Texas Monthly Unveils ‘New Tejano’ Cuisine and Ranks the 50 Best Tacos in Texas

Texas Monthly has just introduced a groundbreaking new cuisine they call “New Tejano,” and with it, they’ve released a list of the 50 best New Tejano tacos in Texas. This innovative culinary movement sees Mexican and first-generation Mexican Americans blending their classic recipes with ingredients native to Texas, creating a fusion that’s turning the taco world upside down.

José R. Ralat, Texas Monthly’s “Taco Editor,” embarked on a quest to explore this New Tejano movement. Since joining Texas Monthly in 2019 as the country’s first taco editor, Ralat has visited thousands of taquerias, restaurants, and taco trucks across Texas. His mission has been to highlight the delicious food he’s encountered, share the stories of the people behind the dishes, and take readers on a journey through the state’s diverse Mexican food landscape. Ralat’s work captures the cultural complexity and fascinating history behind one of the world’s most influential culinary traditions.

In his latest endeavor, Ralat has released his first definitive list of the best tacos and taquerias in the Lone Star State. To compile these rankings, he traveled roughly 14,000 miles, visiting more than 400 taquerias over six months. He sought out tacos that exemplified craft, quality, creativity, and flavor. During his travels, he observed a new trend among taquerias, which he has dubbed “New Tejano.” This movement describes dishes that marry nostalgic Mexican or Mexican American food with native Texan ingredients.

“There has never been a more exciting time for tacos and those who love them,” says Ralat. “Variety, tradition, and boundary-pushing exist simultaneously. There are tacos for everyone everywhere. We are on the verge of a new age of tacos.”

Topping the list is Ana Liz Taqueria in Mission, renowned for its standout chile relleno taco. The restaurant, led by James Beard Award-winning chef Ana Liz Pulido, specializes in nixtamalization, an ancient Mexican process that transforms corn kernels into nutrient-rich tortillas.

Elemi, located just outside El Paso, secured the second spot for its New Tejano dishes that honor the Mexican roots of owners Emiliano and Kristal Marentes. Their conejito pibil taco is a must-try.

In third place is Azteca Taco House in Houston, where the costillas en salsa verde taco shines. Co-owned by Carlos Gallegos and his family, Azteca is celebrated not only for its delicious food but also for its welcoming atmosphere.

Rounding out the Top 10 are:

4. Revolver Taco Lounge, Dallas
5. Taqueria El Tiger, El Paso
6. Taconeta, El Paso
7. Papalo Taqueria, Houston
8. Stixs & Stone, San Antonio
9. Maskaras Mexican Grill, Dallas
10. Nixta Taqueria, Austin

For the complete list and honorable mentions, visit Texas Monthly’s website.

This new era of New Tejano cuisine is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Texas and the innovative spirit of its culinary artists. Whether you’re a longtime taco enthusiast or new to the scene, these top-ranked taquerias offer a delicious journey through the evolving landscape of Texan-Mexican cuisine.

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