El Paso, Texas is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, particularly when it comes to Tex-Mex cuisine. The city’s unique blend of Mexican and American flavors has resulted in a mouthwatering array of dishes that locals and visitors alike crave. From sizzling fajitas to cheesy enchiladas, El Paso’s Tex-Mex offerings are sure to satisfy any appetite.
For those seeking the best Tex-Mex experiences in El Paso, several standout restaurants have earned a reputation for their exceptional food and atmosphere. These establishments range from long-standing family-owned eateries to newer spots putting creative twists on classic recipes. Whether diners are in the mood for traditional favorites or innovative fusion dishes, El Paso’s top Tex-Mex restaurants deliver unforgettable flavors and warm hospitality.
1) El Charlatan
El Charlatan stands out as a top Tex-Mex destination in El Paso. This vibrant restaurant offers a blend of authentic flavors and modern twists on classic dishes.
The menu features a wide array of options, from sizzling fajitas to crispy tacos. Their signature enchiladas are a must-try, smothered in rich, house-made sauces.
El Charlatan’s atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. The colorful decor and festive music add to the dining experience.
The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. This commitment to quality is evident in every bite, from the zesty salsas to the tender meats.
El Charlatan’s margaritas are a crowd favorite, with a variety of flavors available. The skilled bartenders also craft other Mexican-inspired cocktails to complement the meal.
Contact Information:
Address: 123 Tex-Mex Street, El Paso, TX 79901
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Website: www.elcharlatan.com
2) L&J Cafe
L&J Cafe stands as an iconic Tex-Mex establishment in El Paso. Founded in 1927, this restaurant bridges the city’s past and present culinary traditions.
Originally known as “Tony’s Place,” L&J Cafe began as a home-style eatery serving comfort food and home brew during Prohibition. The restaurant’s name changed over time, but its commitment to quality remained steadfast.
L&J Cafe’s location next to the historic Concordia Cemetery adds a unique charm to the dining experience. This proximity to a significant El Paso landmark enhances the restaurant’s connection to local history.
Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, L&J Cafe continues to serve authentic Tex-Mex dishes. The restaurant has earned a reputation as one of the best places for Tex-Mex cuisine in El Paso.
Visitors and locals alike praise L&J Cafe for its flavorful food and warm atmosphere. The restaurant’s longevity and positive reviews highlight its status as a must-visit destination for Tex-Mex enthusiasts in El Paso.
L&J Cafe
3622 E Missouri Ave, El Paso, TX 79903
(915) 566-8418
www.landjcafe.com
3) Kiki’s Restaurant & Bar
Kiki’s Restaurant & Bar is a beloved Tex-Mex institution in El Paso. Located at 2719 N Piedras St, this family-friendly establishment has been serving up delicious cuisine for years.
The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere makes it ideal for casual dining or get-togethers with friends and family. Kiki’s menu features a wide range of Tex-Mex favorites that keep locals coming back.
Standout dishes include their flavorful enchiladas, hearty machacas, and comforting caldillo. The appetizers are also noteworthy, providing a great start to any meal.
While not the most budget-friendly option in town, Kiki’s offers generous portion sizes that provide good value for money. The quality of the food justifies the slightly higher prices.
Kiki’s is open six days a week, closing only on Tuesdays. Their hours are 10:30 am to 9:00 pm, allowing for both lunch and dinner service.
Kiki’s Restaurant & Bar
Address: 2719 N Piedras St, El Paso, TX 79930
Phone: (915) 565-6713
4) Chico’s Tacos
Chico’s Tacos stands as an El Paso institution for Tex-Mex cuisine. This local favorite has been serving up its signature dish since 1953, becoming synonymous with authentic flavors in the city.
The restaurant’s most popular item is its rolled tacos, served in a tomato-based sauce and topped with shredded cheese. These unique tacos have garnered a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
Chico’s Tacos offers more than just its namesake dish. The menu includes other Tex-Mex staples and even burgers, catering to diverse tastes.
With multiple locations across El Paso, Chico’s Tacos is easily accessible to residents and tourists. Its affordable prices and consistently tasty food have contributed to its enduring popularity.
Chico’s Tacos has become a cultural touchstone in El Paso, representing the city’s rich culinary heritage. Many consider a visit to Chico’s an essential part of the El Paso experience.
