Best of 20 Mexican restaurants in Downtown Houston
Mexican restaurants in Downtown Houston offer a tantalizing culinary journey, blending traditional Mexican flavors with a modern twist. From street-style tacos to gourmet enchiladas, these establishments showcase the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine of Mexico right in the heart of Houston's bustling downtown district. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, Mexican restaurants in Downtown Houston are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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- 1. La Fisheria
- 2. La Calle
- 3. Space City Birria
- 4. Pappasito's Cantina
- 5. El Big Bad
- 6. Irma's Original
- 7. Brothers Taco House
- 8. Xochi in Downtown Houston
- 9. HiWay Cantina in Downtown Houston
- 10. Guadalajara Del Centro
- 11. La Taquiza Street Tacos
- 12. Irma's Southwest
- 13. Mexology
- 14. Lone Star Taco Co.
- 15. La Palapa in Downtown Houston
- 16. Sol Cafe Mejicano
- 17. Maggie Rita's
- 18. El Regio Mexican Grill
- 19. Tacos A Go Go Downtown Tunnels
- 20. Papalo Taqueria
1. La Fisheria
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Mexican seafood
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Houston is known for its competitive Mexican food scene, and La Fisheria stands out as a notable option. The restaurant excels in three key areas: ambiance, food quality, and service. Upon visiting, I was immediately impressed by the vibrant atmosphere and the delicious tamarind margarita.
The food at La Fisheria is excellent, particularly the trio tacos and the fried red snapper. The snapper was cooked to perfection, with delicious sides that complemented the dish. The service was also commendable, with a sweet and attentive waitress who contributed to an enjoyable dining experience. I highly recommend La Fisheria for anyone seeking quality Mexican food in Houston.
Houston is known for its competitive Mexican food scene, and La Fisheria stands out as a notable option. The restaurant excels in three key areas: ambiance, food quality, and service. Upon visiting, I was immediately impressed by the vibrant atmosphere and the delicious tamarind margarita.
The food at La Fisheria is excellent, particularly the trio tacos and the fried red snapper. The snapper was cooked to perfection, with delicious sides that complemented the dish. The service was also commendable, with a sweet and attentive waitress who contributed to an enjoyable dining experience. I highly recommend La Fisheria for anyone seeking quality Mexican food in Houston.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- High-End
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2. La Calle
Live mariachi music on weekends
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The tacos at this location are a standout, particularly the Gringo Tacos and Birria Tacos. The restaurant offers an enjoyable and lively atmosphere, making it a great spot for authentic Mexican street food.
The service here can be inconsistent, but the delicious food makes up for any shortcomings in service. This is a place where the tacos truly take center stage and are sure to delight fans of this classic dish.
The tacos at this location are a standout, particularly the Gringo Tacos and Birria Tacos. The restaurant offers an enjoyable and lively atmosphere, making it a great spot for authentic Mexican street food.
The service here can be inconsistent, but the delicious food makes up for any shortcomings in service. This is a place where the tacos truly take center stage and are sure to delight fans of this classic dish.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
3. Space City Birria
Handmade tortillas, family-owned, traditional recipes
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Space City Birria Tacos and More is a restaurant that serves delicious birria tacos with a perfect blend of spices and tender meat, offering authentic Mexican cuisine. The friendly service and vibrant atmosphere make it a standout location for customers.
During a visit on a Wednesday afternoon, the space-themed atmosphere, great food, and wonderful drinks and service were enjoyed. The restaurant provided a pleasant surprise before a Houston Dynamo soccer game, making it an ideal spot for sports fans and food lovers alike.
Space City Birria Tacos and More is a restaurant that serves delicious birria tacos with a perfect blend of spices and tender meat, offering authentic Mexican cuisine. The friendly service and vibrant atmosphere make it a standout location for customers.
During a visit on a Wednesday afternoon, the space-themed atmosphere, great food, and wonderful drinks and service were enjoyed. The restaurant provided a pleasant surprise before a Houston Dynamo soccer game, making it an ideal spot for sports fans and food lovers alike.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
4. Pappasito's Cantina
Offers live mariachi music on weekends
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The service at this establishment is generally described as attentive and friendly. Some guests, however, have reported slow wait-times and less than stellar attention from servers. The service experience seems to vary for different guests.
