Unlike its seafood restaurants, most of Corpus Christi’s Mexican spots are not on the waterfront. Regardless, several are worth the inland drive, particularly La Playa (5017 Saratoga Blvd. and 7118 South Padre Island Dr., 361/986-0089, $5–15). This is the place to go for a top-notch traditional Tex-Mex meal. Feast on chicken enchiladas in a tangy tomatillo sauce or savor the sizzling beef fajitas. You won’t regret ordering the stuffed fried avocados, either. This being a seaside town, you can also order Tex-Mex style dishes featuring fresh fish and Gulf shrimp.

Another commendable spot offering some coastal flair to the Tex-Mex offerings is La Costenita (4217 Leopard St., 361/882-5340, $6–14, closed Sun.). This downtown eatery is small in size yet huge on taste, particularly the shrimp dishes and traditional enchilada and taco plates. Try not to fill up too quickly on the amazing chips and perfectly spicy homemade salsa.

Locals flock to Kiko’s (5514 Everhart Rd., 361/991-1211, $5–13) for the enchiladas. Cheese enchiladas with zesty ranchero sauce are the specialty here, but you can’t go wrong with most menu items, including the green chile burrito, guacamole salad, and tortilla soup. Better yet, sample all types of goodness the restaurant has to offer with the Kiko’s platter, offering a signature cheese enchilada, beef fajita tacos, and a crispy chalupa.

Also drawing Corpus crowds is Solis Mexican Restaurant (3122 Baldwin Blvd. and 5409 Leopard St., 361/882-5557, $5–12). This classic taqueria is known for its tasty tacos and enchiladas, all prepared with fresh homemade tortillas. Locals love their stuffed breakfast tacos (served all day) and liquados (fruity Mexican drinks).

Standard Tex-Mex is also the main draw at Rosita’s (5253 S. Staples St., 361/906-1007, $5–13), where you’ll find massive plates of flavorful favorites such as beef enchiladas, chicken tacos, and cheesy quesadillas.