The lively Mexican restaurants in Houston provide vibrant settings for cheese-filled feasts with stewed meats, grilled vegetables, fiery salsas, and tequila-infused libations.
Amidst numerous choices throughout the city, a select few prioritize genuine Mexican cuisine. These spots offer authentic Mexican dishes using traditional cooking techniques and on-site baking for the freshest torta bread.
Hugo restaurant seamlessly merges Mexican culinary traditions with exceptional service in a stylish setting. The menu features delicious delights like squash soup, duck tostadas, and two-mole variations.
While the agave-roasted barbacoa receives praise, the truly distinctive culinary adventure at this Mexican restaurant in Houston lies in crispy fried grasshoppers paired with guacamole and tortillas.
Address: 1600 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006
Discover the essence of Oaxacan-inspired cuisine at this chic Downtown destination, Xochi. Indulge in Houston's finest Mexican fare, featuring mouthwatering tacos, sizzling fajitas, and authentic mole.
Let your taste buds journey south of the border in this top-rated Mexican restaurant Houston TX. Explore a curated list of the city's best Mexican food spots, savoring the rich and diverse flavors.
Address: 1777 Walker St, Houston, TX 77010
Renowned for homemade tortillas, flavorful fajitas, caliente shrimp, and the signature Teotihuacan Parrillada, this spot is a culinary gem among Mexican restaurants in Houston.
The Teotihuacan Parrillada, priced at $60, boasts chargrilled quails, beef short ribs, grilled jumbo shrimp, and beef and chicken fajitas, topped off with a cheese-stuffed poblano pepper.
Address: 1511 Airline Dr, Houston, TX 77009
Puebla’s Mexican Kitchen caters to early risers with breakfast tacos, tortas, and gorditas available until 3 p.m. The menu offers tempting choices like barbacoa with migas or the hearty huevos con chorizo.
The vibrantly decorated cafe provides a lively setting to savor classic morning favorites such as chilaquiles and migas, making it an ideal spot for a flavorful start to the day.
Address: 6320 N Main St, Houston, TX 77009
Immerse yourself in a lavish dining experience at Flora, adorned with over 40 stunning chandeliers. The restaurant boasts delicious fare, placing a premium on organic and high-quality ingredients.
Standout items on their menu include mole enchiladas and street tacos al pastor, showcasing the culinary excellence that matches the grandeur of their decor.
Address: 3422 Allen Pkwy, Houston, TX 77019
A visit to Cascabel promises to delight with refreshing margaritas and a varied selection of vegan treats like birria tacos, poblano quesadillas, and vegan flan.
Their delectable offerings showcase that Houston's top-tier Mexican cuisine can seamlessly embrace a vegan approach. For plant-based options, Cascabel is a must-try destination among the diverse Mexican restaurants in Houston.
Address: 1415 Murray Bay St, Houston, TX 77080
Caracol elevates the dining experience with its upscale ambiance, featuring Mexican seafood delicacies and a well-curated selection of beverages. The inviting oyster bar adds to the restaurant's charm and culinary appeal.
The restaurant takes patrons on a culinary journey along the Mexican coast. Immerse yourself in a world of refined flavors and coastal charm at Caracol, which stands out among Mexican restaurants.
Address: 2200 Post Oak Blvd #160, Houston, TX 77056
Candente blends Mexican cuisine with a Texas barbecue flair, using smoked and grilled proteins from its sister restaurant, the Pit Room. Alongside, classic Tex-Mex fare, savor unique offerings like brisket enchiladas, brisket-topped nachos, redfish, shrimp, and scallop ceviche.
A signature dish is the Tampiquena, featuring a 9-ounce prime rib-eye with two cheese enchiladas, chili-lime butter, and grilled onions.
Address: 4306 Yoakum Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
El Tiempo is celebrated for robust margaritas and sizzling fajita platters. Choose from classic options such as beef, chicken, veggie fajitas, or spicy shrimp to satisfy your cravings.
Amp up your fajitas with add-ons like the “la tana,” featuring a blend of serrano peppers, garlic, and cheese. Elevate your dining experience with unique offerings like filet mignon or salmon fajitas with mango chimichurri.
Address: 2814 Navigation Blvd, Houston, TX 77003
Pappasito’s Cantina has been a Tex-Mex staple in Houston since the 1970s. Their homemade tortilla chips with warm red salsa are irresistible, and starters like chicharrones con queso and sweet and spicy ribs set the tone.
Opt for steak, well-seasoned chicken, grilled quail, or shrimp. Choose a platter with a sampling of each, and complete your meal with a delightful tres leches dessert.
Address: 2536 Richmond Ave., Houston, TX 77098
For a decade, Cuchara has been serving casual Mexico City cuisine in its vibrant Montrose dining room adorned with art by Mexico City muralist Cecilia Beaven.
The Instagram-worthy Paloma cocktails are perfect for loaded plates, featuring crispy tostadas and cheese-stuffed grilled cactus filets. Together, they create a delightful dining experience that is as visually appealing and delicious.
Address: 214 Fairview St, Houston, TX 77006
Despite the white tablecloths, this River Oaks restaurant serves classic dishes like chile con queso, enchiladas, and its signature twice-refried beans.
Try the $48 River Oaks 'Rita, a blend of Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Tequila, Patron Citronge, fresh lime juice, agave, and gold flakes. Also, explore the recently launched Sunday brunch featuring hearty plates of huevos rancheros, avocado tostadas, and chilaquiles.
Address: 2630 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77098
La Fisheria, a Downtown oasis with a vibrant, Mexican resort-style dining space, is dedicated to coastal cuisine. Dive into diverse ceviches featuring options like shrimp, scallops, and stewed octopus.
The fish is prepared through frying, char-grilling, or pan-searing, providing a multifaceted seafood experience in a lively setting.
Address: 213 Milam St, Houston, TX 77002
Hugo Ortega's latest venture shines a spotlight on Mexican street eats at Urbe, a fast-casual concept in Uptown Park. Featuring counter-service by day and a full-service format, it is renowned for slow-roasted meats like birria and barbacoa.
The restaurant boasts an on-site bakery producing fresh bread, tortillas, pastries, and distinctive spiral-shaped churros, reminiscent of those in Mexican mercados.
Address: 1101 Uptown Park Blvd Suite 12, Houston, TX 77056
This long-standing, family-owned restaurant stands out in a city with Mexican dining options. The barbacoa sourced from 44 Farms takes center stage, filling tortas, tacos, and more.
Saucy enchilada plates showcase house-made toppings, featuring options like herb butter Suiza sauce, and chili gravy, adding a unique and flavorful touch.
Address: 2203 N Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77008
