Houston is a growing, sprawling metropolis celebrated for its diverse culinary scene, including its top-notch Mexican restaurants. From classic Tex-Mex favorites on the East Side to inventive takes on regional Mexican fare in the Galleria, you’re never far from a best Mexican restaurant in Houston.
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Read on to discover the 10 best Mexican restaurants in Houston.
For elegant Mexican cuisine in stunning setting — visit Flora (Montrose)
Nestled in the bustling Montrose neighborhood, Flora showcases a modern approach to Mexican cuisine, all in a stunning space that resembles a glass treehouse. Enjoy traditional Mexican dishes with a Texas twist—think tacos filled with braised meats, fresh ceviche bursting with citrus, and handmade tortillas. The drinks menu is equally impressive and includes craft cocktails like mezcal margaritas as well as tequila flights.
For Tex-Mex classics at a best Mexican restaurant in Houston — visit The Original Ninfa’s (East Side and Galleria/Uptown)
A Houston institution since 1973, The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation is one of the city’s most beloved Mexican restaurants. The menu spans a range of Tex-Mex staples, from sizzling fajitas to flavorful enchiladas and house-made salsa served within its charming patio and festive decor. You can experience the same ambiance and fan-favorite dishes at the Galleria/Uptown location.
For artful Mexican in the Woodlands — visit Xalisko Cocina Mexicana (The Woodlands)
Located in The Woodlands, Xalisko Cocina Mexicana is known for its regional Mexican cooking from chef Beatriz Martines. Expect beautifully plated dishes crafted with care, precision, and ingredients from the Xalisko area, like rice, corn, and avocados. You can also expect traditional desserts, along with a range of Mexican spirits and artisanal beer.
For an acclaimed chef’s Tex-Mex in the Heights — visit Superica (Northside)
Located in Houston Heights, renowned Texas-born chef Ford Fry’s Superica Houston is a favorite for its hearty, flavor-packed Tex-Mex dishes. The restaurant’s iconic wood grill fires fajitas and crowd-pleasers like tacos, nachos, enchiladas, and tamales, all in stylish setting. Enjoy margaritas and cocktails on an outdoor patio and freshly made flour tortillas with each dish.
For contemporary Mexican near the University of Houston — visit Maderas – Kitchen & Cantina (University of Houston)
Maderas – Kitchen & Cantina serves up inventive takes on Mexican dishes in a casual yet polished setting. Located near the University of Houston, the menu showcases bold flavors in signature dishes like seafood-stuffed poblano peppers and street-style corn alongside classic margaritas. With its welcoming vibe, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and students.
For award-winning dishes at a best Mexican restaurant in Houston — visit Arnaldo Richards’ Picos (Upper Kirby/Shepherd Corridor)
Located in Upper Kirby, Arnaldo Richards’ Picos serves up traditional Mexican dishes with a modern twist in a casual setting. Established in 1984 by chef Arnaldo Richards, the restaurant is a showcase for regional Mexican recipes. From tender barbacoa and richly spiced chiles to a robust cocktail program and impressive margarita selection, you’ll be celebrating no matter what brings you through the doors.
For coastal Mexican dishes in Downtown Houston — visit La Fisheria (Downtown)
Downtown Houston’s La Fisheria specializes in coastal Mexican cuisine. The menu brims with seafood-focused dishes such as fish tacos, ceviche, and grilled octopus. Bright, airy interiors and a relaxed vibe make this spot a standout for fans of ocean-inspired flavors. Don’t miss the signature cocktails and margaritas.
For Mexican favorites in Downtown Houston — visit Guadalajara Del Centro (Downtown)
If you’re craving top-notch Mexican food as you stroll around the downtown area, Guadalajara Del Centro is the spot to be. Known for its fresh take on classic Mexican dishes, the restaurant’s menu features everything from enchiladas to fajitas with customizable portions. Whether you’re stopping by for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the menu is packed with options from the finest ingredients, making this a favorite hangout for families, groups, and anyone looking to unwind during happy hour.
For modern dishes at a best Mexican restaurant in Houston — visit Blanco Cocina + Cantina (Galleria/Uptown)
Blanco Cocina + Cantina is a sleek destination in the Galleria area with a fresh take on Mexican favorites. Sit at the lively outdoor bar for a creative cocktail like the jalapeño-infused margarita. Or grab a table inside the chic space for a feast of short rib enchiladas and shareable guacamole platters.
For mesquite-grilled traditional Mexican — visit Goode Co. Kitchen & Cantina – Memorial (Westside, Heights/Washington, and The Woodlands)
At all of its Houston locations, Goode Co. Kitchen & Cantina draws inspiration from Gulf days, ranch nights, and traditional recipes. The restaurant serves up mesquite-grilled dishes like wood-fired Texas quail, jalapeño rellenos with house-made chorizo, and sizzling parrilladas. The fresh tortillas, roasted chilies, hand-trimmed meats, and house-made cocktails showcase flavors honed over generations. Kick back and enjoy a margarita or Mexican soda on the patio.
Houston’s Mexican dining scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself, with a mix of traditional spots, Tex-Mex joints, and upscale modern spots. Whether you’re craving Tex-Mex classics or regional specialties, these restaurants are great for solo dinners, date nights, and group hangs.
