A Tex-Mex Odyssey: Unveiling Dallas' Culinary Treasures
Tex-Mex, a culinary delight that needs no introduction, is a simple yet mouthwatering fusion of melted cheese, rice, beans, and a hint of spice. It's a comfort food that soothes the soul, much like a warm embrace on a chilly day. But here's where it gets controversial: is it a mere amalgamation of basic ingredients, or does it hold a deeper cultural significance for Texans?
This list is a celebration of Tex-Mex, a cuisine that has found its unique identity in the heart of Dallas. While we acknowledge the distinctiveness of traditional Mexican cuisine, we're here to explore the best spots in Dallas that serve up this beloved fusion.
Avila's Mexican Restaurant: A Tex-Mex Legacy
Since 1986, Avila's has been a stalwart in the Dallas Tex-Mex scene, with recipes passed down from the Avila family's roots in Texas and Monterrey. Their enchiladas and chile rellenos are legendary, but don't sleep on the pozole! The friendly, quick service at this family-run spot makes it a favorite for many, especially those on the go to or from Love Field.
Casa Navarro: A North Dallas Gem
Casa Navarro is a North Dallas institution, with a menu that offers a delightful mix of classic Tex-Mex dishes and an abundance of options that will satisfy any craving. From bean soup with chips and salsa to the $10 lunch specials, it's a place where you can indulge in comfort food and leave feeling both physically and spiritually fulfilled.
Calle Doce: A Seafood-Lovers Paradise
The Sanchez family has been serving up Tex-Mex with a seafood twist since 1981. Their signature dishes, like Camaron a la Veracruzana and pescado a la parilla, are a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation. With two locations in Oak Cliff and Lakewood, Calle Doce is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts and Tex-Mex lovers alike.
E-Bar Tex-Mex: The Loaded Queso Experience
E-Bar's loaded queso is a force to be reckoned with. Their sour cream chicken enchiladas have been a staple on our top dishes list, and for good reason. But here's the catch: no hotboxing before your meal! They had a run-in with some weed-reeking diners a few years back, and while we understand the appeal of loaded queso, let's keep it civilized.
El Ranchito: A Love Letter to Tex-Mex
El Ranchito is a Tex-Mex haven, exuding character and a dark romantic vibe. Adorned with quirky decor, it serves up comida nortena like cabrito de horno and wonderful guisos. The whole elotes, garnished with Mexican crema, cotija cheese, and chili powder, are a delight. And let's not forget the simple yet effective drinks that complement the food perfectly.
Gonzalez Restaurant: Menudo and More
Gonzalez in Oak Cliff is a haven for menudo lovers, serving up this hangover cure in abundance. But it's not just about the menudo; their specialties, like pork chop ranchero and cabrito guisado, are equally mouthwatering. The hot, fresh tortillas are a match made in heaven, as Eric Mayne so aptly put it. A visit to Gonzalez is a culinary journey you won't forget.
Herrera's Oak Cliff: Combination Plates Galore
With over 30 combination plates on the menu, Herrera's Oak Cliff offers a plethora of options to satisfy any craving. The No. 1A, a combination of cheese enchilada, tamale, beef taco, and bean tostada, is a favorite. And let's not forget the margaritas! Herrera's is a place where you can't go wrong, especially when you wash it all down with a refreshing marg.
La Comida: A Bishop Arts Gem
La Comida, opened by brothers Ivan and Mario Urtecho, is a Bishop Arts gem. With enchilada Wednesdays at $9.99 a plate and a massive pink flamingo painting on the side, it's hard to miss. The food is fresh, hot, and comforting, and the margaritas are strong, just the way we like them. La Comida is a place where you can become a regular and feel right at home.
Las Plamas Tex-Mex: Upscale Tex-Mex
Las Palmas' hickory ribs are a study in culinary perfection and economics. But it's not just about the ribs; their velvety queso with garlic and fresh herbs is a must-try. With a dark, swanky ambiance, Las Plamas elevates the Tex-Mex experience, offering a unique and memorable dining adventure.
Mariano's Hacienda Ranch: Frozen Margarita Origins
Mariano's, the original frozen margarita inventor, has been a Dallas institution since 1971. With several sister restaurants across North Texas, Mariano's is a go-to spot for margaritas and fajitas. The story of how owner Mariano Martinez invented the frozen margarita with a Slurpee machine is a testament to innovation and culinary creativity.
Mia's Tex-Mex: A Dallas Legend
Mia's is a Dallas legend, a place where deals are made over plates of brisket tacos. Their move to a bright yellow building a few years ago didn't diminish their legendary status; in fact, they brought their history with them, including a photo of Jerry Jones and Jimmy Johnson. Tom Landry, a big fan, would be proud.
Pepe's and Mito's: Deep Ellum Casual Dining
For a quick lunch in Deep Ellum, Pepe's and Mito's is a goldmine. Guy Fieri agrees, loving their caldo albondigas and classic tacos nortenos. With a mix of traditional and innovative dishes, including pescado Veracruz, guiso, and pollo a chipotle, it's a place where you can satisfy your Tex-Mex cravings and explore authentic Mexican flavors.
RJ's Mexican Cuisine: West End Gem
RJ's, located in the West End, is a hidden gem with a twist on traditional dishes. Their fast and doting service, along with happy hour deals and weekday lunch specials, make it a popular spot. While their Tex-Mex plates are excellent, we recommend trying anything with steak for a truly memorable dining experience.
Tipico's: Bachman Lake's Tex-Mex Haven
Tipico's, discovered after a reader tip, offers a mix of authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. Their menudo, lengua, and guisada are a testament to their authenticity, while their taquitos and nachos are a delight for Tex-Mex lovers. With friendly, fast service and in-house made chips and salsas, it's a place worth waiting for during peak hours.
