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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in South Central Houston

Mexican food

Mexican food that stays true to its roots instead of being watered down for a generic palate.

Based on 924 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Think Tacos (Food Truck) image 1
Think Tacos (Food Truck) image 2
Think Tacos (Food Truck) image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Food truck serves authentic Mexican street tacos with rich birria and carnitas. Friendly vibe makes it a comfortable hangout near a lively beer garden. Unique Birria Ramen adds a flavorful twist to classic Mexican dishes.

Tacos here stand out for their authentic street style and rich birria flavor. The Birria Ramen offers a unique, flavorful twist alongside classic tacos and gorditas.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and totally worth trying."

"You have to try the special salsa; it's the best."

"The birria ramen here is mind blowing and extremely flavorful."

Good to know

1

They accept both cash and card for payments.

2

Ordering and paying is quick and easy.

3

Tacos are very affordable, making it budget-friendly.

02
Homies (Food Truck) image 1
American restaurant

Food truck serves well-seasoned chicken and crispy tater tots with a Houston twist. Tacos shine with fresh ingredients and bold flavors like honey sriracha and spicy ranch. Live shows create a chill atmosphere where friendly vibes meet spicy sauces that add a kick.

Tacos stand out with fresh ingredients and bold flavors like honey sriracha and spicy ranch. Veggie and chicken options both taste amazing and fresh, complemented by a complimentary habanero salsa.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"This chicken sandwich is seasoned to perfection and delicious."

"I thought the Mexican food tacos were among the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The food truck offers a Houston-themed menu with items named after local wards.

2

Expect quick service; food is delivered promptly after ordering.

3

The average cost of a meal is around $16, which is competitive.

03
Emma's Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Wall murals and oil paintings create a richly decorated and cozy space with great energy. Breakfast tacos with homemade tortillas offer authentic, flavorful Mexican food. Churros provide a perfect soft inside, crispy outside contrast that delights every visit.

Homemade tortillas stand out with their rich, fresh, and soft texture. Tacos like Barbacoa and Pastor deliver authentic flavors, while churros offer a soft inside and crispy outside contrast.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast tacos to be the best I've ever tasted."

"I found the breakfast burrito to be delicious."

"These breakfast tacos are the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Emma's Kitchen is open 6 days a week, including Labor Day.

2

Parking is plentiful and well lit near the restaurant.

3

Emma's Kitchen offers vegetarian and vegan options on the menu.

04
Taqueria y Cafeteria Las Migas (Food Truck) image 1

Mexican food truck serves homemade tortillas with spicy salsa verde and free charro beans. Casual, street-side vibe pairs well with friendly service and large portions at great prices.

Tacos come with homemade tortillas and feature unique red and green salsa, with the salsa verde being notably spicy. Tortas and gorditas offer crispy, delicious options, and mix plates provide large, tasty portions.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tortas, is so delicious and generously sized."

"The salsa here is flavorful and has the right amount of heat."

"I found the food trucks here to be the best I had in Houston."

Good to know

1

Payment is accepted only through cash, Cashapp, or Zelle; no card options available.

2

The torta costs $8.50, which is a good price for its size.

3

Expect good portion sizes for all dishes ordered.

05
Por Mis Cazuelas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, family-owned spot serves homemade tortillas and breakfast tacos with egg and potato. Cozy, homey vibe feels like eating in a relative's kitchen. Fresh, comforting food includes traditional Mexican dishes and scratch-made pizzas at reasonable prices.

Breakfast tacos stand out with egg and potato fillings. Barbacoa tacos and menudo offer traditional Mexican flavors with homemade tortillas.

People are saying

"You have to try the barbacoa tacos; they're delicious."

"I loved their pizza; the dough was so fresh."

"The breakfast tacos here are especially delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of foods, including pastas, tacos, and pizza.

2

You might get lucky and find menudo and barbacoa on a weekday.

3

If you’re up early, this is a great spot for breakfast.

06
Tacos LA Creación (Food Truck) image 1

Food truck under highway serves authentic Mexican tacos with affordable prices around $2 each. Portions are large with warm tortillas and flavorful fillings. Quick, friendly service keeps the experience simple and satisfying.

Tacos stand out with authentic flavors and fresh, hot ingredients. Options like steak and chicharron tacos offer great taste at affordable prices, served quickly with friendly service.

People are saying

"The food here is simple, fresh, and excellent."

"I found the tacos to be the best I'd ever tasted."

"I found the tacos here to be the best authentic Mexican food."

