5 El Paso Best Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants
In exploring the culinary landscape of the city, we’ve introduced you to five of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. From the smoky flavors of Don Carbón Mesquite Grill to the authentic Mexican delights at Carlos & Mickey’s, each of these establishments brings its own unique charm to the table. Whether you’re craving pizza, seafood, or comfort food, El Paso has a diverse array of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
These restaurants are a testament to the rich tapestry of flavors that El Paso has to offer. The keyword, “one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants,” perfectly encapsulates the essence of these culinary treasures—unassuming yet extraordinary in their own right.
However, it’s important to note that the journey through the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants is far from over. These five restaurants represent just a fraction of what this vibrant city has in store for food enthusiasts. As you continue to explore, you’ll find countless other El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants tucked away in neighborhoods and corners, each with its own unique story and flavors waiting to be savored. This is why these are some of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants that are waiting for you to discover them. This list is in no particular order.
A lot of great options are in these posts!
5 Best El Paso Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants
1) Crave Kitchen & Bar
Address: 300 Cincinnati Ave.
Crave Kitchen & Bar is undeniably one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. Nestled in the heart of the city, this family-owned and operated gem offers a delightful blend of American comfort food with a creative twist. As you step inside, you’re greeted with a warm and inviting ambiance that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.
Crave Kitchen & Bar is renowned for its mouthwatering Green Chile Chicken Mac ‘n’ Cheese. This signature dish perfectly encapsulates the restaurant’s dedication to flavorful, homemade comfort food. Tender pieces of chicken are nestled in a creamy cheese sauce with a generous helping of roasted green chiles, all served over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a harmonious blend of spice and comfort, leaving your taste buds craving for more.
Main Menu Items:
1. Crave Burger: Sink your teeth into the Crave Burger, a juicy masterpiece that combines a handcrafted beef patty with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a secret Crave sauce. Served with a side of perfectly seasoned fries, this burger is an absolute crowd-pleaser.
2. Shrimp Tacos: For seafood enthusiasts, the Shrimp Tacos are a must-try. Grilled shrimp are nestled in warm corn tortillas and bestped with a zesty slaw, avocado, and a tangy cilantro-lime crema. These tacos are bursting with flavor and offer a delightful taste of the Southwest.
3. Street Corn Salad: If you’re looking for a lighter option, the Street Corn Salad is a refreshing choice. Grilled corn is mixed with cotija cheese, cilantro, and a smoky chipotle aioli. It’s a side dish that complements any meal and adds a touch of Southwestern flair to your plate.
Customer Reviews:
“Crave Kitchen & Bar is a hidden gem! The Green Chile Chicken Mac ‘n’ Cheese is to die for. The blend of flavors is incredible, and the portion size is more than generous.”
“I can’t get enough of their Crave Burger. The bacon adds the perfect crunch, and the Crave sauce is like no other. A true hole-in-the-wall experience!”
“The Shrimp Tacos are my go-to here. They’re always fresh, and the combination of flavors is unbeatable. I love the cozy atmosphere too.”
Crave Kitchen & Bar is undeniably one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. With its warm, family-owned ambiance and a menu that boasts signature dishes like the Green Chile Chicken Mac ‘n’ Cheese, it’s a culinary haven for those seeking American comfort food with a Southwestern twist. They are one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
Whether you opt for the Crave Burger, Shrimp Tacos, or the Street Corn Salad, you’re in for a treat. The customer reviews speak for themselves, confirming that Crave Kitchen & Bar is a must-visit destination for food lovers in El Paso. They rank high among the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants for good reasons.
2) La Playa Seafood Restaurant
Address: 7446 Alameda Ave.
Nestled in the heart of El Paso, La Playa Seafood Restaurant is a true hidden gem, proudly standing as one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. This family-owned and operated establishment offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a coastal seafood shack right in the heart of Texas.
La Playa Seafood Restaurant is celebrated for its delectable Camarones a la Diabla. This fiery dish showcases plump, succulent shrimp bathed in a spicy red chili sauce, complemented by a medley of vegetables. It’s a tantalizing experience that perfectly balances heat and flavor, leaving a memorable impression on your taste buds.
Main Menu Items:
1. Pescado a la Veracruzana: Dive into the flavors of Veracruz with this dish. A tender fish fillet is cooked to perfection and then smothered in a rich tomato, olive, caper, and bell pepper sauce. Served with a side of rice and beans, it’s a savory and hearty seafood delight.
2. Tacos de Mariscos: If you’re a fan of tacos, La Playa Seafood Restaurant’s Tacos de Mariscos won’t disappoint. These soft corn tortillas are generously filled with a medley of seafood, including shrimp, fish, and tender calamari, then bestped with fresh salsa and a drizzle of crema. Each bite is a burst of oceanic goodness.
