Texas is renowned for its delectable Tex-Mex cuisine, a fusion of Mexican and American flavors that has become a staple of the Lone Star State’s culinary landscape. From sizzling fajitas to cheesy enchiladas, Tex-Mex dishes have captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike.
The best Tex-Mex restaurants in Texas offer a tantalizing array of iconic dishes, each with its own unique twist on traditional recipes. These establishments can be found throughout the state, from bustling cities to small towns, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Tex-Mex culture. Whether seeking family-owned eateries with decades of history or innovative chefs pushing the boundaries of flavor, Texas has something to satisfy every Tex-Mex craving.
1) Torchy’s Tacos
Torchy’s Tacos has become a Tex-Mex sensation in Texas and beyond. Starting as a food truck in Austin, it has expanded to over 100 locations across multiple states.
The chain is known for its innovative and quirky taco creations. Menu favorites include the Democrat, the Republican, and the Trailer Park, each offering a unique flavor profile.
Torchy’s commitment to quality ingredients sets it apart. They use fresh, made-to-order components in their tacos, ensuring a consistently delicious experience.
The restaurant’s green chile queso has gained a cult following among customers. It’s a must-try accompaniment to any taco order.
Torchy’s has received national recognition for its fast-casual dining concept. USA Today readers recently ranked it as the second-best fast-casual restaurant in the country.
The chain’s success stems from its ability to blend traditional Tex-Mex flavors with creative twists. This approach appeals to both taco purists and those seeking adventurous options.
Contact: www.torchystacos.com
Headquarters: 1822B South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78704
2) Pappasito’s Cantina
Pappasito’s Cantina has earned a reputation as one of the best Tex-Mex restaurants in Texas. This popular chain, originally from Houston, has been serving “Legendary Tex-Mex” for over three decades.
The restaurant is famous for its sizzling fajitas, which are a must-try for any visitor. Their hand-crafted margaritas perfectly complement the flavorful dishes on offer.
One standout item on the menu is the shrimp brochette. This dish features bacon-wrapped shrimp stuffed with cheese and fresh jalapeño, served on a sizzling fajita platter.
Pappasito’s is also known for its excellent chips and homemade salsa. These appetizers set the tone for a satisfying Tex-Mex dining experience.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality, freshness, and flavor has kept customers coming back for years. Whether you’re in the mood for nachos, fajitas, or their signature shrimp brochette, Pappasito’s Cantina delivers consistently delicious Tex-Mex cuisine.
Pappasito’s Cantina, 10433 Lombardy Ln, Dallas, TX 75220. Website: pappasitos.com
3) Chuy’s
Chuy’s has become a Tex-Mex institution in Texas since its founding in Austin in 1982. The restaurant chain is known for its quirky atmosphere and generous portions of made-from-scratch dishes.
Chuy’s menu features Tex-Mex classics like enchiladas, fajitas, and burritos. Their signature dishes include the Elvis Green Chile Fried Chicken and the Chicka-Chicka Boom-Boom Enchiladas.
The restaurant’s decor is eclectic, often featuring colorful art, Elvis memorabilia, and custom-designed metal palm trees. This unique ambiance contributes to the overall dining experience.
Chuy’s is also famous for its fresh-squeezed lime juice margaritas and creamy jalapeño dip, which has garnered a loyal following among patrons.
With multiple locations across Texas, Chuy’s offers a consistent Tex-Mex experience that appeals to both locals and visitors. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch dishes sets it apart in the competitive Tex-Mex landscape.
Contact: 1-888-HEY-CHUY
Website: www.chuys.com
4) Matt’s El Rancho
Matt’s El Rancho stands as an Austin institution, serving Tex-Mex favorites since 1952. This family-owned restaurant has become a local staple, known for its scratch-made dishes and warm atmosphere.
The restaurant’s history dates back to 1923 when Matt Martinez, at just six years old, began selling tamales from a wooden pushcart near the Texas Capitol. This humble start laid the foundation for what would become a Tex-Mex empire.
Matt’s El Rancho is famous for its homemade tortillas, prepared fresh daily. Their menu features classic Tex-Mex dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and burritos, alongside crowd-pleasers such as queso and nachos.
The Martinez family continues to uphold their legacy of delicious food and traditional service. Their commitment to quality and community has kept patrons returning for generations.
