Houston Tex-Mex: 29 restaurants you have to try …

    Comments

    SSP_PREZ Thu, 05/14/2009 - 12:49pm

    What about Chapultepec? This place is a true hidden gem here in town. With great food, cheap prices and an odd collection of music on the jukebox, this place rocks!

    Anonymous Wed, 04/28/2010 - 7:17pm

    I recently discovered Chapultapec and have to agree that it's one of the greats. They have a margarita list that's longer that many restaurants' wine lists. With Chapultapec, Tapatilan, and Maria Selma, I rarely eat Mexican other than on Richmond in Montrose.

    Anonymous Mon, 07/19/2010 - 3:59pm

    wouldn't Chapultapec be considered more Authentic Mexican than Tex-Mex? But I do enjoy it very much nonetheless! haha

    Anonymous Fri, 07/30/2010 - 1:14am

    The salsa is foamy & gross. Once on the way to the ladies room I saw chicken thawing on the window sill. Seriously.Never went back even though I lived a block away.

    Lina Fuh Fri, 08/14/2009 - 10:43am

    I really like the Original Ninfas... but Sylvia's I want to try.

    Chris Fri, 08/14/2009 - 10:54am

    You won't be disappointed. Sylvia's has fantastic food.

    Oldgoat7 Sun, 07/25/2010 - 10:26pm

    I must be missing something. I thought their enchiladas were not very good and way overpriced.

    Anonymous Tue, 07/27/2010 - 11:08am

    Original Ninfa's only knows one spice, SALT. Not good at all, have been there several times & everything was awful.

    Anonymous Tue, 07/27/2010 - 3:44pm

    The carne guisada at Sylvia's is the best I ever had!

    accountpro Wed, 09/23/2009 - 1:43pm

    What about Don Julio's Mexican Restaurant & Cantina? 1804 W FM 646, Dickinson and at 2900 W Nasa Parkway. They are they best in TEX-MEX. New location coming to Cypress and another in Texas City. Don't miss out, great food, great staff.

    Try it, you'll be glad you did!

    Julio Sat, 03/20/2010 - 9:31am

    It's not in the Houston list because that's not Houston.

    Chazman1963 Mon, 03/22/2010 - 2:35pm

    Don'key is in Pasadena.

    Bill Mon, 04/12/2010 - 10:33am

    The Original Cafe is in Galveston - that's more not-in-Houston than a lot of others mentioned here. It is a great place, though.

    Anonymous Sun, 04/11/2010 - 11:32am

    Don Julio's is the most disgusting restaurant there is. Taco Bell is better.

    Anonymous Mon, 04/26/2010 - 12:00pm

    Amen to that. The food is disgusting. The Upper Deck is ok on Thursday nights for Kareoke.....but the food is terrible. The service in the restaurant and bar is lacking also. Don't expect to get your drink if you are with a group of people unless you order it 3-4 times. Also check your bill if you run a tab. Things mysteriously get added too.

    gharwell1 Thu, 10/08/2009 - 2:08pm

    I live overseas in Oman and when I come back to Houston I stop on the way home from the airport and eat Tex-Mex food.The only place I consider worthy is La Maria's Restaurant in the shopping center at the corner of Louetta and Veterans Memorial in NW Houston. Yes, there is some good food out there but nothing compares to La Maria's.

    dbs032771 Tue, 10/20/2009 - 3:56am

    These are all fine and worthy Tex-Mex establishments. But, my how I have missed Felix's on Westheimer. It is just not the same Houston that I, and my parents grew up in. Started eating Felix's frijoles in 1954, when Mom and I moved back to Houston while Dad finished up his stint in the Navy. Muchas gracias Tijerina family for many years of the absolute best cheese enchilada and chilie con queso. Everybody else is vying for second place.

    Bam Tue, 02/16/2010 - 12:33pm

    I totally agree with you. Those of us who grew up on Fellix's food really loved it and miss it very much!

    Anonymous Wed, 02/24/2010 - 4:31pm

    You are so right on. We ate there every New Year's eve staring in 1957. It was THE BEST. Nothing compares!

    The Facts Fri, 03/19/2010 - 2:59pm

    Good News! I just found out that El Patio Mexican Restaurants are now serving some of Felix's items. They serve the queso, cheese enchiladas, and tacos. From what I was told they are looking for suggestions from guests of what other items to add. Felix Tijerina made a deal with the owners of El Patio and they secured a long time cook from Felix's just to make sure the food and recipes were identical. They have two locations. 2416 Brazos and 6444 Westheimer.

    talbottx Thu, 04/01/2010 - 1:45pm

    Although I no longer LIVE in Houston, having escaped to the beautiful Texas Hill Country, I DO visit once a month. Was SO sorry to see the Felix on Westheimer in total dis-repair. Have MANY, fond menories of the place and it would be GREAT to sit and eat the warm, salsa that they served for years. It has bits of stewed onion and was unlike ANY served at other Houston Mexican restaurants. Next trip to Houston in mid-month, I'll definitely check with El Patio about the posibility of them knowing the recipie for the sauce and whether or not they'll be serving it.

    On that subject, does ANYONE remember Valians Pizza? Anybody have ANY idea of their pizza secrets?

    KingSalami Mon, 11/09/2009 - 12:50pm

    You left out 2 of the best in Houston. El Patio and Los Cucos. Both locations on Westheimer near Fountain View.

    Anonymous Tue, 07/27/2010 - 11:11am

    Los Cucos in Pearland is disgusting. Don't know if it is a part of the same franchise, but Pearland location has really turned me off.

    DR Sun, 08/01/2010 - 12:42pm

    Los Cucos is dog food. Stay away.

    htowndude Sat, 01/02/2010 - 10:01am

    Thanks for the list - good start. Question - WHY is Houston Tex Mex Food OVERPRICED??? Compared to other Texas cities it appears Houston pays more for 3 basic ingredients - Corn, Beans and Rice, Rice, Corn and Beans, Beans, Corn and Beans.......

