Our Favorite Tex Mex + Authentic Mexican Food Spots in Dallas // Updated Spring 2023

Looking for the best Tex Mex or Authentic Mexican food in Dallas to satisfy your cravings for tacos and margaritas? From sizzling fajitas to mouth-watering enchiladas, Dallas is home to some of the best Tex Mex spots in the state. Whether you're a lifelong Tex Mex aficionado or a newcomer to the cuisine, you're in for a treat with these top picks. So, get ready to indulge in delicious food, lively atmospheres, and unforgettable margaritas – here are the best Tex Mex spots in Dallas updated for spring 2023!

1. Las Palmas

"I don’t know why ’80s New Wave music reminds me of Tex-Mex, but it does,” Pasha Heidari, co-owner of Las Palmas, told D Magazine soon after this Uptown Tex-Mex paradise swung open its doors in 2019. And that explains the Las Palmas vibe. Bright and bold colors and tastes collide with classic Tex-Mex comfort, and the brothers Heidari bring a flair for fine dining that give Las Palmas an edge. Keep the Sparkling Palomas (our favorite drink on the menu) coming, please.

2. Glorias

The Gospel of Gloria's has long since spread to the masses, with 17 locations now operating in the DFW area, but it's still a can't-miss for the Love List crew. DO NOT sleep on their brunch menu, where you can't go wrong with either the huevos con brisket or Valeria's breakfast tacos. The real ones will note that Gloria's cuisine is technically Salvadoran. Fun fact: you can most distinctly taste the difference between Salvadoran food and what is more commonly referred to as Tex-Mex in items like tamales, which come wrapped in banana leaves at Gloria's.

3. Doce Mesas

This place really straddles the line nicely between classic Tex-Mex and a more Coastal Cali vibe. The wrap-around patio is stunningly beautiful, and so are the drinks. We love Chico's Pacifico ceviche to start and the #1 (enchilada norteña, carnitas taco, red rice, black beans) for a main, which allows one to save plenty of room for pastel de leche before the eventual nap to follow.

4. Mi Cocina

Oh, MiCo. Your shrimp brochettes and your mambo limousines (why ride in a taxi when a limo is an option?) are permanent fixtures in our salsified, cheese-lined arteries. With 21 locations and a 30-year ongoing run in the DFW food scene, if you haven't enjoyed a Mi Cocina meal lately, one must ask oneself. Bro, do you even Tex-Mex?

5. E Bar Tex Mex

The greatness lies in the simplicity at E Bar. Try the pollo ala parilla at this Uptown honey hole and you'll see what we're talking about. They're not going out of their way to give you something you didn't ask for here. A E Bar, the understand the Tex-Mex assignment. And the $4 mimosas and bloodies at brunch never hurt anyone, either.

6. Mexican Sugar

Mexican Sugar describes its take on all our favorites as "sultry Latin comfort food," and now I think I'm in love. I'm all verklempt. Talk amongst yourselves for a second. Ok, thanks for that. If you are a tequila connoisseur, or if you'd like to pretend you are, this is the place to do tequila things. With locations in Plano and Las Colinas, treat yourself to some beautiful Pan-Latin creations at one of the most unique spots on our list here.

7. Escondido

Introducing Escondido, the newest Tex Mex spot in DFW serving up delicious Mexican food and $5 lunch margaritas that won our hearts. With a beautiful floral covered patio perfect for an instagram backdrop, covered section, and a mouthwatering menu featuring must-try queso, guac, and cilantro ranch dip, it's the perfect spot for a lunch date with friends or a work lunch that's anything but ordinary.

8. Uno Mas

The sign says it all, doesn't it? What else does anyone need in life? Something to wash it all down with, we suppose, which is where the drink menu comes into play at Uno Mas. Try an agave old fashioned and thank us later, or a Oaxacan Wolf for one of the most daring mezcal creations in town. For starters, the fundido is to die for, and for dessert, it's the brown butter cake for the win. In between, you can just close your eyes and point to anything. It'll be pretty great.

9. Desert Racer

When we talk about a pleasing aesthetic in the Tex-Mex game here in Dallas, Desert Racer takes it by a country mile. Try not to have fun and look super cute at your table on their patio on Baja Greenville (baja means lower — try and keep up). We dare you. It can't be done. We're trying a borracho brisket mission style burrito and a crispy cod poke style burrito on our next visit — you should too!

10. Jose on Lovers

Anastacia Quinoñes-Pittman, Executive Chef at Jose on Lovers, is a damn genius. Jose brings an authenticity to the scene here that few others can match, and this place is always hosting equally brilliant guest chefs for special events that make a trip down Lovers Lane more unique than ever. Jose was recently recognized as one of D Magazine's 50 Best Restaurants in Dallas — walking in the door here is truly an amazing experience, every time.

11. Mesero

Mesero holds a special place in our little Love List hearts, with its beautiful table presentation and bold flavors. Five locations run up and down Greater Dallas from Victory Park to Frisco, and there's another one over Fort Worth way, too. We're big proponents of the spinach and artichoke-influenced Queso Mesero over the classic Queso Tejano, but that debate may not get settled until our next visit, when we plan to drink both straight from the bowl, for science. The salmon tacos and the loaded jalapeños win the day as well.

12. Veracruz

We love that such a variety of great Mexican and Mexican-inspired dishes can fall under the great-big umbrella of Tex-Mex, and Bishop Arts' Veracruz Cafe stands as a testament to the breadth (and tastiness) of the genre. The blue corn enchiladas, the Xalapa-style chile rellenos and some of the best Mexican seafood this far inland make Veracruz a must. Veracruz has two more locations in Cedar Hill and Midlothian, too!

