The Original Ninfa's on Navigation

"It's impossible to have a discussion about Tex-Mex, and Mexican fare in general, without bringing up the Original Ninfa's on Navigation. Credited with introducing the country to fajitas as tacos al carbon, it’s vital to try the iconic dish at least once. That being said, make room for enchiladas, available a la carte, and the Ninfarita, Ninfa’s signature margarita, made with Espolon Blanco Tequila, fresh-squeezed lime juice, agave nectar, and Cointreau." - Brittany Britto Garley

"Dish: Queso Flameado Most places serve queso flameado with a side of tortillas you can dip and cheese-pull yourself. Not Ninfa’s On Navigation. They take the spectacle of hot cheese even further. First, a server folds in peppers, mushrooms, and chorizo in front of you, then, in a stroke of Tex-Mex genius, the bubbling hot queso is divided, rolled into fresh flour tortillas, and plated before you can even blink. The entire presentation is so fast that by the time you grab one of the magma-hot tortillas, the cheese still oozes out. It’s excessive and wholly unnecessary, but it tastes so good you’ll probably order it again." - chelsea thomas

"Mama Ninfa, the original owner of the Second Ward institution, is credited with the invention of the fajita. And while we’re still waiting on the fact-check to come back, it’s true that Houston wouldn’t be the same without this spot. It’s customary to see staff carrying enormous trays full of fajitas every few minutes like they’re the only thing on the menu. And after a while, the constant sizzle whizzing by your head becomes a part of the ambiance. Come for plates of tacos al carbon with handmade flour tortillas and stay until you, too, have a story to tell about your experience with a pitcher of the housemade “Ninfarita.”" - chelsea thomas, gianni greene

"Open since 1973, The Original Ninfa’s On Navigation in the Second Ward is a cornerstone of Tex-Mex history. Mama Ninfa is credited as the “inventor of the fajita,” and as you might expect, you’ll see staff carrying enormous trays full of them every few minutes like they’re the only thing on the menu. And while the menu is in fact huge, you should order the tender, subtly spicy skirt steak fajitas—or the suiza enchiladas topped with green crema Mexicana. If this place is open, it’s busy—so you’ll have plenty of people watching to do as you split a pitcher of their signature Ninfaritas, while you hope the next incoming tray of flaming fajitas meat has your name on it. There’s also another location in the Galleria." - gianni greene, chelsea thomas

"Ninfa’s on Navigation not only serves as one of the flagship Tex-Mex institutions of Houston, but also as the de facto pre- and post-game dinner spot for Astros fans. Pop in after watching Yordaddy smack a couple homers, and the entire restaurant will likely be a sea of orange. Nearly everyone here orders a powerful trinity of margaritas, queso, and the famous fajitas, but dishes from the seasonal specials are just as delicious to celebrate (or commiserate) over. How to get there: Drive (four minutes), take the 20 to the Canal/Delano stop (10 minutes), or walk (19 minutes)" - chelsea thomas, gianni greene