El Paso is a majorly underrated US destination for foodies. This city sits at the border with Mexico and is inextricably linked to Ciudad Juarez, just across the Rio Grande. Not only does El Paso have authentic Mexican cuisine options, but it also offers high-quality steak, scenic rooftop bars, and fine-dining experiences.
On our recent visit to El Paso, our lovely hosts took us to some of the city’s most delicious spots. Travelers should make it their mission to visit at least one of these fantastic restaurants and bars on a trip to West Texas.
Taconeta
Taconeta is an eclectic restaurant in El Paso serving up classic Mexican dishes in a casual setting. Guests order their food outside at a window and then take their meals to their seats, either inside the restaurant or outside on the colorful patio.
Alejandro Borunda, co-owner of the establishment, took the time to chat with us and shared his story of opening the restaurant amid a pandemic. According to Alejandro, although Taconeta got its start in 2020 when things were essentially shut down, the unique layout of the restaurant (ordering outside) enabled them to continue operating successfully and safely.
He also shared with us the restaurant’s method for making corn tortillas, the basis of many of their high-quality dishes. They bring in medium-seed heirloom corn from small, local farms. Then, they cook the corn overnight in a lime solution to draw out nutrients that would otherwise be lost. After soaking, Alejandro says they grind the corn with a wet stone mill (volcanic stone). Must-try menu items include the Avocado Tostada, Baja Shrimp Taco, and the Grilled Elote.
- Type Of Cuisine: Mexican
- Address: 311 Montana 1-A, El Paso, TX
- Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11:00 am to 10:00 pm
Cafe Central
Cafe Central marries innovation with tradition as the top fine dining experience in El Paso, Texas. The restaurant features Southwestern decor, a beautiful dining room, and a tranquil atmosphere. It’s one of the oldest restaurants in the area, dating back to 1918.
All the food is meticulously prepared and artfully presented. We tried (and loved) the Signature Cream of Green Chile soup, which has a bold flavor and a little bit of spice to it. Some main entrées to try when visiting are Chilean Sea Bass, Lobster Ravioli, and Sesame Crusted Tuna.
- Type Of Cuisine: Fine Dining (American, Southwestern)
- Address: 109 N Oregon St, El Paso, TX 79901, United States
- Hours: Monday to Wednesday, 11:00 am to 10:00 pm; Thursday to Friday, 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Saturday, 10:30 am to 11:00 pm
Anson11
Anson11 is located in the heart of Downtown El Paso and offers two completely different dining experiences within the same building. On the first floor, guests will find a casual bistro with a brunch, lunch, and dinner menu. Upstairs, on the second floor, is a separate dining space for fine dining. This is a classy area with exceptional service. There are also spectacular private dining and event spaces available on upper-level floors.
The food at Anson11 is delicious, starting with mouthwatering appetizers such as the Prime New York Strip Carpaccio and the Assorted Selection of Artisan Cheeses. The Surf & Turf is a popular choice, and we loved the Lobster Risotto. Be sure to leave room for dessert!
- Type Of Cuisine: Bistro & Fine Dining
- Address: 303 N Oregon St, El Paso, TX 79901, United States
- Hours: Monday to Thursday, 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, Friday to Saturday, 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, Sunday, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
La Perla
La Perla is the rooftop bar in The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park and is referred to as the crown jewel of El Paso. From the roof, guests have a 360º view of El Paso and, in the distance, Juarez. The bar was named for La Peregrina, the pearl that was worn by Elizabeth Taylor but came from the Spanish monarchy. It’s a fitting name considering Elizabeth Taylor once occupied the penthouse at the hotel.
La Perla is open to guests staying at the hotel and local residents of El Paso. The rooftop restaurant/bar serves shareable dishes, like chips and guacamole, along with cocktails (on Sundays, only cocktails are served). There is live jazz music at the bar on Fridays, a perfect pairing with the scenic views of the city Skyline below.
- Type Of Cuisine: Cocktail Bar
- Address: 106 W Mills Ave, El Paso, TX 79901, United States
- Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 4:00 pm to 12:00 am.
Cattleman’s Steakhouse
Cattleman’s Steakhouse at Indian Cliffs Ranch is approximately a 35-minute drive from Downtown El Paso. It’s worth making the trip out to this family-style restaurant at least once during a visit to the city. The restaurant is located on a working ranch, so plan to arrive early in order to explore the area around the restaurant before eating.
On the property, there is a zoo, movie sets, a snake pit, a playground, buffalo, and more. The dinner menu offers BBQ, steaks, classic sides like rice and potatoes, and seafood. The portions are generous, but guests will still want to save room for the selection of pies available on the dessert menu.
- Type Of Cuisine: Steakhouse, Family-Style
- Address: 3450 S Fabens Carlsbad Rd, Fabens, Texas 79838
- Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm; Saturday, 12:30 pm to 10:00 pm; Sunday, 12:30 to 9:00 pm
These incredible restaurants and bars are a small sampling of what El Paso has to offer to food lovers. For more information on Texas, visit TravelTexas.com.