Manny’s Tex-Mex off Lemmon Avenue, provides SMU students with fairly priced meals and authentic Mexican decor. (John Schreiber)

If it wasn’t for a reservation mishap, my first impression of Manny’s Tex-Mex Restaurante, located off Uptown Lemmon Avenue, would have been inspiring.

The exterior mirrors many of today’s rustic, yet trendy restaurants. Some unique touches such as neon lights and traditionally Mexican elements help to make its originality believable. For the most convenient parking, a valet lot is located to Manny’s immediate left, while other parking requires more of a trek to the restaurant. Once inside, the hostess immediately greeted my party and me in an area of limited space, which is likely to get uncomfortable in crowds. Despite previously making a reservation, the hostess failed to confirm that we were ever put on the list. After a few moments of uneasiness, we were seated at a nearby booth.

Trying to forgive the insulting error, I glanced around the seating area in hopes of finding something breathtaking to look at. Although a bit tight, the décor complements the restaurant’s theme and allows you to excuse the room’s misgivings. More seating is provided in an outdoor area graced by a majestic central fountain and an interesting painted mural on a side fence. The nearby bathrooms are both clean and comfortable. In the winter this area is fitted with a cover and heaters to provide comfort for customers.

Two distinctive bars exist in Manny’s, and both attract a different crowd. The bar serving the main dining area is easily accessible to the patrons and those who are waiting to be seated. For a more authentic Mexican feel, the bar in between the indoor and outdoor seating draws a younger crowd, creating a more fun environment that SMU students would surely enjoy.

Sentimental touches are also apparent at Manny’s. Because of a wall that is dedicated to the family’s history in the U.S. Army, spanning two generations, the culture is as alive as the food. Although the display was unapologetically patriotic, I found it to be both honest and legitimate.

Back at the table, we glanced at the menu for the first time while snacking on originally flavored chips and salsa. The decision was hard because of a wide variety and extensive range of affordable choices. The average entrée runs around ten dollars, not including drinks and appetizers. The poor organization of the menu contributes to a longer decision time. A fitting dessert list is obtainable upon special request to the waiter. Our order consisted of chicken fajitas, the famous brisket tacos and the 50-50 sunset fajita platter.

While waiting, owner Manny Rios stopped by to give us the history of his restaurant. A passion for food and people was apparent when he proudly told us that the Uptown location is his first of three. The building itself was moved from a neighboring residential area where the homes date back to the 1800s. Manny Rios’ history with the area is solid too. Manny would frequently visit the spot because his then girlfriend, future wife, lived next door to the restaurant’s current position.

When furnishing the building, Manny turned to his friends and relatives all over the world for help. Some of the decorations come from Turkey, Britain and Mexico. It is clear that the owner’s ties to not only the restaurant, but also the entire setting, are permanent.

The meal was presented to us timely and beautifully. The food stunned us all. The flavors blended seamlessly to create an original and new taste of Tex-Mex cuisine. It was evident that the chefs used only the best and freshest ingredients. My party and I were extremely satisfied with our meals, concluding that the brisket tacos are something everyone must try.

Fortunately, Manny’s incredible dishes made us forget the impersonal and clumsy actions of the waiter, the lost reservation and the inconvenient parking. Leaving Manny’s, we had inarguably experienced a fine meal. Despite a few shortcomings, I recommend Manny’s to any Mustang looking for original and quality Tex-Mex.