    Anonymous Wed, 03/10/2010 - 5:40pm

    Doneraki's is horrible........

    Anonymous Tue, 07/27/2010 - 11:12am

    About 3 years ago my sister & I visited the Doneraki's at Gulfgate. A roach crawled out of her salad. Needless to say have never, and will never, go back, even if they gave us free food for life...

    El Hombre Mon, 07/26/2010 - 10:23am

    Because its better in Houston than in other cities.

    egonz99 Tue, 01/26/2010 - 6:18pm

    Doneraki's should definitely be on here. Lupe Tortilla has the best beef fajitas and tortillas. Tampico Seafood is a good place for seafood with a Mexican twist to it.

    origtexan Fri, 01/29/2010 - 3:55pm

    Flee from Sylvia's. I've been there three times over the last year. each time was worse than the first. the last time i went i was a guest and didn't have to pay and still didn't want to go.
    the most over rated restaurant in houston....go to McDonalds next door!

    Anonymous Fri, 02/19/2010 - 3:00pm

    There is a cemetary across the street

    Anonymous Fri, 03/19/2010 - 4:44pm

    Totally agree with you on Sylvia's. I'd rather have fast food.

    Anonymous Tue, 05/18/2010 - 9:23am

    Terrible service at Sylvia's. I will not be going back.

    Oldgoat7 Sun, 07/25/2010 - 10:28pm

    I agree 110%

    Adobe Rider Fri, 08/06/2010 - 9:18pm

    I agree. I am a enchilada lover and Sylvia's was way overpriced and was not good at all. never went again.

    p.s. wasn't the friendliest place either :\

    Pearl2007 Sat, 08/07/2010 - 1:46pm

    Totally agree about Sylvia's. I'm a huge enchilada connoisseur and they were not good at all and way overpriced. Also, the service was bad, the employees looked as if they hated us coming in there.

    DukeM Fri, 01/29/2010 - 8:02pm

    Los Cucos is good, but Ruby Tequila's is probably my new favorite as far as fajitas go. Certified Black Angus Strip cooked just right.

    Rimone Royal Sun, 01/31/2010 - 8:37am

    Lupe Tortillas doesn't have the best fajitas. They use a low quality extremely fatty grade of beef and butter it up really well. Pappasito's still has some of the best fajitas in town and are usually consistent. How did they not make the list?

    Bill Fleming Sat, 03/20/2010 - 6:03am

    Pappasitos has really gone downhill, their fajitas were great now not so good and way OVERPRICED!

    Anonymous Thu, 08/26/2010 - 4:26pm

    This is why Pappasitos is packed all the time!

    MIMI Sun, 01/31/2010 - 10:31pm

    SPANISH FLOWERS?

    Adobe Rider Fri, 08/06/2010 - 9:20pm

    YES!! Now they have awesome enchiladas. Went with a couple friends, we all were very happy and thought everything was great!

    Anonymous Wed, 08/11/2010 - 11:52am

    That's a big 10-4 on Lopez. We're regulars there and absolutley love the Enchilads Verdes. Lopez is mainly an enchilada house. Gotta do it!

    Vernon Williams Mon, 02/01/2010 - 12:14am

    I have eaten at several of these, including the original Ninfa's, Spanish Village, Ruchi's, Chuy's, and the Teotihuacan on West Bellfort. The original Ninfa's is better than most of the other Ninfa's but still not fantastic in my estimation. Spanish Village is okay but not fantastic either. I have not been to Chuy's in a while, but I remember it being good. Ruchi's, at least the one that used to be at Kirby and Richmond, is poor and does not deserve to be on the list, and I have heard a number of friends voice the same opinion. I haven't tried the one at W. Alabama and Shepherd after my experiences at the other one. I live near the Teotihuacan on W. Bellfort and eat there a lot, and it is the best on this list, by far, in my opinion; their Pollo Poblano is really wonderful.

    But the best, in my opinion, is not on this list. That is the Lopez Restaurant, on S. Wilcrest just a block or so north of 59. It has been there since the late 70's and is excellent. I am not so fond of their beef dishes, though I am not that fond of beef in general. But their chicken and pork dishes are great. I love their chicken enchiladas, chicken tacos, supreme nachos, a pork chop dish. Their food has a bit lighter touch than many other Mexican places. And their chips and salsa are among the best. Their salsa is actually hot, hot enough you have to be careful with it, and I eat a lot of very hot food; don't drink any water after having some if you intend to eat more, because the water washes away the protection your mouth built up. I first ate there in 1981 or 1982 and have seen a couple of generations of Lopez working there. I have had friends say it was also their favorite Mexican place.

    Another good place not on the list is the La Tapatia Taqueria, particularly the one on Richmond near Woodhead and Dunlavy. Plus it is open late if you are a night owl like me (until 2 or 3 in the morning, depending upon the day) and is a great place to people watch. I have run into a lot of people I know there over the last decade. The service is occasionally spotty but the food is good, at very reasonable prices. They have nightly specials I have been having lately, and they are usually quite good.

    Syd Kearney Mon, 02/01/2010 - 8:05am

    Vernon, thanks for the thoughtful review. Some on this list are here as much for their historical significance or even for sentimental reasons. I'm going to take your suggestion and revisit the Lopez Restaurant.

    brentwalker Mon, 04/19/2010 - 1:33pm

    "historical significant or sentimental reasons", hmm these are not reasons I go to a restaurant to try their food. While it may improve the overall experience I would not say that "historical/sentimental" describe reasons I should try one restaurants food over another. This is a list of restaurants one must try, meaning the food is way above average. Otherwise the title should be something like 29 Restaurants you should experience. A much different idea altogether.

    Valerie1 Fri, 02/05/2010 - 11:48am

    I've been going to Taqueria Tapatia since the mid-90s when it was a hole-in-the-wall. The quality has really gone downhill in the last six months. The fajita meat has gotten chewy and fatty, the queso has completely changed and now tastes like it is straight out of a can, the enchiladas have gotten to be just meh. I used to go there regularly, but I've pretty much taken it off my list.

