El Paso, Texas, situated on the US-Mexico border, offers a diverse culinary landscape that reflects its unique cultural heritage. From authentic Mexican dishes to Tex-Mex favorites, the city’s restaurants cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. Visitors and locals alike can embark on a flavorful journey through El Paso’s vibrant food scene.
Whether seeking upscale dining experiences or affordable local gems, El Paso’s restaurants provide options for every budget. The city’s eateries showcase the region’s rich gastronomic traditions, featuring specialties like tacos al pastor, enchiladas, and hearty burritos. Food enthusiasts can explore a variety of establishments, from family-owned taquerias to trendy gastropubs, each offering its own take on border cuisine.
1) L&J Cafe
L&J Cafe stands as an iconic fixture in El Paso’s culinary landscape. This beloved restaurant has been serving authentic border Mexican food since 1927, earning a reputation as one of the city’s best.
Originally known as “Tony’s Place,” L&J Cafe began as a small establishment offering home cooking and brew during Prohibition. Over the decades, it has evolved into a cherished family-run business.
The restaurant is renowned for its flavorful dishes that showcase the unique blend of Mexican and American influences characteristic of border cuisine. Patrons can enjoy a range of traditional favorites in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
L&J Cafe’s enduring popularity stems from its commitment to quality ingredients and time-honored recipes. The menu features a variety of Mexican staples, including tacos, enchiladas, and chile rellenos.
With its rich history and dedication to authentic flavors, L&J Cafe continues to draw both locals and visitors seeking a taste of El Paso’s culinary heritage.
Address: 3622 E Missouri Ave, El Paso, TX 79903
Phone: (915) 566-8418
Website: www.landjcafe.com
2) Cafe Central
Cafe Central stands out as a high-end dining destination in El Paso. The restaurant offers an exquisite culinary experience with extraordinary food and impeccable service.
Their Saturday brunch is particularly noteworthy. It features a variety of freshly baked bread and seafood options, including a seafood tower and sea bass ceviche.
The menu at Cafe Central boasts sophisticated dishes. The French Dip, made with shaved prime rib, mushrooms, green chile, and pepper jack cheese, is a popular choice.
For dessert, patrons can indulge in the Devil’s Food Cake. This decadent treat comes with dark chocolate mousse, mirror glaze, and gold leaf.
The restaurant’s ambiance is elegant, making it an ideal spot for special occasions. Many diners consider Cafe Central one of the top three restaurants in El Paso.
Cafe Central is located at 109 N Oregon St, El Paso, TX 79901. Reservations can be made by calling (915) 545-2233. The dress code is business casual.
3) Kiki’s Mexican Restaurant
Kiki’s Mexican Restaurant has become a beloved local institution in El Paso since its establishment in 1976. Founded by Paula Yardeni, the restaurant’s name comes from her daughter.
Located in Central El Paso, Kiki’s has grown from a small neighborhood eatery to a popular destination attracting diners from across the city. The restaurant is known for its high-quality Mexican cuisine.
Signature dishes at Kiki’s include enchiladas, machacas, and caldillo. The menu also features appetizers that complement the main courses well.
Kiki’s offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a great choice for both casual meals and special occasions. The restaurant’s longevity speaks to its consistent quality and customer satisfaction.
Kiki’s Mexican Restaurant
Address: 2719 N Piedras St, El Paso, TX 79930
Phone: (915) 565-6713
Hours: Open 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
4) The Hoppy Monk
The Hoppy Monk offers a unique dining experience in El Paso, combining an impressive beer selection with elevated pub fare. This upbeat establishment caters to both beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
The menu features high-quality dishes that go beyond typical bar food. One standout item is their grass-fed ribeye steak sandwich, which receives praise for its delicious flavor.
With a vast array of beers on tap, patrons can explore a variety of craft brews. The Hoppy Monk’s beer selection is one of its main draws, appealing to those seeking new and interesting flavors.
The atmosphere at The Hoppy Monk is lively and welcoming. Outdoor seating is available, providing guests with additional dining options.
Despite being primarily known as a bar, The Hoppy Monk’s food quality stands out. It has earned positive reviews from patrons and maintains a strong reputation among El Paso’s dining establishments.
The Hoppy Monk: 4141 N Mesa St, El Paso, TX 79902. Phone: (915) 307-3263. Hours: Wednesday 4pm-2am, closed Thursdays.
