Mexican restaurants typically serve a variety of dishes inspired by Mexican cuisine. These may include popular items such as tacos, enchiladas, burritos, quesadillas, tamales, chiles rellenos, and more. Mexican cuisine often incorporates ingredients like corn, beans, rice, various meats (such as beef, chicken, pork, and seafood), as well as a variety of spices and herbs.

Tex-Mex cuisine, on the other hand, is a fusion of Mexican and Texan culinary influences. It emerged in Texas and combines traditional Mexican flavors with ingredients and cooking techniques from the American Southwest. Tex-Mex dishes may include items like chili con carne, fajitas, nachos, Tex-Mex-style tacos, and Mexican-inspired dishes with a Texas twist.