Is Tex-Mex Welcome In Midland-Odessa? Residents Weigh In

If you live in West Texas, especially Midland-Odessa, then you've probably heard that locals have a disdain for Tex-Mex food.  I hail from San Antonio, a place where Tex-Mex is not only prevalent but something the people of South and Central Texas take pride in.  Here in Midland-Odessa, the love and pride for Tex-Mex is pretty much non-existent.

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"We Don't Do Tex-Mex Around Here"

I have literally heard the phrase "we don't do Tex-Mex around here" multiple times since moving here back in January.  So what is it about Tex-Mex that the people of West Texas dislike so much?

Why It Matters To West Texas

I've come to the conclusion that West Texans likely dislike Tex-Mex because they feel it is an "Americanized" version of Mexican food.  People in West Texas prefer more traditional Mexican dishes or food that they feel their abuelita would make.  I feel this is an unfair stereotype of Tex-Mex.  Tex-Mex was created by Mexican American TEXANS who infused Mexican food with Texas ingredients.  Nothing more, nothing less.  Is that really so bad?

 West Texas Will Not Budge

I've had this argument with multiple people who were born and raised in Midland-Odessa, and no matter my argument, no matter the statistics, no matter what I say, I cannot convince locals otherwise that Tex-Mex isn't all bad.  So while I am judging them, they are most certainly judging me in return.

A Compromise?

I have struggled with finding food I actually like in this city.  I am considering having some of my family back home ship me some of my favorite Tex-Mex dishes so I can get some of the locals to try.  However, I fear if I do, they still won't understand how good it can be.  It appears the simple mention of Tex-Mex will turn locals in the region off instantly.

This is a battle I cannot seem to win while living in the Permian Basin. If you were offered FREE, delicious Tex-Mex to try, would you?