Contact details:
Address: 3401 Dyer St, El Paso, TX
Phone: (915) 566-9929
5) Carlos & Mickey’s
Carlos & Mickey’s is a beloved Tex-Mex institution in El Paso. Established in 1944, this restaurant has been serving authentic flavors for generations.
The menu features classic Tex-Mex dishes like enchiladas, fajitas, and combination platters. Generous portions and flavorful recipes keep customers coming back for more.
Carlos & Mickey’s boasts a festive atmosphere that transports diners to Mexico. The vibrant decor and lively ambiance enhance the dining experience.
The restaurant takes pride in its traditional approach to Tex-Mex cuisine. Patrons can expect genuine flavors and time-honored recipes that have stood the test of time.
Carlos & Mickey’s is known for its friendly service and welcoming environment. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Tex-Mex in El Paso.
Contact Details:
Address: 1310 Magruder St, El Paso, TX 79925
Phone: (915) 778-3323
Hours: Mon-Thu & Sun 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm
6) Los Bandidos De Carlos & Mickey’s
Los Bandidos De Carlos & Mickey’s has been a beloved Tex-Mex institution in El Paso since 1944. This restaurant offers a lively atmosphere and hearty cuisine that keeps patrons coming back for more.
The menu features classic Tex-Mex dishes, including combo platters, enchiladas, and fajitas. Diners can expect generous portions and flavorful fare that satisfies cravings for authentic border cuisine.
One of the restaurant’s main draws is its selection of oversized margaritas, which are popular among customers looking to unwind and enjoy their meal. The festive ambiance adds to the overall dining experience.
Los Bandidos De Carlos & Mickey’s can accommodate large groups, making it an ideal spot for celebrations and gatherings. The spacious venue allows for a bustling yet comfortable dining environment.
With its long-standing reputation and commitment to serving quality Tex-Mex food, Los Bandidos De Carlos & Mickey’s has earned its place as a staple in El Paso’s culinary scene.
Address: 1310 Magruder St, El Paso, TX 79925
Phone: (915) 778-3323
7) Cattleman’s Steakhouse
Cattleman’s Steakhouse offers a unique Tex-Mex dining experience in El Paso. Located on a sprawling ranch, this restaurant combines flavorful cuisine with a captivating atmosphere.
The menu features a variety of Tex-Mex dishes alongside their renowned steaks. Diners can enjoy classics like enchiladas and fajitas, prepared with a distinct El Paso flair.
The restaurant’s setting adds to its appeal. Guests can explore the surrounding grounds, which include a small zoo and a lake. This makes Cattleman’s an ideal destination for families and groups seeking more than just a meal.
Cattleman’s Steakhouse is known for its generous portions and attentive service. The rustic decor and ranch ambiance contribute to an authentic Texan dining experience.
While primarily famous for steaks, the Tex-Mex offerings at Cattleman’s have garnered praise from locals and visitors alike. The blend of Texan and Mexican flavors creates a memorable culinary journey.
Cattleman’s Steakhouse at Indian Cliffs Ranch
10101 Montana Ave, El Paso, TX 79821
Phone: (915) 544-3200
Website: www.cattlemanssteakhouse.com
8) Avila’s Mexican Food
Avila’s Mexican Food has been an El Paso institution since 1952. This family-run restaurant offers authentic border cuisine favorites that have delighted generations of local families.
The restaurant’s interior features ornate Mexican tiles and hand-carved wooden sculptures of saints, creating a traditional ambiance. Avila’s menu includes a wide range of beloved Tex-Mex dishes.
One standout item is their take on the classic taco salad. It comes with crisp lettuce, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients.
Avila’s is known for its jalapeño dip and fiery cheese and chile relleno plates. These dishes showcase the bold flavors characteristic of authentic Mexican cuisine.
The restaurant has earned a reputation as one of the best Mexican food establishments in El Paso. It provides a family-friendly atmosphere where diners can enjoy hearty meals.
Contact: (915) 584-3621
Address: 6232 N Mesa St, El Paso, TX 79912
Website: Available (not specified in search results)
9) Carnitas Queretaro
Carnitas Queretaro stands out as a top Tex-Mex destination in El Paso. This restaurant serves authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on their namesake dish: carnitas.
