We’ve rounded up our go-to spots for the best Mexican food in Dallas, for every kind of occasion - packed with all the classics you crave like cheesy enchiladas, street tacos, loaded nachos, and frosty palomas (need we say more?). Stop scrolling and start planning your next chip-dipping, marg-sipping adventure!

Updated April 2025


 

TEX-MEX

Dating decades back, Tex-Mex is an integral, delicious Dallas tradition! Check out these spots to find the tastiest Tex-Mex in Dallas.

 

escondido tex mex patio

 

Avila's

For a menu that features your typical Tex-Mex favs along with hidden gems check out Avila's whose family’s specialty menu include dishes like Shrimp Avila, ​​Guisado de Puerco, and Pollo con Calabaza - which you can’t find anywhere else! Directions

Medical District | Directions

 

Bandito's Tex Mex Cantina

Bandito's serves up classic Austin-style Tex-Mex with a nostalgic flair. It's a local favorite for hearty enchiladas, loaded queso, and signature frozen margaritas! 

University Park | Directions 

 

E Bar 

Experience a trendy take on Tex-Mex at E-Bar, where you'll find Spinach and Mushroom Enchiladas, Taco Salad, Spicy Elote, and daily drink specials.

East Dallas | Directions

 

Escondido 

Jon Alexis, the owner of TJ’s Seafood and Malibu Poke, has done it again! This time in the form of Tex-Mex, with an epic resort-style patio and an indoor/outdoor bar heated or cooled year-round. On the menu, you'll find Mexican classics like Chile Relleno, Quesadillas, Tortilla soup, and Enchiladas (which are made to order and never pre-wrapped), as well as dishes with a twist like the Mexican Caprese Salad and Tex-Mex Pizza. Order the Elote Fritters! (Pictured)

Preston Hollow | Directions

 

La Comida 

The casual and inviting Mexican eatery is owned by two brothers from the Yucatan region of Mexico who worked their way up in the industry from bussers to owners! Their Addison location was a popular spot for many years before it had to shutter its doors due to the pandemic, and now it's back open in Oak Cliff. On the menu, you’ll find 4 different types of queso, fresh ceviche, tons of tacos and enchiladas, sizzling fajitas, plus entree plates and sides like Mexican caviar and elote. (Featured header image)

Oak Cliff | Directions 

 

LAS PALMAS 

Looking to impress your colleagues at the next work happy hour? Las Palmas has got you covered. With $4 draft beers, $7 craft cocktails, and $8 appetizers including Tamales, Nacho Fries, and Crispy  Chicken Tacos, you're sure to become your work's MVP!

Uptown | Directions

 

Mia's 

Known as a Dallas Institution since 1991, Mia's cozy Tex-Mex cantina invites locals to ‘join their family’ over their original brisket tacos, extra cheesy chimichangas, and homemade rellenos.

Oak Lawn | Directions

 

Ojeda's

Big fan of sizzling fajitas, flautas, and family-style dining? Ojeda’s is a family-friendly Tex-Mex spot where owner Mama Ojeda and her 14 children promise to serve you their favorites, like Ribeye Fajitas, exactly how you like them!

Multiple locations | See locations

 

Pepe and Mito's 

To get a taste of Tex-Mex brunch—or the Beef Tacos Norteños that drove Guy Fieri loco on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives—head to the vibrant and colorful cantina at Pepe’s & Mito’s!

Deep Ellum | Directions

 

Tejas

Tejas proudly claims the title of “Modern Tex-Mex of DTX,” and it lives up to the hype! From breakfast tacos and fajitas to enchiladas and creative cocktails like the Lavender Motjio and Dirty Horchata, it’s the perfect spot for everything from casual bites to vibrant nights out.

Bishop Arts | Directions

 

UPSCALE

We love a good low-key spot, but sometimes you want to level up a Mexican meal! Check out these upscale spots with options like wagyu tacos, gold margaritas, and an overall classy vibe!

 

El Carlos Elegante

 

El Carlos Elegante 

From the team behind iconic spots like The Charles and Sister, El Carlos Elegante is an over-the-top space inspired by a traditional hacienda, serving Mexican faves with a contemporary twist! Highlights from the menu include their extensive masa program and their one-hitters, aka one-bite dishes. Enjoy some of those, a few cocktails, and their stunning patios for the perfect night out! (Pictured)

Design District | Directions 

 

Miriam Cocina Latina

Fairly new to the Mexican contemporary scene, Miriam's exudes exotic flavors to pair with zingy cocktails. The menu items range from brisket empanadas and lobster enchiladas to 16 unique margaritas — one visit here simply won't be enough, you'll need to come back for more!

