Ninfa’s Original on Navigation

Houston, United States

4.2

Closed now

39 reviews

Accepts Credit Cards

Contacts

QR code, vCard

Telephone:
+1 713-228-1175
Website:
www.ninfas.com
Address:
2704 Navigation Blvd, Houston, TX, 77003
Warehouse District, Second Ward
Nearby public transportation stops & stations:
0.6 miEaDo/Stadium
0.7 miCoffee Plant/Second Ward
0.8 miConvention District (Westbound)
Categories:
QR code
Download QR Image Download vCard

Map

Streetview

Activate map

Bussiness info

Takes Reservations
Yes
Delivery
No
Take-out
Yes
Accepts Credit Cards
Yes
Accepts Bitcoin
No
Good For
Dinner
Parking
Valet, Street, Private Lot
Bike Parking
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible
Yes
Good for Kids
Yes
Good for Groups
Yes
Attire
Casual
Ambience
Casual
Noise Level
Average
Alcohol
Full Bar
Outdoor Seating
Yes
Wi-Fi
No
Has TV
Yes
Waiter Service
Yes
Caters
No
Accepts Apple Pay
No

Today

Today 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Closed now
Local time (Houston) 10:06 AM Thursday, June 12, 2025

Business hours

Monday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Tuesday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Wednesday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Thursday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Friday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Saturday 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
Sunday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

Description

Specialties

While others have tried to imitate it, there is only one Original Ninfa’s, where Mama Ninfa singlehandedly launched the national fajita craze when she decided to serve her grilled, sliced beef into her handmade flour tortillas.

Executive Chef Alex Padilla continues her high standards today, serving signature favorites like Mama Ninfa’s Famous Taco al Carbon and Fajitas. Other not-​to-​be-​missed dishes include Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, Crispy Calamari Mexicana, Handmade Tamales, Cochinita Pobil, Shrimp Diablo, and Padilla’s critically acclaimed Fajita Burger.

History

Established in 1973.

Original Ninfa’s on Navigation is one of Houston’s most treasured landmarks and food destinations. Named for the original owner Mama Ninfa Laurenzo, her standards for servingguests the highest quality, fresh Tex-​Mex foods have been carried on by her loyal staff — several of whom have worked there for over two decades.

Purchased by Legacy Restaurants in 2007, owner Niel Morgan and Chef Alex Padilla keep the spirit and qualities that make the Original Ninfa’s the icon it is alive, while continuing to refresh, update and offer guests the best possible Original Ninfa’s experience.

Located in Mama Ninfa’s house in the shadow of downtown Houston and Minute Maid Park, the restaurant features two intimate dining areas, a main dining area, an enclosed year round patio and an al fresco covered patio and bar. Guests can watch the Original Ninfa’s famous handmade tortillas being rolled and cooked as they enter the restaurant.

Meet the Manager

Alex P.

Manager

Chef Alex Padilla brings his Central American roots, his love of regional Mexican cuisine, and his formal training at San Francisco’s Boulevard, one of the top rated restaurants in the country, to his cuisine at the Original Ninfa’s on Navigation. He celebrates the tradition on Mama Ninfa Laurenzo’s Mexican cuisine in signature dishes like her famous Fajitas while offering his guests the breadth of regional Mexican cuisine in dishes like the Cochinita de Pibil. His years spent in California are reflected in the fresh ingredients he sources locally whenever possible.

Related places

You might also like:
380
ft
Ninfa’s Mexican
2727 Canal St (Second Ward)
390
ft
El Tiempo Cantina
2814 Navigation Blvd (Second Ward)
420
ft
Dona Maria
2601 Navigation Blvd (Warehouse District, Second Ward)
630
ft
Merida Restaurant
2509 Navigation Blvd (Warehouse District, Second Ward)
1
mi
Villa Arcos
3009 Navigation Blvd (Second Ward)
1
mi
Alamo Tamale & Taco
2310 Navigation Blvd (Warehouse District)

Vicinity

Browse nearby places:
200
ft
East End Street Market
2800 Navigation Blvd
220
ft
Houston International Brokers
2610 Navigation Blvd
380
ft
Ninfa’s Mexican
2727 Canal St
390
ft
El Tiempo Cantina
2814 Navigation Blvd
420
ft
Dona Maria
2601 Navigation Blvd
420
ft
Medina’s L & K Florists
2601 1/2 Navigation Blvd