3. Ceviche: For a refreshing start to your meal, the ceviche is a fantastic choice. Chunks of fresh fish and shrimp are marinated in tangy citrus juices, mixed with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Served with crispy tostadas, it’s a zesty and invigorating appetizer.
Customer Reviews:
“La Playa Seafood Restaurant is a true hidden treasure in El Paso. The Camarones a la Diabla had the perfect kick of spice, and the flavors were out of this world. I keep coming back for more!”
“Their Pescado a la Veracruzana is my ultimate comfort food. The sauce is heavenly, and the fish melts in your mouth. This place truly captures the essence of Mexican seafood cuisine.”
“I’m a seafood fanatic, and the Tacos de Mariscos here are my all-time favorite. The variety of seafood in each taco and the fresh salsa make for a mouthwatering combination. It’s a must-visit spot for seafood lovers.”
La Playa Seafood Restaurant is undoubtedly one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants, offering a cozy family-owned atmosphere and a menu filled with authentic Mexican seafood delights. From the fiery Camarones a la Diabla to the refreshing Ceviche, every dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to flavor and quality.
They are absolutely one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. The customer reviews speak volumes, affirming that La Playa Seafood Restaurant is a must-visit destination for seafood aficionados looking for an unforgettable dining experience. They stand out among the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
3) Don Carbón Mesquite Grill
Address: 7790 Gtwy Blvd. E
Don Carbón Mesquite Grill stands proudly as one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. This hidden gem, family-owned and operated, brings the essence of traditional Mexican mesquite-grilled cuisine to the heart of El Paso. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for those seeking authentic flavors in an unassuming setting.
The restaurant’s pièce de résistance is the Arrachera Steak. This succulent marinated skirt steak is expertly cooked over mesquite coals, infusing it with a smoky flavor that’s simply irresistible. Served with a side of grilled vegetables and charro beans, it’s a testament to Don Carbón’s dedication to perfecting the art of mesquite grilling.
Main Menu Items:
1. Tacos al Pastor: Don Carbón’s Tacos al Pastor are a true delight. Marinated pork is carved right from the vertical rotisserie, loaded onto soft corn tortillas, and bestped with fresh pineapple, onions, and cilantro. The combination of savory and sweet flavors in each bite is a culinary experience you won’t forget.
2. Molcajete: The Molcajete is a feast for the senses. This volcanic stone mortar is filled to the brim with grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, and a rich salsa made from roasted tomatoes, peppers, and spices. Melted cheese blankets the best, creating a bubbling, flavorful masterpiece that’s perfect for sharing.
3. Enchiladas Suizas: For those craving a classic Mexican dish, the Enchiladas Suizas won’t disappoint. Tender shredded chicken is rolled into corn tortillas, smothered in a creamy tomatillo sauce, and bestped with melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest, served with rice and refried beans.
Customer Reviews:
“Don Carbón Mesquite Grill is a true hidden gem in El Paso. The Arrachera Steak is the best I’ve ever had. The smoky flavor from the mesquite grill is unforgettable, and it’s cooked to perfection.”
“Tacos al Pastor here are my absolute favorite. The combination of the juicy marinated pork and the sweet pineapple is pure magic. This place truly captures the essence of Mexican street food.”
“The Molcajete is a must-try. It’s a sizzling platter of deliciousness. The variety of meats and that bubbling cheese on best – it’s a flavor explosion that keeps me coming back.”
Don Carbón Mesquite Grill is undeniably one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants, offering an authentic taste of Mexico through mesquite-grilled delights. From the mouthwatering Arrachera Steak to the savory Tacos al Pastor and comforting Enchiladas Suizas, every dish is a testament to their commitment to traditional flavors.
They are another of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. With rave customer reviews, it’s clear that Don Carbón Mesquite Grill is a must-visit for those in search of genuine Mexican cuisine in an unpretentious setting. They deserve to be ranked high among the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
4) Speedy’s Pizza
Address: 1821 N Zaragoza Rd.
Nestled in El Paso, Speedy’s Pizza proudly stands as one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. This family-owned and operated establishment offers a cozy and unassuming atmosphere, making it a popular local haunt. Speedy’s Pizza is your go-to spot for classic, no-frills pizza that hits all the right notes.
Speedy’s Pizza’s claim to fame is their mouthwatering Supreme Pizza. This masterpiece is a medley of flavors and textures, featuring a crisp yet tender crust piled high with zesty tomato sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, sausage, green peppers, onions, black olives, and mushrooms. Each bite is a symphony of savory and satisfying elements.
Main Menu Items:
1. Pepperoni Pizza: The classic Pepperoni Pizza at Speedy’s is a fan favorite. A thin, golden crust is generously bestped with rich tomato sauce, a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, and ample pepperoni slices that crisp up perfectly in the oven. It’s the embodiment of pizza perfection.