    Anonymous Wed, 02/10/2010 - 4:43pm

    I agree about Lopez - should be on the list. Casa Dominguez on Bissonnet is pretty good too. The biggest oversight is Los Dos Amigos on Washington Ave. I have been eating there for 25 years and they even have the same cook. Best Mexican food in Houston by far.

    Anonymous Tue, 05/18/2010 - 9:25am

    I quit eating at La Tapatia because of the bad service. Too bad because I live a short walk away.

    Gracie1936 Sun, 08/01/2010 - 7:37am

    I totally agree with LOPEZ. I've eaten Tex-Mex all over Houston and other cities and LOPEZ is the BEST!!!!!! At lunch, you had better be there early or you will have a wait!!

    Ajit Mon, 02/01/2010 - 8:29am

    OK so I am different but love mex food, besides few that I go to,... which mex restaurant does not have animal fat in their beans.. I am a vegetarian and eat in place where I can get food without meat or animal fat.....any suggestions for new places ??

    Minnette Tue, 02/02/2010 - 6:31pm

    Taco Milagro at Westheimer and Kirby has wonderful vegetarian charro beans, and lots of other good (and a little different) dishes, as well.

    Anonymous Mon, 02/01/2010 - 4:51pm

    Wow. Lupe Tortilla is easily better than half the places on this list... then again I have the luxury of living near the original at 6 & I-10 and the franchised locations just haven't been as good, but still, no Lupe's??

    Joe G. Tue, 02/02/2010 - 12:19pm

    MAMACITAS in Webster and Pasadena ROCK!

    Chazman1963 Mon, 03/22/2010 - 2:37pm

    Mamacitas in Pasadena is not very good.

    Anonymous Thu, 07/29/2010 - 9:50pm

    Mom Alone's in Nassau Bay is the best of the best!!!

    bevobliss Tue, 02/02/2010 - 12:32pm

    You folks are quite lucky to have a plethora of TexMex to choose from!! I live in Anchorage, Alaska now, and if you ever come up here, stay away from the Mexican food, It all sucks, and the salsa is definitely Yankeefied. Texas toddlers would spit it out because it is so bland. I too grew up eating at Lopez on Wilcrest, And their enchiladas will rival any TexMex restaurant in the state of Texas, I am not kidding, I am slobbering on my keyboard thinking about their hot salsa and beef enchiladas. But the first place I stop in everytime I land in H-Town is El Tiempo, excellent enchiladas there also. Sorry though, I can't think of any restaurant in Houston that can do fajitas better than going to a Mexican butcher shop and have them butterfly the marinated fajitas and flash cooking them on a very hot grill. All restaurants try to give you too much bell pepper and onions, and their pico de gallo isn't hot enough.
    Out................Missing Texas

    t

    wonderwoman Thu, 02/04/2010 - 5:49pm

    Check out Los Ranchitos off Spring Cypress and Keykendalh. Great food, prices and service. Don't forget about Mamacitas. They are very good a little pricer but well worth it. Bevobliss you are right nothing like going to a mexican meat market for marinated fajitas and grill them outside with some charcoal. Or if you really heavy duty griller some mesquite wood.

    Miles Rutherford Fri, 02/05/2010 - 9:58am

    When you have a place to go, you don't need to have somebody tell you where to go and my wife and I have gone to Casa Ole for about 25 years.
    The first time I went, 1980 something, I tasted the very best bean soup that I have ever eaten and its quality has not changed. And in recent years, when seafood became popular, Casa Ole has come out with Pescado (sp? Spanish for fish) Ixtapa -- the most delicious Tex Mex meal I ever ate.
    A person does not have to eat the whole menu but, with dishes like that to choose from, you do not have to keep looking.

    Dwight Lee Fri, 02/05/2010 - 11:50am

    Try 1308 or el tiempo...if you liked ninfas years ago, you will dig this.

    Roger Fri, 02/05/2010 - 4:16pm

    I honestly can't believe that Los Cucos did not make this list. Los Cucos has not been around nearly as long as Ninfa's, but IMHO it is better. I mean, they cut the avocados and make the guacamole right there in front of you...it doesn't get fresher than that! And the Pollo Ixtapa is the absolute best. Another place that I think is right up there with Los Cucos is Donaraki's. The atmosphere at both of those places is awesome.
    I am stationed out here in New Mexico, and the Mexican food out here sucks! I am so sick of green chiles in everything...

    paulo carson Tue, 02/09/2010 - 11:07am

    Los Cucos and Los Tios should both be on the list. I agree on most of the restaurants listed, but Goode company? Come on! They have dcent burgers and all,but this is not a Tex-Mex restaurant. Escalante
    is also good, but expensive. Stick with Los Tios and Spanish Village they are Houston traditions.

    Anonymous Mon, 04/26/2010 - 12:08pm

    Los Cucos has gone down hill. We went 3 weeks ago and ordered fajitas for two. Came out with less meat than I have ever seen. We ordered more meat because it wasnt enough (believe me there was 3 strips of chicken and 5 of beef) and ordered beef for one medium size and got twice as much meat than on the one for two. Manager came over and had verylame excuses. The food was very over prices (they went up on prices) A meal for 2 adults and 2 kids with no alcohol was $80.00. I never spend that much. Ridiculous. I won't be going back any time soon if ever!

    millissa Wed, 02/10/2010 - 1:40pm

    what about TIA MARIA'S on dacoma!!! great margaritas and the food it goog too!!!

    Anonymous Mon, 02/22/2010 - 2:54pm

    I agree Melissa. I was just there yesterday and the fajitas were wonderful. It is my favorite Mexican Restaurant of all!

    Bill Mon, 04/12/2010 - 10:31am

    We have been enjoying Tia Maria's since it opened about 25 years ago. My daughter literally grew up eating there. We now live in Kingwood and still drive across town (almost a hours drive) for Tia Marias. Pedro and his family have always provided great food at a fair price and the atmosphere is wonderfully Tex-Mex-Tacky. My favorite is their Nachos Compuestas.