Downtown | Directions

 

The Mexican

This glamorous spot straight from Mexico City is dripping in gold and style. Step inside to find intricate Mexican tilework, a glowing bar, plush velvet seating, and a tequila cabinet lining the back wall with over 300 selections. Cue the inventive margaritas (yes, one clocks in at $250!) and tequila tastings led by an in-house tequila sommelier. As for the food, think filet & bone marrow tacos, a divine sea bass, four kinds of enchiladas, elevated takes on classic tacos, and a stunning lineup of meats and seafood to round it all out.

Design District | Directions

 

MODERN/CONTEMPORARY

Find a refined yet approachable take on traditional Mexican food, featuring global influences, innovative techniques, and fresh, high-quality ingredients.

 

Jalisco Norte

 

Coco's Fire & Ice 

Coco’s in Bishop Arts menu serves fun flavors with their Lobster Tacos, Sombrero Sampler, and Picadillo Tostadas. Do not miss out on the Millionaire Margarita with mandarin Napoleon liqueur, your mouth will be watering!

Bishop Arts | Directions

 

Doce Mesas 

From a small establishment with only 12 tables (or mesas) back in the 90s to the contemporary coastal front runner it is today, Doce Mesas serves fresh takes on Mexican classics. Snatch a seat on their breezy outdoor patio and enjoy their famous Carolina Chicken Adobo along with one of Dallas’ favorite margaritas, and you’ll never want to leave!

Multiple locations | See locations

 

Jose on Lovers

Enjoy an adventurous menu of authentic dishes that celebrate true Mexican flavors. Try one of the top chefs in town, Chef Anastacia Quiñones-Pittman's, award-winning Carnitas de Olla, and Potato and Cheese Flautas. We recommend making a reservation, but if you can't snag one in time, they are worth the wait!

Lovers Lane | Directions

 

Meso Maya

Herbs, homemade adobos, and hand-ground tortillas, oh my! At Meso Maya, they are dedicated to paying homage to their culture with every plate, down to every last detail. In fact, the chocolate used in their mole sauce is made from specialty cocoa beans they grind in-house, and the garlic in the sought-after Camaron al Mojo de Ajo is peeled from whole cloves. This hot spot is a foodie's heaven!

Multiple locations | See locations

 

Xaman Cafe

Traditions are easy to pass down, but culture is hard to replicate. In the nooks of Bishop Arts, the Xaman family invites locals to take a glimpse into their childhood by serving the same plates and brews they grew up eating every morning. Their chilaquiles are to die for and the coffee, which can be traced back to independent Mexican farmers, is so rich you'll have a hard time refusing a second cup.

Bishop Arts | Directions

 

TAQUERIAS

With all the taquerias in town, why limit tacos to one day? Check out these taquerias to make any day taste just as good as Taco Tuesday. 

 

El Come Taco

 

Chilangos

For tacos that will transport you right to the streets of Mexico, visit Chilangos — some of the most authentically simple yet scrumptious tacos in town. Don't forget to order the al pastor taco, you'll thank us later!

Multiple locations | See locations

 

El Come Taco 

Torn between traditional and modern tacos? At El Come Taco, you can enjoy the best of both worlds with traditional options like carne asada and al pastor, along with vegetarian options and beer-battered tilapia tacos. (Pictured)

East Dallas | Directions 

 

Revolver Taco Lounge

This spot offers a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience. Grab a quick, authentic taco at the counter for a laid-back bite, or elevate your evening in the reservation-only tasting room, where Chef Regino Rojas serves up a seven-course, Michoacán-inspired prix fixe menu for $95.

Deep Ellum & Downtown | See locations

 

Tacos La Banqueta

Hole-in-the-wall or hidden gem? Ask any local taco lover where to find their favorite street taco spot, and Tacos La Banqueta is the go-to answer! You can't go wrong with any menu item, but the Taco Cabeza is unbeatable! They also have tons of other items such as Tortas, Quesadillas, Alambre, Gringas and more.

Multiple locations | See locations

 

Taqueria La Ventana

This vibrant and colorful Dallas staple, Taqueria La Ventana is a fast-casual spot serving authentic Mexico City-style street food like tacos, burritos, and bowls with handmade tortillas and fresh salsas. And bonus, they are open late to fuel all your late-night cravings too!

Multiple locations | See locations

 

COASTAL

Just because Dallas is landlocked doesn't mean you can't enjoy fresh seafood! Check out these coastal spots for some of the finest plates from the sea. 

original seafood bar

 

La Calle Doce 

Initially opened as a charming, renovated house over 3 decades ago, this family restaurant continues to carry the city's coastal cuisine scene with its friendly smiles and family-favorite recipes such as the Campechana, Camarones a la Diabla, and Chile Relleno de Mariscos.

