Joe T Garcia's Mexican Rstrnt   

Locals love this place; tourists are lucky to discover it. Originally a tiny, 16-seat restaurant founded nearly 70 years ago in a green and white clapboard house, Joe T.'s now seats more than 1,000 -- some in the original structure and many more on covered patios, or in the fiesta gardens, which make up a full city block of lush flora and fountains. The patios and gardens are hidden from street view by massive stone walls, and strolling mariachis lend an authentic atmosphere to a location that's within walking distance of the Stockyards. Guests come from miles around to savor the famous fajitas and enchiladas (the only dinner offerings) served with warm, handmade tortillas, so be prepared for a line that can wrap around the block on weekend nights. For those who hate to wait, Joe T's less crowded breakfast and lunch also features a broader range of Tex-Mex creations. -- Allison Hatfield