13 Best Mexican Restaurants You Need To Visit In Dallas, TX
Y’all, let me tell you—my quest to find the most mouthwatering Mexican food in Dallas has been nothing short of a flavor-packed adventure!
From sizzling, perfectly seasoned fajitas to melt-in-your-mouth street tacos bursting with authenticity, the Big D is a treasure trove of incredible Mexican cuisine. I’ve crisscrossed the city, devouring countless tortillas, sampling every salsa imaginable, and chatting with locals who know where the real gems are hidden.
Whether you’re craving bold, spicy flavors or comforting, homemade classics, this list highlights the must-visit spots that truly deliver the real deal. Get ready—your taste buds are in for a fiesta!
1. Meso Maya: Where Ancient Recipes Come Alive
The first time I walked into Meso Maya, I was hit with aromas that transported me straight to central Mexico. Chef Nico Sanchez crafts dishes that honor pre-Columbian cooking techniques, and let me tell you, his mole is life-changing!
I always order the Budin Azteca – layers of tortillas, chicken, and that magical mole sauce that somehow balances sweet, spicy, and savory all at once. The restaurant’s interior, with its warm wood and traditional artwork, creates the perfect backdrop for their regional specialties.
Pro tip: Don’t skip their house-made aguas frescas – the cucumber-lime version is refreshingly perfect on a hot Texas day.
2. Revolver Taco Lounge: Taco Revolution in Deep Ellum
Holy guacamole! Revolver Taco Lounge changed my entire perspective on what a taco could be. Chef Regino Rojas serves up what I can only describe as taco artistry – each one a perfect little package of flavor bombs.
The pulpo (octopus) taco haunts my dreams with its tender texture and bold seasoning. Located in trendy Deep Ellum, this place manages to be both hip and authentic simultaneously – no easy feat!
What makes Revolver special is their commitment to hand-made tortillas pressed right before your eyes. The tiny space fills up fast, so arrive early or prepare to wait – trust me, it’s worth every minute.
3. El Come Taco: Street Food Paradise on Fitzhugh
Stepping into El Come Taco feels like discovering a secret portal to Mexico City’s vibrant street food scene. My first visit happened during a downpour, and I nearly slipped rushing inside – that’s how eager I was to try their legendary tacos al pastor!
The spinning trompo (vertical rotisserie) by the window hypnotizes passersby as thin slices of marinated pork are shaved off and tossed onto waiting tortillas. Family-owned and fiercely authentic, this spot doesn’t compromise on traditional techniques or flavors.
Their weekend-only barbacoa is worth planning your schedule around – tender, juicy, and packed with complex flavors that’ll make you close your eyes in pure bliss.
4. Jose: Upscale Mexican with a Texas Twist
Whoever said Mexican food can’t be fancy clearly hasn’t visited Jose! Nestled in the upscale Park Cities neighborhood, this gorgeous restaurant combines regional Mexican cuisine with modern techniques that absolutely wowed me.
Chef Anastacia Quiñones-Pittman (locals call her AQ) creates magic with her ever-changing lineup of “tacos de tacha” featuring unique housemade tortillas. My personal obsession is their lobster fajitas – a luxurious spin on the Tex-Mex classic that’s totally worth the splurge.
The patio here might be the prettiest in Dallas, with twinkling lights and lush greenery creating the perfect backdrop for enjoying yourself.
5. Taqueria La Ventana: Colorful Courtyard Taco Heaven
Sometimes the best Mexican food comes from the most unassuming places! I stumbled upon Taqueria La Ventana while exploring downtown and ended up staying for hours in their vibrant courtyard, munching on tacos and chatting with locals.
This counter-service gem serves straightforward street-style tacos that pack a flavor punch way above their budget-friendly price point. Their al pastor is fantastic, but the lengua (beef tongue) taco converted me into a true believer – incredibly tender and rich.
The festive atmosphere with colorful papel picado flags fluttering overhead makes every visit feel like a mini fiesta. Multiple locations now dot the Dallas landscape, but the original downtown spot remains my favorite for its authentic charm.
6. Resident Taqueria: Neighborhood Gem with Chef-Driven Tacos
Tucked away in Lake Highlands, Resident Taqueria proves that suburban strip malls can hide culinary treasures! My neighbor dragged me here one Saturday morning, promising it would change my taco standards forever – spoiler alert: she wasn’t exaggerating.
Chef Andrew Savoie brings fine-dining techniques to casual tacos, creating unexpected combinations that somehow feel both innovative and comforting. The caramelized cauliflower taco with kale and pepitas converted this dedicated carnivore into someone who occasionally craves vegetarian options!
What makes Resident special is their attention to detail – from house-pickled vegetables to freshly pressed tortillas. The compact, minimalist space fills with neighborhood families creating a genuine community vibe that feels instantly welcoming.
