Ninfa's on Navigation
Ninfa's on Navigation is where the fajita was born. In 1973, Mama Ninfa Rodriguez Laurenzo opened a small Mexican restaurant on Navigation Boulevard in Houston's East End, and when she started grilling skirt steak strips and serving them on sizzling platters with hand-made tortillas, she ignited a culinary revolution that swept the nation.
More than 50 years later, the original Ninfa's location remains one of the most beloved restaurants in Houston. The hand-made flour tortillas — pressed and cooked to order — are worth the trip alone. Pair them with the famous green salsa (a closely guarded recipe of avocado, tomatillo, and serrano peppers) and the original beef fajitas for the quintessential Houston Tex-Mex experience.
The restaurant's East End location is part of its charm — the neighborhood has been a hub of Mexican-American culture in Houston for over a century, with colorful murals, panaderías, and the vibrant energy of a living community.
Beyond fajitas, don't miss the queso flameado (melted cheese with chorizo), the enchiladas verdes, and the tacos al carbon. The margaritas are strong and well-made.
Visitor Tips: Expect a wait, especially on weekends — put your name in and explore the neighborhood. The green salsa is available for purchase. Come hungry and order the fajitas for two. Cash and cards accepted.
