Tex-Mex is a fusion of American and Mexican cuisines, popular in border states like Texas. It originated with members of the Tejano culture, Texans of Mexican (or Spanish) descent who lived in the area before it became a republic, as well as northern Mexican immigrants. If you’re on the hunt for some of the best Tex-Mex restaurants in cities like Dallas and San Antonio, here are a few suggestions to add to your itinerary.
Avila’s
Avila’s is a Dallas staple and one of the most beloved spots in town. It’s both Tex-Mex and traditional Mexican cuisine so you can sample a variety of dishes — don’t miss the mole, which many say is the best in Dallas.
Luna’s Tortilla Factory
Breakfast tacos are a must for any great Tex-Mex restaurant, and Luna’s Tortilla Factory offers up some of the best in Dallas. Founded back in the 1920’s, they have been churning out some amazing breakfast tacos with egg, chorizo, potato, and more. Don’t miss their pork tamales either.
Manny’s Uptown Tex-Mex Restaurant
Avila’s is a Dallas staple and is one of the most beloved spots in town. It offers both Tex-Mex and traditional Mexican cuisine, so you can sample a variety of dishes — don’t miss the mole, which many say is the best in Dallas.
Luna’s Tortilla Factory
Breakfast tacos are a must for any great Tex-Mex restaurant, and Luna’s Tortilla Factory offers up some of the best in Dallas. Founded back in the 1920s, it has been churning out some amazing breakfast tacos containing egg, chorizo, potato, and more. Don’t miss Luna’s pork tamales, either.
Manny’s Uptown Tex-Mex Restaurant
Set in a cozy house, Manny’s Uptown Tex-Mex Restaurant is a popular Tex-Mex stop in the Uptown neighborhood of Dallas. When the weather is nice, head out to the patio, where you can hear live music. Popular dishes include the sunset fajitas — a mixture of beef, chicken, and shrimp fajitas with fish tacos and chile rellenos. If you like heat, be sure to try Manny’s super-hot pica-pica sauce and wash it down with a swirl margarita.
While Dallas is home to some of the best Tex-Mex in the country, don’t underestimate San Antonio. Not only is it the home of Tex-Mex cuisine, but also the charming vibe of San Antonio is hard to beat. Skip the flight and airport chaos and hop on a bus from Dallas to San Antonio to get the full Tex-Mex experience.
La Fonda on Main
San Antonio’s La Fonda on Main is a beloved Tex-Mex institution. It’s set in an old converted house and is considered to be the oldest Mexican spot in town. Sit out on the patio under the giant oak tree as you enjoy local specialties like chile rellenos and shrimp enchiladas.
Beto’s Alt Mex
Beto’s dishes have received numerous accolades, including the “best fish taco in San Antonio,” and “best taco pastor.” Beto’s may also sound familiar from its feature on the Food Network show Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives — Beto’s offers 14 types of empanadas, of which Guy Fieri enjoyed the chicken poblano most. Be sure to try some of Beto’s creative cocktails, including Pina Horchata or a Beer-a-Rita Grande.
Tito’s
Tito’s is located in San Antonio’s Southtown arts district. You’ll find locals love this place, especially the Chipotle Cream Chicken Enchiladas. Breakfast tacos are a must try here as well if you’re on the hunt for some of San Antonio’s Tex-Mex breakfast tacos.
While enjoying Tex-Mex cuisine on your trip to Texas, don’t skip some of the local drinks as well. You may not know it, but the frozen margarita machine was invented in Dallas at Mariano’s Mexican Cuisine!
This post was in collaboration with Busbud, but as always, all views, opinions, and calories gained are my own.
