Houston Tex-Mex is different from San Antonio Tex-Mex and both are different from Dallas Tex-Mex. Our version is heavier on Gulf Coast influence — seafood enchiladas, crab-stuffed poblanos, that kind of thing. Here's the ranking.
S Tier:
- El Tiempo Cantina (multiple) — The Laurenzo family basically invented Houston Tex-Mex. The fajitas sizzle so loud the whole restaurant turns to look. Expensive but it's a Houston institution. The original on Richmond is the best.
- Ninfa's on Navigation — The birthplace of the fajita taco. Literally. Mama Ninfa started serving grilled skirt steak in flour tortillas here in the 1970s. The green sauce is legendary.
A Tier:
- Pappasito's — The Pappas family empire. Giant margaritas, massive portions. The queso flameado with chorizo is the table starter.
- Molina's Cantina — Old school Houston Tex-Mex since 1941. Nothing fancy. Just consistently perfect enchiladas and the best chile con carne in town.
B Tier (excellent neighborhood spots):
- Lupe Tortilla (multiple) — The flour tortillas are handmade and enormous. Family-friendly. The kids' fajitas are actually good.
- Teotihuacan (multiple) — Breakfast Tex-Mex. The migas plate at 8 AM on a Saturday is the correct way to start the weekend.
The queso test: If a Houston Tex-Mex restaurant can't nail the chile con queso, nothing else matters. El Tiempo and Ninfa's both pass. If the queso comes out of a can, leave.
Source: Houston Chronicle, personal family Tex-Mex tradition spanning 20+ years
Pappasito's margaritas are dangerously strong. The Texas-size will ruin your afternoon. Ask me how I know.