Despite it being the July "4th" event in Downtown Garland, with what looked to be well over 5,000 people, Dos Banderas served up some really delicious food. There was a 45-minute wait, due to how many people were crammed into downtown, trying to find places to eat. I had wanted to come here for a while, and suggested coming here to my girlfriend, who admittedly, "doesn't like Tex-Mex" (I know, I know), and after encouraging her to give it a try, we were pleasantly treated to some very high quality food in a nice environment. Despite being woefully understaffed, to the point that they were out of bowls for the salsa and started serving it in to-go containers, the staff was friendly and helpful, with the manager still making the rounds to introduce himself and check on people's experiences. I really liked the chips & salsa, and so did my girlfriend who is very spice sensitive. We had the, "Julio's Tilapia", which was, "Pan-seared tilapia topped with fresh sautéed baby spinach and jumbo grilled shrimp, finished with a silky spicy chipotle cream sauce. Served with rice and a crisp side salad." and the "GUIS-Ohhhhhh!", which was, "Traditional Mexican beef stew. Served with avocado slices, tomatoes, lettuce, & tortillas". The food was delicious, and I really thought the jumbo shrimp was great, and the Guisoooo (carne guisada) was deeply flavored, and very rich in a way I haven't had before. My girlfriend made sure to flag down the manager to point out what an exceptional meal she thought it was, and mentioned several times how blown away she was, and I quote her as saying, "I was expecting one thing, but I did not expect a foodie experience!". [[HIGHLIGHT]]We sat at the bar area, which while not large, has taller tables which is helpful for me.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The restaurant handled the huge volume of people well, and the food quality was great. I will return whenever an opportunity presents itself read more

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Today was my first time at Dos Banderas. It's located in a lovely renovated building in downtown Garland. The chips and salsa were absolutely on point so great start. We also ordered a cup of Queso Blanco - they say it was blanco but it didn't look white to me. ‍ I ordered it the appetizer Brochette Shrimp for my entree and this is where the magic happened - this dish was amazing. Veggies well caramelized, bacon crispy - these shrimp were perfection! I will dream of these shrimp and will absolutely return to have them again. read more

Dos Banderas - Brochette Shrimp - so good!! - Tex-Mex Near Me - Garland, Texas

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]I really like places in old buildings, the ambiance is very appealing to me. I felt it just walking in the door[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. It took them a few minutes to realize we were there, but I did not mind, it gave me some time to snap a few photos! Once we got sat the manager came by our table and apologized it took them a bit to get to us, which I thought was a very nice touch. Throughout our meal he checked in regularly, as he did with other tables as well. Our server, Mackenzie was great. She really did a nice job. I ordered the Bandera Sampler. It was a LOT of food. But it was just ok. I wanted to like it more, but really all I can say about it is the only thing I would order again off of it were the quesadillas. I feel bad giving them only three stars because the ambiance and service were great, but I just can't rate them any higher when the food was so average. read more

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]I am always a fan of old buildings turned into restaurants - and Dos Banderas is just that. Its spacious and inviting interior makes the whole experience enjoyable.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The manger checked with us several times and it was obvious service is important to him and it showed. He was very nice and made sure we received our drinks and chips quickly. The food is good. I got two enchiladas (sour cream enchiladas and cheese) and both were very tasty. I would come back to eat here again. read more

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It was Tuesday and I was traveling through downtown Garland. I decided to stop in Dos Banderas and make it a taco Tuesday. Boy was I glad I did. I ordered tacos with beans and rice. The tacos were great! The shells were lite and crispy and the favor was wonderful. The beans and rice were special as well. They were light and fluffy instead of dense and sticky like so many other restaurants. Salsa can make or break a meal and I was not disappointed. I highly recommend Dos Banderas and will be heading back very soon!! read more

After driving past this classic Tex-Mex spot in downtown Garland (Dos Banderas) for many years, we finally decided to stop in for lunch--and it was well worth the wait. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The restaurant has clearly been recently renovated, with fresh modern colors and a contemporary vibe that feels bright and inviting.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]We chose seats at the bar, which is nicely separated from the main dining area. The atmosphere there was quiet, relaxed, and perfect for enjoying a drink.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We started with a frozen margarita (excellent), and I ordered the sour cream chicken enchiladas--one of the best I've had in a long time. The standard Tex-Mex plate was solid and enjoyable, though not quite as memorable; I'd still order it again without hesitation. The drinks really stood out: both the frozen and on-the-rocks margaritas were outstanding, and the Ranch Water (tequila and soda) at just $5.50 was an absolute steal. If you're in the area and craving quality Tex-Mex in a refreshed, comfortable setting, I highly recommend Dos Banderas. We'll definitely be back. read more

