San Antonio: Land of the deep-fried taco

By at least one measure, San Antonio is the world capital of Tex-Mex cuisine, said the editors of Saveur.com. Consider the “puffy taco,” the Texas city’s “pride and joy.” Not content to use a skillet to warm its tortillas, San Antonio instead plumps them up by dropping them in a deep fryer, then piles them high with “American-size quantities” of chicken, lettuce, cheddar, and anything else your heart might desire. Puffy tacos aren’t served everywhere in San Antonio, but the “classic” spots below can all be counted on for “big-hearted” Tex-Mex fare.

Mi Tierra Café y Panadería This landmark bar, restaurant, and bakery is open 24/7, seats 500, and is often enlivened by strolling mariachi musicians. Stop in for a combo plate of tacos, enchiladas, and chile con queso. 218 Produce Row, (210) 225-1262

Rolando’s Super Tacos Rolando’s tacos are billed as the biggest in town. And no wonder: Each shell is 12 inches wide. 919 W. Hildebrand Ave., (210) 732-6713

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Pete’s Tako House Extra-thick, soft flour tortillas are “another San Antonio signature,” and the ones here are as “robust as any we’ve had,” filled with everything from beef tongue (lengua) to country sausage. 1022 N. Main Ave., (210) 224-2911