If you were to ask students around campus, most would say that they have heard of Mattito’s (they may have even been), but many can’t place exactly where the restaurant is or what it looks like.

Mattito’s is a great Tex-Mex restaurant built on family recipes more than 50 years old and has been delighting Dallas residents and visitors for almost 20 years. It is located on McKinney Avenue and has very bright neon lights separating it from surrounding businesses. Make sure, though, to get great directions before you go, especially if it is your first time. It can be a little tricky.

Whether it is in a large party just grabbing a margarita or their famous rumbarita, the traditional and festive atmosphere gives you a great upbeat feeling every time you visit.

There is a complimentary valet parking service, but during busier hours there is usually a wait, so it might be easier to try to find parking elsewhere on the streets around the restaurant. Not only may there be a wait for valet, there can sometimes be a wait for a table, so call ahead if in doubt and make a reservation.

There are many rooms in the restaurant with great colors, Southwestern and Mexican architecture, and a unique flair to them. The main entrance has Mexican tiles and a cozy waiting area with a fireplace. There’s a bar with televisions where you first walk in, so if you want to grab a drink and watch a sporting event they usually play the major games. To your left and right are large rooms with tables and more intimate rooms for large parties. They have a great outdoor patio for nice afternoons or cool evenings.

We dined for a late dinner, but if you get there early you can catch great happy hour specials. We started with their traditional margaritas and complimentary chips and salsa. The best dish, even though it is not on the menu, is the famous Bob Armstrong dip. It’s queso with meat, sour cream and guacamole that you mix together for an unforgettable appetizer. It is definitely worth the whole trip itself.

We then ordered our main dishes, the award-winning beef and chicken combo fajitas and chicken tortilla soup. The fajitas are a traditional dish and enough food for two. It comes with a side of guacamole, sour cream, lettuce and fresh hot tortillas. The tortilla soup, for those who want a lighter meal, is filling but not quite as heavy.

There is an unbelievable all-you-can-eat Sunday buffet that includes an omelet station, breakfast potatoes, enchiladas, chiles rellenos, breakfast quesadillas, beef & chicken fajitas, taco bar, tamales and fresh fruit. It allows you to try things that you would not usually order and sample all of the great recipes and flavors. The service was very friendly and we could hear conversations from SMU alumni recognizing each other from table to table.

It is a fun and inviting atmosphere for a great casual meal with friends or family. The critics have given great praise to Mattito’s, including many awards such as: “Top Ten Tequila Bars in the United States,” “Dallas’ Best Sunday Brunch,” Dallas’ Best Tex-Mex” and several people’s choice awards.

Do not wait to dine at this family restaurant with a very nice wait staff that serves you in a unique and festive atmosphere.

Mattito’s is a place everyone should try at least once – and we’re sure you’ll be back.