Very few restaurants have the staying power to celebrate even a quarter-century of service, but El Fenix celebrated their Centennial! Founded in 1918, by Mike Martinez, a Mexican immigrant, El Fenix is credited as “The Originator of Tex-Mex Cuisine.” It has been named an “All American Icon” by Nation’s Restaurant News and a must-see dining destination for visitors to North Texas. Acquired by Local Favorite Restaurants™ in 2008, El Fenix was refurbished with freshened interiors and a revamped menu, while maintaining its signature authentic elements.
Branch of a long-running chain serving Tex-Mex staples in a hacienda-style setting.
The Baroness
Holy wow!!! This place is outstanding. Our server GG is absolutely on point. Very attentive and knew how to make our dining experience a breeze. Fajitas were tender and juicy. Salsa I can eat like soup. Fresh guacamole paired with sour cream and pico. Try the sopas their lovely. My favorite Dallas vacation spot.
… moreElerineDe’Carrie McMurry
legendary Dallas establishment, recognized as one of the originators of Tex-Mex cuisine. The McKinney Avenue location serves as the flagship for this long-running chain, offering a classic hacienda-style setting.
• Signature Dishes: Famous for their cheese enchiladas with chili con carne and thin, crispy corn chips served with signature salsa.
• Atmosphere: Features a traditional, family-friendly environment with a historic downtown vibe.
• Outdoor Space: Offers a rooftop patio at the downtown location with views of the surrounding city.
• Heritage: Founded in 1918, it remains a cornerstone of the Dallas dining scene for those seeking old-school Tex-Mex staples.
Influencer favorite craves at El fenix Restaurant
My favorites foods
Chips are the best out all restaurants
Hand made daily
Lemon pie served at original location downtown
Chimichanga ground beef
Mexican salad
Nachos
Chicken or steak beef quesadillas
Enchiladas plate
… moreAustin Hamby
Walked in yesterday for a quick birthday lunch after visiting the Cathedral of our Lady of Guadalupe, this is a beautiful location, our server Mingo (I hope I’m remembering his name correctly) really made our dining experience so enjoyable he was polite, diligent, and even gave us insight on the history of El Fenix and Mama Cha Cha❤️
I hope that he really gets a big pat on the back From his superiors for the service that he provides. He truly did such a good job and made my birthday lunch memorable!
… moreSteven Danby
We had a great visit. We were sat immediately upon arrival. Our server quickly arrived. The beer was cold, chips and salsa plentiful, atmosphere delightful. Our food arrived in a timely manner. They also validate your parking.
… moreUlysses Espinoza
Decent spot for Tex-Mex food. It’s an open space with plenty of seating and there’s a good energy. However, it’s not the most flavorful food and the service can be average. In short, nothing stands out. Well, the prices are wonderful. Quite affordable. Overall, It’s a solid choice but there’s many options for Mexican/Tex-Mex that offer a superior experience, but you will pay a decent amount more.
… moreChris Hickie
As an Arizona native but living in Midwest for 30+years, ending up at El Fenix was legendary tex Mex. The chips made me nearly cry enthusiastically with their pockets of fluffy air I can only speculate was lard in the tortillas. Salsa was medium and flavorful… Pico/guacamole and all dishes we had were flavorful and executed beyond expectations. El jefe margaritas were delicious… Fried ice cream was legit and perfect size for three you share. Don’t sleep on these peeps.
… moreJohn D
Our server Mingo (apologies if misspelled!) was fantastic, attentive, kind, and great to talk to. Seated right away and the lunch special is a great deal. Great experience.
… moreJW RedRed
I have always enjoyed coming here over the years I have lived in Dallas. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, which makes it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal. The food is consistently great!
I’ve always said that if I go to a Mexican restaurant and the chips and salsa are , I know I’m going to have a good experience — and this place never disappoints. Fresh chips, flavorful salsa, and quality food every time. Highly recommend!
… moreCharlie D
What a great place. It is a tradition for us to visit whenever we come to Dallas. Great food, prices and drinks. Our server was amazing. Grey haired gentleman with a great sense of humor.
… moreKristen Nezat
That was by far the absolute best Tex Mex that I’ve ever had!!! Friendly and helpful staff, great atmosphere and delicious food! I’m only in Dallas one night. Staff from the W hotel recommended El Fenix to me as it’s only a 7 minute walk. It absolutely made my visit to Dallas!
Trying to figure out a way to bring some back to Louisiana with me in my luggage lmao
… more