The food offerings at this restaurant have been described as good, but not exceptional. A notable menu item is the Pappasitos grill small, which two people shared for $35.95. While the food appears to be satisfying, it may not fully meet all guests' expectations.
The service at this establishment is generally described as attentive and friendly. Some guests, however, have reported slow wait-times and less than stellar attention from servers. The service experience seems to vary for different guests.
The food offerings at this restaurant have been described as good, but not exceptional. A notable menu item is the Pappasitos grill small, which two people shared for $35.95. While the food appears to be satisfying, it may not fully meet all guests' expectations.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
5. El Big Bad
Downtown location with views, unique decor, lively atmosphere
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The establishment is known for its amazing margaritas and a rooftop patio that adds to its charm. The plan to visit again is definite. However, the margaritas were a bit tart according to personal preference, but they were still enjoyable. The infused tequilas were a unique and enjoyable aspect of the drinks.
If the weather is not too hot, the rooftop patio is recommended for its ambiance. The slight issue with the tartness of the margaritas doesn't diminish the fact that they were still good. The unique feature of infused tequilas was a plus, making the drink experience distinctive and enjoyable. Overall, the establishment provided a satisfying experience, despite minor preferences regarding the taste of the margaritas.
The establishment is known for its amazing margaritas and a rooftop patio that adds to its charm. The plan to visit again is definite. However, the margaritas were a bit tart according to personal preference, but they were still enjoyable. The infused tequilas were a unique and enjoyable aspect of the drinks.
If the weather is not too hot, the rooftop patio is recommended for its ambiance. The slight issue with the tartness of the margaritas doesn't diminish the fact that they were still good. The unique feature of infused tequilas was a plus, making the drink experience distinctive and enjoyable. Overall, the establishment provided a satisfying experience, despite minor preferences regarding the taste of the margaritas.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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6. Irma's Original
Family-owned restaurant since 1976, Homemade tortillas
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Irma's Original in Texas is a well-known restaurant, highly regarded for its excellent service and genuine Mexican food. The family-run restaurant functions like a harmonious ballet, creating a unique and enjoyable dining experience for its customers.
The food at Irma's Original is characterized as home-style Mexican specialties, made with fresh ingredients, and served promptly. The portion sizes are not excessive, but the inviting atmosphere and great service more than compensate.
Irma's Original in Texas is a well-known restaurant, highly regarded for its excellent service and genuine Mexican food. The family-run restaurant functions like a harmonious ballet, creating a unique and enjoyable dining experience for its customers.
The food at Irma's Original is characterized as home-style Mexican specialties, made with fresh ingredients, and served promptly. The portion sizes are not excessive, but the inviting atmosphere and great service more than compensate.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
7. Brothers Taco House
Family-owned and operated for over 30 years.
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The tacos from this unnamed location are truly delicious, as attested to by two different groups of people. One individual walked over from the George R Brown CC on a beautiful day and stood in the lunch line outside, eagerly anticipating their meal. Despite some language barriers and difficulty hearing over the noise of the crowd, they were able to order two guisada tacos and accidentally received a third. The guisada was exceptional, particularly when combined with the layer of beans.
Another group consisted of two people who came in for a quick lunch and found great value in the meal. The lunch special was more than enough to feed both of them, and the husband, who wasn't even hungry, ended up eating three tacos because they were so tasty. The red sauce was also a hit, rounding out the meal to be a truly enjoyable experience. Overall, both groups were impressed with the quality and value of the food at this location.
The tacos from this unnamed location are truly delicious, as attested to by two different groups of people. One individual walked over from the George R Brown CC on a beautiful day and stood in the lunch line outside, eagerly anticipating their meal. Despite some language barriers and difficulty hearing over the noise of the crowd, they were able to order two guisada tacos and accidentally received a third. The guisada was exceptional, particularly when combined with the layer of beans.