Good to know

1

The taco truck only accepts cash payments.

2

Tacos cost $2 each, which is standard for street tacos in Houston.

3

There is plenty of parking available near the taco truck.

07
Slowpokes image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious seating and a covered patio create a relaxing atmosphere perfect for work or casual visits. Breakfast tacos with homemade sauce and customizable avocado pair well with coffee. Unique animal-themed art adds a trendy vibe to the cozy space.

Breakfast tacos come with a homemade sauce and can be customized with avocado. Coffee pairs well with the delicious tacos.

People are saying

"I loved the amazing coffee here."

"It's a really cozy and relaxing place to get some work done."

"You've got to try the breakfast tacos; they're delicious with homemade sauce."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking across the street and 12 spots on site.

2

WiFi is free for 2 hours after purchase; otherwise, you need to repurchase.

3

Happy hour offers half off wine bottles on Wednesdays.

08
Taqueria Los Mexicanos (Food Truck) image 1

Food truck serves authentic Mexican street tacos with bold, huge flavors at low prices. Casual, open late, it draws those craving genuine Mexican eats. Location feels uneasy but parking is manageable.

Tacos come fully loaded with huge flavor despite their small size. The menu features authentic street tacos, fajita tacos in flour, gorditas, tortas, quesadillas, and burritos, all with good quality and flavor.

People are saying

"These tacos are loaded with great flavor."

"The food here was always good."

"The Mexican food here is loaded with flavor and always good."

Good to know

1

This place only accepts cash, so bring some with you.

2

Parking is tight but manageable; arrive early to find a spot.

3

The taqueria is open late, perfect for late-night cravings.

09
Taqueria Chabelita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy space with a homey atmosphere and kitchen nearby adds warmth. Fresh handmade flour tortillas shine in breakfast tacos. Affordable prices and authentic flavors make quesadillas de fajita and chicharron tacos stand out.

Breakfast tacos feature fresh homemade flour tortillas that stand out from typical options. Quesadillas de fajita and chicharron tacos offer delicious, authentic flavors at affordable prices.

People are saying

"The breakfast tacos here are huge and have fresh homemade tortillas."

"The handmade flour tortillas here are superb."

"I thought the breakfast tacos were the best Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for about four cars.

2

The restaurant uses real flour tortillas, setting it apart from others.

3

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

10
Moon Tower Inn image 1
Bar & grill

Spacious patio and beer garden offer a lively, chill vibe with live music. Tacos shine with a unique green sauce and tasty beef and chicken options. Outdoor seating and ambient lighting make it perfect for relaxed nights with friends.

Tacos here come with unique green sauce and include standout options like the Nirvana vegetarian tacos. The beef and chicken tacos are consistently delicious and flavorful.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the gourmet hot dogs, is amazing."

"The beer selection here is excellent."

"The tacos here are unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

Mug Monday offers $5 fills for those who bring their Moon Tower mug.

2

Wednesdays feature a buy-one-get-one-free burger deal.

3

Steak Night can have long wait times, so plan accordingly.

11
Un Caffe image 1
Coffee shop

Modern cafe with a glass roof lets in bright natural light, creating a cozy spot with hip hop and lofi music. Green mole empanadas offer an authentic taste paired with flavorful salsa. Built-in outlets and an open bar make it great for work or hanging out.

Green mole empanadas offer an authentic taste and come in decent size. Salsa pairs well, enhancing the flavorful experience.

People are saying

"The coffee here is incredible, especially the creamy Einspanner."

"It's a great spot to get work done or study."

"The green mole empanada was surprisingly tasty and authentic."

Good to know

1

Un Caffe offers a beer and wine happy hour from 4-6pm.

2

Parking is limited, but there's a free garage across the street.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during peak hours.

12
Taste of h town grill n bar image 1

Sports bar vibe with live DJ spinning 90s rap sets a lively tone. Menudo shines as a hot, flavorful Mexican dish, while tacos bring authentic boldness. Perfect for game days and late-night hangs with daily specials to enjoy.

Menudo stands out for being served hot and packed with flavor. Tacos and mini tacos offer rich, bold, authentic flavors. Ceviche tostadas and quesadillas also appear as popular choices.

People are saying

"I found the crawfish to be amazing and delicious."

"The bar's cocktails are beautifully crafted and delicious."

"I found the Mexican Food, especially the menudo, to be amazing and served hot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant stays open until 2 a.m. for late-night dining.