5) Salt & Honey Bakery Cafe
Salt & Honey Bakery Cafe offers a delightful culinary experience in El Paso. This charming establishment serves all-day breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner options.
The cafe boasts a cozy, modern atmosphere that welcomes patrons throughout the day. Its menu features world-inspired cuisine alongside locally roasted coffee and cold-pressed juices.
Salt & Honey takes pride in its in-house bakery, producing fresh pastries and cakes daily. The combination of savory meals and sweet treats caters to a variety of tastes and preferences.
Visitors can enjoy their meals indoors or take advantage of convenient online ordering. The cafe has garnered positive reviews for its food quality and ambiance.
Salt & Honey Bakery Cafe is located at 1125 Texas Ave, El Paso, TX 79901. They are open Tuesday through Friday from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, and Saturday to Sunday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. For inquiries or orders, call (915) 313-4907.
6) Rulis’ International Kitchen
Rulis’ International Kitchen offers a unique fusion dining experience in El Paso. Since 2008, this gourmet dive has been serving internationally-inspired cuisine in a casual atmosphere.
The menu features an eclectic mix of flavors from various cultures. Diners can sample dishes that blend culinary traditions from around the world.
The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality ingredients to create its innovative dishes. The bar also serves creative cocktails to complement the international fare.
Rulis’ caters to diverse tastes, offering options ranging from pizzas and tacos to burgers and more adventurous fusion creations. The varied menu makes it suitable for casual date nights or group outings.
Visitors praise the restaurant’s unique drink offerings and flavorful food options. Many reviewers recommend trying multiple dishes to experience the full range of international flavors.
Rulis’ International Kitchen
318 N Mesa St, El Paso, TX 79901
(915) 328-2480
www.ruliskitchen.com
7) Track One
Track One offers a unique dining experience in El Paso. This restaurant is set in converted vintage train cars, creating a nostalgic atmosphere for patrons.
The menu at Track One features a variety of American and Tex-Mex dishes. Their Track One Special Salad is a popular choice, packed with mixed greens, Cajun grilled chicken, and an array of fresh vegetables.
For those seeking budget-friendly options, Track One provides affordable meals without compromising on taste or portion sizes. The restaurant is known for its casual, welcoming ambiance.
Track One is open daily, with extended hours for wings and nachos to-go. It’s a great spot for both leisurely dinners and quick takeout meals.
Track One
1330 Buffalo Soldier Rd, El Paso, TX 79925
Phone: (915) 771-9502
Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am – 10pm (Wings and Nachos to-go until 10:30pm)
8) Ardovino’s Desert Crossing
Ardovino’s Desert Crossing offers a unique dining experience on the Texas-New Mexico border. Located in Sunland Park, New Mexico, this restaurant is just a stone’s throw from El Paso, Texas.
The establishment has a rich history dating back to 1949 when it started as a gambling venue. It later transformed into a fine dining restaurant, and in 1997, it reopened as Ardovino’s Desert Crossing.
The restaurant is renowned for its diverse menu featuring Italian cuisine, steaks, and pizza. Its picturesque location adds to the dining experience, providing stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Ardovino’s Desert Crossing is popular among locals and visitors alike. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a memorable meal during their Texas border food adventure.
The restaurant also hosts a farmers market, adding to its appeal as a local food destination.
Ardovino’s Desert Crossing: 1 Ardovino Drive, Sunland Park, NM 88063. Phone: 575-589-0653. Website: ardovinos.com
9) Los Bandidos De Carlos & Mickey’s
Los Bandidos De Carlos & Mickey’s offers a taste of Mexican cuisine in El Paso. The restaurant serves generous portions of traditional dishes and large margaritas.
Located near hotels, it’s a convenient option for visitors. The menu features border-style Mexican food, with popular items like tacos and enchiladas.
The restaurant’s atmosphere captures the spirit of Mexico without crossing the border. It’s a go-to spot for those seeking authentic flavors in a lively setting.
Operating hours are 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Sunday through Thursday, and 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. The extended weekend hours accommodate late-night diners.
Vegetarian options are available, catering to diverse dietary needs. Reservations are recommended to ensure table availability, especially during peak hours.
Los Bandidos De Carlos & Mickey’s
1310 Magruder St, El Paso, TX 79925
Phone: (915) 778-3323
10) Anson11
Anson11 offers an upscale dining experience in downtown El Paso. The restaurant features both a bistro and an upstairs dining area, providing options for different occasions.