Another group consisted of two people who came in for a quick lunch and found great value in the meal. The lunch special was more than enough to feed both of them, and the husband, who wasn't even hungry, ended up eating three tacos because they were so tasty. The red sauce was also a hit, rounding out the meal to be a truly enjoyable experience. Overall, both groups were impressed with the quality and value of the food at this location.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
8. Xochi in Downtown Houston
Oaxacan-inspired dishes, extensive mezcal list
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Xochi is known for its delicious food, with several standout dishes. The green sauce and guacamole are particularly noteworthy, as are the arepas filled with chicken, cheese, and vegetables. For dessert, customers rave about the mini cherry hand pies. The seafood at Xochi is also fresh and expertly prepared.
In addition to the delicious food, Xochi is also known for its exceptional service. Servers are highly praised by customers for their hospitable and attentive nature. Many customers describe the service as impeccable, top-tier, and amazing. Overall, Xochi offers a truly outstanding dining experience, with delicious food and top-notch service that is sure to impress.
Xochi is known for its delicious food, with several standout dishes. The green sauce and guacamole are particularly noteworthy, as are the arepas filled with chicken, cheese, and vegetables. For dessert, customers rave about the mini cherry hand pies. The seafood at Xochi is also fresh and expertly prepared.
In addition to the delicious food, Xochi is also known for its exceptional service. Servers are highly praised by customers for their hospitable and attentive nature. Many customers describe the service as impeccable, top-tier, and amazing. Overall, Xochi offers a truly outstanding dining experience, with delicious food and top-notch service that is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
9. HiWay Cantina in Downtown Houston
Live mariachi music on weekends
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HiWay Cantina in Houston's EaDo neighborhood offers a variety of Tex-Mex dishes, with some standouts and a few that miss the mark. The green chile chicken enchiladas, served with rice and beans, are a must-try, showcasing the kitchen's ability to create flavorful, satisfying plates. However, the Spanish rice falls short of expectations, lacking the depth of flavor and texture that one would hope for.
According to Tripadvisor reviews, HiWay Cantina has received a high rating of 5.0, placing it among the top-rated restaurants in Houston. Out of 4,323 restaurants, it ranks at #1,788. The positive feedback from reviewers highlights the overall quality and enjoyable atmosphere that the establishment provides. While there may be some areas for improvement, HiWay Cantina is generally well-regarded for its Tex-Mex offerings.
HiWay Cantina in Houston's EaDo neighborhood offers a variety of Tex-Mex dishes, with some standouts and a few that miss the mark. The green chile chicken enchiladas, served with rice and beans, are a must-try, showcasing the kitchen's ability to create flavorful, satisfying plates. However, the Spanish rice falls short of expectations, lacking the depth of flavor and texture that one would hope for.
According to Tripadvisor reviews, HiWay Cantina has received a high rating of 5.0, placing it among the top-rated restaurants in Houston. Out of 4,323 restaurants, it ranks at #1,788. The positive feedback from reviewers highlights the overall quality and enjoyable atmosphere that the establishment provides. While there may be some areas for improvement, HiWay Cantina is generally well-regarded for its Tex-Mex offerings.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
10. Guadalajara Del Centro
Extensive tequila menu, Mariachi performances
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The food at this establishment is consistently fresh, flavorful, and delicious. One popular starter is the chips and salsa, which many find hard to resist. When it comes to the main dishes, the tacos are a crowd-pleaser, but the combo plate with empanadas is a particular favorite among visitors.
The atmosphere is energetic and perfect for a lively meal. Additionally, the location is convenient, although parking can be difficult to find at times. Despite this minor inconvenience, the overall dining experience is highly enjoyable due to the exceptional food and upbeat ambiance.
The food at this establishment is consistently fresh, flavorful, and delicious. One popular starter is the chips and salsa, which many find hard to resist. When it comes to the main dishes, the tacos are a crowd-pleaser, but the combo plate with empanadas is a particular favorite among visitors.
The atmosphere is energetic and perfect for a lively meal. Additionally, the location is convenient, although parking can be difficult to find at times. Despite this minor inconvenience, the overall dining experience is highly enjoyable due to the exceptional food and upbeat ambiance.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
11. La Taquiza Street Tacos
Family-owned business since 2010, Homemade salsas and tortillas
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The quesitacos at the downtown Houston tunnel food court shops are a must-try, surpassing expectations with their delicious taste. The food court itself is pleasant, making it an ideal spot for eating. Among the different options, the carnitas tacos with mango habanero sauce are particularly noteworthy, showcasing juicy and tender meat that is bursting with flavor.
