I'd opt for Guadalajara's over Escalante's; I don't think the Cyclone Anaya's in Memorial City Centre is open, yet, but maybe it just did.
La Fiesta on Gaylord, just south of I-10 between Bunker Hill and Echo Lane, was just relocated/updated--real close to Memorial High School. Their cheese enchildas were legendary at the old place--allegedly. They were good enough, though. It's a little less systematic with its menu and service, closer to what you're likely to remember Tex-Mex joints were like before the Pappasito's approach took over--"My name is Bilko, and I'll be doing everything in my power to persuade you to add a $4 topping to your fish, your chicken, your goat steak, your nachos and/or even your queso."
There's a new Lupe Tortilla's in the Kroger Shopping Center just west of Echo Lane (eastbound side of I-10). Most folks have a love/hate with that place, but there's no denying its following. It's the only one without a giant sandbox for the kids.
Lot of folks like Cazadores on Kingsride, just west of Gessner and Memorial City Mall. I say caveat emptor on that one; it's a non-descript place but the simple stuff is pretty reliable there. Pretty good bar-b-q place across the street--Papa Joe's.
If you're actually in the mall for any reason and have to eat, Berryhill's is a better option than anything else in there. Maybe you'll spot a Phoebe Cates clone or even a Jennifer Jason Leigh.
The best Mexican joints in that area tend to be on the north side of I-10, along Gessner. However, that may be getting too far from your working base.
Pretty reliable Italian place in T&C Village, a Mandola offering called Pronto Cucino. It's just like it sounds; quick-order Italian like La Madedleine and Cafe Express.
