Photo of brisket tacos by Mark Davis

Photo of brisket tacos by Mark Davis

Santos Authentic Mexican Cuisine

5934 Royal Lane, Suite 120
214.369.1500

Ambiance: Warm
Price range: $11–$19.50
Did you know? If you’re in the mood for enchiladas, ask Blanca for her specialty, “enchiladas Mexicanas.”

Margarita. Photo by Mark Davis

Margarita. Photo by Mark Davis

The slow-roasted pulled beef tacos are plentiful and tender; the Spanish rice has peas and carrots in it, which is a good sign; and though the owner changed his restaurant’s name, it’s still the same authentic stuff. Owner Fernando Santos originally named his restaurant “Nando’s” when it first opened in June 2012, but after a corporate chain under the same name gave him grief, he had to make a change. The restaurant has been renamed “Santos Authentic Mexican Cuisine” and features chicken, beef, fish, vegetarian and other specialty dishes prepared each day by his mother-in-law, Blanca Huesca. “She doesn’t work with any recipes,” Santos says. “It’s all in her head.” Huesca makes the chorizo, brisket and sauces in-house, and Santos says a perk is the cup of sopa de fideo she serves as an appetizer to lunch and dinner patrons. The restaurant even has lengthy brunch hours for early and late risers. From 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. you can order staples like huevos rancheros, molletes, migas and more for $10.50. Did we mention brunch comes with all-you-can-drink mimosas? You’d think all that food would weigh one down, but the slender Santos says otherwise. “I eat here two times a day and never get sick of it.”

| A taco trio |

1 Fernando’s Mexican Cuisine

Try the “Nano,” three brisket tacos topped with molcajete sauce, jack cheese and grilled onions served in warm corn tortillas with a side of guacamole and pico de gallo. 4347 W. Northwest Highway, Suite 100, 214.351.9010

 

2 Cuquita’s Restaurant

Venture out and try something different. The lengua tacos aren’t what you would expect. Yes, they are made out of beef tongue, but they are so tender. Squeeze some lime on top and you’ve got the perfect lunch or dinner. 8076 Spring Valley, 214.575.3188

 

3 Tupinamba

Craving crispy tacos that are a bit on the greasy side? The deep-fried “Tupy Tacos” come in a trio and have been a staple since 1947. 12270 Inwood, 972.991.8148