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Wooden table holding spices, peppers,limes, onions, salt and pepper

MEXICAN ORIGINS

Mexican foods long, rich history is still apparent today. Over time, Mexican cuisine evolved into a blend of indigenous and Spanish influences, creating diverse and flavorful cuisine. Additionally, traditional dishes are vibrant and flavorful like tacos and enchiladas made with corn tortillas, seasoned with herbs such as cilantro and chili peppers.

ORIGINS OF  TEX-MEX

Tex-Mex cuisine, a fusion of Mexican and Texas culinary traditions, emerged in the 19th century. Popular dishes include tacos, burritos, nachos, and fajitas, incorporating ingredients like beef and cheese uncommon in traditional Mexican fare.

THE BIRTH OF TEX-MEX

Tex-Mex cuisine originates from the mingling of Mexican and Southwestern American culinary practices in the 19th century. In fact, initially sold at “Chili Queens” food stands in San Antonio, it later spread across the U.S. and globally, evolving into a distinct cuisine.

EVOLUTION OF TEX-MEX CUISINE

Over the 20th century, Tex-Mex cuisine evolution incorporating authentic Mexican ingredients like avocado and sour cream, along with condiments such as salsa and jalapenos. This blending of culinary styles created a unique and flavorful hybrid cuisine.

Jalapeno peppers on the vine
Fajitas on wooden platter, flour tortillas, guacamole

TEX-MEX TODAY

Tex-Mex cuisine remains popular worldwide, available in restaurants, food trucks, and homes. In addition, whether savoring Mexican or Tex-Mex dishes, the delightful fusion of flavors continues to captivate diners. Above all, the distinctive blend of authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisines has earned a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts, ensuring its enduring popularity. Visit our restaurant to experience exquisite gourmet Mexican cuisine!

WHO’S WHO IN FAJITAS

The origins of many Tex-Mex dishes are shrouded in uncertainty, leaving questions about their inception unanswered.

However, the history of fajitas stands out. This iconic dish of grilled steak, onions, and peppers has been popularized by a well-known fast-food chain, but its true beginnings trace back to a modest tortilla shop in Houston. The tale of fajitas is intricately linked to María Ninfa Rodríguez Laurenzo, or Mama Ninfa, as she was affectionately known. It all started in the 1930s in the Rio Grande Valley, where cowboys and farm laborers transformed cheaper cuts of beef, often part of their wages, into convenient and hearty meals by grilling them swiftly over coals and wrapping them in tortillas.   

Fast forward 40-years to 1969 in Houston, where she found herself widowed with a family and struggling tortilla factory.  In a bold move, she transformed the front room of the tortilleria by adding chairs and tables to begin selling South Texas tacos.  She sold 250 the first day introducing Houston to her heritage.  Lastly, these pre-assembled tacos al carbon eventually evolved into build-your-own-fajitas and a Tex-Mex classic was born.