Located on South Lamar, Matt’s El Rancho offers a taste of authentic Tex-Mex in a welcoming environment. It remains a must-visit destination for both Austin locals and visitors alike.
Matt’s El Rancho: 2613 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
Phone: (512) 462-9333
Website: www.mattselrancho.com
5) Hugo’s
Hugo’s stands out as a premier destination for upscale Mexican cuisine in Houston, Texas. Chef Hugo Ortega’s award-winning restaurant offers a refined take on authentic interior Mexican dishes.
The menu features specialties like grilled octopus and braised suckling pig, showcasing the depth and complexity of Mexican flavors. Hand-shaken margaritas and an extensive tequila selection complement the food offerings.
Diners praise Hugo’s for its festive atmosphere and attentive service. The restaurant’s stylish hacienda-inspired decor creates an elegant yet welcoming ambiance.
While not strictly Tex-Mex, Hugo’s represents the evolution of Mexican cuisine in Texas. It elevates traditional recipes with high-quality ingredients and expert technique.
Hugo’s has garnered numerous accolades and maintains a loyal following among Houston food enthusiasts. Its popularity often leads to packed dining rooms, so reservations are recommended.
Hugo’s: 1600 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006. Phone: 713-524-7744. Website: www.hugosrestaurant.net
6) Fonda San Miguel
Fonda San Miguel stands out as a premier upscale Tex-Mex restaurant in Austin, Texas. Known for its authentic interior Mexican cuisine, the establishment has garnered praise from both locals and critics alike.
The restaurant’s menu showcases dishes from various culinary epicenters of Mexico, including Oaxaca, Puebla, Veracruz, and Yucatan. This focus on regional specialties sets Fonda San Miguel apart from typical Tex-Mex eateries.
Many of the recipes at Fonda San Miguel were inspired by renowned Mexican cuisine expert Diana Kennedy. The restaurant’s commitment to authentic flavors and techniques has earned it recognition as one of the best Mexican restaurants in Texas.
Fonda San Miguel offers a sophisticated dining experience, making it an ideal choice for special occasions or upscale date nights. The restaurant’s ambiance is enhanced by its impressive collection of Mexican art.
Visitors can find Fonda San Miguel at 2330 W North Loop Blvd, Austin, TX 78756. For reservations or inquiries, the restaurant can be reached at 512-459-4121.
7) Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia
Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia stands as a San Antonio institution, serving authentic Tex-Mex cuisine since 1941. Located in the heart of Market Square, this family-owned restaurant has grown from a small three-table cafe to a sprawling 500-seat establishment.
The restaurant’s longevity speaks to its popularity among both locals and tourists. Mi Tierra offers a vast menu of Tex-Mex favorites, prepared with time-honored recipes passed down through generations of the Cortez family.
Open 24 hours a day, Mi Tierra provides a festive atmosphere with colorful decorations and live mariachi music. The attached bakery produces fresh pan dulce and other Mexican pastries daily.
Visitors can expect to find classic dishes like enchiladas, tamales, and fajitas alongside Tex-Mex staples such as nachos and chalupas. The restaurant’s breakfast menu, featuring items like huevos rancheros and migas, is particularly popular.
Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia: 218 Produce Row, San Antonio, TX 78207. Phone: (210) 225-1262. Website: www.mitierracafe.com
8) La Margarita Restaurant
La Margarita Restaurant has been serving authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine since 1988. Located in Round Rock, Texas, this family-friendly establishment offers a warm atmosphere and fresh, made-from-scratch dishes.
The restaurant’s menu features classic Tex-Mex favorites like fajitas, tacos, and of course, margaritas. La Margarita takes pride in preparing all their food fresh daily, ensuring a delicious dining experience for customers.
In San Antonio’s Market Square, another La Margarita location opened in 1981. This restaurant is part of the same family that owns Mi Tierra, a San Antonio staple since 1941.
Both locations of La Margarita continue to attract locals and tourists alike with their flavorful Tex-Mex offerings and inviting ambiance.
La Margarita Restaurant (Round Rock location)
Address: Round Rock, TX 78681
Phone: 512-388-1103
9) El Tiempo Cantina
El Tiempo Cantina stands as a prominent Tex-Mex establishment in Houston, Texas. The restaurant’s roots trace back to the family that popularized fajitas in the United States over 65 years ago.
