Houston's sprawling size means incredible Mexican diversity. Tex-Mex institutions, authentic taquerias, and upscale Mexican all thrive here. The city's large Mexican population ensures authenticity.
Houston Legends
El Tiempo Cantina
$$ • Multiple Locations
The Laurenzo family's famous fajitas. Houston essential.
Ninfa's on Navigation
$$ • EaDo
The original. Mama Ninfa invented fajitas here.
Hugo's
$$$ • Montrose
Hugo Ortega's regional Mexican. Outstanding moles.
Modern Mexican
Xochi
$$$$ • Downtown
Oaxacan fine dining. Ortega's most ambitious project.
Cuchara
$$$ • Montrose
Mexico City-style in artsy Montrose.
Caracol
$$$$ • Galleria
Coastal Mexican seafood. Excellent ceviche.
Authentic Taquerias
Tacos Tierra Caliente
$ • Multiple Locations
24-hour taco truck excellence.
La Guadalupana
$ • East Houston
Outstanding bakery with breakfast tacos.
Gerardo's Drive-In
$ • Hobby Area
Hidden gem with excellent tacos and tortas.
Pro Tip: Houston's Mexican food debate: El Tiempo vs. Ninfa's for fajitas. Try both—they're different experiences from the same family lineage.