Authentic Mexican can be hard to find in some cities, but here it's a way of life. An easy way to tell if the food is worthwhile is to pay close attention to the clientele. Chances are, if they're all speaking Spanish, you're in for a real treat.

El Hidalguense
6917 Long Point
713-680-1071

Although the outside can appear a bit rough around the edges, El Hidalguense is a truly authentic taste of Mexico. The restaurant has won many local awards, but out-of-town diners should be prepared. The cuisine of Hidalgo, the Mexican region for which the restaurant is named, doesn't shy away from bold flavors. Goat and mutton can be found on the menu, as well as barbacoa - seasoned steer head wrapped in burlap and cooked in hot coals. Aloe leaves and homemade corn tortillas round out the northern Mexican menu. Be sure to indicate whether you speak Spanish - some of the servers don't speak much English which is a very, very good sign.

Ninfa's on Navigation
2704 Navigation Blvd
713-228-1175
www.mamaninfas.com

What started as a roadside stand in the early 1970's has blossomed into a local institution. The space has grown, but not by much, and the neighborhood is considered on the shadier side by some. But the infamous green sauce, the funky ambiance, and the delicious fajitas make it a must-stop spot for good, classic, Mexican comida. Be sure to indulge in a "Ninfarita" - the house name for the classic tequila and triple sec concoction.

Chuy's
2706 Westheimer Rd
713-524-1700
www.chuys.com

With another outpost near the state university in Austin, Chuy's is great at catering to a young, hip crowd. Each room of the restaurant has a funky theme; though when the weather is nice, opt for outdoor seating to watch the passers-by in the high-end River Oaks neighborhood. Don't be alarmed by the crazy Elvis memorabilia everywhere - the website will tell you that the decor was originally a fluke. But definitely DO be warned about the massive margaritas. Sample one of their famous sauces alongside homemade stuffed sopapillas for a true Tex-Mex treat.

El Palenque
21161 State Highway 249
281-376-6960

Even Mexican members of Houston's foodie culture swear by this restaurant. The lively atmosphere is great for groups and the large portions make feeding big crowds a wallet-friendly feat. Despite what some call "typical Tex-Mex decor," the food is far from dull. The cuisine is American-friendly with dishes like carne asada, fajitas, enchiladas, and queso dominating the menu. To counteract that margarita-induced brain freeze, order a huge helping of the house chicken soup, full of avocado, tender meat, cheese, and cilantro.

Americas
1800 Post Oak
713-961-1492
www.churrascos.com/Americas_hm.htm

More Latin than Tex-Mex, and more high-end than your average taqueria, Americas is Houston's sophisticated answer to fusion food and tapas. Central, South American, and Caribbean cuisines converge at this contemporary restaurant, where the feast is also for the eyes, thanks to the dramatic structure loosely influenced by ancient Mayan and Incan architecture. An extensive list of appetizers makes great cocktail snacks, or an entire meal if the feeling strikes. Grilled meats (churrascos) and fresh fish dominate the menu, but the one thing that cannot be missed is the infamous Tres Leches cake for dessert. Sip one of Americas' exotic coffee concoctions alongside the sweet, milk-soaked cake for a true Latin experience.