El Tiempo Cantina prides itself on serving quality Tex-Mex cuisine and what they claim to be the best margaritas in Houston. Their commitment to authenticity is evident in their scratch-made approach to cooking.
From tortillas to salad dressings, salsas to desserts, every item on the menu is prepared fresh in-house. This dedication to quality extends to their signature dishes, including their renowned fajitas and Texas red chili.
The restaurant’s atmosphere aims to make guests feel like part of the family, carrying on the tradition of impeccable customer service instilled by Mama Ninfa years ago.
El Tiempo Cantina has multiple locations throughout the Houston area, including The Woodlands and Webster. They also recently expanded to Arlington, bringing their Houston-style Tex-Mex to a new market.
Contact: Multiple locations in Houston area
Website: www.eltiempocantina.com
10) Honchos: The House of Churros
Honchos brings a unique twist to the Tex-Mex dessert scene with its focus on churros. This San Antonio establishment has gained popularity for its innovative approach to the classic Mexican treat.
Honchos offers a variety of churro styles, including filled, mini, and frozen options. Their menu features creative flavors and toppings that elevate the traditional churro experience.
The business started as a food truck in 2016, quickly gaining traction in the Medical Center Area. Its success led to the opening of a brick-and-mortar location, expanding their reach and menu offerings.
Honchos has received local recognition, winning “Best Churros” in San Antonio Current for 2023 and 2024. Their commitment to quality and inventive flavors has earned them features on local television programs.
Visitors can enjoy churros paired with ice cream, coffee, and other beverages. The shop also offers a retail section for churro-related merchandise.
Honchos: The House of Churros
Address: 6421 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
Phone: (210) 760-0377
Website: honchoschurros.com
History of Tex-Mex Cuisine
Tex-Mex cuisine emerged from a rich blending of culinary traditions in Texas over several centuries. This unique fusion arose through interactions between Spanish settlers, Native Americans, and European immigrants.
Origins and Evolution
Tex-Mex traces its roots to the 16th century when Spanish explorers arrived in present-day Texas. The cuisine developed as a combination of local cooking practices and new ingredients introduced by immigrants.
In the early 1800s, American settlers, Mexicans, and Native Americans coexisted in the region, contributing to the culinary melting pot. Traditional Mexican dishes adapted to include locally available ingredients and cooking methods.
The term “Tex-Mex” originated as an abbreviation for the Texas and Mexican Railroad in the 1870s. It was later applied to the distinctive regional cuisine that had evolved.
Cultural Influences
Spanish settlers brought cattle ranching to Texas, introducing beef as a staple in the local diet. This led to the creation of iconic Tex-Mex dishes like fajitas and chili con carne.
Native American influences contributed corn-based foods like tortillas and tamales. European immigrants added their own culinary traditions to the mix.
By the late 1800s, Tex-Mex had become a prominent feature of Texan culture. Dishes like nachos and chili con queso gained popularity, spreading beyond state borders.
Today, Tex-Mex is enjoyed throughout the United States, with chain restaurants making it widely accessible. The cuisine continues to evolve, reflecting its dynamic cultural heritage.
Key Ingredients in Tex-Mex
Tex-Mex cuisine blends Mexican flavors with Texan influences, creating a unique culinary experience. The key ingredients define the bold and savory profile of this popular style of cooking.
Spices and Seasonings
Cumin stands out as a signature spice in Tex-Mex dishes, imparting an earthy, warm flavor. Chili powder, often a blend of ground chili peppers and other spices, adds heat and depth to many recipes.
Garlic and onion provide a aromatic base for sauces and marinades. Oregano and cilantro contribute fresh, herbal notes to various dishes.
Jalapeños and other chili peppers bring varying levels of heat and are used fresh, pickled, or dried. Salt and black pepper are essential for balancing flavors.
Traditional Dishes
Beef and chicken are staple proteins in Tex-Mex cooking, featured in fajitas, tacos, and enchiladas. Refried beans, made from pinto or black beans, serve as a common side dish or filling.
Cheese plays a crucial role, with yellow cheddar and queso fresco being popular choices. Corn and flour tortillas form the base for many dishes, including burritos and quesadillas.
Tomatoes, both fresh and canned, are used in salsas and sauces. Avocados, often mashed into guacamole, add creaminess to many meals.
Sour cream and shredded lettuce frequently top dishes, providing contrast in texture and temperature.