7. Javier’s Gourmet Mexicano: Old-School Elegance Since 1977
Walking into Javier’s feels like stepping back in time to a more sophisticated era. The dimly lit dining room with its dark wood paneling and white tablecloths has been Dallas’ special occasion Mexican restaurant since I was in pigtails!
Unlike Tex-Mex spots, Javier’s specializes in Mexico City-style cuisine, focusing on grilled meats and seafood rather than cheese-covered combo plates. Their Filete Cantinflas – tenderloin stuffed with cheese and mushrooms – remains my birthday dinner request every single year.
The cigar lounge and exceptional drink selection make this a favorite for Dallas power players. Fair warning: the wait can be long, but sipping their perfect margarita in the bar makes time fly by pleasantly.
8. Miriam Cocina Latina: Arts District Gem with a View
Miriam Jimenez greets guests with such genuine warmth that I felt like family from my very first visit! Her eponymous restaurant sits beside Klyde Warren Park, offering gorgeous views of downtown Dallas through floor-to-ceiling windows.
The menu blends traditional Mexican flavors with contemporary presentations that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Her signature enchiladas de jaiba (crab) have a delicate balance of cream, seafood, and spice that keeps me coming back monthly.
The bright, art-filled space perfectly complements the vibrant food. It’s my go-to recommendation for pre-theater dining before shows at the nearby Winspear Opera House – just be sure to save room for their cinnamon-sugar sopapillas!
9. Pepe’s & Mito’s: Deep Ellum Institution Since 1997
Long before Deep Ellum became the hipster haven it is today, Pepe’s & Mito’s was serving some of the most satisfying Mexican food in Dallas. My band used to play gigs nearby, and their late-night menu saved us from starvation countless times!
This family-owned spot strikes the perfect balance between authentic Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex favorites. Their chile relleno – a perfectly battered and fried poblano stuffed with cheese and topped with ranchero sauce – makes me weak in the knees every single time.
The colorful murals and friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere that’s remained unchanged despite the neighborhood’s rapid transformation. Their massive margaritas and generous portions make this spot perfect for groups.
10. Desperados Mexican Restaurant: Family Recipes Since 1976
Some of my earliest food memories involve Desperados’ sizzling fajitas and warm sopapillas drizzled with honey! This family-owned institution has been serving Dallasites for nearly five decades, and their consistency is remarkable.
The Castro family recipes have been passed down through generations, creating dishes that taste like they came straight from a Mexican grandmother’s kitchen. Their Mexico City-style enchiladas verdes with tomatillo sauce hit that perfect sweet spot between authentic and comforting.
What keeps locals coming back isn’t just nostalgia – it’s the genuine hospitality and attention to detail. The Greenville Avenue location has a wonderful outdoor patio that’s perfect for those perfect spring and fall days in Dallas.
11. Avila’s Mexican Restaurant: Tiny Space, Huge Flavors
Blink and you might miss Avila’s – this tiny house-turned-restaurant near downtown isn’t much to look at from outside, but inside awaits some of the most soul-satisfying Mexican food I’ve ever tasted! My first visit happened during a rainstorm, and their chicken soup warmed me from the inside out.
Run by the Avila family since 1986, this place specializes in regional Mexican cuisine with a focus on quality ingredients rather than fancy presentation. Their brisket tacos are legendary – tender, smoky meat tucked into fresh tortillas with just the right amount of salsa.
The cozy dining room has maybe a dozen tables, creating an intimate atmosphere where you’ll often spot the Avila family checking on guests and sharing stories about their recipes.
12. Mariano’s Hacienda: Birthplace of the Frozen Margarita Machine
Food history buffs, listen up! Mariano’s holds a special place in culinary lore as the birthplace of the world’s first frozen margarita machine! Owner Mariano Martinez modified a soft-serve ice cream machine in 1971, forever changing how we enjoy this iconic drink.
Beyond the legendary libations, Mariano’s serves consistently delicious Tex-Mex classics in a festive hacienda-style setting. Their sizzling fajitas arrive with dramatic flair, trailing clouds of aromatic steam through the dining room.
I’ve been celebrating special occasions here since childhood, and the combination of nostalgic atmosphere and reliably tasty food keeps me coming back. The complimentary warm chips and two types of salsa start every meal off right.
13. El Ranchito: Oak Cliff’s Norteño-Style Standout
Mariachi music fills the air at El Ranchito, an Oak Cliff institution specializing in Northern Mexican cuisine with a distinctive cowboy flair! My first visit coincided with a live mariachi performance that had the whole restaurant singing along – an experience I’ll never forget.
Their specialty is cabrito (roasted goat) and massive quail platters that showcase the ranching traditions of Northern Mexico. The family-style portions encourage sharing, making this my favorite spot for group celebrations.
The restaurant’s Western-themed decor features saddles, lassos, and cowboy memorabilia creating an atmosphere that’s both kitschy and charming. Weekend evenings bring long waits, but the people-watching and festive atmosphere in the bar area make the time pass quickly.