On the Rio Grande, just across the border – and actually part of Mexico before 1848 – El Paso is home to some of the best Mexican restaurants in the United States. Here are a few of our absolute favorites!
1. L & J Cafe
You might have to wait a little while to get a table here, but you’ll soon see why this restaurant is so popular with locals and tourists alike. Dating back to 1927, and the age of prohibition, this institution has a long and storied history.
There’s everything you’d expect on the menu. Still, if you’re unsure, you can ask the friendly staff for recommendations or go for the full Mexican Combination Plate featuring an enchilada, a chile relleno, a taco, a beef flauta, chile verde con carne, rice, beans, and guacamole. It’s a perfect way to experience many different flavors and try to choose a favorite for the next visit!
2. Kiki’s
Situated in Military Heights in a building that has its history traced back over one hundred years, Kiki’s is a fantastic and straightforward bar and restaurant serving quality food that’s packed with flavor.
The restaurant runs a rotating lunch and dinner specials menu, so regulars or those on a budget can get well fed at a great price, but it’s the famous specialties that we visit for. The Brisket Machaca is as good as its reputation, and the Chicken Molé has to be experienced!
3. Carlos and Mickey’s
Well known for its lively atmosphere and great for parties and celebrations, this restaurant even has live music from local acts every day. We can’t resist starting with the Nachos Grande with beef or chicken and plenty of beans, cheese, and jalapenos.
After this, you’re spoiled for choice, but we were advised to try the Tacos al Pastor with pork, beans, and a secret sauce from the chef’s hometown, and it was an excellent option. There’s a limited dessert choice, but that doesn’t matter as Pancho’s sopapillas are all we need!
4. Leo’s
Open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, as well as breakfast on weekends, this restaurant won’t let you down, no matter how hungry you are! It’s been run by the family at the same location since 1946, so it is quite the local landmark.
There’s a great menu of Mexican staples, all cooked fresh and packed with flavor. The staff is accommodating and happy to explain any of the dishes you might not be too sure about. The enchiladas here are particularly popular, and we love the chicken ones with green sauce. Kids are well looked after here with a menu with both Mexican and American options to keep the little ones happy.
5. Tacos Chinampa
There are four locations to this small, local chain that offers authentic food with a fun atmosphere. While famous for the tacos, they also have an excellent selection of appetizers, salads, and Mexican plates.
But it’s the choice of tacos that we visit for – like Al Pastor pork or the Fajitas de Pollo chicken – each with a selection of salsas made fresh in-house. We rarely leave space for dessert here after our Taco fill, but we’re told the sweet flans are well worth trying!
Find a new source of delicious Mexican food from any of these fantastic local restaurants – or find something different! Don’t worry – there’s no need to thank us!
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