39 reviews of Ninfa’s Original on Navigation

No registration required
Place rating: 4
Dallas, TX
Stopped here yesterday for some authentic Houston texmex. Very cute little venue from the outside, however upon walking in for lunch it was very loud. So much so that our waitress could not hear us well, had to repeat everything (could have been just her) and gave me the wrong type of tacos. I ordered the brisket tacos and wound up with ground beef.
The red salsa here was perfectly spicy and the chips also were very good. I did not care for the green salsa.
Food was tasty, but wayyy too much for a lunch portion. I chose to get double rice instead of beans. Could not eat all of it let alone my third taco.
Two thumbs up for food, however the service really lacked– which my coworker told me was not typical and the worst he has received here.
Place rating: 5
Daly City, CA
Came here on business where my client recommended that I HAD to try this place. This is, hands down, the best Mexican food I’ve had in my life! Every bite felt like heaven.
Place rating: 5
Chicago, IL
This restaurant was at the top of my list for my first visit to Houston, and I saved it for my last night – GREAT IDEA. We dined outside, where it was easier to get a table, given there had just been a torrential downpour. but the restaurant staff had dried everything and had placed linen napkins on all the chairs, which was much appreciated.
We started with the Ninfaritas, the house margarita, which were good, but I had a bit of buyer’s remorse, as I wished I’d chosen a Mezcal instead. Love that smoky flavor.
We ordered the mixed fried seafood appetizer and it was delightful. The complimentary chips and salsa were also a hit – there’s a traditional salsa and a salsa verde that has a cream base of some sort, and it’s delicious. Mix them together!
For entrees, we tried the Tacos Al Carbon – I didn’t personally sample them but my dad loved them, and two tacos was definitely enough, as they are not at all small. He ended up taking one home.
My brother chose the Carnitas, and the pork was really good, tender, and flavorful. I chose the Tacos de Pulpo Cazuelita (grilled octopus tacos). The octopus was flavorful, the rice and beans were really good, but the star of the show? The corn tortillas. Hands down, best I’ve ever had, and when I checked in at the restaurant on Facebook, someone living in another state who’d been to Ninfa’s immediately commented on the tortillas. Get a few to go with your leftovers.
My one critique? The potato served with the octopus tacos – it was really undercooked, almost like eating a raw potato, and it wasn’t really needed for the meal.
I’ll definitely make this a regular spot upon each future visit. Great service (the manager came out to chat for awhile with us, which is always an appreciated extra touch), great environment, and delicious food. You can’t go wrong!
Place rating: 5
Houston, TX
Yup, the original is still the best. And while it’s always packed when I go there, while it’s tough to find a parking spot (at least there’s a valet) once you get in, it’s like the Ninfas from the good ‘ol days. No waiting area, a convoluted path around waitstaff and tables that would never be allowed in a chain restaurant, and oh yes, that amazing food.
Quesadillas that aren’t overly cheesy, decadent tortillas and fantastically prepared meats make everything I’ve sampled here top notch.
Place rating: 4
Houston, TX
Feels like the tiniest little restaurant in the world
Always always a wait when I come. This time we got an estimated 30 – 45 min wait.
No biggie. More time for margaritas!
We came for dinner and drinks before the Astros game. They have a shuttle service (F R E E) to and from the stadium which is a great business idea.
Just gotta bypass all the servers, food runners and other customers. Whatevz
It felt like the hottest day possible so that was sort of miserable with no waiting room practically anywhere inside, a little bench area outside. Sweating bullets.
Our buzzer ended up going off not too long after and we got sat at a small table alongside the windows LOLZ not the best but my alcohol levels are this point are sort of affecting my feelings towards things like the sun in my face or my makeup running.
We nommed on some chips and salsa, a round of queso, and more margs!!!
I ended up ordering a ceviche tostada because I couldn’t imagine eating fajitas or enchiladas or anything like that. It was so good from what I can remember…
Big chunky shrimp pieces with plenty of lettuce tomato avocado and hot sauce. There may have been other seafood but I don’t know. There was this sauce on the tostada that reminded me a bit of thousand island (didn’t love that part as much) but so good and refreshing overall. My friend got enchiladas and she just couldn’t even finish one.
Good olé Texas summers.
Overall be prepared for a wait, utilize the shuttle service if you need and don’t forget to grab a candy on your way out.
Place rating: 5
Flowery Branch, GA
I’ve never been to the original Ninfas in all my years in Houston but came here meeting groups from our corporate offices so headed downtown.
