Looking for the best restaurants in El Paso? We’ve got you covered! El Paso is known for its amazing Mexican food, so you’ll find plenty of that, along with tons of other local gems! From burritos to steaks and everything in between, explore all the amazing food El Paso has to offer.
Updated February 2023
BREAKFAST & COFFEE SHOPS
Casa Cafetzin Coffee Roasters
With one location in Mexico City and one in El Paso, Casa Cafetzin is your go-to for Mexican coffee. They source beans from all over Mexico, available to take home or in their delicious cafe drinks! The space is stunning with minimalist Southwestern decor, making it the perfect spot to stay awhile. Pair your drink with a bowl of pozole, made in-house! (Featured header image)
Coffee Box
Find the colorful shipping container in the middle of Downtown El Paso, and you’ve found Coffee Box! This quirky coffee shop is covered in Instagrammable murals, and the drinks are as good as they look. The menu boasts unique drinks like mazapan lattes, taro frappes, charcoal smoothies, and more!
Salt + Honey
Mediterranean meets Mexican at this casual brunch joint! Enjoy one-of-a-kind fusion dishes like Baklava Pancakes, Zaatar Crusted Salmon, Lebanese Mini Pizzas, and more. Their Tacos Borrachos are a fave, made with Michelada-braised brisket and green chile cheese hashbrowns! (Pictured)
CASUAL
Photo courtesy of L&J Cafe
Burrito House
This low-key spot has been serving delicious burritos since 1988 and is a favorite among locals. It’s a true hole-in-the-wall, but don’t let the unassuming building and low prices fool you – they’re cooking up amazing Mexican food! Try over 19 different types of burritos like barbacoa, egg and chorizo, and chicharrón. They also have many other items like flautas, gorditas, tortas, plates, and more!
Chico’s Tacos
This famous no-frills spot has a handful of locations around town, and more than a few fans! They’re known for their hot dog, which is a bit different from the traditional frank – it’s chopped up and served on a hamburger bun with beans, pickles, and mustard. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it! Their tacos are also unique, served in a broth and topped with shredded cheese.
Crave Kitchen & Bar
This casual spot is perfect for any time of day! Crave serves elevated American dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, at multiple locations around El Paso. The menu features everything from sandwiches to grain bowls – menu favorites include the Green Chile Mac and Cheese, Chili Bomber Burger, and French Toast!
El Cometa
El Paso is full of delicious Mexican food, and El Cometa is one of the most popular! The space is colorful and casual, with counter service and plenty of seating for large groups. You’ll find all the taqueria classics on the menu, like tacos, flautas, and aguas frescas. The Tacos Al Pastor Con Queso are a must, and don’t forget to hit up the salsa bar!
Good Luck Cafe
This low-key diner is located in an old gas station, pumping out delicious Mexican flavors! Their award-winning menudo is a must-try, made with red chili-infused beef broth, hominy, lime, and onions. They also serve breakfast, burritos, burgers, and enchiladas, so you truly can’t go wrong here!
Kiki’s
Featured on Food Network’s Best Thing I Ever Ate, Kiki’s is off the beaten path, but has a cult-following! The restaurant began as a neighborhood mom-and-pop shop, and gained popularity for its old-school dishes made with fresh ingredients. Kiki’s most popular dishes are anything with green chile, like the enchiladas or the Beef Machaca, which features braised beef, cheese, and an egg on top.
L&J Cafe
Arguably El Paso’s most famous restaurant, L&J Cafe has been a classic spot since 1927. It’s affectionately known as “the old place by the graveyard”, because well, it’s next to a graveyard! Don’t let that deter you, L&J is full of flavor and spirit. The colorful space features tons of historic memorabilia, and the menu features dozens of regional Mexican dishes. From enchiladas to burritos, you can find pretty much any Tex-Mex flavor you’re looking for, and a marg to go with it! (Pictured)
Los Bandidos De Carlos & Mickey's
In a city filled with Mexican restaurants, it can be tough to stand out – but this spot is a highlight for locals and tourists alike. The hacienda-style building feels like you’ve stepped across the border, with a lively atmosphere, mariachi bands playing, and vibrant artwork throughout. The menu is full of flavorful classics, and several different types of margaritas to choose from. This place gets packed – but it’s worth the wait!
Track One
For a unique dining experience, head to Track One, where you dine in a retro railroad car! The restaurant consists of three railroad cars, decked out in kitsch-y sports and train decor. They’re known for their wings, which come in hot, BBQ, or lemon pepper flavors. Wash it all down with a cold beer – they offer over two dozen brews, including some local sips!
UPSCALE
Photo courtesy of Cattleman's Steakhouse
Cafe Central
For a classy night out, head to this award-winning romantic spot! The modern space features white tablecloths, funky artwork, and a gorgeous patio with florals hanging from the ceiling. On the menu, you’ll find seasonal dishes made with fresh ingredients, with a focus on steak and seafood. Pair your meal with a glass of wine or a cocktail, and enjoy tunes from a live piano player!
Casa Pantera
Transport to Tulum via Casa Pantera! This enchanting date night spot is known for its wood-fired steaks, chilled raw seafood, and agave-based cocktails. The space features lots of greenery and cacti, boho rattan lights hanging throughout, and a stunning patio with disco balls!
Cattleman's Steakhouse at Indian Cliffs Ranch
You may recognize the chain restaurant Cattleman’s, but this location is unique! It’s located on a working ranch in the desert, so you get the full West Texas experience. The space is as Old West as it gets, decked out in cowboy memorabilia, saddles, wagons, and more. The menu features several different steaks, of course, along with seafood, barbecue, and all the classic steakhouse sides. It’s truly a must if you’re in the area! (Pictured)
West Texas Chophouse
This modern steakhouse is a go-to for high-quality meats and seafood! You’ll find a dozen different types of premium steaks, classic sides like mashed potatoes, and unique steak dishes like nachos, rib eye chicharrones, and tacos.