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]Very nice dinner in busy Downtown Garland.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Host Cara was very friendly...a nice start to our dinner.Our server Sam was extremely efficient and took very good care of us. Food was delivered quickly ad was delicious. I loved that everything was included with the chicken fajitas....no extra charge for guacamole, cheese, rice and beans. ONLY reason I did not give 5 stars? [[HIGHLIGHT]]On a busy Saturday night, the noise level was VERY high...ceilings are very high and I think that contributes to it.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Worth checking it out! read more

This place has consistently gone above and beyond for quality, service & taste. We have been several times and each time the service has been hospitable and quick without feeling overwhelming. The food is top notch; if it's classic Mexican their mole is SO good. If you want a classic Tex-Mex offering, the quality remains the same across the board. Their cocktails are balanced and delicious. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The ambiance is casual and welcoming; nice without being uptight.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I cannot recommend this place enough; it is a monthly rotation in the bustling downtown Garland district, and should be a place to stop in PS: I do not use Yelp regularly (I'm a Google review expert) and DO NOT use this paltry Yelp score to decide because this is a must stop for locals and visitors alike. This place is GOOD and I am a local pro. read more

In downtown Garland, where brick storefronts and quiet sidewalks carry the rhythm of a town rediscovering itself, Dos Banderas feels less like a restaurant you plan to visit and more like one you're fortunate enough to find. I stumbled in by chance and quickly realized this is the kind of place that rewards curiosity. Dos Banderas describes itself as a Texas-forward Mexican restaurant, and the phrase is more than marketing. It reflects a confident kitchen that understands where it lives. The flavors lean into the shared culinary border between Texas and Mexico--bold but balanced, familiar yet thoughtful. The evening began with what many restaurants treat as an afterthought: chips and salsa. Here, they arrive warm and crisp, the kind that shatter just slightly between your fingers before meeting a salsa that carries brightness, heat, and a whisper of smoke. Alongside it sits a trio that sets the tone for the meal--fresh guacamole and silky queso blanco--simple dishes executed with precision and generosity. Nothing is fussy, yet everything feels intentional. The bar program deserves special mention. In a restaurant landscape increasingly crowded with predictable margaritas, Dos Banderas offers a top-shelf cocktail menu that is both polished and playful. Spirits are treated with respect, citrus is fresh, and the balance of sweet, acid, and alcohol shows a bar team that understands its craft. [[HIGHLIGHT]]But Dos Banderas' real magic isn't just on the plate or in the glass--it's in the room itself.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Owners Matt and Amber move through the restaurant not as distant proprietors but as true hosts. Their warmth sets the tone for the entire space. Hospitality here feels genuine and unforced, the kind that makes first-time guests feel like regulars and regulars feel like family. The waitstaff mirrors that energy perfectly--attentive without hovering, efficient yet lively. Service carries the rhythm of a well-run dining room where people clearly enjoy being there. [[HIGHLIGHT]]On the night of my visit, an acoustic set drifted through the bar area, adding a layer of easy Texas charm to the evening. The music never competed with conversation; it simply filled the room with the kind of atmosphere that encourages one more cocktail and a little more time at the table.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Restaurants like Dos Banderas remind you that great dining experiences don't always live in the biggest cities or behind the loudest hype. Sometimes they live in the places you discover by accident. If you find yourself in downtown Garland, it's a must-stop. Even if you don't, it's well worth the drive. And if the menu is any indication, I won't be waiting long to return--Sunday brunch is calling, and the churro waffle has already caught my eye. read more

Nice lunch spot with $10.00 specials. Delicious hot chips and salsa. Good service. Enchiladas are good and so is the tea. read more

Dos Banderas - Tamales and beef enchiladas - Tex-Mex Near Me - Garland, Texas

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The only way to get anything combo is to purchase 'their' combo for $19!! Then if you don't want beans and rice, they up charge any side. Good God, Desperados you can get a 3 combo of your choice for $13.95 and can have charro, salad or calabasitas for no up charge. Priced out and not good food. read more

Talapia and shrimp is outstanding. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Great service, friendly atmosphere.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Food came out hot & fresh. The owners stopped by the table and made sure all was to our liking. I highly recommend Dos Banderas for Tex-Mex cuisine! read more

Always a great experience at Dos Banderas, I've been coming for years and they never skip a beat! Megan's service is always great and she's a wonderful bartender. My friend and I strolled in, the hostess was very kind and there was little to no wait for a seat in the bar area. I ordered a Mango Frozen Margarita for my drink and went with the Chicken Flautas for dinner; clean plate provided as proof. A perfect combination. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It wasn't crazy busy for a Friday night.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The music was just the right volume and my friend and I were able to enjoy our conversations.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