    Anonymous Wed, 02/10/2010 - 4:45pm

    Lopez on W. Belfort should be on the list. Casa Dominguez on Bissonnet is pretty good too. The biggest oversight, though, is Los Dos Amigos on Washington Ave. I have been eating there for 25 years and they even have the same cook. Best Mexican food in Houston by far.

    Party1 Fri, 02/12/2010 - 7:58pm

    The chicken soup at Pico's (Tex-Mex)on Bellaire has medicinal qualities,,it never has failed yet when Ive had the sniffles.Good friendly and professional service .

    Anonymous Sat, 02/13/2010 - 3:25am

    a few personal notes
    - spanish village's enchiladas were pretty over cooked and very chewy last time i ate there, not to mention overpriced.
    - Don Carlos locations on 76th and Broadway should be on here for sure!
    - ChaCho's should be on here. That place is a gem imo.

    Anonymouspoco loco Mon, 02/15/2010 - 9:01am

    CROSS OUT ALL,ONLY TIA MARIA ON DACOMA STANDS ALONE

    FrankG Mon, 02/15/2010 - 8:06pm

    No Tex-Mex list is complete without the best 1970s style Tex-Mex in town: 'La Hacienda' on Memorial!

    Anonymous Tue, 03/30/2010 - 12:07pm

    Yes, indeed! When I did not see them on the list, I asked "What?". I have been going to La Hacienda for about 30 years and the food has always been the best! The Memorial location is great, as is the Telge location. I have never understood the appeal of Los Cucos for the Tex-Mex crowd? Real, original Tex-Mex....La Hacienda. Lupe's, Los Palmas on 529, pretty good also.

    Jimmy Sat, 05/29/2010 - 12:52am

    La Hacienda's salsa, similar to El Gallo on North Gessner, is awesome, and should be tried, at any cost or length of distance to travel.

    SPENCER Tue, 02/16/2010 - 10:36am

    find where berthas family have taken her old receipes

    Tracy Tue, 02/16/2010 - 2:18pm

    El Tiempo has the best fajita's hands down. Don't forget about Lost Concert Cafe either.

    I've never heard of Lopez Family restaurant... it's a must on the list now!

    DD Wed, 02/17/2010 - 10:38pm

    Someone actually suggested Casa Ole on here. That person needs to slap themselves, what is their second choice Panchos???

    Chazman1963 Mon, 03/22/2010 - 2:38pm

    I second that motion.

    Anonymous Mon, 07/26/2010 - 3:15pm

    Wow, insulting people over something as subjective as taste. I guess if I happen to like the taste of Houston tap water, that makes me a moron because I don't drink water exclusively from a plastic bottle.

    Alief kid Thu, 02/18/2010 - 11:44am

    BUMP for Lopez. (and there's a great BBQ joint in the strip center across the street...)

    Anonymous Mon, 04/12/2010 - 10:15am

    No good comment on Lopez, but Hick Barn is super good.

    Anonymous Mon, 04/12/2010 - 10:17am

    No good comment on Lopez, but Hick Barn is super good.

    Chaly Wed, 02/24/2010 - 2:04pm

    El Charro in The Woodlands has great fajitas, and the portion sizes always has me asking for a take-out before we start to eat.

    The best ones, however, are made in my kitchen with New York Strip steak marinated and grilled.

    What a rip-off from the meat industry or whomever started the "let's eat tough, neck meat and call it good" routine. Ridiculous!

    kevin Thu, 02/25/2010 - 12:51am

    Mely's in Pearland and in League City is the bomb. Great food and decent prices. If you are a Frida Kahlo fan, check out the Frida room at teh Pearland location.

    horsegirl Fri, 02/26/2010 - 1:44pm

    I'm a native Houstonian and miss Felix's also. Just north of Tomball on 249 is a place called Taqueria Acapulco, family owned and operated. Everything on the menu is made fresh daily. Their salsa is dynamite and the enchilada verdes great. Another place is on the corner of 1960 and Veterans Memorial, called La Paranda (sp?) Their poblano de crema is wonderful. Thanks to all for suggesting new places I had not heard of. Can't wait to try some of them.

    Anonymous Sat, 02/27/2010 - 9:27am

    teotihuacan was better several years ago. now that it has been "discovered" the food is not as good nor is the service. this list has problems

    Anonymous Mon, 03/01/2010 - 3:32pm

    Terlingua, glad they were not on the list.

    Anonymous Tue, 03/02/2010 - 5:57pm

    Agreed! Ate there on a whim last night b/c short on time. They were short on service and flavor. Tortillas are stale and microwaved!

    Anonymous Mon, 03/01/2010 - 6:55pm

    Los Amigo's at Burke and Fairmont in Pasadena, Rocks! There Margarita's are awesome, $3 bucks and their food is great!!

    Anonymous Thu, 03/04/2010 - 3:37pm

    This is bullsh*t. Why isn't Pico's on the list? That is the best Mexican restaurant in the city.

    Syd Kearney Thu, 03/04/2010 - 4:33pm

    For the same reason Hugo's is not on this list. Both of those places specializes in Mexican food, not Tex-Mex.

    Anonymous Mon, 03/08/2010 - 1:05pm

    Wow, no Spanish Flowers or Otilia's. They need to be apart of this list.

    Coray Tue, 03/09/2010 - 11:07pm

    I can't believe Lopez Mexican Restaurant at Wilcrest and 59 is not on the list!!! This established restaurant has been in business for 30 years for a reason. Just don't try to get a table at 7-8pm because it is packed!

    Chris K Wed, 03/10/2010 - 11:46am

    You also need to go to La Casitas in Friendswood, TX. It is a family owned restaurant. They have the best Tex-Mex food around and reasonable prices. It is located in Friendswood at 18043 County Road 127 just off of FM2351. Take the road to Clover Air field. There is a big yellow sign on FM 2351 at CR 127. Phone: 281-482-2206 (p.s. Tom Hanks ate there when he was in town!)