2. Garlic Knots: Speedy’s Pizza is not just about pies; they also excel in the art of Garlic Knots. These delectable morsels are soft, doughy, and brushed with a garlic-infused buttery sauce. They’re baked to perfection and served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping—a heavenly snack or appetizer.
3. Chicken Alfredo Pizza: For those seeking a unique twist on traditional pizza, the Chicken Alfredo Pizza is a must-try. It features a creamy Alfredo sauce base, tender pieces of grilled chicken, and a sprinkling of parmesan cheese. It’s a rich and indulgent choice for pizza enthusiasts.
Customer Reviews:
“Speedy’s Pizza is a hidden gem in El Paso. Their Supreme Pizza is the real deal, loaded with all the bestpings you could want. The crust is perfect, and the flavors are unbeatable.”
“The Garlic Knots at Speedy’s are addictive. They’re soft and garlic-infused, and that marinara sauce is the perfect dip. It’s a must-order every time I visit.”
“I’m a fan of unique pizza flavors, and the Chicken Alfredo Pizza here hit the mark. The Alfredo sauce is creamy, and the chicken is tender. Speedy’s has become my go-to spot for a pizza fix.”
Speedy’s Pizza is unquestionably one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants, offering a cozy, family-owned atmosphere and a menu centered around delicious, classic pizza. Whether you’re indulging in their signature Supreme Pizza, savoring the Garlic Knots, or trying the unique Chicken Alfredo Pizza, you’ll find that every bite is a testament to their dedication to traditional pizza flavors.
They are obviously one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. With enthusiastic customer reviews, Speedy’s Pizza is a must-visit for pizza lovers seeking a down-to-earth dining experience. They have earned the rank of being one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
5) Carlos & Mickey’s
Address: 12111 Montwood Dr.
Carlos & Mickey’s is undoubtedly one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. This popular establishment, family-owned and operated for generations, exudes a warm and welcoming ambiance. Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and friendly service, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
The pride of Carlos & Mickey’s is their sizzling Molcajete Plate. This delectable dish is a fiery medley of grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, and chorizo, all cooked to perfection in a molcajete—a traditional Mexican stone mortar. The flavorful meat is accompanied by sautéed onions, bell peppers, and a rich ranchero sauce, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Main Menu Items:
1. Enchiladas Suizas: Carlos & Mickey’s Enchiladas Suizas are a must-try. Soft corn tortillas are generously stuffed with tender shredded chicken and bestped with a creamy tomatillo sauce, melted cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Served with a side of rice and beans, it’s a classic Mexican comfort food.
2. Tampiqueña: The Tampiqueña is a steak lover’s dream. A juicy, perfectly grilled ribeye steak is paired with a cheese enchilada, guacamole, and a side of rice and beans. It’s a hearty and satisfying choice that showcases the restaurant’s dedication to quality cuts of meat.
3. Camarones a la Diabla: Seafood enthusiasts will be delighted by the Camarones a la Diabla. This spicy dish features plump shrimp sautéed in a fiery red chili sauce, creating a tantalizing blend of heat and flavor. Served with rice and a refreshing salad, it’s a true taste of Mexico’s coastal cuisine.
Customer Reviews:
“Carlos & Mickey’s is a hidden gem in El Paso. The Molcajete Plate is out of this world! The mix of meats and that rich ranchero sauce make it a standout dish. It’s a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican flavors.”
“I can’t get enough of their Enchiladas Suizas. They’re creamy and bursting with flavor. The atmosphere here is cozy, and the service is best-notch. It’s my go-to spot for Mexican food.”
“The Camarones a la Diabla is my absolute favorite. The spiciness of the sauce is just right, and the shrimp are always cooked to perfection. Carlos & Mickey’s truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in El Paso.”
Carlos & Mickey’s is undeniably one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants, offering an authentic Mexican dining experience with a warm, family-owned atmosphere. From the sizzling Molcajete Plate to the classic Enchiladas Suizas and savory Tampiqueña, every dish showcases their commitment to traditional flavors.
They are considered one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. With glowing customer reviews, it’s clear that Carlos & Mickey’s is a must-visit destination for those seeking genuine Mexican cuisine in a welcoming setting. They deserve to be ranked among the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
Now you know why these are some of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants just waiting for you to discover them. However, it’s important to let you know that this is not an exhaustive list of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants and that this list is in no particular order.
So, the next time you’re in El Paso, don’t hesitate to venture off the beaten path in search of more El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. It’s in these unassuming places that you’ll often discover the most memorable and authentic culinary experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new and exciting to find in the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
We hope this journey through five El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants has whet your appetite for exploration. As you delve deeper into the city’s culinary scene, you’ll undoubtedly uncover even more hidden treasures, each offering its own delectable surprises and adding to the tapestry of “one of the El Paso best hole-in-the-wall restaurants.”
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