Desperados: Dallas’s Historic Family‑Run Tex‑Mex Icon on the Margarita Mile
Desperados is a Dallas classic steeped in history and family tradition. In 1976 the Levy family opened the now‑historic Greenville Avenue location. Today the restaurant remains in family hands and honors its grandmother’s recipes while constantly innovating to serve some of the city’s best Tex‑Mex.
As a landmark on the Margarita Mile, Desperados is a must‑visit. I spoke with Jorge and Jake Levy—the father‑son duo behind the Greenville Avenue spot:
Who from the family is involved in Desperados?
It truly is all in the family. My father Jorge started the business with other partners, and now my brother Michael manages our Campbell Road location while I, Jake, manage the Greenville Avenue location.
How did the restaurant get started?
My father wasn’t originally looking to enter the restaurant business, but the opportunity came to him like a perfect fit. While managing another Mexican eatery on Greenville Avenue, Jorge was approached by two customers who wanted to partner with him just down the street— and the rest is history.
Looking back over the years, what makes you most proud about Desperados?
Family is the cornerstone. Working side‑by‑side, sharing both triumphs and challenges, is a privilege. Some of our staff have been with us for more than 40 years, while others have grown with the restaurant for 10 or 20. They become family, and so do our guests. We know their stories, share our own, and celebrate that sense of community.
When you’re not at the restaurant, what do you like to do in Dallas?
We love food. Favorites include Campisi’s, Terilli’s, Sevy’s, and Celebration—Jorge’s personal favorite. In the fall we head to the State Fair of Texas, where we’ve sold food for 13 years. We’re avid sports fans and enjoy watching the Cowboys, Mavericks, Rangers, and Stars, especially since we’ve catered for them. A quiet day by White Rock Lake is a perfect unwind.
If someone is visiting Desperados for the first time, what should they order?
Start with the La Margarita—our five‑time Best Margarita in Dallas award winner and the talk of the Margarita Mile. Pair it with our guacamole, a staple from Mama’s original recipes. For dinner, the Desperados Tacos are a perennial favorite, and my father recommends the Chile Relleno for its nostalgic flavor. On our 35th anniversary we introduced El Treintaycinco, a tasting platter featuring the Desperados Taco, Steak Argentina, and Camarones Acapulco. Finish with homemade Sopapillas for a sweet note.
After 43 years, what are some memorable stories you cherish?
There are countless moments, but a few stand out: catering for the Dallas Mavericks right after their championship parade, taking Desperados Tacos to the Coconut Grove Arts Festival in Florida, hosting the VIP Super Bowl XLV party, winning the Deep Fried Food Contest at the State Fair of Texas—leading to a Tonight Show appearance—and even welcoming Mick Jagger for dinner.
What is one thing you want everyone to know about Desperados?
We’re not just another Mexican restaurant. We blend tradition—honoring my grandmother’s recipes—with bold innovation. Jorge constantly pushes culinary boundaries, ensuring every dish is both authentic and exciting.
