Spicy and Savory: The Best Tex-Mex and Mexican in Mesquite
Mesquite, Texas. The name might conjure images of rodeos, cowboys, and a classic Texas landscape. And while Mesquite certainly embraces its heritage, this vibrant city east of Dallas is also a thriving hub of culture, community, and, most importantly for our purposes, phenomenal food. Forget everything you thought you knew; Mesquite is not just a rodeo town – it’s a culinary adventure waiting to be explored.
This guide is your roadmap to navigating the exciting food scene in Mesquite. We’ll take you on a journey through a diverse landscape of flavors, from authentic Tex-Mex and mouthwatering barbecue to international cuisine and delectable desserts. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor passing through, prepare to discover some truly amazing food places in Mesquite, Texas. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
No exploration of Texas cuisine is complete without a deep dive into Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican flavors. Mesquite delivers a vibrant offering of restaurants that satisfy any craving for tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and more. Here are three local favorites that consistently earn rave reviews:
Rosa’s Cafe Tortilla Factory
Rosa’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. The aroma of freshly made tortillas fills the air as soon as you walk in. The vibrant, colorful decor adds to the festive atmosphere. The menu is extensive, but their chicken fajitas are a standout. Tender, marinated chicken sizzles on a hot skillet and arrives with all the fixings: warm tortillas, pico de gallo, guacamole, and sour cream. It’s a generous portion perfect for sharing (or not!). Rosa’s also features a fantastic salsa bar with a variety of flavors ranging from mild to fiery. Expect to pay between ten and twenty dollars for a satisfying meal. Located on Gus Thomasson Road, Rosa’s Cafe Tortilla Factory is a must-visit for a taste of authentic Tex-Mex in a lively setting. The constant flow of customers is a testament to their delicious food and excellent service.
El Fenix Mexican Restaurant
A Dallas-area institution, El Fenix has a location right here in Mesquite. Known for its classic Tex-Mex dishes and vibrant atmosphere, El Fenix offers a consistent and satisfying dining experience. Their enchiladas are legendary, especially the cheese enchiladas smothered in chili con carne. The sizzling fajitas are another popular choice, and their margaritas are always a crowd-pleaser. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, with most entrees falling in the twelve to twenty-five dollar range. Find El Fenix on Town East Boulevard and expect a bustling atmosphere, especially during peak hours. This place has history and flavor, making it a go-to for Tex-Mex lovers in Mesquite.
Taqueria El Arquito
For a truly authentic Mexican experience, head to Taqueria El Arquito. This unassuming taqueria on Galloway Avenue might not look like much from the outside, but the food inside is bursting with flavor. They specialize in street-style tacos, served on small, soft tortillas with your choice of meat: carne asada, al pastor, carnitas, and more. Don’t forget to try their homemade salsas; they pack a punch! The prices are incredibly affordable, with tacos costing just a couple of dollars each. It’s a perfect spot for a quick and delicious lunch or a late-night snack. Taqueria El Arquito is a true hidden gem, offering a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine in the heart of Mesquite.
Smoked to Perfection: Your Guide to Mesquite BBQ
It wouldn’t be Texas without barbecue! Mesquite lives up to its name with several restaurants serving up slow-smoked, tender, and flavorful barbecue. Whether you prefer brisket, ribs, sausage, or pulled pork, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.
Soulman’s Bar-B-Que
Soulman’s is a Texas barbecue chain that has firmly planted itself in Mesquite. Known for its consistently high-quality barbecue and friendly service, Soulman’s is a reliable choice for a satisfying meal. Their brisket is a standout – tender, smoky, and perfectly seasoned. The ribs are also excellent, with a generous portion of meat and a delicious sauce. Don’t forget to try their sides, like their creamy coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans. Expect to pay between fifteen and thirty dollars for a plate of barbecue with sides. Located on LBJ Freeway, Soulman’s is easily accessible and always a popular choice for barbecue lovers.
Ten50 BBQ
While technically just outside Mesquite in Richardson, Ten50 BBQ is worth the short drive for its Central Texas style barbecue. Pitmaster Blake Andela brings a passion for perfection to his craft, producing some of the best brisket, ribs, and sausage you’ll find in the area. The atmosphere is modern and inviting, and they have a great selection of craft beers on tap. Expect to pay a premium for this quality, but the experience and the flavor are worth it. Their brisket is particularly notable for its beautiful bark and tender, juicy interior.