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Amy was awesome and so did the food. Please come by and give dos banderas a shot. The food is so good and so it is the drinks!! Also the staff is amazing!! Please ask for Megan she is the bomb!!! Thank you for the amazing service as we will be back read more

Dos Banderas - Shrimp and grits - Tex-Mex Near Me - Garland, Texas

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Everything about this place is fantastic! From the drinks to the food to the service. We've come here multiple times and had so many items on the menu that just hit it out of the park! Greg behind the bar is such a lovely person and so enjoyable to discuss different drink options. The house tequila is fantastic! I highly recommend coming here as you will for sure have a good time! read more

Dos Banderas - Fantastic Bandera Salad - Tex-Mex Near Me - Garland, Texas

I cannot say enough great things about Dos Banderas!!! [[HIGHLIGHT]]This place is so fun with different dining room options.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The restaurant has so many options to choose from and none of them are a miss. [[HIGHLIGHT]]My husband and I love coming here for some yummy food and a great atmosphere.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The staff and the owners are welcoming and make us feel like family. I highly recommend this place for date night, an easy weekend brunch, or a casual dinner out!! read more

Dos Banderas - Fried Pickles Egg Rolls - Tex-Mex Near Me - Garland, Texas

Great experience. And amazing food. Definitely recommend the black beans! I love their interpretation of the chicken fried steak! Friendly even with a large group of people last minute! read more

Started with the loaded queso (minus the beans) and it was pretty good. Chips were okay. Salsa was okay. I got the shrimp brochette and I was happy. They're deep fried - so the bacon was super crispy. But good. A got the chicken and mushrooms - as did C - and they both thought it was good. Chicken was not as moist as el Chico, but it wasn't super dry so it was still good. Refried beans were unremarkable. Rice was good. Tequila lime chicken with veggies only for D - same thing with the chicken but he liked the veggies. And finished his whole plate. He did say the veggies had a slightly sweet flavor. B had tortilla soup - which was FULL of chicken. Like, super full of stuff and not a ton of broth. But the flavor was good. She wanted the caldo - which is on the menu - but that's only available during the winter. Not sure why they didn't put that on the menu. CF had a brisket chimichanga topped with white queso. His favorite is from Manny's (which he gives a 10) but this one was 6-7 in rating. He thought it was a little more like roast and not brisket. The old fashion drinks were cool - they do a smoke thingy that was neat. Everyone was extremely friendly. Our waitress was a delight - I didn't catch her name. Bartender served the drinks and she entertaining. Manager or owner came by to check on us and he was also super nice. It's a little far for us....but I'm glad we tried it. read more

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Lunch with the kids and grands...party of 7...but we were seated quickly, even before the entire party had arrived, and they don't have to move tables together for large parties, they have round tables for 7 which makes it easier for conversations. [[HIGHLIGHT]]They also have a trivia app which we all enjoyed (including the 7 yo grand).[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Their quesadillas or so crispy and cheesy. Their chips are always fresh and crispy and the salsa has a good kick but isn't too spicy even for me. We ordered the loaded queso made with white queso and hamburger meat. It wasn't exceptional, but it was cheesy good. We have always received good service here and although we didn't take advantage today, they have a full service bar. It is on the pricy side for what it is. I know prices are up everywhere but... read more

Dos Banderas - -Brisket Quesadilla - Tex-Mex Near Me - Garland, Texas

The owners are wonderful and very involved making sure the foid and service are both great! I like the varied menu choices!

We just wandered by and decided to give a try. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The service was impeccable (thanks Hannah) and it was a fun atmosphere.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] But the food was amazing. Their version of the chicken fried steak while different was heavenly. I got to try the queso's and the blanco was my favorite and the elotes really hit the spot. If you are in the area you should try it out. read more

We took our family who's visiting from out of town, we live in Rowlett but like to visit downtown Garland because of all they have done with it! We decided to eat at Dos Banderas and from the moment we walked in we were treated great, then our server Hannah was so attentive and friendly. The chips were warm, the salsa was incredible it's a 21 year old recipe! The owners were so extremely friendly and accommodating. Our family had the carne guisada which the owner recommended and I see why! It was so tender and delicious. I had the salad and the cilantro vinaigrette dressing (homemade) was extremely tasty! Overall our experience was great and we look forward to returning often!!! read more

Dos Banderas has withstood the test of time! This restaurant has been part of downtown Garland's landscape for years, with good reason. Great food, great service and great prices. read more

Excellent menu. The house margarita was spot on!! The explosion of flavors in Amy esquites was amazing! Would definitely recommend. I had the Tex Mex chicken fry. Would recommend. My husband had the BBQ brisket Sammie and onion rings. Yummy! And the onion rings were the best around! Highly recommend this restaurant read more

