Original Ninfa's on Navigation

The Tex-Mex taqueria that launched the chain still manages to look authentic. Ask anyone who's ever been to this original Ninfa's if it's better than the franchises around the city and you'll get a resounding "yes."

Local socials know to flock here by 7pm Sunday nights for the high-energy scene. Tex-Mex purists delight in the kitschy decor and Tecate. Still, those looking for great fajitas and love to watch the women make the tortillas are content with the whole enchilada.

Acclaimed Julep bar owner Alba Huerta has crafted the Ninfa's bar program into an eclectic mix of traditional favorites and modern creations. Known as one of America's best bartenders (Southwest: the Magazine, Bon Appetit), Huerta's expertise has brought new menu selections like the “Pedro Navaja Old Fashioned” with tequila reposado and the “Margarita Al Pastor,” an homage to bar Limantour in Mexico City, with tequila blanco, Cointreau, lime, serrano, cilantro and grilled pineapple.

• Southern Living named The Original Ninfa's on Navigation the best restaurant in Texas (2017)