10 Best Mexican Restaurants in Dallas

When you’re headed to a Mexican restaurant in Dallas, it’s likely going to have strong Texan influences. And while Dallas is no Austin when it comes to Mexican food, there are still many Mexican restaurants that hold their own here. As Texans, we’re obviously big fans of Tex-Mex dishes, but this particular guide focuses on the best authentic Mexican dishes Dallas has to offer.

With chefs from all over Mexico who are paying homage to their culture and local neighborhoods, you’ll find dynamic, fresh, and authentic flavors at all of these restaurants. We can’t wait for you to try the very best Mexican restaurants in Dallas. Happy eating!

10. Desperados

For over 44 years, Desperados has been beloved by Dallasites and has been considered one of the best Mexican restaurants in Dallas. Desperados serves the type of authentic Mexican dishes that you may not find in any other Mexican restaurant in Dallas, focusing on fusing old Mexican traditions with more modern ones. When you’re there, be sure to order the Chimichanga or the Desperadoes Tacos. 

9. Emilio’s

When you’re in the mood for some no-fuss, quick, and flavorful authentic Mexican food, Emilios is your place. The restaurant decor or location isn’t anything exciting, but the food here is some of the best Mexican food in Dallas. Their menu offers delicious Tex-Mex options and tacos, but for a more authentic Mexican experience, we recommend getting the Mole Chicken Enchiladas or the Carne Flameada.

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8. Mariano’s Hacienda

If you’re looking for the best Mexican restaurant in Dallas that can accommodate large groups and families without having to go to a big chain, Mariano’s Hacienda is your place. With custom-designed, mesquite wood-fired grills that add innovative flavors to each dish, you’ll find plenty of crowd-pleasing dishes here. We recommend getting their signature dish—the Mesquite Grilled Fajitas—or the Spicy Blackened Chicken Verde.

7. Avila’s

If you’re wanting a quaint, hole-in-the-wall experience at one of the best Mexican restaurants in Dallas, head over to Avila’s where you’ll be very well taken care of. Avila’s has northeastern and frontier Mexican-inspired dishes that will leave you feeling more than satisfied. We recommend getting the Triple D Combo—a flavorful plate a pork tamale, brisket gordita, pozole soup, pico de gallo, guacamole, rice, and beans. If you’ve got room after dinner, take a look at their beloved dessert menu and give the sopapillas a try. They are to die for. 

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6. Pepe’s & Mito’s

Located in the heart of Deep Ellum, Pepe’s & Mito’s is a family-owned restaurant that primarily serves authentic Mexican food with a very slight Texan influence. Everything is made in-house with the freshest ingredients. Their claim to fame is that Guy Fieri visited and loved their caldo albondigas (a Mexican meatball soup), and we couldn’t agree more. We recommend trying the soup and the beef enchiladas if you want to find out why this place is one of the best restaurants in Dallas.

5. Miriam Cocina Latina

Overlooking Klyde Warren Park,  Miriam Cocina Latina is the perfect place for lunch when you’re in downtown Dallas. This female-run contemporary restaurant brings slight Dominican touches to classic Mexican dishes. The menu has a lot of options for everyone in your party, so no one is going to struggle to find something they love here. We recommend getting the brisket enchiladas with tomatillo sauce, Oaxaca cheese, roasted pineapple, and a side of rice and beans. One bite will have you convinced that Miriam Cocina Latina is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Dallas.

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4. Tulum

For date night, escape to Tulum—a modern, bohemian Mexican restaurant that offers up some incredible dishes. You’ll forget you’re in Texas as soon as you step inside. Not only will you be in awe of the carefully curated decor, but the food will have you convinced that Tulum is one of the very best Mexican restaurants in Dallas. If Octopus doesn’t freak you out, we highly recommend ordering it here. It’s outstanding. If Octopus isn’t your thing, the Cozumel wood-fired enchiladas with their jalapeño pistachio sauce surely won’t disappoint. 

3. Jalisco Norte

With a goal to pay homage to his country and family, Chef Jose Meza has created a dining experience that reflects the rich traditions in various parts of Mexico. This place is bound to please everyone in your party—with vegan, gluten-free, and plenty of sweet and savory options. If you’re wanting some of the best carne asada you’ll ever sink your teeth into, we recommend getting it from Jalisco Norte, one of the best Mexican restaurants in Dallas.

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2. Jose

Jose, one of the best Mexican restaurants in Dallas, delivers fresh and contemporary Jalisco-inspired dishes in a gorgeous modern space located on Lovers Lane in Dallas. Chef Jose has succeeded in creating an inviting, gorgeous restaurant for friends and family members to gather and experience the dynamic flavors from various spots in Guadalajara and the dishes from people he loves in Mexico. The menu is constantly changing, but you will always find fresh, seasonal ceviches to devour here.

1. Meso Maya Comida Y Copas

Meso Maya, the very best Mexican restaurant in Dallas, is recognized and beloved by Dallas residents and visitors alike. Chef Nico Sanchez brings complexity, freshness, and bold flavors to the table that are highly influenced by areas like Vera Cruz, Yucatan, and Chiapas. Most Mexican restaurants in Dallas offer chips and queso as a starter, but Meso Maya’s queso poblano stands out as the creamiest cheese blend you’ll find anywhere. For your entree, we recommend getting the serrano enchiladas and the Vegetales. The way Meso Maya blends freshness, acidity, and creaminess into their dishes will make you realize why we’ve chosen Meso Maya as our #1 pick.