Houston, known for its vibrant and diverse culinary scene, is a paradise for those seeking authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine. Here are some of the top Mexican restaurants in Houston that you should consider visiting:
El Tiempo Cantina
El Tiempo Cantina is a Houston staple, especially for those who love Tex-Mex. Opened by one of Mama Ninfa’s sons, this restaurant has been serving Houstonians since 1998 and continues to improve with time. Must-try items include the guacamole, queso flameados, and the big crispy tacos, particularly the beef picadillo. For a comprehensive meal, opt for the Tex-Mex plate, such as the Las Vegas, which comes with a cheese enchilada, a crispy beef taco, and fajitas. El Tiempo also offers great breakfast tacos at their taqueria on Washington Avenue[1][2][4].
Hugo’s
For an upscale dining experience, Hugo’s is the place to go. Executive chef Hugo Ortega’s flagship restaurant is renowned for its authentic Mexican cooking. Start your meal with the aguachile de palmito or the ceviche verde, and for your entree, the cabrito is highly recommended. This dish features roasted goat pulled from the bone in salsa de ajo, served with nopales salad, refritos, guacamole, and salsa habanero. Hugo’s offers a sophisticated take on traditional Mexican cuisine[1][2].
The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation
This iconic restaurant is credited with popularizing tacos al carbon, thanks to Mama Ninfa. When visiting, it’s a must to order the two tacos a La Ninfa plate, which includes fajitas in a flour tortilla with pico de gallo, guacamole, and chile con queso. Complimentary rice and beans are available upon request. Don’t miss the chef specials crafted by the Uptown location’s executive chef Patricia Delgado, such as the costillas de res, a dish of crosscut flanken ribs with ensalada nopales, salsa molcajete, and tortillas[1][2].
Ema
Ema, founded by James Beard Award semifinalist Victoria Elizondo, has evolved from a beloved pop-up shop to a brick-and-mortar restaurant. It is a community gathering spot known for its delicious brunch options. Try the chilaquiles (available in a vegan option), the nopalitos scramble, or El Desayuno, which comes with two eggs, bacon, potatoes, black beans, queso fresco, pico, and buttered toast. Don’t forget to indulge in their coffee program and purchase some pastries from their market[1].
Picos
This family-owned restaurant has been serving Houston’s best Mexican food for over four decades, showcasing the cuisine from Mexico’s seven different regions. Highlights include the aguachile de camarón, made with Sinaloa-style marinated shrimp, and their various mole dishes, enchiladas, and seafood specialties. Picos is a great place to experience the diverse flavors of Mexico[1].
Xalisko
Located in the Woodlands Mall, Xalisko impressively balances high volume with high-quality food. Chef Beatriz Martines, an alum of Hugo Ortega, explores the cuisine of her home state of Jalisco with bold flavors and on-point technique. Start with the salsa sampler and the esquites in bone marrow, followed by the ceviche borracho of red snapper in tequila-citrus juice. The birria tatemada, a dish of lamb shank slow-braised in an agave leaf with adobo, is a standout[1].
Most Important Facts About the Best Mexican Restaurants in Houston
El Tiempo Cantina: Known for its Tex-Mex, especially fajitas and crispy tacos. Offers a great breakfast taco menu at their taqueria on Washington Avenue[1][2][4].
Hugo’s: An upscale restaurant famous for authentic Mexican cuisine, with dishes like aguachile de palmito and cabrito. Ideal for a sophisticated dining experience[1][2].
The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation: Iconic for popularizing tacos al carbon. Must-try the two tacos a La Ninfa plate and chef specials like costillas de res[1][2].
Ema: A community gathering spot with excellent brunch options, including chilaquiles and El Desayuno. Also features a coffee program and market[1].
Picos: A family-owned restaurant showcasing cuisine from Mexico’s seven regions. Highlights include aguachile de camarón and various mole dishes[1].
Xalisko: Located in the Woodlands Mall, known for its Jaliscan cuisine with dishes like ceviche borracho and birria tatemada. Offers a unique blend of flavors and techniques[1].
These restaurants offer a diverse range of Mexican cuisine, from traditional Tex-Mex to authentic regional specialties, ensuring there is something for every palate in Houston.
