Lopez Mexican Restaurant, Houston

A Houston tradition since 1978, Lopez Mexican Restaurant is a perpetually packed authentic eatery on Wilcrest, near the 59 and Beltway 8. A down-home family vibe is carried throughout the restaurant. But most people are here to eat, opting for true-to-form Mexican food that runs the gamut from sizzling fajitas to Carnes Rancheras and a gourmet Aztec salad, complete with fresh vegetables and a pineapple-cilantro vinaigrette. A newly expanded bar means an increase in foot traffic, with locals looking to splurge on one of their signature drinks, including a habanero margarita. Just don’t try to swing by on Sundays – that’s when the Lopez family takes the day off.