Another great choice is the carne asada tacos, which are also quite popular. Additionally, the chicken tacos are a hit among customers. Whether you're in the mood for melt-in-your-mouth carnitas, savory carne asada, or flavorful chicken, the tacos at this food court are sure to leave you satisfied. The combination of high-quality ingredients and unique sauce options make these tacos a standout option in the bustling Houston food scene.
The quesitacos at the downtown Houston tunnel food court shops are a must-try, surpassing expectations with their delicious taste. The food court itself is pleasant, making it an ideal spot for eating. Among the different options, the carnitas tacos with mango habanero sauce are particularly noteworthy, showcasing juicy and tender meat that is bursting with flavor.
Another great choice is the carne asada tacos, which are also quite popular. Additionally, the chicken tacos are a hit among customers. Whether you're in the mood for melt-in-your-mouth carnitas, savory carne asada, or flavorful chicken, the tacos at this food court are sure to leave you satisfied. The combination of high-quality ingredients and unique sauce options make these tacos a standout option in the bustling Houston food scene.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
12. Irma's Southwest
Homemade tortillas, Extensive tequila list
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Irma's Mexican restaurant offers a great dinner experience with friendly and informative staff. The food is delicious, with standout dishes including cheese enchiladas and crispy beef tacos, all made with fresh ingredients. The sauces are made from scratch, and even the rice is clean and pure.
Located in downtown Houston on Texas Street, Irma's is widely regarded as serving some of the cleanest and best Mexican food in the city. The ground beef is seasoned perfectly, with fresh yellow and green bell peppers adding to the flavor. The restaurant is so impressive that customers have been known to drive from far and wide to enjoy a meal there. The author strongly encourages readers to support Irma's and experience the first-class dining experience for themselves.
Irma's Mexican restaurant offers a great dinner experience with friendly and informative staff. The food is delicious, with standout dishes including cheese enchiladas and crispy beef tacos, all made with fresh ingredients. The sauces are made from scratch, and even the rice is clean and pure.
Located in downtown Houston on Texas Street, Irma's is widely regarded as serving some of the cleanest and best Mexican food in the city. The ground beef is seasoned perfectly, with fresh yellow and green bell peppers adding to the flavor. The restaurant is so impressive that customers have been known to drive from far and wide to enjoy a meal there. The author strongly encourages readers to support Irma's and experience the first-class dining experience for themselves.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- High-End
13. Mexology
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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14. Lone Star Taco Co.
Colorful decor, Friendly service, Fun atmosphere
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My wife and I had the breakfast tacos at a dining establishment we visited. The tacos were delicious, and we enjoyed the friendly and attentive staff. The dining room was spacious and clean, providing a comfortable atmosphere. We would highly recommend trying the spicy salsa sauce if you enjoy flavorful heat on your tacos.
During our visit, we also ordered a snack and a drink. Unfortunately, they were not serving alcohol at the time. Instead, I ordered a Mexican Coke, which was a enjoyable alternative. The nachos served as our snack were quite tasty, featuring freshly made guacamole and chicken with excellent seasoning.
My wife and I had the breakfast tacos at a dining establishment we visited. The tacos were delicious, and we enjoyed the friendly and attentive staff. The dining room was spacious and clean, providing a comfortable atmosphere. We would highly recommend trying the spicy salsa sauce if you enjoy flavorful heat on your tacos.
During our visit, we also ordered a snack and a drink. Unfortunately, they were not serving alcohol at the time. Instead, I ordered a Mexican Coke, which was a enjoyable alternative. The nachos served as our snack were quite tasty, featuring freshly made guacamole and chicken with excellent seasoning.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
15. La Palapa in Downtown Houston
Live mariachi music on weekends
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La Palapa is a convenient and affordable dining option, known for its quick service and good prices. Customers often recommend calling ahead for a swift pickup. The menu includes popular choices such as the beef torta and Palapa burger with fries, but the breakfast tacos are a standout item. Served on flour tortillas, they provide a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for those on-the-go.
The breakfast tacos, in particular, have received high praise. They come topped with a spicy red garnish that adds an extra kick of flavor, making them taste even more delicious. Out of all the options, the Super Taco is a must-try. Its combination of fresh ingredients and spicy garnish make for a breakfast taco experience you won't forget.
