Where you gonna get your Tex-Mex? Here's where the locals…

Great Tex-Mex should not be pretty.

Ask a local where to eat Tex-Mex, and if he knows his poblano from his jalapeno, he’ll tell you it depends on what you order. Here are your best bets, by morsel type and other key factors.

Breakfast tacos: Maria’s Taco Express. 2529 S Lamar 78704. Hands down the best for breakfast tacos.

Crispy tacos: Angies’s. 1307 E 7th St 78702. They’re so good, they’re not even really crispy. Just order them and see what I mean.

Enchiladas: It’s a tie. Maudies, many locations, and Darios 1800 E 6th St, 78702

Chile relleno: Polvo’s 2004 S 1st St, 78704. Polvo’s also wins for fun atmosphere without being too trendy.

Interesting and varied menu: Polvo’s again.

Lively, fun and festive: Vivo. 2015 Manor Rd, 78722. This is not Austin-style Tex-Mex, but it’s good. I had to give you something that would be crowded with beautiful people sipping fru-fru cocktails because, well, a lot of people love it. And it is a gorgeous space.

Walkable downtown: Casa del Fuego. 402 Lavaca. Believe it or not, there are no great, walkable Tex-Mex restaurants downtown.This trailer, however, dishes out awesome tacos. Their chicken tacos are especially great and healthy, too.

Contrary to what you’re hearing, you won’t find Tex-Mex at Manuel’s. You will find  excellent interior Mexican food. But it is not Tex-Mex. Same with Fonda San Miguel and Sazon. Try some interior food!

Need more ideas? Specific questions about salsa, chips or margaritas? Or want to add suggestions? Just post below.