13. Herrara's on Harry Hines

The mission statement is simple. Serve great on-script Tex-Mex classics with consistency and enough cheese to blow out a ventricle, and you too might be able to stay in business for 50 — yes, 50 — years in Dallas. The venerated Familia Ontiveros is continuing a true Texas tradition here in West Dallas, so stop in and say hello! Pro tip: on Wednesdays, you can grab a 13A (two cheese enchiladas with choice of chile con carne or queso, along with rice and beans) for an insane $5.99. Can't beat that with a stick.

14. Tejas

Again with the sexy food. Eating at Tejas, another of Bishop Arts' finest, has been known to make it move, so be forewarned. But it's not just a pretty face. You can actually eat here and still call yourself a healthy person afterward in many cases, which doesn't seem possible when the scent wafts in your direction outside or when your order hits the table. The pork pibil enchiladas are just. so. good.

15. The Reserve

Get ready to conquer the Trompo Tower at The Reserve, the newest Dallas spot that serves up taco towers for you and your besties to share. Located in the Dallas Farmers Market, this vibrant spot offers a massive patio, delicious cocktails, and the ultimate DIY taco experience. Don't miss their unbeatable cheap eats deals, including $2.50 tacos on Tuesdays, half-price signature cocktails on Wednesdays, $2.50 Trompo Tacos and half-off margaritas on Thursdays, and a happy hour with half-price beer from Monday to Thursday. It's time to gather your taco-loving bestie and indulge in an unforgettable dining experience!

16. Hugo's West Village

Get ready to spice up your taste buds and sip on some fiery margaritas at the West Village location of Hugo's Invitados! This elevated Latin cuisine spot is the perfect destination for those who love their food spicy and their margs spicier. Don't miss their boozy brunch specials and happy hour deals, where you can indulge in $7 brunch cocktails and $5 house margs. Whether you choose the vibrant interior or the sunny patio, you're guaranteed a great experience from the moment you step in.

17. Mixtitos

Get ready for a culinary adventure like no other at Mixtitos Kitchen in East Dallas! This hidden gem combines Mexican and Japanese flavors to create a fusion menu that will leave you craving for more. Don't miss their tableside flaming flambed berry creme, a showstopper dessert that's perfect for your Instagram feed. And make sure to indulge in their creamy and delicious queso fundido, served with a presentation that will impress. With flavorful dishes and perfectly balanced margaritas, Mixtitos is the ultimate spot for a fiesta in Dallas.

18. Pepe + Mitos

Get ready to embark on a flavor-filled journey at Pepe and Mitos, a beloved hole-in-the-wall Mexican spot featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives! Their lunch specials are a steal, with plates under $15, and their Tacos Nortenos, made famous by Guy Fieri himself, are an absolute must-try. Indulge in four mini corn tortilla tacos loaded with savory fajita steak, sautéed with pico de Gallo and chipotle wine sauce, and served with rice and beans. Trust us, they taste as amazing as they look!

19. The Mexican

Get ready to be captivated by the charm of The Mexican, a Mexican restaurant that has taken the Design District by storm! With its stunning interior, sun-filled patio, and a menu boasting beautiful cocktails and dishes, this spot is perfect for a post-work margarita with friends. Don't miss the chance to experience their meticulous attention to detail, from the exquisite decor to the authentic Mexican-inspired cuisine. Make a reservation and get ready for a dining experience that will leave you excited, relaxed, and craving more.

20. El Bolero

If you favorite thing about Tex Mex is the margs, then indulge in the mesmerizing flavors of El Bolero's signature margaritas that will leave you craving more. Sip on the Cotton Candy Margarita, a delightful blend of strawberry passion fruit, Herradura Silver, triple sec, lime, and garnished with strawberry cotton candy. And don't miss out on the famous El Bolero Oilman Margarita, featuring activated charcoal, Herradura Silver, Cointreau Orange Liqueur, agave, and adorned with rock candy gold stars and a gold salt rim. Experience the award-winning taste that has earned El Bolero the title of the Best Margarita in Dallas by D Magazine.

21. Taco Y Vino

Get ready for the ultimate taco and wine experience at Taco Y Vino, where their adorable patio sets the perfect ambiance. Indulge in their mouthwatering tacos, featuring a variety of combinations including vegetarian options, and don't miss their incredible deal of 6 tacos and a bottle of wine for just $40. From happy hour specials to live music nights, Taco Y Vino is the go-to spot for a memorable girls' night or date night filled with delicious food and great company.

20. Taco Lingo

Calling all happy hour enthusiasts! Thursdays with the girls just got even better at Taco Lingo, where you can sip on refreshing $5 ranch waters and savor mouthwatering tacos. But that's not all, this spot offers irresistible weekly deals like $2 tacos on Tuesdays and $7.75 enchiladas on Wednesdays, plus an epic happy hour from Monday to Friday with discounted margarita pitchers, house margs, wines, beers, and cocktails. Gather your bestie and head over to Taco Lingo for a memorable evening filled with tasty Tex-Mex delights and fantastic drinks.

21. Vidorra

Calling all tequila enthusiasts and margarita lovers! Get ready to take flight into the weekend with Vidorra's newest addition: the Frozen Patron Flight. Served in four Patron bottles with tantalizing flavors like Watermelon, Strawberry, Mango, and Tamarindo, this insta-worthy margarita flight is a must-try for those seeking a unique and delicious tequila experience. Tag your tequila-loving friends and get ready to elevate your margarita game with this delightful creation from Vidorra. Cheers to the weekend! 🍹✨

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