    Anonymous Thu, 03/11/2010 - 9:07am

    I like BEVOBLISS no longer live i TX.(now in ID) can tell y'all are blessed because the mexican food here you can sue them for false advertising (mushrooms and olives in a quesadilla)! I lived in Tx. and Houston a long time and know allot of these places. For the money Cancun and Arandas can't be beat, but not to mention the Spanish Flower? SHAME FOR SHAME!!! It has been around a long time and it's enchiladas verdes will be HARD to beat! Especially if it's late at night (open ALL night)!

    Anonymous Sun, 03/14/2010 - 10:39am

    Wow! Have you seen El-Toro mexican restaurant on westhiemer/Kirkwood its amazing and the deco is sooooo chic. THey have taking Tex-Mex to a whole new level. I was told that thet been in business for over 50 years.

    Anonymous Wed, 03/17/2010 - 11:28am

    what about Lopez on Wilcrest off 59... how can you have a list that does not include Lopez.

    Anonymous Fri, 03/19/2010 - 9:55am

    Where is Gringo's? Great food, great atmosphere, Great prices, great margaritas!!! I prefer the Stafford location the best but will also go to the Pearland loacation. I did not like the one on Fuqua near I-45 S.

    Anonymous ar Fri, 03/19/2010 - 11:21am

    Is Rio Posada still around? Down on Fulton? That was good stuff.

    The Facts Fri, 03/19/2010 - 3:12pm

    Good News! I just found out that El Patio Mexican Restaurants are now serving some of Felix's items. They serve the queso, cheese enchiladas, and tacos. From what I was told they are looking for suggestions from guests of what other items to add. Felix Tijerina made a deal with the owners of El Patio and they secured a long time cook from Felix's just to make sure the food and recipes were identical. They have two locations. 2416 Brazos and 6444 Westheimer.

    Anonymous Tue, 03/23/2010 - 9:10am

    This is my first reply to any blog - ever. Obviously, the vast majority does not know that much about "food". There is only 1 (maybe 2) place(s) in Houston that serves true fajitas, with true fajita meat; they are Ninfa's and El Tiempo. One of the Mama Ninfa sons owns El Tiemp, so this restaurant is a part of the "Ninfa" family. There was a story, maybe in the Houston Press, about fajita meat - it is the most expensive cut of meat that can be purchased in the United States of America - that is because we US citizens can not buy very much of it. I do not know the exact details but the meat is shipped to Japan and it is a type of "tax-free meat for them and if I am not mistaken, it can be resold to the US at a higher price. Because of this, most restaurants do not serve true fajitas any longer. I have eaten at the majority of these restaurants I have to say they all have their "special" dishes. Do note that several of these are NOT in Houston proper and I would never brag about my favorite on a blog because I want to keep if for myself and not have to wait all night for a table at my favorite restaurant.

    Anonymous Tue, 03/23/2010 - 9:10am

    This is my first reply to any blog - ever. Obviously, the vast majority does not know that much about "food". There is only 1 (maybe 2) place(s) in Houston that serves true fajitas, with true fajita meat; they are Ninfa's and El Tiempo. One of the Mama Ninfa sons owns El Tiemp, so this restaurant is a part of the "Ninfa" family. There was a story, maybe in the Houston Press, about fajita meat - it is the most expensive cut of meat that can be purchased in the United States of America - that is because we US citizens can not buy very much of it. I do not know the exact details but the meat is shipped to Japan and it is a type of "tax-free meat for them and if I am not mistaken, it can be resold to the US at a higher price. Because of this, most restaurants do not serve true fajitas any longer. I have eaten at the majority of these restaurants I have to say they all have their "special" dishes. Do note that several of these are NOT in Houston proper and I would never brag about my favorite on a blog because I want to keep if for myself and not have to wait all night for a table at my favorite restaurant.

    Anonymous Tue, 03/23/2010 - 5:52pm

    You have to be kidding me...I wouldn't give you a plug nickel to eat at all but about 3 of these places. They must have paid you to put them on this list or your easily impressed.

    tia nancy Wed, 03/24/2010 - 12:30pm

    ALMA LATINA ?

    pablito Wed, 03/24/2010 - 2:44pm

    Casa Ole is not worthy of appearing here, but Los Tios has been in Houston a long time and still is my favorite,also add Spanish Flowers.I rate any Tex-mex on three things...chips, salsa and the cheese enchiladas.
    Lupe Tortilla is fading fast...and avoide Silvia's.

    Anonymous Wed, 03/24/2010 - 4:06pm

    I have been eating at Lopez for 20 years. Family owned and operated. Best queso and hot sauce in town, hands down. They are the real deal. Sloppy and full of flavor. Try the quesadilla's and enchillada's.

    Anonymous Tue, 05/18/2010 - 9:29am

    Lopez is very good. I don't get to that area much these days. The joint I miss the most is LEO'S on Shepherd. I also miss Felix.

    Anonymous Thu, 03/25/2010 - 3:48pm

    How can you not have Lupe Tortillas when they have the best beef fajitas in town?Hands down.

    Anonymous Mon, 03/29/2010 - 10:22am

    Nobody beats Pappasitos Cantina, they have the best everything.

    Anonymous Thu, 04/01/2010 - 11:42pm

    All I have to say is.........LOPEZ LOPEZ LOPEZ LOPEZ........BEST IN HOUSTON!!!!

    Ralph W. Fri, 04/02/2010 - 5:49pm

    The best of the bunch is Veracruz on Irvington. (Beef Chilli Rellenos & Steak ala Mexaciana) We also love Santa Fe Flats, but it is really not Tex-Mex. The one you missed is Laredo Taqueria on Washington at Snover. But it isn't true Tex-Mex either. The tacos are more true Mexican tacos. Houston's best Tex-Mex crispy tacos are served at Tio Chuco on West Road just north of 290. My wife loves their enchaladas with chilli gravey.

