Tex-Mex is not Mexican food. It is its own thing, born from the blending of Northern Mexican cooking and Texas frontier ingredients over more than a century. If you are visiting the DFW area for the first time, Tex-Mex is one of the meals you should not skip.
Here is where to find it and what to order.
Tex-Mex uses ingredients that are common in Texas but less traditional in Mexican kitchens. Shredded yellow cheese, cumin-heavy seasoning, flour tortillas and refried beans are staples. Dishes like fajitas, nachos, queso (melted cheese dip) and crispy hard-shell tacos are Tex-Mex inventions. Enchiladas smothered in chili gravy instead of mole sauce is another giveaway that you are eating Tex-Mex, not Mexican.
The best way to start is simple: order queso with chips, a plate of cheese enchiladas and a frozen margarita.
Mariano’s has been a DFW staple since 1971 and is widely considered the top Tex-Mex destination in Arlington. The brand is famous as the birthplace of the frozen margarita machine, invented by Mariano Martinez at the original Dallas location in 1971. The original machine is now in the Smithsonian. The carne asada, fajitas and Pancho Villa platter are the standout items. The bar area is upscale, and the dining room is family-friendly.
A long-standing favorite for classic Tex-Mex with large portions. The fajitas are some of the best in the DFW area, and the cheese enchiladas and queso are reliable orders. Prices are moderate, and the atmosphere is relaxed.
Highly rated for fresh ingredients and a non-chain feel. The Champiqueso tacos are a standout, and the margaritas are strong. A good option if you want something a step above fast casual.
Located on Front Street in Downtown Arlington, Mama Cuca’s is praised for its chile rellenos, tacos de Mexico and attentive service. The margaritas come with shakers at the table.
A refined Tex-Mex spot known for its Mambo Taxi margarita, eight-hour slow-roasted brisket tacos and Sunset Fajitas. Multiple locations across Dallas.
Some of the best sizzling fajitas in the metro area, paired with made-to-order fresh tortillas.
Start with queso and chips. Order cheese enchiladas or a fajita plate (chicken, beef or both). Get a frozen margarita on the side. If you want to try something heavier, go for a burrito smothered in queso and chili.
Tex-Mex portions are large. Splitting a fajita plate between two people is perfectly fine and common.
Inside the ballpark, you will find Tex-Mex-influenced items at several concession stands. Guy Fieri’s Taco Joint at Texas Live! next door serves tacos, burritos and margaritas in a quick-service format. For a sit-down experience before the game, Soy Cowboy at the Live! by Loews hotel offers pan-Asian dishes alongside cocktails.
Tex-Mex uses yellow cheese, cumin, flour tortillas and refried beans more heavily than traditional Mexican cuisine. Dishes like fajitas, nachos and queso are Tex-Mex creations.
Mariano’s Hacienda Ranch in Arlington is the most popular choice. Mercado Juarez and Mama Cuca’s are also strong options within a short drive of the Entertainment District.
Queso with chips, cheese enchiladas and a frozen margarita. If you want more, add a fajita plate.
Yes. Most Tex-Mex restaurants in the DFW area are casual and welcoming to families. Kids menus are standard.
No. A full meal at most Tex-Mex restaurants in Arlington costs $12 to $22 per person, not including drinks.
Tex-Mex-influenced items are available at several concession stands inside the ballpark. Guy Fieri’s Taco Joint at Texas Live! is a quick walk before or after the game.
