Best of 14 Mexican restaurants in Greater Uptown
Mexican restaurants in Greater Uptown offer a vibrant culinary experience, showcasing the rich and diverse flavors of Mexico right in the heart of the city. From traditional tacos and tamales to contemporary twists on classic dishes, these establishments cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you're a fan of spicy cuisine or prefer milder options, Mexican restaurants in Greater Uptown have something for everyone.
1. Caracol
Extensive tequila selection, live mariachi music on weekends

The food at this establishment is highly rated by customers, with many praising the Sunday brunch buffet. The variety of offerings and elevated flavors have received particular attention, with customers highlighting the fresh and well-prepared seafood as a standout feature.
In addition to the food, service is also highly rated by users. The friendly and welcoming staff have been commended for their fast and courteous service. The overall atmosphere of the establishment has also been described as fantastic, contributing to a positive dining experience for customers.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
2. The Original Ninfa's Uptown in Greater Uptown
Houston's original Ninfa's location since 1979 with a lively bar scene

The drink menu at this establishment is highly regarded, featuring a variety of options to suit different tastes. Popular choices include margaritas, hibiscus agua fresca, and mezcal drinks. The house margaritas are a standout, known for their strong and delicious flavor.
In addition to the drink offerings, the service is also a highlight of the guest experience. Servers are typically described as efficient, prompt, and attentive, ensuring that visitors have a positive and enjoyable dining or drinking experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
3. Velvet Taco
Upscale and modern atmosphere with a spacious patio, full bar, and wide selection of tequilas and mezcals

After attending an Astros game in Houston, I decided to visit a nearby restaurant. The location was convenient and the hours suited my needs perfectly. The food offered here was just what I needed, and I decided to try a variety of tacos. I ordered the Mediterranean, Buffalo, flank steak, and Korean Fried Rice tacos, among others. I also tried a side of queso blanco and guacamole. The food was delicious, and even the kids wanted an extra order of queso and chips. My personal favorite was the Korean Fried Rice taco.
In addition to the tacos, I also tried the frozen margaritas, queso, tater tots topped with a fried egg, beer-battered cauliflower taco, Mexi-Cali shrimp taco, and burger taco. The menu had many unique and unconventional options that one might not typically associate with a taco, but they were fun to try. The overall experience was enjoyable, and I would recommend this place to others and consider visiting again.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Dinner
- Weekend Dining
4. Blanco Cocina + Cantina in Greater Uptown
Family-owned with a modern take on traditional Mexican cuisine

Blanco is a Mexican restaurant that offers a great atmosphere for team meetings. Its service is notable for being fast and friendly, and the food is cooked to perfection. The restaurant stands out for its delicious Mexican cuisine and refreshing margaritas, making it more than just a typical Mexican dining experience.
At Blanco, the Mexican food is a highlight, prepared with care and attention to detail. The quick and friendly service enhances the overall experience, while the refreshing margaritas offer a unique touch. With its inviting ambiance, Blanco provides an escape from the ordinary, making it a top choice for those seeking a memorable Mexican meal.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- High-End
- Dinner
5. La Tapatia
Family-owned and operated for over 30 years, Homemade tortillas

The food at this establishment receives mixed reviews. Some dishes are criticized for lacking flavor, while others are praised for being delicious. The margaritas, in particular, are said to be good.
The service also receives mixed feedback. While the bar service is efficient and the staff are generally friendly and attentive, the service at the tables can be lacking. Overall, the service is described as average, with some areas for improvement.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
- Social Gatherings
6. El Patio
Spacious patio, happy hour specials, and live music on weekends.

The Great Margarita’s and traditional Tex-Mex at this Houston establishment have made it a popular choice for both families and couples looking for a night out. This restaurant has stood the test of time and has become a local tradition. However, there were some issues with the recent visit. The frozen margarita that was ordered was smaller than expected and lacked the taste of tequila.
The lunch Burro, priced at $10, was a bit disappointing as well. The doughy texture of the burro was not enjoyable and the gravy lacked flavor. On the positive side, the light and fluffy rice was a highlight of the meal. Despite these issues, the restaurant’s reputation as a Houston tradition remains intact.
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TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
7. Urbe
Handmade tortillas, unique salsa bar