    My wife and I have tried 3 different Los Cucos. She & I agree with its being left off the list. Maybe we never ordered the best dish(s). They always seem full. I ordered a mixed grill platter (shrimp, beef & chicken) the last time, it was one of the more expensive offerings. I got a lot of food, but it was mostly grilled onions and bell peppers.

    Eat Out Queen Mon, 04/05/2010 - 7:38am

    You missed the new Kid in Town!

    RUBY TEQUILA'S

    Willowbrook and Midtown, great food, all fresh and No microwave cooking here!

    Great angus steaks and Chile smashed potatoes...my fave!
    Ribs that fall off the bone and shredded beef enchiladas with chili con carne sauce...YUMMO!!!

    MUST try THE SIZZLING APPLE PIE

    Anonymous Wed, 04/07/2010 - 10:59pm

    tex-mex apple pie? yeah right. Welcome to Texas, Ma'am!

    Anonymous Mon, 04/05/2010 - 7:13pm

    Centenila in League City at the corner of 518 and Hwy 3 should be on the list.

    Anonymouspoco loco Tue, 04/06/2010 - 8:11am

    you need tia maria off 290/the best in the west

    Me Sharon Tue, 04/06/2010 - 12:32pm

    In Conroe and also in that town in between Conroe and The Woodlands(don't remember the name, don't blink) ...EL BOSQUE. Excellent every time I go. They have a warm salsa that is really, really good. They also serve a green salsa and that is great also. My husband loves their fajitas- chicken and beef. I like the fact that they serve plates with a variety of items on it so I can get a little of everything I like. The prices are the best I have seen for a place that is so good. We tried a new Mexican restaurant on League Line Rd this past weekend and the prices were very high and the food was not bad but nothing to rave about either. El Bosque I will rave about!

    MomX2 Sat, 07/17/2010 - 8:07pm

    I agree! EL BOSQUE is awesome! Great priceds too...

    Anonymous Sat, 04/10/2010 - 12:41pm

    Don Julio's in cypress has the best fajitas i have ever had. Not sure how they did not make the list. I am shocked that lupe is not top ten. Cafe adobe is nasty way over rated. I think there are a lot more restaurants that should be on this list then what they have!

    Been wanting to try el tiempo any suggestions?

    Anonymous Mon, 04/12/2010 - 10:13am

    The closest mexican food to San Antonio's mex food is Los Perez. The cheese enchiladas are delicious. Very reasonable in price cause I also feel that alot of the Mex. Rest. here in town are way over priced. They are on South Hwy 6 and Bissonnet. Friendly too. You cannot compare taqueria rests to Tex Mex food ever. Their food is more Northern Mex. than Tex Mex. It's all in the taste buds.

    ken1952 Tue, 04/13/2010 - 6:25am

    If your ever over in Katy "Ruthies" on Grand Pwy (Hwy99) @ Kings land. It's a true Tex-Mex haven. Great food, service, and prices.
    "Try it you'll like it"!!!! LOL

    Johnny Wed, 04/14/2010 - 2:04pm

    You want good TEX-MEX? Well stop going to these tradiotional Mexican resturaunts. YES they will have it, but tradional Mexicans don't think highly of TEX-MEX therefore the preparation quality is noticably lower.

    Anything that looks super-flashy (chuys, papasitos, doneraki's etc) is propabaly full of processed crap. You don't want that. TEX-MEX is very simple-SALSA/QUESO/RICE/BEANS/ENTREE what sets it apart from traditional is the amount of starch (which texans LOVE). YES, traditional Mexican is usually not very healthy, however, they use less flour/starches.

    For instance, carne asada=beef steak cubes in flour based gravy-TEX-MEX! Traditional mexicans opt for GUISADO, which is a sauce that consists of a variety of dried peppers. You can find chicken or porn in this dish.

    ALSO, stop going to Richmond/Westheimer for Tex-Mex. Any REAL Houstonian knows the best food is normally found in the hood. Felix Mexican Rest. was the best hands down. My mother worked there in the 80's and we actually rented a home from Mrs. Felix back then. I would eat chips con queso daily. When I finally had an enchilada plate I was blown away with what they did with my beloved queso. At age 6, I thought I was in heaven.

    BOTTOM line, you want good TEX-MEX, go to small places that have established longevity. Places like Andy's Cafe open 24 hours (always a plus) or Ruchi's is actually good however more focused on Traditional ways. You will find good tex-mex there though. If you absolutely have to have a more "up-to-date" atmosphere and want good tex-mex, I'd probably vote Chuy's as #1. Lupe Tortilla is horrible and over priced IMO, way too much lime on the fajitas.

    We also have the best breakfast taco places like Laredo Taqueria located on Washington Avenue or Alamo Taco's in Second Ward.

    Anonymous Wed, 07/28/2010 - 12:54pm

    FYI: I work at Pappasitos and there are no processed foods there. EVERYTHING is fresh.

    Anonymous Wed, 07/28/2010 - 12:57pm

    I work at Pappasitos and can tell you that there are no processed foods. Everything is fresh and real!

    Johnny Wed, 04/14/2010 - 2:17pm

    BTW Caddilac Bar on Shepherd is delicious. Pricey but good. Honestly Spanish Flower on N.Main St.is JUST as good

    Harvey Esquire Fri, 04/16/2010 - 10:26pm

    What about Fiesta Loma Linda Mexican Restaurant on 2111 Telephone Rd?

    Erasmo Mon, 04/19/2010 - 11:27am

    Where is the best Carne Guisada served?

    Anonymous Tue, 04/20/2010 - 1:19pm

    I have tried many of the restaurants on the list, most are overpriced and not very good. I always think to myself when I am dining at these places "I should have gone to El Gallo." Ninfa's has good salsa, Sylvia's has good queso but for an enchilada restaurant they aren't very good, most of the places you can pick out 1 good thing. My experiences at El Gallo have almost all been good and I've been going there since 1975, at the same location on Gessner & Hammerly in Spring Branch. We took our aunt and uncle from Porter to eat there and they were plotting out would be the best way to get there for them. Great food & great service!

