Authentic Mexican Cuisine - Mexican Restaurants

Love the food found in Mexican restaurants?  Would you be surprised to learn that the food you have come to love is not actually Mexican cuisine?  Mexican restaurants in the United States actually specialize in offering Tex-Mex cuisine, an Americanized version of the traditional fare.

Mexican Food – History of Cultural Fusion

Tex-Mex is a term used to refer to a type of American food which has its roots in the Southwestern US and Texas.  They are creations that are the result of the influence of Mexican-Americans.  The term Tex-Mex was first used as a nickname for the Texas-Mexican Railway, which came into existence in 1875.  With the western expansion, the food that would soon be known as Mexican cuisine formed as a result of a fusion of the Spanish and Mexican Indian methods.  Little did anyone know that its popularity would lead to the ubiquity of Mexican restaurants nationwide.

Mexican Restaurants – Common Traits

There are Mexican restaurants in virtually every city and town.  While there are several national chains which seem most prevalent in larger cities throughout the country, it is not uncommon for local restaurants to sprout up and take root.  Regardless of its affiliation, the menu of Mexican restaurants is fairly similar from venue to venue. One of the characteristics of Mexican fare is its heavy use of cheese, beans, and spices like chilies, cumin and mole.  Tortillas are often common staples of Mexican restaurant meals, as is rice.  Foods can be fried, baked, or stewed, and frequently are served very quickly and efficiently. 

Mexican Restaurants in the United States

Chi-Chi’s was once one of the largest franchises in the world of Mexican Restaurants.  They are now defunct; however, other chains gaining respect and notoriety include El Chico, Pappasito’s, and of course, Taco Bell, which has revolutionized the fast food industry, Mexican style.

Mexican restaurants are not just about tacos and burritos.  Each establishment offers a savory array of mouthwatering dishes sure to quench any appetite whether you stick with the old favorites or experiment with something new.  Either way, your experience at any of the country’s many Mexican restaurants is sure to be great.