This is the real deal Tex Mex. Big place, great service and pretty loud but all fresh made tortillas, guac, and chips and a true mexican feel. We had about 7 – 8 of us and sat near where the tortillas come out and the smell was just wonderful and tempting.
We ordered some frozen margaritas and beers and started with spinach dip and a chili queso dip. The drinks were really strong and quite good and all the chips and tortillas were hot and you knew they were fresh. Service was spot on with a lead waiter and one in training so never ran out of drinks and were waited on hand and foot.
One end of the table ordered beef, prawns and chicken fajitas that were the bomb! The shrimp were huge, the steak was perfect MR, and the chicken was juicy and spicy. Tons of onions and peppers and salsa, and great guacamole. Served with freshly made flour and corn tortillas, — perfect. Our end got different dishes of veggie fajitas, also very tasty with added mushrooms– and I opted for some chicken tacos that were buried in cheese and lettuce but full of meat and served with beans and rice. We also had a beef burrito platter that was huge and more typical of what you would expect but also very good, and hot.
Had always wanted to come and glad we did. Great time with our team and great place really to get out for a Wednesday night and enjoy some good food. Highly recommend this location and experience the real deal when in town.
Place rating: 3
Bellaire, Houston, TX
I have wanted to come here forever. FINALLY went today for mid afternoon lunch (4 PM — it was not super busy) with six friends. The food was great! I liked everything. HOWEVER, the service was JUST. SO. S. L. O. W. It took TWO HOURS TO ORDER, EAT, and GET OUR CHECKS… there was no reason from our side for this. they were nice, but there was just NO reason given, no explanation, nothing. JUST HUGE GAPS BETWEEN TIMES SEEING OUR WAITER AND IT WAS AS SLOW AS POSSIBLE. There were 10 people standing around at times, maybe someone needed to go help in the kitchen? When my chile relleno came out, the cheese had melted out of one of the chiles and had hardened on the plate. Hard as a rock (still tasty, but you can tell my food sat around a while back there).
Also, we should have been sat at a larger table. they could have done that by adding one more table to our table, which was available. Instead we were left with little room to operate. ON the way out I saw a five top at the SAME sized table.
Place rating: 3
Houston, TX
Ninfa’s has been on my ‘must try’ list forever, like since we first lived in Houston forever but for one reason or another we never managed to make it before we left for California. So of course, it made it to the very top of my ‘must try’ list when we returned to Houston earlier this year.
We made a reservation through Open Table a week or so prior to try and avoid what could possibly be a long wait time on a rainy Friday night however this really only reduced our wait to around 15 minutes instead of the 30 or so everyone else was having to wait as there were no tables for two available when we arrived.
Unfortunately there is no real waiting area and I found myself really wishing I could pony up to the bar and order a margarita while waiting for my table instead of crowding around the front door and bathrooms where I was constantly being passed and jostled by servers and other patrons as they walked around us to get to the tables.
Honestly, I struggled to not keep comparing Ninfa’s to El Tiempo both due to their history and the fact that El Tiempo on Washington is my favorite ‘can’t be bothered cooking tonight lets go out’ fallback plan. The service was good, the steak fajitas and queso was delicious, the atmosphere I found to be a little lacking… It felt a little bit like a ‘get you in, get you out’ kinda place and not somewhere you could linger over a couple of margaritas before your meal. In the end I’m very happy I tried Ninfa’s and I would definitely go back again because I loved the food, loved the margaritas and loved the service but unfortunately I love the atmosphere at El Tiempo on Washington so much more that this will continue to be my go to.
Place rating: 5
Houston, TX
Easily one of the best places to grab Tex-​Mex in Houston, but anyone who has lived in town will let you know that. From the moment you walk in and see them making tortillas, you can tell that everything is done with a traditional style here.
If you haven’t been here before, go for anything with beef fajita or «al carbon,» which uses the same skirt steak meat. As the Houston Press noted in a write-​up a few years ago, this location uses a different cut of meat– the «original» fajita meat– from what most places serve, and the difference is noticeable. You will easily have the best fajitas or tacos al carbon you’ve ever had at this location.
Service is usually very attentive, but get here outside of regular lunch or dinner hours if you want to get seated, because this place fills up fast and waits can be in excess of an hour. Their drinks are strong and you can’t go wrong with just about anything on the menu.