    Anonymous Tue, 04/20/2010 - 7:48pm

    Spanish Flower is the best authentic mexican food in all of houston

    duckbill Wed, 04/21/2010 - 3:57pm

    Can't believe one of my fav's, Fajita Flats, didn't make the list. This town sure has a wealth of great Tex-Mex joints!

    Anonymous Fri, 04/23/2010 - 1:42pm

    Tony's? Really?

    Anonymous Fri, 04/23/2010 - 2:53pm

    My favorite is El Jardin -- on Harrisburg, near the ship channel. I'm shocked that El Jardin is not on your list. But then, maybe El Jardin isn't considered Tex-Mex, but is instead considered a true blue Mexican Restaurant.

    Lal Fri, 04/23/2010 - 4:32pm

    El Paraiso on Fairview. Family owned and operated. A great place for lunch. Face it, Houston is full of good Tex-Mex places.

    Anonymous Sat, 04/24/2010 - 12:57am

    LOPEZ at Wilcreat & SW Hwy. 59 - The best mexican food by far. No one comes close. The chile rellenos, the enchiladas, the rib meat tacos rancheros, the best salsa & the best service and prices. LOPEZ IS NUMBER ONE!

    Grayson Moss Sat, 04/24/2010 - 8:25am

    My vote is for Casa Dominguez. Reasonable prices and freshly prepared.

    Anonymous Tue, 04/27/2010 - 3:14pm

    People keep saying Tia Marias Yuk! last time I ate there there was a big ole roach on our table !! El Tiempo is pricy but good , Its run by the Ninfa sons , knock your sock off margaritas too1

    Anonymous Fri, 04/30/2010 - 9:17am

    I wonder how much Cafe Adobe paid to be on this list. That is the most tourist driven, good for nothing Tex-Mex food in town. They cater to the taste of a Minnesotian, no flavor, and cheap ingredients. So what- they have adobe walls - give the decorator an award, but still - the food is not worthy of making the list of this magnitude. I wouldn't even put them in the top 25 within 10 miles from Spring! NO WANO, NO WANO!!

    Anonymous Wed, 07/28/2010 - 6:24am

    Agree.

    Anonymous Mon, 05/03/2010 - 9:45am

    The tex-mex restaurant my husband and I return to time and again is Los Gallitos on Murphy Rd right off of SW Freeway. The food never disappoints and it's always packed. I can't understand why no one ever comments on it. The service is always great and the wait staff is very friendly, never disappoints.

    Anonymous Fri, 06/18/2010 - 12:04pm

    Agreed. Los Gallitos is top-notch.

    Gringo Viejo Tue, 07/20/2010 - 2:19pm

    Agree. We have the same opinion of Los Gallitos on Hwy 6 in Sugar Land. Good food and good service.

    Anonymous Mon, 05/17/2010 - 3:20pm

    LUPE TORTILLAS!!!!!
    can't believe it didn't make this list, WTF!? just goes to show how much the author really knows.

    JPM Sat, 07/03/2010 - 6:46pm

    I can't believe the writer who said Houston Tex Mex is expensive. Houston has the best Mexican Food at the best prices of anywhere I've been and that is most of Texas
    I think Cyclone Anaya is the best. Get the Spring Special and you won't be disappointed for $12.95.
    Los Cuco's is best Value.
    El Patio - Bar No Minor- is the most fun and good food. Don't know why the had to add Valet Parking and mess things up.
    Sylvia's is the most over-rated

    TexAg71 Mon, 07/19/2010 - 11:27am

    My wife and I enjoyed some memorable meals at the "old" Cyclone Anaya's on Durham. The new one may be a little fancy, but the food is still delicious, and she rates their margaritas as the best in town. As for Casa Ole, which has taken some hits in the comments here, we always found their food fresh and the service prompt and courteous when we ate at the one on 290 near West 34th. Now that we've moved out toward Tomball, our regular Tex-Mex place is El Palenque on 249 at Louetta, with an occasional meal at Gringo's on Cypresswood north of 1960. Los Cucos is OK, but I won't go out of my way to eat there. Ditto Lupe Tortilla. The one place I don't care for at all is Taco Cabana, but maybe that's just me. One note: While not Hispanic, as a native of El Paso who also lived as a child in Del Rio, I'm not some clueless Yankee who doesn't know a fajita from a frijole.

    Anonymous Mon, 07/19/2010 - 3:21pm

    How does Ruchis make this list? God Aweful.

    Lopez on Hilcrest should be on here.

    kdparks Tue, 07/20/2010 - 10:00am

    Am I the only one that loves Molina's? Westheimer is good, but Buffalo Spdwy location was the best - which has now been replaced by an HEB. One on Washington is good - but not the same. Love, love, love Molina's!

    tom7 Sat, 07/24/2010 - 1:25pm

    What is Tex-Mex? I enjoyed El Felix in 1969-1972; the chips, salsa, Carne Asada. Now I enjoy pulled pork dishes either Verde or picante with jalapeno/tomato/onion with a flan for finishers. The spouse enjoys mole chicken dishes.
    Did enjoy Pappasitos fajitas; real steak not just mystery strips but agree that the service is rotten, as well as the bar smoke. Bill Fleming; thanks for the update.
    Have enjoyed Manuel's on 1960 but their fajitas seemed standard. Thanks to all for the suggestions.

    Anonymous Sun, 07/25/2010 - 6:51pm

    Mamacitas Mexican restaurant on I45 north Airtex exit southbound is an excellent restaurant with super food and service. I've never been dissapointed .

