Bandito's Tex-Mex Cantina

Bandito's is pretty unassuming from the outside. Located at Snider Plaza, in between Kuby's Sausage House and Half Shells, there sits this very cozy and fun Tex-Mex restaurant that has an exceptionally long bar and TVs playing whatever game might happen to be on. The smell of Mexican beer and beef fajitas fills the air, while large families and SMU students are gathered around, providing plenty of carefree ambience. And while this place has always had a good vibe, it's also full of as much hole-in-the-wall charm as the Willie Nelson painting located near the back.As for the food, the Los Nachos Especiales have ten different options for maximal customization, and that alone has dethroned the King of Tex-Mex, Mi Cocina, in my honest opinion. However, even though nothing could replace Mambo Taxis from the aforementioned restaurant, the cervezas are served in gigantic goblets that could make any schmo feel like royalty.Overall, Bandito's has an indefinable warmth that most people look for in their neighborhood eateries, and combined with the incredible menu and accommodating hospitality, they are the all-around winner of Snider Plaza when it comes to casual dining.

I've been coming here for many years and found that the food is consistently very good. This most recent trip was a lunch with a colleague. I had the crispy tacos, which is one of my favorites at Banditos. The three tacos were huge. They were filled with well-seasoned beef. I really tasted some black pepper which I liked. The crispy shells were filled with fresh lettuce and tons of cheese. On the side came some pico, fresh (and good quality) avocado, and sour cream.I was absolutely stuffed when I finished.Service was prompt and professional. Ambience is fine. I still am a bit put off by the almost see through door for the men's restroom, but I can live with it. Overall, this is an outstanding place to get high quality Tex-Mex on Snider Plaza. I will be back for sure.

Decent Tex Mex and good location, will keep on our rotation. I typically rate my Tex Mex places by the chips and salsa, this one passes.

Staple Tex-Mex in the heart of University Park's Snider Plaza. Cozy atmosphere, large bar with lots of seating, and delicious classic margaritas. The chips and salsa are so fresh as well. Service is always quick here.

The staff was nice and the atmosphere was greatbut this was for sure the worst tex mex in Dallas Ive had. The quality of the food was just so poor.. it was essentially over priced bar food. The chips and salsa were pathetic. I ordered queso in hopes of having a better experience.. the queso was YELLOW ORANGE ?? like the kind you get with nachos or pretzels. Ive never not had white queso at a mexican restaurant. The food was edible but like i said its just crappy bar food. Everything seemed to be the cheapest option they could find and just warmed it up. I wouldnt consider this as mexican food at all, I would consider this as mexican late night bar food.

Great service and locations. Feels like cheers where everyone knows you name :) great portions sizes easy to share. Good margaritas and fun bar!

Best ribeye fajitas you'll ever eat. Great margaritas. Just a local classic. I was introduced while my daughter attended SMU. i ALWAYS eat here when I'm in Dallas!

This place is a little smaller so usually there is a wait. With it being small, it's super loud inside unless you sit at the back 3 tables past the kitchen. Their water must be tap because it taste like dirt. The chips and salsa were good but I've had better queso. I ordered the brisket tacos on flour tortilla and they were good. I'd order them again. They were less greasy on flour than corn.

Sat at the bar and had quick service. The front by the bar got packed quickly so was a bit tight. Skinny marg was okay - not sure it was fresh lime juice. Food was tasty but nothing too special, expect the classic Tex mex and you'll be fine. Large portions.

Went in for a drink at the bar while waiting for a table next door. We ended up staying for an hour or so. The drinks and atmosphere were so....I don't have the words. Just, comfortable. The music was perfect. The bartender was attentive, but not overly so. Drinks were reasonably priced. If you've never been here, I suggest you make it a priority. Two thumbs up for atmosphere.