T. Blanco's Mexican Cantina

April 02, 2017

T. Blanco's Mexican Cantina

T. Blanco's Mexican Cantina recently opened in Addison, in the large space that formerly housed Buttons and Sambuca. The large space translates well to the upscale Mexican concept, and the food and drinks are both of the caliber that make up sure this one's going to stay around awhile. Owned by father and sons Thomas White (get it – T. Blanco's?) and Mason and Hunter White, T. Blanco's is actually a Dallas import from East Texas (Lakeport, near Longview, if you're asking) where they've had great success since opening in 2010.

Upon our arrival to the media dinner, we were welcomed with the El Jefe (pictured above), with the warning that it's stronger than it tastes. The pretty little drink looks harmless enough, but indeed packs a punch, and is definitely one of the easiest-sipping cocktails we've tried this year. That would prove to be the theme of the evening at T. Blanco's, as Bar Manager Ruben Chavez clearly has a gift for mixology.

One of their biggest hits in their East Texas restaurant is the Frozen Crown and Coke, which tastes just like a fresh Icee on a warm summer day.

In the kitchen at T. Blanco's you'll find the talented Chef Jimmy Villarreal cooking up much more than just your average Tex-Mex. He has several standout dishes, and his scratch made sauces and dressings make his brand of "grown up" Tex-Mex that is as delicious as it is approachable.

You can't go wrong by starting with chips and salsa, jalapeño cream dip, and queso. If you're looking for something more, I absolutely recommend the Seafood Stuffed Jalapeños, which come stuffed with shrimp, crabmeat, crawfish, and cream cheese. Then they wrap them in Applewood Smoke Bacon and serve with Apple Jicama Slaw. See? Mexican food; elevated.

Moving along through the menu, you'll find a Chicken Tortilla Soup, two types of Chicken Salad, and a variety of salads (6 to be exact). Shown below is the Margarita Chicken Salad. The Margarita Vinaigrette on this alone is worth a taste. (Hint: T. Blanco's, please bottle and sell your dressings and sauces.)

Photo by Thomas White

Time to get serious here and talk about entrees. The menu features some classics with creative twists and other unexpected surprises your taste buds will marvel at. These Pulled Pork Tamales are great for traditionalists, along with their build-your-own tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and quesadillas

Food-loving adventurers MUST try the Fried Stuffed Avocado and the Steak & Avocado Shrimp (that tender steak is topped with avocado butter that is one of the best sauces I've eaten in ages).

Photo by Thomas White

They also have a Mexican take on Fried Rice and a Grilled Redfish Pomegranate. I can't wait to return and try more. The menu is large and filled with choices and chances for customization at every turn.

T. Blanco's also makes sure you can end on a sweet note with Churros, Sopapilla Cheesecake, Bourbon Apple Pie, and Tres Leches Cake.

T. Blanco's is located at

15207 Addison Road

Addison, TX 75001