    Oldgoat7 Sun, 07/25/2010 - 10:22pm

    Sylvia's Enchilada Kitchen is way overrated and overpriced as well. I have never had a good enchilada plate there so after several tries I gave up. Romero's Las Brasas has the best ceviche anywhere but the rest of the entrees leave a lot to be desired. Best cheese enchiladas in town are at Dos Amigos on Washington.

    Anonymous Mon, 07/26/2010 - 3:20pm

    El Gallo in Spring Branch on Gessner has the BEST Fajitas in town... Their enchiladas are fantastic and their stuffed bell pepper is great! I also love their Queso and their crispy not greasy chips are fantastic. You have got to go to El Gallo. Great TexMex Restaurant in Houston...

    Anonymous Mon, 07/26/2010 - 3:20pm

    El Gallo in Spring Branch on Gessner has the BEST Fajitas in town... Their enchiladas are fantastic and their stuffed bell pepper is great! I also love their Queso and their crispy not greasy chips are fantastic. You have got to go to El Gallo. Great TexMex Restaurant in Houston...

    cathy Mon, 07/26/2010 - 3:49pm

    My husband and I just tried Bob's Taco Station in Rosenberg. We saw it on Diners, Drive Ins and Dives and we had to try it. Food was very authentic and great. Just be prepared to wait. But well worth it.

    Anonymous Wed, 07/28/2010 - 6:23am

    The Last Concert Cafe is one of the best Tex-Mex places in Houston.
    It is the oldest still in the same location, and has live local music most nights.
    The menu is delicious and well prepared.
    No list of Houston's best is complete without it.

    Anonymous Fri, 07/30/2010 - 4:01pm

    Escalantes in Meyerland Plaza is BY FAR the best Tex-Mex in town!

    Anonymous Fri, 07/30/2010 - 6:45pm

    if the criteria is tex-mex, then most of the establishments mentioned should not be on the list. i have eaten at most of these places, and i can attest that some of these eateries are the worst in houston. what is even funny is that at least one of these restaurants is no longer in business; la fonda dona maria has been closed for some time know. it's an embarassment to even publish this list.

    where is papasito's? where is chacho's? i guess when they heard who else would be on your list, they asked to be removed and rightly so. i guess taco cabana and casa ole were on your honorable mentioned list. give me a break.

    please do me a favor- eat at some of the places that have been suggested and mentioned. and i guarantee you that your taste buds will thank you for them. also, when you want to mention good food, please don't mention cheap prices.

    Anonymous Tue, 08/10/2010 - 2:27pm

    how about Victors? Best enchaladas in Texas ...

    Donna Davis Wed, 08/11/2010 - 8:57pm

    I haven't seen anyone mention Benny's at Westheimer & Eldridge. He has the absolute BEST tex-mex in Houston.

    Anonymous Mon, 08/16/2010 - 12:21pm

    Seriously, what about Molina's...serving Houston since 1941?

    Anonymous Sat, 08/21/2010 - 10:50am

    Escalante's and Spanish Flower: Bland and way overpriced

    Anonymous Sat, 08/21/2010 - 10:52am

    Goode Company Hamburgers & Taqueria: West U. Tex-Mex. Need I say more?

    LadyDi5 Wed, 08/25/2010 - 3:02pm

    REALLY??? FOR GOOD TEX-MEX ENCHILADAS TRY GUADALJARA'S ON IRVINGTON, IF ANYONE REMEMBERS EL CHICO RESTAURANTS, THEY HAD THE BEST ENCHILADAS AND FLAUTAS, THE BEST, NOBODY MAKES THEM THAT WAY ANYMORE. CUCOS USED TO BE A GOOD PLACE TO GET FAJITAS AND RIBEYE STEAKS WITH THEIR FAMOUS CUCOS SAUCE, BUT NOW...THEY'RE MEAT IS HORRIBLE, TOUGH, TOUGH, TOUGH. MOSTLY ALL MEXICAN RESTAURANTS, THEY'RE FAJITAS ARE JUST HORRIFIC. ESCALANTES AT TOWN AND COUNTRY HAS GOOD ENCHILADAS, NOT THE BEST, BUT GOOD, DON'T GO TO ESCALANTES IN SUGAR LAND, THE FOOD IS TERRIBLE, SERVICE IS BLAH! AND FOOD PRICES ARE OUTRAGEOUS. LA FIESTA AT BLALOCK HAS GOOD ENCHILADAS, DON'T ORDER FAJITAS, THEY ARE TOUGH. FAJITA FLATS ANOTHER GOOD PLACE TO HAVE TEX-MEX, DON'T ORDER FAJITAS, THEIR FLAUTAS ARE GREAT. DONERAKI'S WENT DOWN, THEIR SERVICE IS TERRIBLE. LOS TIOS VERY TEX-MEX, CHALUPAS COMPUESTAS ARE THE BEST THERE. EL ALTENO HAS GREAT CARNE GUIZADA. THEIR'S NOTHING LIKE HOMEMADE ENCHILADAS AT MY HOUSE....SORRY GUYS...ONLY FOR MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY.

    Bob Wed, 08/25/2010 - 3:31pm

    No matter how many Tex-mex places pop-up, they all seem to attract a crowd. Now we know why, you can't get more than 2-3 people to agree on which is best.

    Ryan Thu, 08/26/2010 - 12:40pm

    I like Cafe Adobes beef fajitas (their service has slipped though, Sugar Land location).

    I need to try Lopez's, I have been to Fajita Flats several times over the years and after pulling up a mapquest for Lopez's I see that it's right down the street from there.

    Anonymous Fri, 08/27/2010 - 4:08pm

    Taquieria Del Sol Rules ! ! ! ! !

    Anonymous Fri, 08/27/2010 - 5:39pm

    Taqueria Laredo, by far the best tacos in H town.

    Anonymous Mon, 08/30/2010 - 4:11pm

    Ruby Tequila's in Midtown, no question. The fajitas are amazing. Try the queso inferno, charro beans, tableside guacamole and the best Mexican rice you will ever taste. You will go back again and again. When family and friends visit, they BEG to go there.

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