3 Best Restaurants in El Paso, West Texas and the Panhandle

The old saw "evolve or perish" has served this restaurant well. In 1918 Café Central opened in Juárez and served alcohol (and tasty food) to the Prohibition-weary masses from the United States. Once Prohibition ended, the café moved north across the border, changed hands, and became part of the local scene. Today, bold decoration, an airy courtyard, and innovative Southwestern–Asian food combine to make this urbane eatery a popular destination for the city's hip crowds. The menu changes seasonally, according to the availability of ingredients. Although you can enjoy a gourmet experience for about fifteen dollars by ordering a soup and a salad, it's worth the splurge to explore other menu options. Lunch is a bit less expensive than dinner, yet equally tantalizing.

Twenty miles east of El Paso, this is pretty much in the middle of nowhere, but it's worth the trip, as much for the quirky theme rooms as for the terrific steaks. Consistently voted a local favorite, the succulent steaks are so tender they almost melt in your mouth. The mesquite-smoked barbecue and seafood on the menu are as tempting as the steaks—note that strict vegetarians won't find a happy meal here. A children's zoo, playground, lake walk, hayrides (on Sunday), and a movie set are among the numerous nonculinary diversions. It opens at 12:30 PM on weekends.

Named for its position on the border of El Paso and New Mexico, The State Line is a popular place with those who relish its tangy barbecue. The barbecued ribs and smoked chicken are fabulous here. Bring an appetite, because the trimmings include generous helpings of potato salad, coleslaw, and beans. Drinks are served in an outdoor courtyard, where you can wait for your table.