You don’t need a plane ticket to enjoy the bold, soulful flavors of Latin America — just an appetite and a sense of adventure. From the tangy ceviche of Peru to the smoky parrilladas of Argentina, Dallas has quietly built one of the most vibrant Latin American dining scenes in Texas. Whether you’re craving fresh arepas, hand-pressed tortillas, or a Cuban sandwich that melts in your mouth, the city’s Latin restaurants bring together a world of flavor, story, and community right here at home.
Here’s your food-lover’s guide to exploring Latin America without ever leaving Dallas.
1. Mar Y Sol – A Little Corner of Argentina in Knox/Henderson
At Mar Y Sol, every dish feels like a love letter to Argentina. The menu celebrates South American flavors through dishes like wood-fired picaña steak, empanadas, and perfectly charred vegetables. The atmosphere is vibrant yet refined — think Buenos Aires café meets Dallas chic.
Guests often describe the food as “incredible” and the service as “impeccable,” making it a great place for date nights or group dinners. If you’re a meat lover, this spot is non-negotiable. Pair your steak with a glass of Malbec and let the flavors transport you straight to Patagonia.
2. Te Deseo – A Latin American Love Story in Uptown
Step inside Te Deseo and you’ll instantly feel the energy. Each room draws inspiration from a different Latin American country, and the menu is a flavorful mosaic — Peruvian ceviche, Argentinian parrillada, and Mexican-style street corn share the same stage.
It’s not just about the food here, but the experience. The rooftop terrace hosts one of the city’s most colorful happy hours, and the handcrafted cocktails, like the smoky mezcal margarita, make every sip feel like a celebration. Te Deseo is where Dallas meets Latin flair, perfect for nights when you want dinner to turn into dancing.
3. Sabores Latin House – All of Latin America on One Plate
Sabores Latin House lives up to its name — sabores means “flavors,” and this restaurant celebrates them all. From the Caribbean to Central America, its menu pulls together the best of Latin cuisine: crispy fried yucca, sweet plantains, zesty ceviche, and tropical fruit-infused entrees.
The team behind Sabores believes food should make everyone feel at home. Whether you’re savoring a Peruvian-style lomo saltado or a Dominican mofongo, you’ll find dishes that honor tradition but feel fresh and inventive. This spot is perfect for adventurous eaters who want to experience the full spectrum of Latin America in one meal.
4. Meso Maya Comida y Copas – Mexican Roots with a Modern Twist
A Dallas staple, Meso Maya crafts Mexican and Latin dishes that taste as vibrant as they look. Start with their famous Queso Poblano or Chicharrones, then move on to the Carne Asada or Salmon de Coco — dishes that balance earthy spices and bright, citrusy notes.
Their signature Serrano Berry Margarita, made with fresh strawberries and Socorro Tequila Blanco, is a must-try. Whether you visit their Downtown or Prestonwood location, you’ll find the same warm, energetic atmosphere and consistently top-notch flavors.
5. Gloria’s Latin Cuisine – Salvadoran Soul Meets Tex-Mex Warmth
If there’s one restaurant that feels like home to many Dallas locals, it’s Gloria’s Latin Cuisine. Founded by Salvadoran immigrants, Gloria’s combines Latin warmth with approachable comfort. Pupusas, fried plantains, and black bean dip are menu staples, while their margaritas have become somewhat legendary.
The patio dining is a major plus, especially when the weather cools down. It’s also one of the few Latin spots in the city that caters to both families and date-night crowds — proof that great food really does bring people together.
6. Havana Café – A Cuban Escape in Oak Lawn
Craving a taste of Havana? You’ll find it at Havana Café, where Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, and mojitos come together in perfect harmony. The vibe is cozy, the service is friendly, and the menu hits all the right notes — from rich black beans to fried plantains that melt in your mouth.
Their Cuban coffee is strong enough to power you through the rest of your Dallas adventure, and the tropical décor will make you forget you’re just minutes from Downtown. It’s one of those places where locals bring visitors to show off the city’s quieter, more flavorful side.
7. Zaguán Latin Café & Bakery – Venezuelan Comfort Food Done Right
Located in Oak Lawn, Zaguán feels like a hidden gem even though it’s been around for years. The menu leans Venezuelan, offering arepas, cachapas, and tequeños alongside a bakery filled with guava pastries and fresh bread.
It’s casual, affordable, and consistently delicious — perfect for lunch or a laid-back dinner. Their self-serve lemon verbena tea is a refreshing touch that perfectly complements the hearty, homemade flavors.
8. San Martin Uptown & Addison – Latin American Bakery Meets Café Chic
San Martin has built a loyal following for its freshly baked bread and Latin-inspired dishes. You’ll find breakfast plates with a Central American twist, tropical smoothies, and pastries that rival those from Guatemala City.
Both the Uptown and Addison locations are bright, modern, and welcoming — ideal for brunch with friends or a relaxed coffee date. The vibe is relaxed yet elegant, and the food? Always fresh, always flavorful.
9. Arepa TX – The Taste of Venezuela in a Handheld Bite
For something fast, affordable, and full of flavor, Arepa TX delivers. Their menu is focused on Venezuelan arepas — corn-based pockets stuffed with options like shredded beef, black beans, and avocado.
It’s a casual spot, but the food quality is top-tier. Try the arepa Reina Pepiada, filled with chicken and creamy avocado, or grab a rice bowl if you want a heartier meal. Everything is gluten-friendly, making it a win for inclusive dining.
10. El Tizoncito & Taqueria El Si Hay – For True Taco Lovers
Dallas is full of tacos, but few spots are as beloved as El Tizoncito and Taqueria El Si Hay. Both are no-frills, flavor-packed destinations for authentic Mexican street tacos.
El Tizoncito, known as one of the pioneers of tacos al pastor, serves theirs on handmade tortillas with juicy, spit-grilled pork. Meanwhile, El Si Hay’s long lines tell you everything you need to know — it’s worth the wait for tacos that many call the best in the city.
11. Bonus Bite: Mexican Sugar – Modern Pan-Latin Vibes
Mexican Sugar brings a modern, upscale spin to Latin dining. With locations in Uptown, Addison, and Las Colinas, it’s known for its scratch-made dishes, Latin paella, and extensive tequila selection. The interiors are stylish yet inviting, and the handcrafted cocktails are show-stoppers.
Whether you’re celebrating or just catching up with friends, this spot captures the warmth of Latin hospitality while keeping things distinctly Dallas.
Savor the Journey Without the Jet Lag
Dallas is more than barbecue and Tex-Mex — it’s a mosaic of Latin flavors waiting to be explored. From the tang of Peruvian ceviche to the comforting sweetness of Venezuelan cachapas, each restaurant tells a story that connects food, culture, and community.
So next time you’re craving a culinary escape, skip the airport. Let Dallas be your passport to Latin America — one delicious bite at a time.
Want to taste it all in one unforgettable afternoon?
Join an Incloodie Food Tour and experience the best Latin flavors of Dallas with fellow food lovers. Our guided tours highlight local chefs, hidden gems, and gluten-friendly dishes that make everyone feel included. Come hungry, leave happy — and discover why food always tastes better when it’s shared.