The bistro serves lunch and dinner throughout the week, with extended hours on weekends. Upstairs dining is available for dinner service Monday through Saturday.
Anson11’s menu showcases a variety of contemporary American dishes. The restaurant prides itself on using quality ingredients and offering attentive service.
Located in a historic building, Anson11 combines modern cuisine with a touch of El Paso’s past. The interior design creates an elegant atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meals.
Parking is available at the nearby Mills Plaza Parking Garage, making it convenient for diners to access the restaurant.
Anson11
303 N Oregon St, Suite 110, El Paso, TX 79901
Phone: 915-504-6400
Hours: Monday-Thursday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm, Friday-Saturday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Website: anson11.com
Exploring El Paso’s Unique Culinary Scene
El Paso’s food scene blends Mexican traditions with Texan influences, creating a distinctive border cuisine. This fusion reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage and geographic location.
Cultural Influences on Texas Border Cuisine
El Paso’s culinary landscape is shaped by its proximity to Mexico and its Texan roots. The city’s food scene showcases a harmonious blend of flavors from both sides of the border. Traditional Mexican dishes are reimagined with Texan twists, resulting in unique Tex-Mex creations.
Local restaurants offer authentic Mexican staples like tacos al pastor alongside Texan favorites. The influence of Native American and Spanish cuisines is also evident in many dishes. This cultural melting pot has given rise to specialties like chile con queso and beef brisket tacos.
Fusion of Traditional and Modern Flavors
El Paso’s chefs are innovating while honoring culinary traditions. They combine time-honored recipes with contemporary techniques and ingredients. This approach has led to the creation of exciting new dishes that appeal to diverse palates.
Food trucks play a significant role in El Paso’s culinary innovation. They serve up creative combinations like Korean-Mexican fusion tacos and gourmet burgers with Southwestern flair. Established restaurants also embrace this trend, offering modern interpretations of classic border dishes.
Local ingredients are central to this fusion cuisine. Chefs incorporate regional produce, meats, and spices to create dishes that are uniquely El Paso. This focus on local flavors ensures that even the most innovative creations maintain a strong connection to the city’s culinary roots.
Finding the Best Deals for Every Budget
El Paso offers a variety of dining options to suit different budgets. From tasty street tacos to upscale restaurants, visitors can find delicious meals without breaking the bank.
Tips for Budget-Friendly Dining
Look for local taquerias and food trucks for affordable, authentic Mexican cuisine. El Taquito is a popular spot known for its wide selection of tacos at reasonable prices. Many eateries offer lunch specials or happy hour deals to stretch your dollars further.
Consider visiting restaurants in residential neighborhoods rather than touristy areas for better value. Check online review sites and local food blogs for recommendations on hidden gems and budget-friendly options.
Take advantage of restaurant deals and discounts. Websites like Groupon often feature promotions for El Paso eateries, offering significant savings on meals.
Mid-Range Dining Experiences
For those with a bit more to spend, El Paso has numerous mid-range restaurants offering quality food and atmosphere. Look for family-owned establishments that serve generous portions of Tex-Mex favorites.
Many mid-range restaurants in El Paso offer combo platters or family-style meals, providing good value for groups. Some places feature live music or outdoor seating, enhancing the dining experience without a hefty price tag.
Consider trying fusion restaurants that blend Mexican cuisine with other culinary traditions. These often provide unique flavors and presentations at moderate prices.
Savoring Authentic Tex-Mex Flair
El Paso’s Tex-Mex cuisine offers a tantalizing blend of Mexican and American flavors. Local restaurants serve up hearty portions of traditional favorites alongside innovative fusion dishes.
Signature Dishes to Try
Tacos al pastor are a must-try in El Paso. These tacos feature spit-roasted pork marinated in spices and pineapple, served in warm corn tortillas with cilantro and onions.
Enchiladas are another local staple. Corn tortillas are filled with meat or cheese, rolled, and smothered in a flavorful red or green chile sauce.
Fajitas sizzle on hot plates in many El Paso eateries. Grilled strips of beef or chicken are served with peppers, onions, and warm flour tortillas.
Tamales, a holiday favorite, are available year-round in El Paso. These steamed corn dough pockets are filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
For those seeking a hearty meal, the burrito is an excellent choice. These large flour tortillas are stuffed with a variety of ingredients, from beans and rice to carne asada or chile verde.