Classic Bites: American Comfort Food and Casual Dining Gems
Sometimes, you just crave classic American comfort food. Mesquite offers a range of diners, burger joints, and steakhouses that serve up familiar favorites with a local twist.
Dairy Queen
No trip to Mesquite is complete without a stop at the local Dairy Queen. This isn’t just about burgers; it’s about the nostalgia and the classic treats. Their burgers are simple but satisfying, and their fries are always crispy and salty. But the real star of the show is their Blizzards – a creamy concoction of ice cream blended with your favorite toppings. It’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot Texas day. Prices are very affordable, making it a great option for families. Multiple locations throughout Mesquite.
Mesquite Pit Steakhouse
For a more upscale dining experience, head to Mesquite Pit Steakhouse. This local favorite has been serving up delicious steaks and seafood for years. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a cozy dining room and a friendly staff. Their steaks are cooked to perfection, and their seafood is always fresh. They also have a great selection of wines and cocktails. Expect to pay between twenty-five and fifty dollars for an entree. Located on Big Town Boulevard, Mesquite Pit Steakhouse is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Around the World in Mesquite: Global Cuisine Experiences
Mesquite’s culinary scene extends far beyond Texas borders. You can find restaurants serving cuisine from around the world, offering a taste of global flavors without leaving the city.
Pho One
For a comforting and flavorful bowl of pho, head to Pho One. This Vietnamese restaurant serves up authentic pho with a variety of broth options and toppings. The broth is rich and aromatic, and the noodles are perfectly cooked. You can customize your pho with different meats, vegetables, and herbs. Don’t forget to try their spring rolls, which are light and refreshing. Prices are reasonable, with most bowls of pho costing around ten to fifteen dollars. Located on Gus Thomasson Road, Pho One is a great choice for a healthy and delicious meal.
Campania Pizza
Craving Italian? Campania Pizza is the place to be. This family-owned restaurant serves up delicious pizzas, pastas, and other Italian specialties. Their pizzas are made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a crispy crust and a flavorful topping. They also have a great selection of pastas, including lasagna, spaghetti, and fettuccine alfredo. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. Find them on Motley Drive.
Sweet Endings: Dessert Hotspots in Mesquite
No meal is complete without a sweet ending! Mesquite has several dessert hotspots that satisfy your sweet tooth, from ice cream parlors to bakeries.
Smallcakes Cupcakery & Creamery
This sweet spot offers both gourmet cupcakes and homemade ice cream. The cupcakes are moist and flavorful, with a variety of creative flavors like Caramel Crunch and Chocolate Cream. The ice cream is rich and creamy, with classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate and unique options like strawberry cheesecake. It’s the perfect place to indulge in a sweet treat. Located on Town East Boulevard, Smallcakes Cupcakery & Creamery is a must-visit for dessert lovers.
Off the Beaten Path: Discovering Mesquite’s Hidden Culinary Gems
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Mesquite has several hidden culinary gems that are worth seeking out. These are the places that locals love, offering unique flavors and experiences.
The Tamale Company
Tucked away on a side street, The Tamale Company is a family-owned business that makes some of the best tamales in the area. Their tamales are made with fresh ingredients and are available in a variety of flavors, including pork, chicken, and cheese. They’re perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Donut Kitchen
This unassuming donut shop on Galloway Avenue is a local favorite for its fresh and delicious donuts. They have a wide variety of flavors, from classic glazed donuts to creative creations like maple bacon and red velvet. Their donuts are made fresh daily and are incredibly affordable. It’s the perfect place to start your day with a sweet treat.
A Feast for the Senses: Exploring the Culinary Delights of Mesquite
Mesquite, Texas, is more than just a pit stop along the highway; it’s a destination for food lovers. From authentic Tex-Mex and mouthwatering barbecue to international cuisine and delectable desserts, Mesquite offers a diverse and satisfying culinary experience. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor passing through, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.
We’ve only scratched the surface of the incredible food scene in Mesquite. This guide is intended to be a starting point, a launching pad for your own culinary adventures. So, get out there, explore, and discover your own favorite food places in Mesquite, Texas. Don’t be afraid to try something new, venture off the beaten path, and support local businesses.
We encourage you to share your favorite Mesquite restaurants in the comments below! Let’s build a community of food lovers and help each other discover the best eats that Mesquite has to offer. Bon appétit! Let the feasting begin. Enjoy the food places Mesquite, Texas has to offer.