2

Daily food and drink specials are available.

3

The environment is kid-friendly, making it suitable for families.

13
Dripped Birria (Midtown) image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with birria tacos that bring rich, authentic flavors. Purple lighting and neon wall art create a laid-back vibe, while phenomenal music lifts the mood. Outdoor seating adds a casual, communal touch to the clean, modern space.

Birria tacos stand out with rich, authentic flavors that evoke childhood memories. The menu also features shrimp birria tacos and birria ramen, both highly rated for their taste and quality.

People are saying

"I thought the food was absolutely amazing."

"The atmosphere here is really chill and clean."

"The birria tacos here are really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 2-5 PM with great deals.

2

The price for birria chicken tacos with a drink is $19.21 after tax.

3

Drive-thru service is available, but it may not always be functional.

14
Monchy's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Divey spot with a warm atmosphere and a stunning mural draws locals early for authentic tacos made with fresh tortillas. Breakfast shines with barbacoa and menudo at great prices. Expect a busy, lively vibe perfect for genuine Mexican flavors.

Tacos come with freshly made flour and corn tortillas that stay hot throughout the day. Breakfast options like barbacoa, menudo, and chilaquiles offer authentic Mexican flavors at affordable prices.

People are saying

"The breakfast tacos here are really good and affordable."

"The food here is delicious and tasted like Mom's cooking."

"I found the Mexican food here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday runs from 11 AM to 2 PM with tacos priced at $1.50 each.

2

Parking can be scarce, so arrive early to find a spot.

3

No restrooms are available, so plan accordingly before your visit.

15
Axelrad Beer Garden image 1

Outdoor garden space offers hammock swings and live music for a chill vibe. Mexican food shines with breakfast tacos featuring vinegar slaw, plus tasty tamales and quesadillas. Cozy heaters and picnic tables make it perfect for relaxed socializing.

Tacos stand out with options from a taco truck and a spot known for breakfast tacos with vinegar-based coleslaw. Tamales and quesadillas appear regularly and taste consistently good.

People are saying

"I loved the beer garden with live music and hammocks."

"The outdoor seating here has plenty of space to spread out."

"I loved the delicious tacos and tamales here."

Good to know

1

Comedy shows happen every Sunday and Monday night upstairs.

2

Jazz nights are on Wednesdays, featuring local musicians.

3

The outdoor bar does not accept cash; credit cards only.

16
La Calle image 1
Taco restaurant

Open-air seating under trees creates a lively vibe with live music and cool breezes. Strong frozen margaritas pair perfectly with quesabirria tacos, known for rich flavor and tender meat. Great spot for casual dining and socializing with authentic Mexican eats.

Quesabirria tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. Tortas and street tacos offer authentic taste, paired well with frozen margaritas for a complete meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and spectacular."

"It's a nice outdoor space with a relaxed, chill vibe."

"The Mexican food service was amazing and excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily with special discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Bingo night is every Thursday for $10, which includes a drink.

3

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos; check for details.

17
Second Slice Sandwich Shop image 1

Cozy sandwich shop in a relaxed warehouse offers bold flavors and quality bread with vegan options. Mexican-inspired sandwiches like Houstonian style come with elote sides. Mellow atmosphere invites lingering despite 10-15 minute waits.

Sandwiches like the Houstonian style and chicken bacon avocado come with options to add elote as a side instead of chips. Meals take about 10-15 minutes to prepare.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be fresh and flavorful."

"The vegetarian sandwiches here are amazing, especially the avocado grilled cheese."

"I thought their sandwiches were the best."

Good to know

1

The shop closes at 6 p.m. on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes for sandwich preparation.

3

They offer a variety of sandwiches, including vegetarian and vegan options.

18
Villa Arcos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot with best breakfast tacos offers a quiet, homey vibe and family atmosphere. Outdoor seating on Navigation Street creates a relaxed spot to enjoy barbacoa or bacon egg and cheese tacos. Limited indoor space means it fills up fast.

Breakfast tacos stand out with barbacoa and bacon egg and cheese options that fill flour tortillas perfectly. These tacos have a reputation for being the best in town and draw people from far away.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the carne guisada."

"I thought the breakfast tacos here were great."

"I thought the breakfast tacos were great."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a private lot, making it convenient for visitors.

2

Expect a wait time of 15-20 minutes if ordering drinks upon arrival.

3

The menu may be limited during certain hours due to operational constraints.

19
OSO Coffee Co. image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy, remodeled house offers a dog friendly spot with snug indoor and outdoor seating. Breakfast tacos with childhood flavors like potato and egg shine alongside tortas. Old school EDM music creates a lively vibe perfect for relaxed chats or solo coffee moments.

Breakfast tacos come with options like potato and egg with green salsa and hot dog and egg, offering a taste that recalls childhood flavors. The breakfast torta and cappas con huevo also feature as solid choices alongside the tacos.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great, and the staff are super friendly."

"It's a really dog friendly coffee shop."

"Their horchata matcha latte is creamy and amazing."

Good to know

1

Fajita taco night occurs every Wednesday with special pricing.

2

Crash the Course event for cyclists happens monthly on Sundays.

3

The coffee shop is dog-friendly, welcoming pets in the outdoor area.

20
La Imperial image 1

Bakery offers homemade tortillas and fantastic tamales with a spicy red salsa that packs authentic Mexican flavor. Casual, homey vibe feels like an abuelita’s kitchen. Prices stay reasonable, making it a great spot for genuine Latino eats.

Tamales stand out as a highlight, often described as fantastic and worth the visit. Homemade tortillas and super spicy red salsa add strong authentic flavors, with breakfast and barbacoa tacos also available and well made.

People are saying

"The bread here is delicious and still soft after 5 PM."

"The food here tastes like my grandma's cooking."

"The Mexican Food tamales here are fantastic and worth the visit."

Good to know

1

Prices at La Imperial are reasonable for a quick meal.

2

It's a convenient spot for a quick bite due to its location.

21
La Familia Meat Market image 1

Butcher shop blends homemade flour tortillas with a friendly, neighborhood vibe. Tacos feature barbacoa and chorizo breakfast fillings, while tamales stay soft and flavorful. Generous portions make it a convenient spot for Mexican food lovers.

Tacos stand out with homemade flour tortillas and fillings like barbacoa and chorizo breakfast. Tamales are soft, moist, and flavorful, complementing the great variety of Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"These tacos are amazing, some of the best I've had."

"I loved the amazing breakfast tacos with tender, flavorful steak."

"The staff at this convenience store are fantastically friendly."

Good to know

1

The meat department is fairly clean and seems sanitary.

2

There is plenty of parking behind the meat market.

3

The personnel speak both English and Spanish.

22
La Reynera image 1

Small bakery fills with fresh bread aroma and serves authentic Mexican flavors like breakfast tacos and tamales. Daily pan dulce such as conchas and maranito add sweet variety. Affordable prices and an old school atmosphere make it a beloved neighborhood spot.

Breakfast tacos stand out with authentic Mexican flavors and fresh preparation. Daily offerings include freshly baked pan dulce like conchas and maranito, plus tamales and menudo available regularly.

People are saying

"Their Mexican food, especially the pan dulce, is baked fresh daily."

"I thought the pumpkin empanadas were the best I had ever tasted."

"I thought the breakfast tacos here were the best."

Good to know

1

They offer baked goods every day they are open.

2

Prices are very affordable for the baked goods.

3

Most breakfast items are sold out by noon.

23
Kefita Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Converted Victorian house offers cozy nooks and eclectic decor with African art. Breakfast tacos with chorizo are a highlight, paired well with an Iced Matcha Latte with Lavender. Upstairs study areas and lively music downstairs create a welcoming vibe for work and play.

Breakfast tacos come with chorizo and are available while supplies last. Pastries and tacos maintain top notch quality. The menu includes drinks like the Iced Matcha Latte with Lavender.

People are saying

"The espresso here is amazing and perfectly dialed in."

"It felt so cozy and home-like, I wanted to stay awhile."

"The Mexican food and drinks here are top tier."

Good to know

1

The Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony occurs on select Saturdays; check the schedule in advance.

2

Parking is available on both sides of the street in front of the building.

3

The wifi connection is strong, even during busy hours, perfect for working.

24
Maga's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot offers authentic Mexican food like fish tacos with lemon slaw and Burrito Sabanero. Family-friendly vibe shines with local artwork and popular Mexican music. Small space feels like a hidden gem perfect for casual dining.

Authentic Mexican food shines through with fish tacos topped by lemon slaw, gorditas, and tostadas. Salsa complements dishes well, and burritos like the Burrito Sabanero add variety.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and freshly made from scratch."

"It's a warm and cozy spot."

"The chicken fried chicken here is huge and hand-battered."

Good to know

1

Parking is tight, but there is more parking available now.

