with fresh pico de gallo and creamy avocado. The result is a taco shell that’s wonderfully puffy yet maintains a delightful crispness, offering layers of texture and flavor in every bite. For first-timers, ordering the namesake tacos is essential to truly understand the Desperados experience. However, the rest of the menu is equally compelling, promising a satisfying exploration of Tex-Mex classics done right.
E Bar Tex-Mex
E Bar Tex-Mex, located on N. Haskell Avenue, is known for more than just its delicious food. While they made headlines for their humorous policy regarding customers smelling strongly of marijuana, let’s focus on what truly matters: the food. Specifically, the loaded queso at E Bar is legendary and absolutely worth the trip alone. Going back years, E Bar’s sour cream chicken enchiladas have even been recognized among the top dishes in the city. When you dine here, be adventurous with your order; the menu is full of winners. Just remember to perhaps air out your car a bit before heading inside to fully enjoy the flavors without any distractions.
El Ranchito
El Ranchito, nestled on W. Jefferson Blvd, is more than just a restaurant; it’s a heartfelt tribute to Tex-Mex heritage. Stepping inside is like entering a time capsule, reminiscent of the era when cantinas were the social hubs of Dallas, imbued with a unique, almost romantic ambiance. The décor, featuring vintage art and quirky kitsch, adds to its distinctive character, signaling a place that’s aware of its special status but doesn’t take itself too seriously. For over three decades, El Ranchito has specialized in comida nortena, offering standout dishes like cabrito de horno and rich guisos. Their whole elotes, lavishly garnished with Mexican crema, cotija cheese, and chili powder, are also a must-try. While the drinks are straightforward, they perfectly complement the robust flavors of the food. For a truly memorable meal, ordering the cabrito is highly recommended – it’s arguably some of the best you’ll find anywhere in Dallas.
Gonzalez Restaurant
Located on W. Jefferson Blvd in Oak Cliff, Gonzalez Restaurant understands that every dish has its perfect moment. For menudo, that moment is undoubtedly when you’re battling a hangover. This Dallas gem, serving the community since the Nixon era, excels in classic Tex-Mex necessities. However, venturing beyond the usual is where Gonzalez truly shines. Their specialties, such as the pork chop ranchero and cabrito guisado, are not to be missed. The tortillas, served piping hot and incredibly fresh, are a highlight in themselves. As Erice Mayne noted, “the beans, meat, and grilled onions on top of those warm tortillas are a match made in heaven,” a sentiment we wholeheartedly endorse, especially when seeking solace from a clammy hangover.
Herrera’s Oak Cliff
Herrera’s Oak Cliff, situated on W. Illinois Ave, presents a menu that might initially overwhelm with its sheer variety. Boasting over 30 combination plates, alongside appetizers and specials, navigating the seven-page menu can feel like a task in itself. For those seeking a quick and foolproof choice, the No. 1A combination is the way to go: a cheese enchilada, a tamale, a beef taco, and a bean tostada, complete with rice and beans. The beauty of Herrera’s lies in its consistency – you genuinely can’t make a wrong choice here. Enhance your experience by pairing your meal with a refreshing margarita, and you’ve got a guaranteed Tex-Mex win.
Image alt text: Joe Leo’s Fine Tex-Mex restaurant food spread featuring sizzling fajitas, guacamole, and warm tortillas, representing upscale best mexican food in Dallas.
Joe Leo Fine Tex-Mex
From the creators of The Rustic, Joe Leo Fine Tex-Mex on N. Fitzugh Ave, captures the same vibrant and inviting ambiance that their restaurant group is known for. The décor is a stylish blend of modern aesthetics accented with playful touches like vintage sombreros and tequila bottles. The lively atmosphere extends to the upstairs Cactus Club (open Friday and Saturday), offering a seamless transition into the evening. Joe Leo elevates traditional Tex-Mex dishes with modern plating and generous portions. Their fajitas, served with tortillas made fresh onsite, are a standout, arriving at your table sizzling hot. With an extensive drink menu, the Texican Candy cocktail is a perfect choice as the Dallas summer heat approaches, promising to quench your thirst and tantalize your taste buds.