La Palapa is a convenient and affordable dining option, known for its quick service and good prices. Customers often recommend calling ahead for a swift pickup. The menu includes popular choices such as the beef torta and Palapa burger with fries, but the breakfast tacos are a standout item. Served on flour tortillas, they provide a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for those on-the-go.
The breakfast tacos, in particular, have received high praise. They come topped with a spicy red garnish that adds an extra kick of flavor, making them taste even more delicious. Out of all the options, the Super Taco is a must-try. Its combination of fresh ingredients and spicy garnish make for a breakfast taco experience you won't forget.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
16. Sol Cafe Mejicano
The restaurant is committed to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and offers a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options.
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Sol Cafe Mejicano is a charming Mexican restaurant located in the heart of downtown. It is known for its affordable and delicious food, with a focus on breakfast tacos and a Daily Lunch Special. The restaurant is a popular spot for locals and office workers, who appreciate its convenient location and consistent quality.
If you're looking for a tasty Mexican meal in downtown, Sol Cafe Mejicano is a great choice. The restaurant's cheese enchiladas are a standout dish, and the service is always friendly and efficient. Whether you're stopping by for a quick breakfast or a leisurely lunch, you're sure to enjoy the authentic Mexican flavors and cozy atmosphere of this downtown gem.
Sol Cafe Mejicano is a charming Mexican restaurant located in the heart of downtown. It is known for its affordable and delicious food, with a focus on breakfast tacos and a Daily Lunch Special. The restaurant is a popular spot for locals and office workers, who appreciate its convenient location and consistent quality.
If you're looking for a tasty Mexican meal in downtown, Sol Cafe Mejicano is a great choice. The restaurant's cheese enchiladas are a standout dish, and the service is always friendly and efficient. Whether you're stopping by for a quick breakfast or a leisurely lunch, you're sure to enjoy the authentic Mexican flavors and cozy atmosphere of this downtown gem.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
17. Maggie Rita's
Family-owned, extensive tequila selection, warm atmosphere
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The price of dining at the restaurant located under the Chase Tower is considered affordable and offers good value for money. The location is convenient and provides an excellent opportunity for people-watching, especially during lunch hours.
Diners can enjoy watching the hustle and bustle of the city from the restaurant's strategic location. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for a quick lunch break. While the prices are reasonable, the quality of the food and service is not compromised, making it an excellent option for those looking for a delicious and affordable meal in the area.
The price of dining at the restaurant located under the Chase Tower is considered affordable and offers good value for money. The location is convenient and provides an excellent opportunity for people-watching, especially during lunch hours.
Diners can enjoy watching the hustle and bustle of the city from the restaurant's strategic location. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for a quick lunch break. While the prices are reasonable, the quality of the food and service is not compromised, making it an excellent option for those looking for a delicious and affordable meal in the area.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
18. El Regio Mexican Grill
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
19. Tacos A Go Go Downtown Tunnels
Located in the downtown tunnels of Houston
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The tacos I received consisted of sausage, cheese, egg, onion, and spinach. They were served hot, fresh, and were incredibly filling. The salsa that accompanied the tacos was delicious and added a nice burst of flavor. The staff at the establishment were friendly and demonstrated efficiency in their work.
Although the food can be a bit greasy, the tacos are a standout, particularly the prawn taco which has a spicy and flavorful taste. The atmosphere of the place is pleasant, making it a nice spot to grab a bite to eat. Overall, the tacos are a delicious choice, with a variety of ingredients available to suit different palates.
The tacos I received consisted of sausage, cheese, egg, onion, and spinach. They were served hot, fresh, and were incredibly filling. The salsa that accompanied the tacos was delicious and added a nice burst of flavor. The staff at the establishment were friendly and demonstrated efficiency in their work.
Although the food can be a bit greasy, the tacos are a standout, particularly the prawn taco which has a spicy and flavorful taste. The atmosphere of the place is pleasant, making it a nice spot to grab a bite to eat. Overall, the tacos are a delicious choice, with a variety of ingredients available to suit different palates.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
20. Papalo Taqueria
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots