This story is part of our Best Things in Texas package, which appeared in the December 2025 issue.

As I spend the last three months of the year recovering from a broken ankle and foot, I’m reflecting on the fact that 2025 has been one of the best years for Mexican, Tex-Mex, and New Tejano food. I had trouble whittling down my annual list of best bites. Here you’ll find de todo un poco —a little of everything—including some vegetarian-friendly items.

Pork Belly Taco With Corn and Queso Fresco at Jiménez y Friends

Lubbock

Co-owner Mark Jiménez says this order is his go-to bite at his West Texas taco and barbecue joint . It delivers plenty of smoke, tinges of sweetness, and a salty punch of cheese.

Pan de Elote at Molino Olōyō

Dallas

The soft, buttery pan de elote at this accla

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