La Comida
La Comida, located on N. Beckley Ave, is a testament to resilience and family passion. Brothers Ivan and Mario Urtecho, after closing their Addison location in 2019, triumphantly reopened La Comida on Beckley Avenue in 2023. Easily recognizable by the massive pink flamingo mural adorning its side, La Comida is hard to miss. Wednesday’s enchilada special, priced at an enticing $9.99 a plate, is a major draw. The food is consistently fresh and served hot, and the margaritas are known to be generously strong. The Urtecho brothers cherish their regulars, fostering a welcoming environment where everyone feels like family. If you’re in need of comforting Tex-Mex and a warm, friendly atmosphere, La Comida is calling your name.
Image alt text: Creamy queso dip at Las Palmas Tex-Mex, highlighting rich texture with garlic and herbs, a must-try best mexican food in Dallas appetizer.
Las Palmas Tex-Mex
Las Palmas Tex-Mex, situated on Routh St, offers a dining experience that’s a step above the everyday Tex-Mex joint. While famous for their spectacular hickory ribs, a menu item worthy of its own study, Las Palmas also excels in classic Tex-Mex fare. Starting a meal here with their velvety queso, infused with slivers of garlic and fresh herbs, is highly recommended. While prices are slightly higher than average – a plate of cheese enchiladas is $17 – the ambiance elevates the experience. The dimly lit, swanky setting of Las Palmas makes it clear: this is Tex-Mex dining designed for a more sophisticated night out.
Mariano’s Hacienda Ranch
Mariano’s Hacienda Ranch, located on Skillman St, is a landmark in Dallas Tex-Mex history. The original Mariano’s, which opened on Greenville Avenue in 1971, is legendary as the birthplace of the frozen margarita, thanks to Mariano Martinez’s ingenious use of a Slurpee machine. Though the original location has moved, Mariano’s Hacienda Ranch continues the tradition, now with multiple locations across North Texas. Visiting Mariano’s for margaritas and fajitas is more than just a meal; it’s an immersive experience, a delightful journey into the heart of Dallas’s Tex-Mex culture.
Mia’s Tex-Mex
Mia’s Tex-Mex on Lemmon Ave is a true Dallas institution. Known as a place where deals are made and stories are shared over plates of brisket tacos, Mia’s has been a culinary cornerstone of the city for years. Recently relocated to a bright yellow building just a few blocks from its original spot, Mia’s has successfully carried its rich history and beloved traditions to the new location. Even the iconic photo of Jerry Jones and Jimmy Johnson in a booth at the original restaurant made the move. Mia’s was serving their now-famous brisket tacos long before brisket tacos became a trend, solidifying their status as a Tex-Mex pioneer in Dallas.
Pepe’s and Mito’s
For a quick, satisfying, and authentically Tex-Mex lunch in Deep Ellum, Pepe’s and Mito’s on Elm St is an unbeatable choice. Even celebrity chef Guy Fieri is a fan, praising their caldo albondigas (meatball soup) and the classic tacos nortenos. The tacos nortenos, featuring mini corn tortillas filled with fajita steak, pico de gallo, and a unique house-made chipotle wine sauce, are a must-try. Beyond these specialties, Pepe’s and Mito’s also offers a range of traditional dishes, including pescado Veracruz, guiso, and pollo a chipotle, ensuring there’s something for every Tex-Mex craving.
Dallas’s Tex-Mex scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From historic institutions to modern favorites, these restaurants offer a taste of what makes Dallas a prime destination for Mexican food lovers. Whether you’re craving cheesy enchiladas, sizzling fajitas, or the perfect margarita, these spots promise some of the Best Mexican Food In Dallas, each with its own unique flavor and story.