I’ve had a couple of service issues on previous visits, but they were minor. Don’t bring a massive group (20+) with any kind of split checks, because you will easily be stuck an extra hour or so. They really suck at splitting checks. Also, sometimes they will slot you at an inopportune table, such as when my group of four got put at possibly the smallest table with four chairs around it in the restaurant. We ended up moving to a larger table after complaining to the server. Still, after many positive experiences, I still have to give this place five stars.
Place rating: 5
Austin, TX
Ninfas claims to be the originators of fajitas and if the best quality and tasting fajitas are proof of this then Mama Ninfa thanks so much for giving us something so wonderful to eat.
Best beef fajitas and tortillas in the world!
Service is second to none here.
Queso is excellent.
Place rating: 5
Houston, TX
I’m extremely embarrassed of this next sentence…
I’ve never been to Ninfa’s and finally went last night! My boyfriend and I recently moved to the East End and have been trying out all the local eateries. Luckily there was parking and we didn’t have to valet. We both started with some beer and ordered a queso. Since we are noobs, we had no clue that a humongous bowl of queso was on the way. If there are only two of you, make sure you order the SMALL queso. The salsa and green sauce were the best I’ve ever had and the queso was scrumptious. On to the entrees… I ordered the enchiladas suizas and my boyfriend ordered the tacos al pastor. The charro beans here are delicious! I wasn’t too crazy about my suizas as the sauce tasted very bland. The pastor was delectable and my boyfriend cursed me for picking at his plate. Overall Ninfa’s was great. We will definitely be back!
Place rating: 5
Katy, TX
If you are just passing through, or you’ve been here for a while, you must go here. You owe it to yourself. This is where fajitas were born, LITERALLY. This place is an institution.
Hold up… I’m gonna let you finish reading this review in a second but, I just have to say: I just had the greatest appetizer of all time here, OF ALL TIME! The queso flameado. Just order it.
The combo fajitas are a great «best of both worlds» dish. Order them.
I am not asking, I’m telling you: You will write me notes thanking me if you do this. Seriously
Place rating: 5
Houston, TX
Whether you’re from Houston, a Tex-​Mex/​Mexican food lover, or just a Texas native… Ninfa’s Original on Navigation is THE best Mexican food in Texas. I truly believe that.
It’s classic. There are tons of options (both Tex-​Mex and true Mexican) without being overwhelming, and they’re classic dishes! Nothing too crazy or dressed up, just a fantastic meal! I’ve been here just about 5 times, and I’ve never had anything that I thought was just mediocre. I’ve always thought «YES! THIS is a great meal!»
I’ve tried their Tortilla Soup… creamier than I expected but SO GOOD and worth it!
Grilled Redfish Tacos… the spices on the fish were unbelievable.
Tacos al Carbon, Chicken… Classic and delicious.
Class Margarita… everything you need and more. Not too sugary. Not too strong, but not weak either.
Most recently the Chicken Flautas… The sour cream and salsa mix they put on top was amazing and the flautas were cooked just right with a nice meat to tortilla ratio.
The only thing I haven’t had that I feel like is a staple for any Mexican restaurant is their Fajitas! I’m officially putting that on my list to try and giving myself an excuse to go back sooner than later! Also I haven’t been to their brunch, but I feel I would freaking love it! I’ll add that to my list too haha!
It’s a huge restaurant, good for groups but also sweet for a fun date night! This place is seriously great for all occasions. If you have friends or family in town, and need a good Houston staple to take them to, this is the spot!
Place rating: 5
Paramount, CA
Ninfa’s slogan states it’s the best Mexican food in Texas since Texas was in Mexico. I wasn’t born nor even thought of during that era to say that’s true but what I can speak on is the present and as of right now, Ninfa’s is the best Mexican cuisine I’ve had in Texas hands down.
The scent of the food hits your nose upon arrival instantly. I love the smell of carne asada being grilled. Once me and co workers entered, we were greeted by a hostess as well as women making fresh tortillas from scratch before being seated.
Once sat, it was straight to chips & salsa with beers and margaritas to follow then main courses. Two of the entrees selected were the tacos de pulpo (octopus tacos) and the parilla mixta which contained shrimp, steak, chicken fajitas, carnitas, and ribs. The octopus was perfectly cooked, not a single tough nor chewy piece in the batch. The freshness of the octopus as well as its seasonings makes this the best I’ve tasted even beating those I’ve tried in Los Angeles.
Everything including the veggies on the parilla mixta was excellent. All was tender and well seasoned. Like the octopus, the shrimp taste very fresh and clean. The skillet gave some meats a crisp while not taking away from their moisture and tenderness. Of the meats, the steak takes the crown with the carnitas coming in second and the other following. They were all delicious and the platter is very filling.
The service was also excellent with our server breaking down each dish describing its flavors even with the simplest taco. Ninfa’s is definitely a place I’ll be dragging friends and family to when visiting Houston looking for good Mexican cuisine.
Dinner 4÷25÷2016
Place rating: 5
Pearland, TX
The original Ninfa’s! Is everything and a bag of chips. Had lunch here after my sister’s wedding rehearsal. Beautiful day. Lovely setting. Perfectly placed tables. Enough room to walk although it seems crowded to the eye. Really it’s fine. Lol! Alberto was one of our servers and always took care of us. Filled our drinks. Food. To go boxes. Superb service. He’s the one that sounds like a rock n roll radio dj. If he’s helping you, you’ll be so pleased.
Place rating: 5
New York, NY
The cutest little gem in Houston! It’s somewhere I would definitely revisit if I’m ever back in Houston.
Ambiance: sooooo wonderful! I’m impressed with how well they captured the authentic Mexican feel. Everyone was wearing Latin garb and even our waitress called us «chicos». I just loved how well they integrated that into the dining experience. The kitchen is open and the first thing you see when you walk in. Such a fast moving homely feel! This place is huge. So the fact that they maintained that family like feel was so great :)
Food: 10!!! It was deeeeelishhhh. I got the salmon tacos and they were probably the healthiest thing on the menu. That said, come here with a few extra calories set aside lol. They start you off with a yummy tortilla bowl and salsa and salsa verde on the side. The verde was AHMAZING! We also got the fresh guac which I HIGHLY recommend. The chimichanga was a bit too fried for me personally. But still pretty good.
Prices: very affordable and such a huge bang for your buck! If I wasn’t traveling, I would’ve definitely taken my food home. It’s enough to hold you over for an entire day in my opinion.
Will I be back? If I’m in Houston, ninfas will DEFF be on the agenda ;)
Place rating: 3
Baytown, TX
I can say I have been to the Original Ninfa’s! Is it wrong that I wasn’t really impressed? I had the combo fajitas with their fresh corn tortillas. The beef lacked seasoning and so did the chicken. The tortilla was semi raw too. I have had better salsa and their queso just tasted like regular queso. I feel bad cause there are so many rave reviews but it was nothing special to me. Ok first of all I went for lunch during the week with a group of 10 people. We were immediately greeted and seated.
Ninfa’s is huge but well worth it as it got pretty full while we were there and they were hosting a few large groups other than ours. Our waitress was ok and she was efficient. After the meals were brought to our table there was still one dish missing which came when everyone else was already half way through. Most ordered combo platters which include tacos and fajitas and others ordered the shrimp diablo. There were no complaints but also no praises.
At dessert a few of us opted for different selections so we could all try a bit of everything. Best dessert hands down was the tres leches. Would I return to Ninfa’s? Only if I am invited. I won’t mind giving it another try but it would not be first choice. Maybe I need to sit and have a margarita and it may change my mind. So lets just put a pin in it and save it for later and I will get back to you after I have returned and alteast had one margarita.
Place rating: 3
League City, TX
Just because they were the first (to make fajitas) doesn’t necessarily mean they are the best. But they’re good.
Went with the family for lunch. We were first timers. Atmosphere is old school. Service is outstanding.
Ninfa’s table salsa is better than average, as is the green sauce. The queso, albeit with a nice creamy consistency, is bland.
Now to the fajitas. They aren’t over-​marinated and these guys cook them with onions. This is how it should be. The beef were just chewy enough and delicious. The chicken was too dry for my taste, although my family enjoyed them.
I’m not impressed with the house made flour tortillas. They aren’t bad, but taste and feel like something institutional. Rice is nicely firm. Other trimmings (guacamole, pico, etc) are fresh.
If you’ve never been to Ninfa’s you need to go. They’re pretty good at what they do.
Place rating: 1
Ann Arbor, MI
I understand that the kitchen was under some construction, but still…
The chips were very plain and dry. Around store bought quality or less… just flavorless and almost stale. We ordered the chicken fajitas (not the full size). It was enough meat to feed two people, but for the price of $ 18, definitely not worth. The onions weren’t sautéed enough and still had that crunch and raw flavor. We also had to wait and ask our waiter if he could give us some flour tortillas with our fajita… (I thought that would be automatically served with) The Fajita did not come with any refried beans, just spanish rice. And when we asked if they had any cheese or lettuce, they said they do not offer it. But if you look at other pictures, they definitely have cheese and lettuce available… The fajita wasn’t even hot when it came out.
This restaurant was on a ‘top 30 places to go’ list, but I wouldn’t even recommend it to a desperate hungry family.
Place rating: 5
Succasunna, NJ
Came here right from the airport! Kind of hard to find, but well worth the visit. We were given a brunch menu and a regular menu and ate items off both. Huge portions and delicious food. Service was attentive and friendly.
Place rating: 1
Houston, TX
Visited on Sunday around 11 for brunch. Having never been to a Houston classic my boyfriend and I decided we should make in out at least once to try it. Thankfully the parking was decent and no wait. Thats about where all the good qualities end.
Salsa– 0⁄5 stars. The red taste like marinara sauce and the green taste like absolute crap… I can’t even explain the foul taste.
Pitcher of margaritas– 3⁄5 stars good value… but tasted very mix like.
Fajitas– 1⁄5 stars CHEWY and flavorless. I literally had to add salt to beef fajitas. AND to top it all off we paif $ 23 for chewy flavorless fajitas.
Service-​3/​5 slow but he was nice.
And the worst part of all? My boyfriend and I fell sick about two hours later. you know the bathroom explosion kind… about 6 hours later I was completely fine though… hmmmmmm interesting timing to fall so suddenly ill after eating such awful food.
Come on Houstonians… seriously? I can’t believe y’all are giving this place such high reviews. There about a bazillion Tex mex places in Houston that doesn’t have sub par food that won’t give you bathroom explosions!!!
Oh, and by the way Ninfa’s your «food» (or whatever it was you served me) cause my boyfriend to miss work on monday and miss out on income. Thanks so much for the «wonderful» experience.
We won’t return… and strongly advise other to find other places to get their green salsa and fajita fix.
Place rating: 5
Houston, TX
Food and drinks are great… The price is up there, but hey in this case you get what you pay for. We’ll be back again soon I can assure that!
Place rating: 5
Houston, TX
Reasons to come here
–Beef fajitas: these are my go-​to, best I’ve ever tasted (Houston or anywhere). Chicken fajitas are meh so get the beef. I crave these bad boys constantly
–margs: fairly strong, average priced especially with happy hour
–service: quick, attentive, always on hand for the next margarita/​chip refill
–Houston history: this is THE original Ninfas. Everything here is far superior to other ninfas locations. Well-​known to houston locals. Visitor or local, it’s a must.
–indoor/​outdoor: when the weather is nice they open up the windows, also have a patio
–astros games: restaurant operates a shuttle to houston astros games during baseball season. fajitas and then baseball is a winning combination, especially considering cost of parking at astros game ($$) vs ninjas (free).
Downsides
–smell: when you walk into the restaurant you can see the tortillas being freshly made. smells amazing when you walk in but anything you wear to this restaurant will smell like tortillas the next day so dress appropriately.
–longer wait: as they serve delicious food, the wait can sometimes reach 2 hours on weekend evenings
Place rating: 5
Phoenix, AZ
I had never known mouthgasims until I went to ninfas.
Why, you ask?
Come on a journey of taste with me:
Start off with a spicy magerita, it’s Texas style big and the heat is just right. Then get the queso with chorizo, the waiter comes and makes a production of mixing the queso with the chorizo and putting it into the tortillas (which were carefully made with love by women in the front). Then get a couple pounds of fajitas. The tortillas are excellent. I recommend a mix of chicken and beef. Also, one of the topping options-​they all looked great, we got the one with bacon and it was fire.
Loved it. Will come again. Delightful.
Place rating: 5
Tampa, FL
The best meal I had in Houston while there for my dietetic orientation! The octopus tacos are a must. There is a reason they are on the chef specials menu on the first page! The combination of the homemade flour tortilla, grilled octopus, cabbage mix, & special sauce was incredible. Thanks for the fabulous meal & great service! — @MrsNutritionista
Place rating: 4
Houston, TX
Skip Pappasito’s (which is THE standby) and go the «non chain» feel and indulge in a bit of Houston history.
The place is always bustling. Fast and friendly service.
Only downside is the price of margaritas — the $-maker in all TexMex spots. Why must they be $ 9 — $ 15?
Homemade chips — basket constantly refilled — with 2 good salsas — could use a bit of spice.
Two of us split the large combo fajitas — mistake was going «large» as the amount of leftovers was significant. All good quality. The Tejas Combo was huge — hard shell taco, enchilada, soft shell taco, beans, and rice.
When you are in the mood for TexMex — consider this alternative.
Also plenty of parking most night,
Place rating: 4
Friendswood, TX
Mexican is my least favorite food, not that I don’t like, it, just never really know what i’m trying to order. Guess I’m in the wrong state too, not to care for Mexican, this place was good, actually its was very good, very crowded before the Billy Joel concert, went w a friend sat the bar, had a few drinks food came out QUICK. I’d definitely go back.
Place rating: 1
Houston, TX
Experience the most horrible experience at original Ninfa’s. Had a reservation for a large group. The restaurant Manager said he would work on getting table ready for 50 minutes… Never gave us an update to on sitting us at our table after the hour we decided to walk out and the manager at El Tiempo was very happy to take our business. I highly recommend El Tiempo over Original Ninfa’s. Even though they have common ownership I believe.
Place rating: 5
Minneapolis, MN
Probably the best fajitas we have ever had, fast service, fun place, although the location is a little isolated. We had the chicken and steak fajitas. They were to die for. Literally the best we have ever had. Fresh hot tortilla bread, sizzling fajita, and the chips and salsa were delicious. Flawless. Highly recommended.
Place rating: 5
Minneapolis, MN
Best fajitas I’ve ever had. We got the 1 lb chicken and steak. Stick with the chicken it’s delicious. The palace was PACKED on a Saturday night. Service is excellent! The bread is amazing. The fajitas are amazing. I’m going to keep saying that! Can’t get any better than this. Thanks Houston for a great experience. Best part of our visit!
Place rating: 5
Spring, TX
One of my favorite mexican joints.
The service is always top notch and tonight was no exception.
We arrived shortly after 5 and immediately got seated. The waitress came right over with water, chips, and salsas. She got out drink order and app.
We each got a margarita, house and navigation. We ordered the queso to start.
The navigation margarita had a good amount of alcohol, served only on the rocks, and I had a salt rim.
The house served frozen with salt yummy!
The queso came out before we had decided on our food. It was as though she had it waiting for us. Creamy, full of peppers and onions, nice spice but not overwhelming. A big bowl that can easily serve 4 people.
I got the tejas combo– love the fajita meat, has a nice char, and crispy edges. The flour tortillas are made in house and it makes a difference. The cheese enchilada had a good amount of cheese throughout and good sauce over it. I like the extra long tacos with lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. The shell is crispy and the beef well seasoned. Also, it is not greasy.
Hubs got the El Henry. The tamale is well prepared and not dry.
Both our dinners were quickly delivered and piping hot. I can see why this place has been around so long and always busy.
Place rating: 3
Houston, TX
I was really expecting a lot more after I came here for the first time. Hearing good things about this please for the last 20 years made me expect it to be a five-​star restaurant. This is not the case when we came here on a weekday for lunch. The food was not bad but was also not delicious. Service was excellent and the lady making tortillas in the front was a good site to see. Overall the restaurant feels welcoming but the food lacks. It could be because I’m Mexican and have high expectations when eating Mexican food.
If you want to go here for atmosphere and service this is your place. If you want to go here to eat real authentic Mexican food this may not be your place.
Place rating: 5
Los Angeles, CA
This is the best Mexican food I have had in my entire life in any State. Even better than Los Angeles/​San Diego. What I love is that it’s not frou frou trying to be all like super uppity Mexican food. It’s down home flavors done well. Their home-​made tortillas are freaking KILLER, their carnitas are cooked so perfect you’ll cry, and their enchilada sauce is made from tears of the gods. Seriously, nothing you try will be whack.
AND ON TOP OF THAT, the booze is on point, too. We got the regular margarita on the rocks, and it was fantastic. Just the right amount of sour with a good tequila kick. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone. I want to give it one billion stars. Seriously.
Place rating: 3
Houston, TX
The original location receives a lot of hype so we tried it out. Not bad tex-​mex. Not worth the hype or wait, at all. Prices are high, but portions are typical tex-​mex big. Food came out extremely fast, which means most of it is premade.
Guacamole: not bad, fresh, but nothing special. Needed more lime and flavor.
Tejas Combo: standard boring cheese enchilada, huge crunchy taco that reminded me of taco bell, some decent fajita meat, and the usual beans and rice.
Fajitas Combo: somewhat of a letdown. Exactly what you get at every other tex-​mex place, but the meat wasn’t even sizzling.
Some chicken enchilada dish: not bad again. Shredded chicken breast as the only filling, a little dry (use dark meat please! So much more flavor), layer of melted cheese and sour cream on top.
There is nothing noteworthy of this place. You can find just as good food at Chuys, Lupe Tortilla, or anywhere else. For cheaper and with less wait.
Place rating: 5
Houston, TX
Don’t quote me on it, but I believe this is the last ninfas in Houston-​other than the ninfas in the galleria. Over the years this restaurant has slowly but surely been disappearing across the Houston area. So I count on this location to provide me with great tex mex and trust-​they always satisfy. My go to dish is the steak fajitas. They have-​hands down the best flour tortillas ever! The drinks are good. Not the biggest bar area but They make the best micheladas.