2

Expect longer wait times for food compared to other places.

3

Prices are genuine and affordable for the amount of food.

25
Doña Maria Mexican Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with colorful decor and a family vibe makes dining feel like home. Authentic chilaquiles and puffy tacos shine with rich flavors. Friendly chats and lively music add to the old-school charm and relaxed atmosphere.

Chilaquiles and puffy tacos stand out with authentic, rich flavors. Breakfast options like Huevos Rancheros and migas with chorizo come with perfectly cooked eggs and tasty beans.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so good, especially the breakfast tacos."

"The breakfast staff here always greets you with a friendly smile."

"It's a cozy, welcoming mom-and-pop shop."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is advisable to secure a table.

2

Expect to share tables during busy hours, as seating is limited.

3

Prices are higher than average for a small Mexican restaurant.

26
The Lymbar image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American spot shines with Beef Tenderloin Tacos Arabes and vibrant, quirky decor centered around a tree centerpiece. Live piano and saxophone bring energy but can get loud near the bar. Seating feels cozy and close, perfect for lively celebrations.

Tacos stand out with Beef Tenderloin Tacos Arabes and a mix of beef and chicken shawarma. The wild mushroom quesadilla and appetizers like Tostada de Pulpo and Achiote shrimp gumbo add variety.

People are saying

"The food here is exciting, flavorful, and unique."

"It's a great spot for a romantic date night."

"The tacos arabes here are absolutely incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted bar snacks.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy times to ensure seating.

3

Parking is free for the first three hours at a nearby lot.

27
Merida image 1
Mexican restaurant

Building keeps original 1972 charm with a beautiful mural and hidden religious art. Homemade tortillas shine alongside barbacoa tacos and shrimp quesadillas. Atmosphere shifts from relaxing weekdays to lively weekends with great Mexican music.

Homemade tortillas stand out as the best ever, paired with large portions of flavorful dishes like barbacoa tacos and shrimp quesadillas. Classic plates such as huevos rancheros with chorizo and cheesy tex mex enchiladas deliver authentic Mexican flavors in a simple setting.

People are saying

"I loved the homemade flour tortillas; they were huge!"

"You have to try the jumbo breakfast taco; it can feed two people."

"The homemade tortillas here are staggeringly exceptional."

Good to know

1

Expect a 10-15 minute wait for a table after 11:30am.

2

Tacos are priced at $9 each, which may be considered high.

3

Parking is available, but the lot has many potholes.

28
Late August image 1
New American restaurant

Space blends elegant decor with a cozy vibe, perfect for intimate dates. Corn tortillas taste authentic, and dishes like refried black eyed peas sope add unique twists. Guests enjoy a fine dining feel with lively yet comfortable noise levels.

Corn tortillas taste authentic and transport you to Mexico. Dishes like refried black eyed peas sope and deconstructed tamale offer unique twists on traditional Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"The dinner here is full of flavor and amazing."

"The chef came out to talk to us and made us feel so special."

"You've got to try their unique twists on Mexican food, like the field pea hummus."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The tasting menu costs $95 for nine courses, offering good value for the experience.

29
Eight Row Flint image 1

Rooftop patio offers a downtown skyline view with a cozy vibe and live DJ music. Tacos shine with unique fillings like fried octopus and pork belly, paired with a seven dollar margarita on the rocks. Games like ring toss add to the friendly, chill atmosphere.

Tacos stand out with options like fried octopus, brussel sprouts, and pork belly. Drinks include a seven dollar margarita on the rocks and frozen machines for margaritas, gin and tonic, and painkilla. The chip and queso and elote ribs also get attention for flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The rooftop offers a really pretty skyline view."

"Their margaritas are perfect and a great deal during happy hour."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough; consider arriving early or using street parking.

2

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 2 to 6 pm with discounted wings and drinks.

3

Thursday steak night features NY strip and Elote salad for $20.

30
Matamoros Meat Market image 1

Family-owned butcher shop shines with top-notch barbacoa and marinated fajita that match local favorites. Tacos feel overpriced and come with dry, hard tortillas. Longstanding spot offers a traditional atmosphere but leans expensive.

Barbacoa stands out with great quality and compares well to other top spots. Tacos come with dry, hard tortillas and feel overpriced for the portion size.

People are saying

"I found the barbacoa here to be the best in Houston."

Good to know

1

Prices for tacos start at $7 for two.

2

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred.

3

Expect a wait time of about 15-20 minutes during peak hours.

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