6 El Paso Restaurants That Have Survived The Test Of Time
El Paso is home to some of the oldest restaurants and establishments that have survived the test of time and are still serving some of the best eats around town.
El Paso is home to the best Mexican cuisine this side of the border and boasts some of the oldest establishments that date back decades, including Café Central, which has been serving the El Paso area for over 100 years.
Also, it's no surprise that most of these establishments are Mexican restaurants since we are a border city and Mexican cuisine reigns supreme. So the next time you are craving something traditional and perhaps spicy, why not visit some of El Paso's oldest restaurants in town.
Café Central
Café Central first originated in Juarez, Chihuahua, and survived the prohibition era, and soon after opened its doors in El Paso, TX. They are still one of the oldest establishments that have continued to serve quality fine dining. Café Central is nestled in the heart of downtown El Paso at 109 N Oregon St, El Paso, TX 79901.
Lucy's Cafe
I love Lucy's Cafe because they have been a family affair since 1978 and have branched throughout El Paso. Everything from their enchiladas to their famous Machaca burritos is a testament to their longevity. There are currently four Lucy's locations in El Paso:
- 10025 Dyer St, El Paso, TX 79924
- 1305 N Mesa St, El Paso, TX 79902
- 6600 N Mesa St #401, El Paso, TX 79912
- 4119 N Mesa St, El Paso, TX 79902
Rosa's Cantina
The one, the only, the original Rosa's Cantina where Marty Robbins fell "in love with a Mexican girl" back in 1959 inspired the singer to write his famous tune "El Paso." Rosa's Cantina recently had a makeover and still stands tall today as one of the best places to grab a bite and sip on an ice-cold brew. Rosa's Cantina is located at 3454 Doniphan Dr, El Paso, TX 79922.
L&J Café
Since 1927, L&J Café (The Old Place by The Graveyard) has kept attracting locals and celebrities, thanks to its fine Mexican cuisine and salsas. Located on the corner of Missouri Ave and N. Stevens, L&J Café has since expanded its location to accommodate folks looking to squeeze in for a taste of deliciousness.
Forti's Mexican Elder
The family-owned hacienda-style restaurant has been offering consistent Mexican cuisine in Central El Paso for nearly five decades. To this day, Forti's Mexican Elder has been bringing families together for a great meal with a festive atmosphere. Forti's is located at 321 Chelsea St, El Paso, TX 79905.
The Tap
Everyone should at least visit The Tap once in their lifetime. The Tap is genuinely a dive bar that has been serving up some of the best Mexican food, including their nachos, since 1956. The Tap is located in downtown El Paso at 408 E San Antonio Ave, El Paso, TX 79901.