Near Las Colinas
Taco Diner specializes in all things Tex-Mex. Get things started with creamy guacamole or steaming chile con queso before sampling the famous Crispy Pescado tacos (fried fish) or Pork Pastor street tacos (marinated pork). Alternatively, take advantage of the all-day breakfast and tuck into a plate of chilaquiles or huevos rancheros.
Offering an elevated take on Tex-Mex cuisine, Hugo’s Invitados takes pride in fresh, all-natural ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere. The open and airy restaurant feels like dining in an atrium thanks to modern décor incorporating trees, grass, and wood elements along with plenty of natural lighting. The menu and plating reflects the contemporary vibe with unexpected dishes like Mexican avocado toast as a starter and red snapper ceviche with lump crab for an entrée.
If you’re in the mood for an upscale Tex-Mex experience, pay a visit to Via Real in Las Colinas. For lunch, choose from tantalizing dishes like salmon tacos featuring blackened salmon with fresh spinach, avocado, and pineapple-corn relish. For dinner, set your sights on the adobo shrimp which has grilled jumbo shrimp atop crab enchiladas with mango black bean salsa and lemon butter sauce.
Stop by Mi Cocina to dine from the Tex-Mex Basics menu with a dozen platters to choose from. This Texas staple is so popular; it has over 15 locations in the state. The Irving location in Las Colinas has a spacious covered patio where you can feast on chalupas, tamales, chimichangas, and much more.
El Famoso is another popular hotspot. Located in the trendy Water Street District, El Famoso is known Mexican food done the Southern California way. The diner boasts giant burritos and equally giant margaritas. Come for the laid-back vibe and stay for the simple, but powerful menu of succulent appetizers, like messy nachos and savory street tacos.
Near the Airport
From classic Tex-Mex staples to a whole menu of light and lean dishes, El Fenix has something for everyone. Notable queso dips, sumptuous enchiladas, sizzling fajitas, cheesy quesadillas, and more can be found at this Texas institution of Tex-Mex that’s been around for over 100 years. Stay hydrated with one of El Fenix’s award-winning margaritas and finish things off with a house-made chocolate caramel sopapilla.
Flautas, fajitas, horchata, and more. Doña Lencha is a simple, but authentic Mexican joint also serving tasty Tex-Mex creations. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos of the barbacoa, pork, or chicken variety—or even more adventurous fillings like lengua or cabeza (beef tongue or head)—enchiladas, tortas, or homemade tamales, a friendly staff will help you pick from among dozens of dishes and salsas.
Tio Carlos is a down-home hangout that whips up familiar Tex-Mex grub such as quesadillas, nachos, and more, plus distinctive cocktails. Try the savory Eggchiladas, two enchiladas of your choice topped with two fried eggs and served with spanish rice and refried beans. Or, for a seafood option, order the shrimp chile rellenos, a breaded poblano pepper stuffed with sautéed shrimp, mushrooms, and jack cheese, topped with ranchera sauce and served with rice and beans.
