Pepe's & Mito's Mexican Cafe, Dallas

Dining at Pepe's & Mito's is like having a homecooked meal from abuela (the Spanish word for "grandma"); perhaps the closest thing to authentic Mexican food in the Deep Ellum area. Rather unassuming on the outside, you would probably overlook this spot – open since 1994 – if searching for something trendy-looking, but it's a real keeper and quite cozy, too, besides having great prices. Go to the bar and order a killer margarita on the rocks, then do yourself a favor and dine as well.

Servers will hook it up with some outstanding chips and salsa on deck as soon as you sit down, and from there you can start diving in. The expansive menu is well-labeled, allowing to have a versatile Mexican meal with a mix-match of some of the staples, or to try one of the house favorites. A must-have here are the Tacos Norteños, described as four small corn tortilla tacos with fajita steak, though what makes them so delicious is the chipotle wine sauce! The albóndiga soup – a comforting bowl of fragrant broth with patties of meat and vegetables – is another clear favorite. No matter what you order, it will come out fast!

With a playlist, atmosphere, and food as fresh and filling as this, Pepe's & Mito's should be part of your plans if you enjoy having an enormous, flavorful Mexican meal.