Houston’s food scene is renowned for its diversity, and Mexican cuisine reigns supreme. From classic Tex-Mex to regional specialties and innovative fusion dishes, the city offers a delicious array of options for every palate. This guide highlights some of the best Mexican restaurants in Houston, categorized by style, ensuring you find the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings.
Bakeries: Sweet Treats and Savory Bites
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El Bolillo Bakery: With five locations across Houston, El Bolillo is a beloved institution. Indulge in tres leches, flan, and an assortment of pan dulce like conchas and orejas. Savory options include kolaches, tamales, and fresh tortillas perfect for homemade tacos.
El Bolillo Bakery -
Irma’s Original Mexican Restaurant: Tucked away in the Tlaquepaque Market, Irma’s serves up exceptional conchas and other pan dulce alongside delicious comida casera.
Breakfast and Brunch: Starting the Day Right
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Brothers Taco House: This iconic spot is a must-visit for breakfast taco enthusiasts. Classic chorizo, potato, and egg or bacon and egg tacos are highly recommended. Be prepared for a wait, especially on weekends when barbacoa and menudo are served. Don’t forget to admire the vibrant mural!
Brothers Taco House Breakfast Tacos -
Cochinita & Co.: James Beard Award semifinalist Victoria Elizondo’s East End gem is a community favorite. Savor the chilaquiles (vegan option available), nopalitos scramble, or El Desayuno. Browse Elizondo’s market for unique finds after your meal.
Cochinita & Co. -
Ema: From pop-up to brick-and-mortar, Ema in the Heights delights with pastries by James Beard semifinalist Stephanie Velasquez. Enjoy horchata berlinesas and pair them with specialty coffee like piloncillo chai or a cafe de olla latte.
Ema Creme Cafe -
Gerardo’s Drive-In: Open weekends only, Gerardo’s is a legendary spot for traditional barbacoa tacos made with beef cheek and tongue.
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La Guadalupana Bakery & Cafe: This Montrose institution has been serving comfort food for 30 years. Crowds flock here for chilaquiles, migas, and huevos rancheros. Save room for pan dulce!
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La Mexicana: While offering lunch and dinner, La Mexicana shines with its all-day breakfast menu. Generous portions of chorizo and egg tacos, papas a La Mexicana, and huevos rancheros will satisfy any hunger.
La Mexicana Breakfast -
Laredo Taqueria: This cafeteria-style taqueria offers authentic and affordable breakfast tacos. Arrive early to avoid lines at one of their four locations.
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Villa Arcos: A family-owned East End establishment since 1977, Villa Arcos is known for its “bacon super” taco and classic breakfast plates.
Tex-Mex: A Houston Staple
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Candente: From the team behind Pit Room, Candente offers a lively atmosphere and delicious Tex-Mex fare. Savor smoked chicken flautas, tortilla soup, and premium margaritas.
Candente Tex-Mex Spread -
El Tiempo Cantina: Founded by a son of Mama Ninfa, El Tiempo has been a Houston favorite since 1998. Indulge in crispy tacos, queso flameado, and the classic Tex-Mex combination plate, Las Vegas.
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Ninfa’s on Navigation: Pay homage to Mama Ninfa, the originator of fajitas, at the original location. Order the two tacos a La Ninfa plate and explore chef specials.
Ninfa's Executive Chef
Taco Trucks: Street Food Delights
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El Taconazo: This late-night favorite draws crowds for its simple yet flavorful fajita tacos with queso Oaxaca and fiery green salsa.
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Tacos Tierra Caliente: A Houston institution for nearly 20 years, this truck parked across from West Alabama Ice House is perfect for tacos and drinks.
Fine Dining: Elevated Mexican Cuisine
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Hugo’s: Chef Hugo Ortega’s flagship restaurant offers an authentic and refined dining experience. Indulge in aguachile, ceviche, cabrito, or arroz a la tumbada.
Hugo's Margarita -
Tlahuac: Emmanuel Chavez’s tasting menu experience showcases the diversity of Mexican cuisine through heirloom corn and innovative dishes.
Regional Mexican Cuisine: A Taste of Tradition
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Laredo Taco Company #1: This Long Point Road gem specializes in Hidalgo-style cuisine. The barbacoa de borrego is a must-try.
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Picos: Celebrating four decades in Houston, Picos offers a culinary journey through Mexico’s seven regions. Sample aguachile de camarón, mole dishes, and seafood specialties.
Picos Mexican Restaurant -
Sylvia’s Enchilada Kitchen: Enchilada Queen Sylvia Casares presents a curated selection of enchiladas, both “north” and “south” of the border styles. Try the McAllen or Hidalgo versions, or opt for the Enchilada Culinary Tour.
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Xalisko: Chef Beatriz Martines, a Hugo Ortega alum, showcases the cuisine of Jalisco with bold flavors and impeccable technique at this Woodlands restaurant. Start with the salsa sampler and esquites in bone marrow, followed by birria tatemada.
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Xochi: Chef Hugo Ortega’s downtown restaurant focuses on the cuisine of Oaxaca, particularly its seafood. The grilled octopus and catch of the day are highly recommended.
Xochi Tlayuda
Fusion: Blending Cultures and Flavors
- Twisted Turban: Experience the unique fusion of Indian and Mexican cuisine with tacos wrapped in parathas. Try the Turban Tacos with braised beef and a vibrant slaw.
