Javier's Gourmet Mexicano

"Javier’s has been serving Mexico City cuisine to Dallas for over 45 years, and setting the bar for Mexican food. With an extensive menu that explores Indigenous, Spanish, and Mexican heritages, it’s worth going off the beaten path to order here. Those in the know already know to start with the cheese panela. Try the Mayan-style pork, which pairs pork tenderloin and spicy chile guajillo sauce, or Cordoniz A La Talla, a quail with spicy chile ancho and garlic sauces." - Courtney E. Smith

"This classic Dallas restaurant is a leader in Mexican food and serves arguably some of the best carnitas around. It also features a cigar bar and lounge, where the humidor is open, and the whiskey and tequila are free-flowing." - Courtney E. Smith

"Javier’s has been serving Mexico City cuisine to Dallas for 45 years, and setting the bar for Mexican food. With an extensive menu that explores Indigenous, Spanish, and Mexican heritages, it’s worth going off the beaten path to order here. Those in the know already know to start with the cheese panela. Try the Mayan Style Pork, which pairs pork tenderloin and spicy chile guajillo sauce, or Cordoniz A La Talla, a quail with spicy chile ancho and garlic sauces." - Courtney E. Smith

"Beloved Park Cities staple Javier’s opened in 1977 and continues to draw crowds nightly for its upscale take on Mexican food, fantastic service, and strong margaritas. Be sure to stop by the taxidermy-laden cigar room for a post-dinner drink." - Eater Staff

"Javier’s is big, loud, and there will be approximately seven birthday or anniversary dinners happening around you whenever you go. Start with chips and their salsa - that you’ll want to pour on top of everything you order - then go for one of the seafood dishes, like the red snapper mojo de ajo. And while you’ll probably stick to margaritas while you eat, make sure you end your meal with a Cafe Pierre, an after-dinner coffee cocktail that’s mixed and set on fire table-side, before you hit the cigar bar." - Landen Kerr