The Best Mex in Dallas

Just a few words for ya here. Stuffed chicken sopapilla with deluxe tomatilla sauce. Oh Chuy’s, how I miss your Elvis themed decor and creamy jalapeno dipping sauce. Mango margaritas still hold a dear spot in my heart. One day, I may even attempt the Elvis platter, and look like Elvis in the latter years

Having a fiesta? Mattito’s is the best spot in town because of the special party rooms in back. I’ve been to countless dress rehearsal dinners with a buffet full of all the favorites: the creamy cheese enchiladas, sizzling fajitas and famous Bob Armstrong dip(queso, guacamole, beef and sourcream all mixed). The separate party bar keeps everyone happy with margaritas that pack a punch. If you have the opportunity, go for their weekend brunch too; another buffet that offers more food than any one person should be allowed to choose from in one setting. Delicioso.

Quite possibly my very favorite Mexican food joint on Earth; I would eat my last meal here if I could. The soft cheese tacos with rice and beans are so simple but so satisying I get them 99% of the time. The sangria swirl frozen margarita will leave you with a skip in your step, pardner. The only time I choose something else is for weekend brunch.The migas are outstanding with fluffy eggs, green onions, queso and tortillas ;enough to keep you good though lunch. The Blue Goose is a welcome home to weekend warriors on their Harley’s so if you don’t like a little leather after church, you may need to go elsewhere.

I read that the founder of El Fenix was the originator of ‘tex-mex’ cuisine, trying to make the standard Mexican food more Gringo friendly. It worked. The crispy chicken flautas here are my favorite ever. The hot sauce with butter on warm corn tortillas just whets your appetite before you begin the real meal. El Fenix has several locations across the DFW metroplex, and all of them have the famous cheese enchiladas that bring hords or people in for enchilada night every Wednesday.

Chips, salsa, seafood….it’s all here in one establishment! I think part of the reason I love Mexican so much is the chips ‘n salsa you start with. And this Mexican restaurant specializes in Latin inspired seafood that is spicy and satisfying, while a bit lighter with zesty flavors like citrusy marinades and flaky filets. I’m a huge fan.

Drive slowly or you might miss this Big D hot spot for gourmet Mexico City style food. But look for the owner’s red Ferarri and you’ll know you’re there. The several dining rooms resemble a steak house more than anything you might imagine in Mexico City, with warm wood paneling and leather seating. The black bean soup is a hearty beginning to your meal, but save room for your main course. The red snapper is so delicious I crave it from afar. This is a perfect beginning for a bachelor party as the gentleman clients love the attached cigar bar. celebrities seem to love Javier’s too, so keep your eyes peeled for them, too.

This family owned Mexican Hacienda style restaurant has grown over the years to fill the needs of its ever loyal and expanding clientelle. Frozen margaritas quench your thirst from the homemade salty tortilla chips and salsa that are so irresistible. The sour cream chicken enchiladas are muy bueno and the tacos al carbon are also a standout.

This eatery fills up for lunch and dinner and the regulars keep coming back for more. The parking lot fills up fast, so come early. Inside it’s a little tight and even the ceilings seem lower than usual, leaving you to ask if you are Alice in Wonderland. But the traditional tex-mex is so undeniably good, cramped space and long lines don’t mean a thing to me.

One of the most popular restaurants in Dallas with over 6 locations and growing, Mi Co’s is the place to go for sexy dining. Chips and salsa begin the meal and anyone in the know orders a Mambo Taxi Margarita(and a cab for the ride home.) The Hongos con Queso, a white cheese casserole with giant sauteed mushrooms and spinach rolled in homemade flour tortillas is so decadent and rich, you’ll be embarassed to order it alone. Mama’s Tacos and Ernie’s Chicken are favorites of mine, along with the frijoles a la charra that accompany most entrees. Wear your Jimmy Choo’s if you are going to this location because it’s not just about what you eat here…it’s also what you wear. This is people watching at it’s best.