Good & fast service with good vibes! Downside? The menus are out of date so there are items still listed that are no longer available. Salsa was really good! Carne asada was a bit too greasy for me, but the chips & brisket queso and the frozen margarita definitely saved the night! I'd be back for the margs alone! read more

Came here on a Saturday afternoon for lunch. Food was pretty good and came out pretty quick. Our waiter unfortunately got just about everything backwards and mixed up, down to the tickets when it came time to pay. Other than that tainting the experience, we had a good time and I would go back. Pro tip-sit at a round table for a fun experience! read more

Dos Banderas - Chicken Flautas - Tex-Mex Near Me - Garland, Texas

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I've always loved Dos Banderas. Have eaten there weekly for years, sometimes twice a week with my work crowd. But their food is just way overpriced and has continually declined in quality and quantity while continuing to go up in price. The food used to be great! I will miss them, but they were already expensive and after their latest price increase, we are probably going elsewhere. There are other fantastic Mexican food options in the same area. read more

I was pleasantly surprised with Dos Banderas. The food was great and service was very friendly. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Great place to get drinks or eat with a large party as they are very accommodating[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]! read more

Dos Banderas - 6 Piece Wings - Tex-Mex Near Me - Garland, Texas

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Came before a show. Service was excellent, all our food was fantastic and we were checked on by all sorts of different people including the chef. read more

Margarita came out fast and was very good. I hate when they you the Margarita is good and it comes out bitter- this was not that. Very smooth tequila and did not burn. Came in a Saturday and it was not crowded but service was a little sliwit seemed to take longer to get my food order taken. I ordered beef enchiladas, beans, and rice. While not horrible- it was certainly less than what I was expecting. The tortillas tasted as if they had not book heated long enough and the rice lacked the usual flavoring I'm accustomed to. read more

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I've been going here since Matt bought the restaurant. Little by little, it has been declining. We make excuses, but today was my last time. It was bad. Like just bad. I even got it to go and I had to throw some of it out. They gave me a chicken poblano instead of the chillie relleno with chicken. The former has mushrooms, which I'm allergic to, so no. And the other dishes were sad and not worth half of what we paid. It used to be so good and now it's not even good. The bartender was great. But clearly forgot what I ordered. So I guess not. Good luck to yall. It was bad. read more

The service is great. I like the people. The food, ehhh. Its not good quality. The cheaper Tex-mex places are better. Its like all their food is fast food quality. I'm running out of desire to return. I've been 3 times and each time its worse. They're too corporate. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Good location and service, the food just sucks.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Ever since the restaurant was sold by original owners the food quality has slowly been getting worse. Was there about two months ago. My friends and I have marked them off our list for Mexican Food. Won't be going back until the food quality makes major changes. Bonnie V. read more

Food was just okay. It's not a terrible option if you happen to be in the area. Dos Banderas have different specials throughout the week. I ordered the enchiladas. Everything could have more flavor, but overall it was still edible. My vegetarian friend got the cheese nachos and beans, but there weren't that many chips. I was most excited for the elote bites, but they were rather disappointing. The place was rather crowded though, so service was slow. read more

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Stopped in with an old co-worker for a quick lunch. It had been quite awhile since either of us had been here. The menu had changed allot for ordering as we both recalled ordering by #'s on the menu. Change is good. Food was fast and of similar quality in the past. Like other I agree this is one truly affordable Tex-Mex restaurant you need to visit. read more

I recently went in for dinner on a Friday night , And was welcomed by Hannah G and she was incredibly nice and friendly she waited on me and was was outstanding. the food was great and I'll definitely be back . read more

Start by having 9 people with our server saying that dont have any clean bowls to bring out the hot sauce , then running out of chips in our baskets , too having to continue ask for drink refills to last thing my food per our server my meal got bumped off by the cook supposedly after everyone had eaten I got my and it was cold. Been there many times my family will not be back read more

I went to Dos Banderas for their Monday fajitas for one.I ate at the bar top and enjoyed some football and trivia night.The grilled fajitas were delicious.I was checked on several times by Ana the manager and it was a pleasant experience.Chips and salsa are always good.[[HIGHLIGHT]]Great atmosphere!![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

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I hate providing bad reviews but the Chicken Mole was a bust on Saturday .. I hope it was just an off day .. I will however say that the staff was welcoming and attentive. Price was adequate for the food but not tasteful.. might give it another try but just not the mole. read more

Great lil spot in downtown garland. The mango margarita was fabulous. Super strong and filled to the brim. Food was pretty good! I just wish it was a bit spicier. Overall my bf and I will be back when we are feeling super hungry. read more

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