El Fenix

The Best and Most Iconic Dishes in Dallas | Eater Dallas

"El Fenix isn’t the best Tex-Mex in town, but it is the original — it opened as a family restaurant in 1918 (that’s over 100 years ago), and the first one is still standing. That makes it a Dallas original. The way to go: Order the enchiladas. This iconic dish should be consumed at least once in the original Downtown location in all its sizzling glory and preferably with a frozen marg (El Fenix also offers the enchiladas as a special on Wednesdays). Inside, you’ll find a cavernous, sprawling space with a rowdy bar, rustic Mexican-style decor, and tables full of families." - Eater Staff

Best Cheap Eats and Affordable Restaurants in Dallas | Eater Dallas

"With locations all around the Metroplex, this Dallas original has loads of classic Tex-Mex dishes at price points that don’t make us wince, plus strong hacienda vibes with dine-in or to-go options. Chile Relleno, three beef tamales, or most taco platters can be had for under $13, and those all come with sides of beans and rice. The chips and salsa are gratis." - Courtney E. Smith

Dallas’s Best Classic Restaurants | Eater Dallas

"After it was founded in 1918, El Fenix moved to McKinney Avenue in 1925. Cheap, strong margaritas at happy hour and a very cool old building make visiting the original Downtown location a Dallas bucket list essential." - Eater Staff

Where to Get a Hatch Chile Fix in DFW

"Hit up El Fenix for some Hatch chile fajita specials. It’s 2 for $22 menu can be paired with Hatch chile queso. And it’s offering a Hatch chile margarita." - Courtney E. Smith

"While it’s tough to verify El Fenix’s claim that this was one of the forefathers of Tex-Mex, there’s no denying that the homegrown chain is as much a part of culinary history as it is of Dallas’s. Started in 1916 by Mexican-immigrant Mike Martinez (and renamed El Fenix in 1918, as a nod to the phoenix, a symbol of rebirth), the original café first served standard American fare, then slowly began introducing more “exotic” Mexican flavors, then combination platters that featured both cuisines—thus was born Tex-Mex, El Fenix style. Generations of Dallasites have grown up with signature dishes like the homemade chile con queso dip, cheese or sour cream chicken enchiladas, and legendary tortilla soup, which is loaded up with crispy tortilla strips and chunks of cheese and avocado. As at the beginning, you’ll find American dishes with a Mexican twist, too, like cheeseburgers topped with Monterey Jack cheese, pico de gallo, and guacamole. The combination platters are particularly popular, as are the lunch specials. Though there are now over 20 locations all over the Metroplex, the downtown and North Dallas spots are notable for their long histories and old-school vibe—and for the real feeling you get that many of your fellow diners have been El Fenix regulars their whole lives. You might even spot a famous face among them, as the casual restaurants are a popular stop for visiting celebs, musicians, and pro athletes; Mick Jagger was even known to pop in when he was dating Dallas girl Jerry Hall."