The outside area is nice to sit on a sunny day. Valet park or self park. Ladies’ restroom is clean and tidy every time I go.
The servers are pretty efficient here. Most of them know the menu very well and are attentive.
Place rating: 4
San Francisco, CA
Even though I’d lived in Houston for several years I’m not sure if I’d ever been to Ninfa’s. It was around when I was living here, I checked. But it’s in a weird area of town — just an empty warehouse district with nothing around but this place and it’s lit up parking lot.
As is the case with all tex-​mex the portions are really generous. I tried to restrain my tablemates to no avail. We ordered —
* guacamole — good, doesn’t get made at the table but does come with side fixin’s such as chopped onions, tomatoes and jalapanos
* queso — okay, wouldn’t bother ordering again with so many other good dishes
* 1 lb beef fajitas — someone said it was a revelation in fajitas and that they’d never liked fajitas until tasting these, though I’m not sure I would go that far these are pretty darn good, nicely charred but tender, with grilled/​caramelized onions and a few strips of green pepper, I especially like the home made tortillas that they grill up
* tortilla soup — had for leftovers the next day, they bring you the chicken in broth and the guacamole, tortilla strips, lemon/​lime, pico de gallo, very fresh and filling though not my favorite, good chicken soup but nothing particularly tex-​mex about the flavors
* corn soup — went straight to the take away container
* caesar salad — take away
* seafood enchilada — take away
So basically when it comes to portion size the guacamole, queso and 1 lb of fajitas was enough for 4 people and the rest of the dishes were a delusion on our part.
Ninfaritas were also good and generously portioned. Luckily with all the food it didn’t affect our senses.
Total $ 38 per person including tax + tip. With leftovers it came out to about 2 – 3 meals per person.
Place rating: 4
San Francisco, CA
Portions are huge here! We started with the queso which comes with thicker chips. Great appetizer but be way of eating too much; save room for the entrée! This is my second time here, so don’t remember much from the first visit.
Tejas Combo: comes with a beef taco, cheese enchilada, beans, and grilled chicken. This taco is the biggest one I’ve ever eaten. At a point, I had to stop and simply eat the contents only. In retrospect, I maybe should have gotten the steak. I’ve heard great things about it. The chicken was a bit on the dry side. Ooo if you ordered the queso earlier, drizzling it onto the tortilla adds quite the flavor.
Place rating: 4
League City, TX
Was here on a Saturday night & it was packed. We were a group of 10 people & waited for a little over 1 hour for a table since they didn’t accept reservations that night for some reason. Luckily for us, it was a beautiful evening outside while we waited. The parking situation was great, we found a spot behind the restaurant & spotted the security guard patrolling!
I do love the tortilla station when you walk in. I don’t feel like commenting on the décor because it was typical however the outdoor patio is pretty.
We were given chips, salsa & cilantro salsa as soon as we were seated. The waitress was a smidge pushy though which was disappointing. I ordered the jalapeño habanero margarita & I loved it! a friend & I made a team decision to split the ½ pound combination of beef & chicken fajita platter, which was a great idea. Plenty of food for the 2 of us! The beef was overcooked so I would stick to the chicken in the future.
I would make sure that you get charged the correct amount on your bill, they charged an extra 7 $ for my margaritas.
Good fajitas & margaritas!
Place rating: 5
Houston, TX
It has been years upon years since we ate here and after dining here recently, I just wished it was closer so we can come more often! They have expanded their indoor seating by building an extra room and now has outdoor seating as well. As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by a friendly hostess and the manager and seated right away. Chips, salsa, and a green cilantro sauce were brought to our table right away along with the best sweet corn bread I have ever had — EVER.
We ordered the El Nopalito (for two) — jumbo shrimp (jumbo indeed!), ribs, beef, and chicken with guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, and rice for our sides. Our friend’s daughter ordered the Chicken Fajita Nachos for her entrée. I kid you not — our food was out to our table in less than eight minutes! We could hear it sizzling from the kitchen as it was coming out. The homemade tortillas were absolutely amazing, and I savored every single bite.
Delighted by our entrees we decided to end it with dessert — tres leches and mole ice cream. Both were delicious except I think the tres leches could have been soaked in more «leches» — the cake was a bit too dry for my liking.
Ninfa’s has been a staple in Houston for more than 30 years, and I can see why!