Urbe, a Houston restaurant, offers a delightful dining experience with impressive flavors. The outdoor seating allows for a enjoyable meal while taking in the city's beautiful weather. It is suggested to make a reservation in advance. The knowledgeable and friendly service contributes to the positive atmosphere.
The Mexican-inspired menu features a PLATO DE BOTANAS, a shareable plate with taquitos, gorditas, tacos al pastor, elotitos, and quesadillas. Grilled cauliflower is another standout dish, bursting with taste. To finish off the meal, the flan de queso is a must-try. The authentic Mexican atmosphere, complete with excellent food and drink options, makes for a classy and enjoyable evening.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
8. Paparruchos
Familial atmosphere, live music on weekends

The review highlights two contrasting experiences at a particular restaurant. The food offered was delicious, with the fajitas being a standout. The atmosphere was enjoyable, featuring an outdoor covered patio and music on the weekends. However, the service was criticized as being terrible. The review also mentions that the chips were just okay.
Despite the negative comments on the service, the reviewer speaks positively about the restaurant. They describe the music as being "beyond 'Fayeonce,'" implying that it was impressive. The reviewer expresses their excitement to visit the restaurant again. The last sentence reinforces the reviewer's enthusiasm, declaring "Hit it up!!!" and "eNuff Said....I'm the baddest." This statement suggests that the positive aspects of the restaurant outweigh the negative.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
9. Ruchi's Mexican Grill
Colorful decor, Handmade tortillas, Gluten-free options

The food from this place is known for its quick delivery, with meals arriving still hot and fresh. Among the popular items on the menu are the burritos, which are highly recommended. The quality of the food is one of the reasons it is so well-loved.
This establishment is known for its tasty and delicious food, which is delivered quickly. The variety of food offered is another factor that makes it a popular choice. The quality of the food is consistently good, making it a go-to place for many.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
10. Chacho's
Handmade tortillas, Spacious patio, Full bar

The portions of food served at this establishment are generous, but the taste can be inconsistent. Some guests enjoy the fresh and delicious offerings, while others find the food unpleasant. The nachos, in particular, stand out as being generous and savory.
The service at this place can also be hit or miss, but the margaritas consistently receive positive reviews. The staff members are friendly and make an effort to be attentive to guests' needs. The mixed opinions on the food and service suggest that individual experiences may vary.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
11. Los Tios
Family-owned and operated for over 30 years

The food at this establishment is described as lacking in flavor and somewhat bland, with the exception of their beef tacos, which are highly praised for their taste. For those who prefer not to eat meat, there are vegetarian options available on the menu.
In terms of service, guests generally have positive things to say, with many praising the staff for being friendly, fast, and attentive to their needs. However, there are a few reports of poor service or a lack of attention from the staff, which detract from the overall dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
- Late Night
12. Sylvia's Enchilada Kitchen in Greater Uptown
Voted Houston's Best Mexican Restaurant, offers cooking classes

The restaurant is well-known for its enchiladas, with a diverse menu and delicious options to choose from. A popular choice is the sampler of four mini enchiladas, which allows customers to sample a variety of flavors. The service is efficient, and the quality of the food is consistently high, making it a place worth returning to.
During an event, the restaurant provided excellent service and accommodations. Even when it rained, guests remained dry and comfortable on the outdoor patio. The staff ensured that margarita glasses were always full, and the drinks were delicious, adding to the overall positive experience of the event.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
13. Chipotle Mexican Grill
Uses sustainable sourcing, antibiotic-free meat, and GMO-free ingredients

Many customers have reported that the food they received was not fresh and was cold upon arrival. Some reviews mention that the portion sizes are disappointingly small, leaving customers feeling unsatisfied. This issue is particularly prevalent in delivery orders, where customers report receiving smaller portions of meat and an overabundance of rice and beans.
The quality of delivery orders has been criticized for the small portion sizes and insufficient amounts of meat. Despite efforts to compensate with larger servings of rice and beans, customers still feel shortchanged. This unsatisfactory experience with delivery orders may stem from issues with packaging or transportation, leading to food that is not as fresh or flavorful as it should be. Overall, the portion size and quality of both in-person and delivery orders are significant concerns for customers looking for a satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
14. The Mexican

TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots