Are you looking for the best Mexican food or Tex-Mex in the Woodlands? We’ve assembled a guide to the restaurants that serve the best we’ve found in the Woodlands area.

Our criteria is simple: Who makes the most delicious food? Our guide is based around the Woodlands, but we’ll venture outside the immediate area if the food is worth the drive… and we found some that is.

In each section, restaurants are listed in alphabetical order; they are not ranked within the section.

( Updated March 2024. Originally published in 2017.)


The Best

Superb Mexican-influenced New American cuisine in a cozy setting

Belly of the Beast

🌟🌟🌟 — Notable on a statewide level.

🥇 Best American (New)
🥇 Best Mexican
To say we were impressed by Belly of the Beast is an understatement. And apparently we’re not the only ones. In 2024 Belly of the Beast has been nominated for a James Beard Award. Chef Thomas Bille has brought his Los Angeles and Downtown Houston sensibilities (Ritz Carlton, Otium, Xochi) to a small family restaurant in Spring, and the results are exceptional. From the first bite of the sharp, blindingly fresh housemade ceviche to the rich, nuanced, layered flavors of the Mexican Hummus and the superb Quesobirria Tacos, BotB surprises and delights. The breadth and complexity of the tacos is simply astounding. From the vegetarian Calabacitas (summer squash, yellow corn, poblano cremata, burrata) to the lush Carne Asada (citrus marinated flank steak, grilled onions, guacsalsa), to the surprising K-Town (smoked Berkshire shoulder, Korean glaze, miso yogurt, scallion kimchi), to the phenomenal Birra (Prime beef, queso chihuahua, onions, cilantro, salsa roja) Chef Thomas delivers bites that are nothing short of a revelation. Cozy, comfortable setting; gets busy on weekends… but it’s well worth the wait.

$$ and $$$ | American (New) and Mexican
Family-Run Small Business and On the Radar

5200 FM 2920 #180 | Spring 77388
in new location on 2920
281-466-2040
| Map
Full Info | Website

Tex Mex meets Barbecue in a friendly, lively setting

Camilia’s

🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Mexican
🥈 Recommended BBQ

Tex Mex and Barbecue are the national foods of Texas, and Camila’s marries both together with utterly delicious results. This is not a me-too Tex Mex place; the broad slate of unique dishes meld both Texas cuisines into something both unique and craveable. From the kitchen’s new spins on old favorites (pit-smoked fajita, anyone?) to their utterly unique creations (Tex-Mexi-Que Enchiladas, Tejas Smoke Cheese) the big flavors and solid executions keep patrons smiling. The owner is all about continuous improvement, so keep coming back and discover what new masterpiece he’s added to the menu.

$$ and $$$ | Mexican
Brunch, Catering, Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Good Desserts, Happy Hour, and On the Radar

1245 Grand Central Parkway | Conroe 77304
936-224-5594
| Map
Full Info | Website

Upscale Tex-Mex from the iconic Houston family

Goode Co Kitchen & Cantina

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Mexican

Top notch fajitas and seafood, solid margaritas, and cold beer are the draws at this Houston-area transplant. The food is more Tex-Mex than Mexican, but big plates and well executed food rarely disappoint. Beautiful upscale setting, great service, and a professional staff draw the regulars back for more, eye-opening prices can surprise newcomers.

$$$ | Mexican
Happy Hour and Outdoor Dining

8865 Six Pines Dr Ste 150 | Shenandoah 77380
281-826-5150
| Map
Full Info | Website

Creative Mexican food and Tex-Mex favorites

Julio’s Mexican Grill – Magnolia

🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Mexican
🥇 Best Tacos

The original location of this growing restaurant empire (Julio’s Sawdust, Red Flame) is still packing ’em in. They’re drawn in by the impressive Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, which goes beyond the typical fajitas (although Julio’s are outstanding) to superb creations like the El Sabroso (lightly breaded chicken breast covered in a shrimp/poblano cream sauce). The menu is strong from top to bottom – street tacos are a don’t miss, and their al pastor may be the best on Houston’s north side. Service is friendly and professional.

$$ | Mexican and Tacos
Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Happy Hour, and Outdoor Dining

33418 Egypt Ln #2759 | Magnolia 77354
281-259-4522
| Map
Full Info | Website

Creative Mexican food and Tex-Mex favorites

Julio’s Mexican Grill – Sawdust

🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Mexican
🥇 Best Tacos

The best Mexican restaurant in Magnolia has opened a second location on Sawdust road, and savvy locals are already converging. They’re drawn in by the impressive Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, which goes beyond the typical fajitas (although Julio’s are outstanding) to superb creations like the El Sabroso (lightly breaded chicken breast covered in a shrimp/poblano cream sauce). The menu is strong from top to bottom – street tacos are a don’t miss, and their al pastor may be the best on Houston’s north side. Service is friendly and professional.

$$ | Mexican and Tacos
Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Good Desserts, and Happy Hour

544 Sawdust Road | The Woodlands 77380
(by PetCo)
281-419-5441
| Map
Full Info | Website | Order Online

Traditional Mexican cuisine in a cozy, friendly spot

Mexican Mom

🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Mexican

Mexican Mom is the kind of tiny, family-run café that we love to see succeed. Chef Gina Antimo brings her very personal approach to Mexican cooking to the establishment, and her care is evident on every plate. The menu changes weekly; Gina creates new dishes from the best and freshest ingredients available… but a few dishes make repeat appearances, including the stellar Enchiladas Verdes, one of our favorites. Mexican Mom is the kind of restaurant that makes a community better, and should be on your short list whenever you’re craving great Mexican food.

$$ | Mexican
Catering, Family-Run Small Business, Good Desserts, and On the Radar

1027 Sawdust Rd #375 | The Woodlands 77380
832-614-1798
| Map
Full Info | Website

Superb Tex-Mex in an unassuming strip center

Rita’s Cantina

🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Mexican

When WAF member Bob Frasier dines at the same restaurant several times a week, it’s worth investigating. And we’re glad we did. Rita’s Cantina, located in a nondescript strip center off Hwy 249, is a restaurant we’d have driven by without noticing. But now we’re in on the secret.

Inside Rita’s is some of the best Mexican food in the Houston area. From beautifully composed combination plates to the sizzling fajitas, Rita’s food is several steps above the typical Mexican restaurant in the area. Both flavors and presentation are superb; chef Javier Gonzalez is one of the most talented in the city. His wife Judy oversees the comfortable dining room, filled with regulars who are in the know.

Read our full review >

$$ | Mexican
Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, and Happy Hour

32015 TX-249 | Pinehurst 77362
(About 10 minutes from Woodlands Pkwy and 2978)
346-248-5097
| Map | Review
Full Info | Website

Authentic Mexican cuisine in a cozy Alden Bridge corner

Uli’s Kitchen

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Mexican
🥈 Recommended Tacos

Uli’s Kitchen brings authentic Mexican cuisine to the residents of Alden Bridge. This cozy neighborhood spot features an interesting menu that offers both upscale versions of Mexican tacos, as well as pricier plated entrees. Menu looks promising, but the tacos we ordered were a mixed bag; Birria Tacos were beautifully presented but flavor was very mild; the signature Uli’s Tacos were bursting with medium rare ribeye, chicharron and veggies. We’ll give ’em another try soon. Friendly service, comfortable neighborhood setting. Full bar.

$$$ | Mexican and Tacos
Family-Run Small Business and Full Bar

8021 Research Forest Dr suite a | The Woodlands 77382
281-323-4853
| Map
Full Info

Destination Mexican Dining from an accomplished team

Xalisko

🌟🌟🌟 — Notable on a statewide level.

🥇 Best Mexican
🥇 Best Tacos

Chef Beatriz Martines and her husband Juan have brought a destination Mexican restaurant to the Woodlands. Chef Beatriz bring world-class experience (from Hugo Ortega’s kitchens to the legendary Can Roca in Spain) and it shows in her cuisine. We were seriously impressed by her tableside trompo service of Tacos al Pastor; these are easily the best version we’ve found in the Houston area. Modern, upscale setting with numerous touches that reference Mexican culture. This isn’t your dad’s favorite Tex-Mex spot; its something far more interesting.

Read our full review >

$$$ | Mexican
Catering, Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Good Desserts, Happy Hour, HRW2023, On the Radar, Private Room, Romantic, and Upscale

1335 Lake Woodlands Dr | The Woodlands 77380
281-323-4092
| Map | Review
Full Info


Recommended

🥈 Recommended Mexican

Tex-Mex with a strong Texas accent is on the menu at Alicia’s, the Houston-based group’s Mexican concept. Our go-to is the Cowboy Steak; certified angus outside skirt toped with chipotle shrimp and served with two cheese enchiladas. Grilled meats and seafood are a strength, and moderate prices combined with a comfortable environment provide a very good value to hungry families. Happy hour is hopping; the bar turns out memorable margaritas.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Mexican
Full Bar, Happy Hour, and Private Room

20920 Kuykendahl Rd | Spring 77379
281-350-8383
| Map
Website

Outstanding tacos from a local truck

Antojitos Junior Taco Truck

🥈 Recommended Mexican
🥈 Recommended Tacos

The Woodlands area has a great taco truck located in the parking lot of the HEB on Sawdust. Antojitos Junior serves a variety of Mexican and Honduran specialties; the family that runs it is Honduran. We sampled several different tacos. Skip the trendy birria and go straight to the classics; we were very impressed by the Tacos de Pastor (seasoned and marinated pork, with onion and cilantro) and the Tacos de Carne de Res (marinated beef with onion and cilantro). It’s a taco truck, so no seating. Cash only.

Info and Photos >>

$ and $$ | Mexican
Family-Run Small Business and Food Trucks

130 Sawdust Road | The Woodlands 77380
(In Sawdust HEB parking lot)
281-203-7787
| Map

Cali-Mex Cuisine in a festive spot on Waterway Square

Baja Cantina

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥈 Recommended Mexican
🥈 Recommended Tacos

Baja is the region of Mexico south of California, and Baja Cantina brings California’s spin on Mexican food to the Woodlands. A talented team has come together to bring this lighter take on Mexican cuisine to the business types who congregate at lunch, families at dinner, and the millennial party crowd on weekends. We think all groups will enjoy such specialities as the spectacular tuna soft taco, the huge nacho tower, and the unique pork belly and mint salad. Cocktail program looks promising; their margarita was smooth and flavorful, with unique herbal accents that aren’t usually found ’round these parts. House made aqua frescas will keep the designated driver delighted.  Just don’t come looking for Tex-Mex; Baja Cantina is a whole different state of Mexican food.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Brunch, Mexican, and Tacos
Full Bar, Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Scenic View

24 Waterway Ave Suite 160 | The Woodlands 77380
Waterway Square
832-432-2252
| Map
Website | Menu

West Coast-style tacos and burritos in a sleek, family-run space

Califas Tacos & Beer

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Tacos
🥈 Recommended Mexican

Tacos and Burritos are the thing at this family-run taqueria. Excellent housemade tortillas are crafted into craveable signature tacos; we were particularly impressed by the Poblano, bursting with grilled angus, slices of grilled poblano peppers, jack cheese and their tasty poblano sauce. These are definitely Cali-style tacos, with different flavor profiles than found in Texas or Mexico. The Pastor was quite good as well, and was pretty much what you’d expect of tacos al pastor, with the addition of a mild guacamole with the onion and cilantro. Must be a California thing; the result was tasty. Friendly service from Mom, Dad, and the two kids.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Mexican and Tacos
Family-Run Small Business, On the Radar, and Outdoor Dining

1500 Research Forest Dr #100 | Shenandoah 77381
281-466-2075
| Map
Website | Menu | Order Online

Quality Tex-Mex and outstanding margaritas

Casa Medina

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥈 Recommended Mexican

Solid Tex-Mex entrees and big margaritas are the main attraction at this family-owned Tex-Mex spot. Owner Adan Medina and his family differentiate their place with delicious flavored margaritas; we’re partial to the Avocado Margarita, which is smooth and delicious. Service is prompt and professional in both the big dining room and the cozy bar.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Mexican
Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, and Happy Hour

28777 I-45 | Spring 77381
281-298-9866
| Map
Website

Well priced Tex-Mex in a funky setting

Chuy’s

🥈 Recommended Mexican

The Woodlands outpost of this Austin original has been satisfying local guests with well priced Tex-Mex (with a New Mexican accent) favorites. We’re big fans of the Elvis Presley Memorial Combo, with beef, chicken, and cheese enchiladas, a taco, and all the accoutrements. Popular happy hour, funky environment.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Mexican and Tacos
Full Bar, Happy Hour, and Outdoor Dining

18035 I-45 S | Shenandoah 77385
936-321-4440
| Map
Website | Order Online

Consistently well prepared Tex-Mex in a family-friendly environment

Gringo’s Woodlands

🥈 Recommended Mexican

Families flock to Gringo’s to enjoy well prepared, well-priced Tex-Mex cuisine in a comfortable, family-friendly environment. Tex-Mex standards are solid choices; we’re fans of their crispy tacos and their cheese enchiladas. This local restaurant group has grown from a single location to 13 based on a simple formula: Good food, good service, and good value. We think it hits the sweet spot; not as pricey as the high end places (I’m lookin’ at you, Pappasito’s and El Tiempo) while still providing the food and service that makes picky patrons happy.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Mexican

30420 FM 2978 Rd | The Woodlands 77354
281-789-4543
| Map
Website | Order Online

Great Tacos and Mexican dishes from a hidden gem

La Cocina de Roberto

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Tacos
🥈 Recommended Mexican

A hidden gem at the far west end of Sawdust (and now with a second location on I-45 just south of Woodlands Parkway), La Cocina de Roberto began as a cozy little taqueria, serving the Timber Ridge neighborhood. But the savvy owners have added more full-fledged entrees to the menu, making it one of our favorite Mexican restaurants in the Woodlands. Tacos are still delicious: Carne asada and camerón are the standouts. Don’t miss the bargain faijta / shrimp combo, or the excellent chicken enchiladas.

Alcohol is BYOB – bring your own liquor, and Roberto will provide setups. You can’t beat a bargain margarita made with premium tequila.

Info and Photos >>

$ and $$ | Mexican and Tacos
Catering and Family-Run Small Business

26817 Interstate 45 N | The Woodlands 77380
832-813-8030
| Map
Website

A taco truck near the original Corkscrew BBQ location

La Hacienda Taqueria

🥈 Recommended Mexican
🥈 Recommended Tacos

La Hacienda serves very good Mexican tacos from a truck located on Budde Road. Birria is very popular here, as are breakfast tacos and more traditional offerings.

Info and Photos >>

$ and $$ | Mexican and Tacos
Food Trucks and Outdoor Dining

24930 Budde Road | The Woodlands 77380
832-403-9335
| Map

Serious tacos in an unpretentious spot in Conroe

La Palma Taqueria

🥇 Best Tacos
🥈 Recommended Mexican

La Palma has been a hidden destination for Woodlands foodies for years. In this nondescript little building are made some of the best traditional tacos you’ll find around these parts. We are draw to the al pastor, but we’ve not had a bad taco here. Late hours make this the perfect retreat when the chains are all closed; don’t let the slightly sketchy neighborhood scare you off from some amazing tacos. And don’t pass up the grilled onions on the hot plate.

Info and Photos >>

$ | Mexican and Tacos
Family-Run Small Business and Late Night

309 W Avenue G, Conroe | Conroe 77301
936-539-6792
| Map

Affordable Tex-Mex from a local chain

Mama Juanita’s

🥈 Recommended Mexican

Mama Juanita’s is a Conroe-based chain of Tex-Mex restaurants that offers some of the best values in town. From the wide variety of enchiladas to the plentiful seafood options to the traditional combo plates, there’s something here to please anyone. Happy hour offers great drink specials; service is friendly. The space is simply decorated and clean, and filled with patrons enjoying the very good food with family and friends.

Info and Photos >>

$ and $$ | Mexican
Happy Hour

8000 Hwy 242 #110 | The Woodlands 77385
(just east of I-45)
936-273-3220
| Map
Website

Classic Tex-Mex in a warm, family-friendly setting

Natalita’s #2

🥈 Recommended Mexican

Natalita’s brings traditional Tex Mex to a comfortable strip center on Sawdust road. This family-run spot has solid versions of all of your Tex-Mex favorites, including two tasty table salsas that appear with the complimentary chips. Lunch menu is well priced; lots of good options under $10. In a market full of Mexican restaurants, Natalita’s #2 is a solid choice for families wanting a good meal in a relaxing setting.

Info and Photos >>

$ and $$ | Mexican
Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, and Happy Hour

387 Sawdust Rd | Spring 77380
In the Woodwinds Center
281-298-8195
| Map
Website | Order Online

Upscale Tex-Mex from the popular Houston chain

Pappasito’s Cantina

🥈 Recommended Mexican

Houstonians love Pappas restaurants, and Pappasitos is perhaps their most popular brand. Huge margaritas, well executed Tex-Mex classics, large portions, and great service are hallmarks of this busy local chain. Prices can be a bit surprising to those who frequent small Tex-Mex joints, but regulars say that the quality, quantity, and experience make it well worth it. Insiders know about half-price fajita Wednesday, a great bargain.

Info and Photos >>

$$$ | Mexican
Full Bar, Happy Hour, and Upscale

18101 I-45 South | Shenandoah 77385
936-271-9777
| Map
Website


Restaurant Listings

Alicia’s Mexican Grille $$ Mexican   Outside the Bubble: Spring
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Antojitos Junior Taco Truck $ and $$ Mexican   Sawdust
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Baja Cantina $$ Brunch, Mexican, and Tacos   Waterway
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Belly of the Beast $$ and $$$ American (New) and Mexican   Outside the Bubble: Spring
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Caffe Di Fiore $$ and $$$ Mexican   Woodlands Parkway West
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP     💻 ORDER

Califas Tacos & Beer $$ Mexican and Tacos   Research East
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP     💻 ORDER

Camilia’s $$ and $$$ Mexican   Outside the Bubble: Conroe
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Casa Medina $$ Mexican   I-45 Corridor
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Chuy’s $$ Mexican and Tacos   I-45 Corridor
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP     💻 ORDER

Cyclone Anaya’s $$ and $$$ Brunch and Mexican   Waterway
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

El Chaparro $$ Mexican   Outside the Bubble: Tomball
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

El Tiempo Cocina $$$ and $$$$ Mexican   Indian Springs
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Escalante’s $$ and $$$ Mexican   Hughes Landing
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP     💻 ORDER

Goode Co Kitchen & Cantina $$$ Mexican   Research East
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Gringo’s Woodlands $$ Mexican   Woodlands Parkway West
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP     💻 ORDER

Guadalajara Hacienda $$ and $$$ Mexican   I-45 Corridor
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Julio’s Mexican Grill – Magnolia $$ Mexican and Tacos   1488 West
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Julio’s Mexican Grill – Sawdust $$ Mexican and Tacos   Sawdust
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP     💻 ORDER

La Cocina de Roberto $ and $$ Mexican and Tacos   I-45 Corridor and Sawdust
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

La Hacienda Taqueria $ and $$ Mexican and Tacos   Sawdust
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

La Palma Taqueria $ Mexican and Tacos   Outside the Bubble: Conroe
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Los Cucos $$ Mexican   Panther Creek
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP     💻 ORDER

Lupe Tortilla $$$ Brunch and Mexican   I-45 Corridor
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Mama Juanita’s $ and $$ Mexican   I-45 Corridor
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Mexican Mom $$ Mexican   Sawdust
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Mi Rancho Shenandoah $$ Mexican   I-45 Corridor
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Mirrey Tacos y Mas $ Mexican and Tacos   Outside the Bubble: Spring
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Natalita’s #2 $ and $$ Mexican   Sawdust
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP     💻 ORDER

Pappasito’s Cantina $$$ Mexican   I-45 Corridor
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Rita’s Cantina $$ Mexican   Outside the Bubble: Pinehurst
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Sofy’s Taqueria Mexican and Tacos   I-45 Corridor
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Torchy’s Tacos $ and $$ Mexican   Panther Creek, Research East, and Woodlands Mall
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Uli’s Kitchen $$$ Mexican and Tacos   Research West
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP

Xalisko $$$ Mexican   Woodlands Mall
☎ CALL     🚘 MAP