The cuisine debate will soldier on forever. Conversations that rage about the best burger, Mexican food, hot dog, atmosphere, etc. will be started by The Observer or D Magazine and carried on into the interpersonal cross talk of friends across the Metroplex. My job today is to introduce an oft-forgotten, but fairly popular Tex-Mex establishment known as Pepe’s & Mito’s.
Pepe’s & Mito’s is located in Deep Ellum and is one of the few pillars of strength in a (currently) downtrodden arts and entertainment district. Many are unaware of this jewel, but the truth is, Pepe’s & Mito’s is faithfully supported by Deep Ellum businesses and Baylor Hospital staffers. Well, those two groups and people like me. People that know that Pepe’s & Mito’s has it figured out. People that know that Pepe’s & Mito’s is arguably one of the best, if not the best Tex-Mex eateries in all of Dallas.
OK, before you declare Armageddon hear me out. I plan to practically break this down for you in ways that anyone that respects good latin cuisine can digest. To do so, I will take you through a meal progression at Pepe’s & Mito’s.
Walking in the door today, I literally recognize the very same management and server staff from when I lived in Deep Ellum in 1998. Very little turnover equals a solid establishment that is clearly making some decent scratch for its wait staff.
As you sit down you’ll be pleased to know the menu is very affordable. This isn’t surprising because the atmosphere isn’t anything terribly special, but it’s not dingy. Anyway, very quickly I am presented chips and salsa. OK, I’ll stop right there. The chips and salsa set the tone for the whole Tex-Mex culinary experience, right? Well, Pepe’s & Mito’s salsa is strong. Not the best, but really good. The chips are great too. Always warm, which is a nice touch.
The margarita is wonderful too. I mean, damn good, easy to drink, and not acidic in the least. It’s actually kind of refreshing (if that makes any sense). I strongly recommend.
Now I will caution you on one thing. The queso is truly weak. Not good. Do not order it.
Back to the menu…I really like everything on the menu, and they mix in some different Tex-Mex options like Avocado Quesadillas. Their chicken enchiladas are amazing. And, I love their fajitas. But, before we go any further, I need to explain to you at its core why the food at Pepe’s & Mito’s is superior to most of its Tex-Mex counterparts. The flour tortillas. They are like crack. They have some sort of butter foundation, and they make every meal they are invited to a star. I am so obsessed with them, that I demand an order of flour tortillas the minute they drop the chips. With some butter and a little salsa…unreal. I can say this with a straight face: they are the very best flour tortillas in the free world. I said it. You have a problem? Cuz my boys Pepe & Mito might just have my back.
Anyway, I could go on about the random but great Halloween party I threw there in 2002. Or, the great catering experience I recently had. Or just the hospitality in general. But check it out for yourself. Lunch or dinner, it is a nice, casual, and delicious Tex-Mex experience that is a nice departure other Dallas Tex-Mexeries.
Pepe’s and Mito’s Mexican Café
2911 Elm Street, Dallas, 75226
(in Deep Ellum, corner of Elm & Malcolm X)