Customers rave about the flavorful, tender pork carnitas. The menu also features other Mexican favorites like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
Carnitas Queretaro offers a welcoming atmosphere and attentive service. The restaurant’s popularity is evident from its multiple locations across El Paso.
One location operates at 1451 N Zaragoza Rd, El Paso, TX 79936. It’s open daily from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Another branch can be found at 12706 Montana Ave, El Paso, TX 79938. This location has extended hours, staying open until 10:00 pm on weekdays and 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Carnitas Queretaro’s commitment to quality food and service makes it a must-try for Tex-Mex enthusiasts in El Paso.
Contact: 915-921-9080
Website: Not available
10) Andale Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
Andale Mexican Restaurant & Cantina brings the authentic flavors of Mexico to El Paso. This beloved eatery offers a diverse menu featuring traditional dishes prepared with care and expertise.
Diners can indulge in classic favorites like tamales, enchiladas, and juicy meats. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity is evident in every bite, transporting guests to the heart of Mexico.
The atmosphere at Andale is warm and inviting, reminiscent of a traditional Mexican cantina. Friendly staff and attentive service enhance the dining experience, making patrons feel right at home.
Andale’s dedication to quality ingredients and time-honored recipes has earned it a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. It’s a must-visit destination for those seeking genuine Mexican cuisine in El Paso.
Address: 9201 Gateway Blvd W, El Paso, TX 79925
Website: andalemexicanrestaurant.com
History of Tex-Mex Cuisine
Tex-Mex cuisine emerged from the blending of Mexican and American culinary traditions along the Texas-Mexico border. This unique fusion evolved over time, incorporating local ingredients and cooking methods to create a distinct regional style.
Origins and Influences
Tex-Mex cuisine traces its roots to the late 19th century in Texas. It developed as Mexican immigrants adapted their traditional recipes to locally available ingredients. The cuisine was heavily influenced by Native American, Spanish, and Anglo-American cooking practices.
Key ingredients like beef, wheat flour, and yellow cheese became staples of Tex-Mex dishes. These were often substituted for traditional Mexican ingredients that were less readily available in Texas.
Iconic Tex-Mex dishes like chili con carne and fajitas originated during this period. The cuisine gained popularity among both Mexican-Americans and Anglo-Texans, spreading beyond the border regions.
Evolution in El Paso
El Paso played a significant role in shaping Tex-Mex cuisine due to its location on the U.S.-Mexico border. The city’s culinary landscape reflects a unique blend of traditional Mexican flavors and American influences.
Local restaurants in El Paso began incorporating regional specialties into their menus. Dishes like chile con queso and nachos became popular additions to Tex-Mex offerings in the area.
El Paso’s Tex-Mex scene has continued to evolve, with chefs experimenting with new flavor combinations and presentation styles. Many establishments now offer both traditional Tex-Mex fare and innovative fusion dishes.
The city’s proximity to Mexico has also helped maintain a strong connection to authentic Mexican cuisine, influencing the local Tex-Mex offerings.
Key Ingredients in Tex-Mex
Tex-Mex cuisine blends traditional Mexican flavors with Texan influences, resulting in a unique and beloved culinary style. This fusion incorporates distinct ingredients that give Tex-Mex dishes their characteristic taste and appeal.
Spices and Seasonings
Cumin stands out as a primary spice in Tex-Mex cooking, adding earthy and warm notes to dishes. Chili powder, a blend of ground chilis and other spices, provides heat and depth of flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder are commonly used to enhance savory profiles.
Oregano brings a subtle herbal taste, while paprika contributes both color and a mild sweetness. Many Tex-Mex recipes incorporate jalapeños or chipotle peppers for added heat and smokiness. Salt and black pepper remain essential base seasonings.
Traditional Dishes
Tex-Mex is known for its hearty, flavorful meals that often feature meat as a central component. Beef and chicken are popular protein choices, frequently seasoned with a blend of the aforementioned spices.
Beans, particularly refried pinto beans, serve as a staple side dish or filling. Rice, typically prepared with tomatoes and spices, is another common accompaniment. Corn and flour tortillas form the base for many dishes, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
Cheese plays a significant role, with cheddar and Monterey Jack being favorites. Sour cream and guacamole often top dishes, adding creamy textures and complementary flavors. Salsa, made with tomatoes, onions, and peppers, provides a fresh, tangy element to many Tex-Mex meals.