Multiple locations | See locations

 

Mariscos La Reyna

Mariscos La Reyna translates to "Seafood Queen," and the name couldn’t be more fitting. Since 1989, this spot has reigned supreme with the most extensive seafood menu in Dallas. They’ve added their own Mexican flair to every dish, from Fried Oysters and Caldo de Camaron to Catfish, Shellfish, and Snapper.

Multiple locations | See locations

 

Palapas The Original Seafood Bar

This cozy, laid-back coastal gem is an absolute catch! Seafood lovers won’t be able to resist dishes like the Ceviche Dorado, Parrillada Marisquera, Tacos Zarandeado, and Camarones en Agua Chile.

Lower Greenville | Directions

 

FUN ATMOSPHERE

What goes great with good food? Even greater vibes! Check out these spots to add a fun flair to your Mexican fare!

Vidorra Cocina Patio

 

Las Almas Rotas 

Las Almas Rotas may translate to “The Broken Souls,” but trust us—the vibes here are a far stretch from this meaning! Tucked away in Fair Park, this hip, buzzing spot is the perfect place to start—or end—your night out on the town. Tuesday to Thursday, from 5-7pm (and 10:30-11:45pm), happy hour deals include both cocktails and appetizers, and some of their best bites like the Burrito Bowl and Esquites are served until midnight, perfect for late-night cravings!

Fair Park | Directions

 

Ruins 

For drinks done Oaxacan-style, head to Ruins—where mezcal, Mexican bites, and music come together for the ultimate trifecta. In their Limbo Room, you’ll find everything from eclectic artists and national acts to weekend dance parties and weekly karaoke, all paired with a killer appetizer menu and one-of-a-kind tropical cocktails. A night here? Unforgettable.

Deep Ellum | Directions

 

Vidorra 

Over the years, Vidorra has expanded to multiple locations beyond the lively original in Deep Ellum, and we are here for it.  No matter which location you chose, you can turn any meal into a celebration with frozen Patrón margarita flights, shot platters, daily happy hour deals, and unbeatable vibes here. Give it five minutes, and you’ll be up dancing in no time!

Multiple Locations | See Locations | Pictured

 

Yellow Rosa 

Some nights are meant for good conversations over great food, and Yellow Rosa is just the spot. Modeled after the cantinas found in San Miguel, this spot has a cozy, charming indoor patio, creative appetizers like the Mushroom Al Pastor, and a compelling cocktail list. Make sure to visit on Sundays for live music for Sunday brunch from 11-3pm! 

Deep Ellum | Directions

 


 

GOOD FOR GROUPS

Food, family, and friends-who-feel-like-family are at the heart of Mexican culture. Check out these spots for good vibes, great eats, and even better company with your crew!

 

Javiers

 

Javier's 

The boys are back in town, and you're on the hunt for the perfect place to catch up—but fresh ideas are running low. Head over to Javier’s on Henderson for Smoked Chicken Nachos, juicy Carne Asada, and killer deals on specialty cocktails. Don’t forget to swing by the cigar lounge for a Cuban and a Cognac nightcap. (Pictured)

Highland Park | Directions 

 

Joe Leo

Joe Leo brings Texas flair to classic Tex-Mex dishes and creative cocktails—like the Mexican Martini—all wrapped in a lively East Dallas vibe that’s made it a local favorite. With a spacious patio, an upstairs lounge, and shareable hits like fajitas, loaded tacos, and a delicious brunch menu, it’s the perfect spot for larger groups to eat, drink, and linger a little longer! 

Fitzhugh | Directions 

 

Mesero 

It’s your turn to plan the next family dinner, and you need a spot that’ll keep everyone happy, even the in-laws. Mesero’s got you covered. With a full-on Tex-Mex menu—plus options for kids, cocktails, and brunch—there’s something to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Worried your group’s too big? Not a problem! Mesero is ready to cater or host your private event at one of its five locations, just be sure to let them know a few weeks in advance.

Multiple locations | See locations

 

Mi Cocina 

For a fun girls’ or guys’ night out, Mi Cocina is always a solid move. Catch up with your crew over Brisket Tacos, Sunset Enchiladas, and—of course—their legendary Mambo Taxis. Just make sure to call a real taxi after… they’re stronger than they look! The  McKinney Ave location even has a rooftop bar, Seis Segundos, serving up drinks, an exclusive dinner menu, and a lively vibe that’s perfect for groups.

Multiple locations | See locations


 

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