The RGV has many taquerías, most offering the same items on the menu. Few stand out as exceptional…read more When I saw that Ana Liz Taquería won the James Beard Award, my expectations were high, and with this visit they won my admiration.
Ana Liz Taquería is located a few blocks north of Expressway 83 in Mission on the west side of Conway. Parking in the front is quite limited, but there is additional parking in the back.
I found the taquería small but bright, clean, and pleasant inside. I was welcomed as I entered by one of the several friendly employees who handed me a menu (English on one side, Spanish on the other). She informed me of the protocol: order and pay at the window, then I'd be given a number to place at my table, and my order would be brought to me.
The menu has many entrees that sounded wonderful: various kinds of tacos, tostadas, flautas, quesadillas, botanas, and other antojitos. I ordered the chile relleno taco, the alambre taco, and vampiro, all with fajita meat. I thought the chile relleno taco would be my favorite because I love any kind of chile relleno. While I did absolutely love it, I was captivated by the deliciousness of the fajita vampiro which includes melted cheese, guacamole, juicy fajita chunks, and pico de gallo... oh my! It was heavenly!
One of the things that stood out to me was that the beef was not over-cooked as most taquerías do... This was cooked to perfection, still juicy, and well seasoned.
To accompany the food, the server brought out an assortment of salsas, some fresh Mexican style cream, and some lime. I tried all the salsas except for one ( salsa macha). They were all excellent and ranged from mild to medium spiciness.
Something else worth noting is the import their corn, and make their own tortillas. The vampiro was made with blue Mexican corn.
For drinks, I ordered the limonada which they provide freshly bottled with a glass of ice. It was a perfect blend.
Some reviewers mentioned the price... yes. The prices are higher here than at most taquerías. However, considering the exceptional quality, flavor, and service, AND that they are a James Beard Award winning establishment... it is well worth it.
Ana Liz Taquería is 20 miles away from where I live, but I will definitely be back when I want some extra special Mexican tacos!