The family behind the suburban staple Manny’s Tex-Mex is taking a detour from the standard baskets of chips and yellow cheese. At CityLine in Richardson, they’ve unveiled Manny’s Mexican Kitchen, an elevated concept that intentionally leaves the “Tex” behind to focus on the traditional, soulful flavors of interior Mexico.
Located at 1250 State St., the new 5,115-square-foot restaurant trades predictable combo plates for a “More Mex, Less Tex” philosophy, aiming to bridge the gap between casual neighborhood dining and refined regional cuisine.
What To Expect
While the original Manny’s established itself in 2005 with classic border-style favorites, this new kitchen focuses on the roots of the family’s recipes. The menu highlights slow-braised meats and regional specialties that prioritize bold, complex spices over standard Tex-Mex staples.
Standout traditional dishes include:
- Slow-Braised Specialties: Tender pasilla short rib and the chamorro en adobo (braised pork shank).
- Authentic Staples: Michoacan-style carnitas and house-made quesabirria tacos.
- Soulful Sides: Pork belly en salsa verde and crunchy chicharron norteño.
“With this new concept opening at CityLine, we want to showcase our roots with more traditional recipes from Mexico and reintroduce the vibrant atmosphere of the first Manny’s,” said Nicole Hernandez, office administrator at Manny’s Mexican Kitchen. “It’s about honoring where we started while inviting a new generation to experience the flavors and energy that made us who we are.”
Crafting The Cazuela Experience
The beverage program at Manny’s Mexican Kitchen is designed to be as much of a conversation piece as the food. The bar menu features creative, high-end spins on traditional spirits, focusing on fresh ingredients and unique presentations…