There is an abundance of budget-friendly Mexican restaurants in El Paso that offer delicious and authentic cuisine. From the classic and iconic Chico’s Tacos to the trendy and modern Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop, there is something for everyone’s taste buds.
Los Bandidos de Carlos & Mickey’s offers traditional Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex favorites, while Kiki’s Restaurant & Bar offers a unique fusion of Mexican and Greek flavors. L & J Cafe offers a traditional Tex-Mex dining experience with friendly service and generous portions.
1. L & J Cafe – This restaurant, among the top Mexican restaurants in El Paso, has been serving authentic Mexican cuisine since 1927 and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Their signature dish is the green chili enchiladas, which many customers rave about.
2. Kiki’s Restaurant & Bar – Kiki’s, another of the top Mexican restaurants in El Paso, is a family-owned restaurant that has been around for over 40 years. They are known for their delicious food and friendly service, and customers especially love their chile rellenos and margaritas.
3. Los Bandidos de Carlos & Mickey’s – This restaurant, amid the top Mexican restaurants in El Paso, has a lively atmosphere and a menu that features traditional Mexican dishes as well as Tex-Mex favorites. Customers recommend the carne asada and the fajitas.
4. Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop – This trendy taco shop, one of the top Mexican restaurants in El Paso, offers a wide variety of tacos with creative fillings like Korean beef and duck confit. The portions are generous and the prices are affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget.
5. Chico’s Tacos – Chico’s, one of the most popular Mexican restaurants in El Paso, is a local institution and has been serving their famous rolled tacos since 1953. The tacos are simple yet delicious, and customers love the unique flavor of the special sauce that they are served with.
These restaurants are all popular choices in El Paso for their delicious food, affordable prices, and great customer service.
Top 5 Budget-Friendly Mexican Restaurants in El Paso
L & J Cafe
Address: 3622 E Missouri Ave.
The L & J Cafe, amid the top Mexican restaurants in El Paso, is a family-owned Mexican restaurant that has been serving delicious food since 1927. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming interior with warm lighting, wood paneling, and colorful decorations. It has a homely vibe and provides a comfortable dining experience to its customers.
The L & J Cafe’s signature dish is their green chili enchiladas, which are made with soft corn tortillas stuffed with cheese and covered with a generous amount of homemade green chili sauce. The dish is then topped with shredded cheese, onions, and a fried egg, which adds a unique and delicious flavor to the dish.
What makes L & J Cafe unique is its rich history and the fact that it has been in business for almost a century. The restaurant has a loyal customer base and has been passed down through generations of the same family. It has been featured in numerous publications and TV shows, which has helped to spread its popularity outside of El Paso.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Carne Asada Tacos – Three soft corn tortillas filled with grilled and seasoned beef, topped with onions and cilantro.
▣ Chiles Rellenos – Two large, mild green chiles stuffed with cheese, dipped in egg batter, and fried to a golden brown.
▣ Menudo – Traditional Mexican soup made with beef tripe and hominy in a red chili broth.
▣ Fajitas – Sizzling grilled chicken or beef with sautéed onions and peppers, served with rice, beans, and tortillas.
▣ Sopaipillas – Fried dough pastries drizzled with honey, served warm and dusted with powdered sugar.
The service at L & J Cafe is excellent. The staff is friendly, welcoming, and attentive to their customers’ needs. They make sure that the food is served hot and fresh and are always ready to answer any questions and provide recommendations to customers.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the green chili enchiladas, and they were amazing! The sauce was so flavorful, and the cheese was melted to perfection. I also tried the carne asada tacos, and they were delicious as well. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.”
“I had the chiles rellenos, and they were the best I’ve ever had! The cheese was perfectly melted, and the egg batter was crispy and flavorful. The service was friendly and efficient, and the restaurant had a great atmosphere.”
“The menudo was outstanding! The tripe was tender and flavorful, and the broth was rich and spicy. The fajitas were also delicious and had a great seasoning. The service was top-notch, and the staff was very friendly and accommodating.”
The L & J Cafe is a must-visit restaurant in El Paso for anyone who wants to experience authentic Mexican cuisine in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s rich history, excellent service, and delicious food make it a local favorite and a popular spot for tourists. The green chili enchiladas and chiles rellenos are highly recommended dishes, but all of the menu items are delicious and worth trying. They can definitely be counted among the top Mexican restaurants in El Paso.
Kiki’s Restaurant & Bar
Address: 2719 N Piedras St.
Kiki’s Restaurant & Bar, another of the top Mexican restaurants in El Paso, is a family-owned and operated Mexican restaurant that has been serving the El Paso community for over 40 years. The restaurant has a cozy and inviting interior with bright colors, wooden accents, and traditional Mexican decorations. It has a relaxed and casual atmosphere, making it the perfect place for families and friends to gather and enjoy a delicious meal.
Kiki’s signature dish is the Chile Relleno, which is a large, mild green chile stuffed with cheese and served with a flavorful tomato sauce. The dish is then topped with melted cheese and onions, creating a delicious and satisfying meal that customers rave about.
What makes Kiki’s unique is its family-friendly atmosphere and its commitment to using fresh and high-quality ingredients in all its dishes. The restaurant also has a full bar, serving a variety of margaritas, beers, and other cocktails that perfectly complement the food.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Carne Asada – Grilled, marinated beef served with rice, beans, guacamole, and tortillas.
▣ Enchiladas – Three soft corn tortillas filled with cheese and covered with a flavorful sauce, topped with onions and shredded cheese.
▣ Tamales – Homemade pork tamales served with chili con carne and rice.
▣ Chimichangas – Deep-fried flour tortillas filled with beef or chicken, beans, and cheese, served with rice and guacamole.
▣ Tacos Al Carbon – Three soft corn tortillas filled with grilled beef or chicken, served with pico de gallo and guacamole.
The service at Kiki’s is friendly and efficient, with staff who are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to provide recommendations to customers. The restaurant is busy during peak hours, but the staff ensures that the food is served hot and fresh, and customers are never kept waiting for long.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the Chile Relleno, and it was amazing! The chile was perfectly cooked, and the cheese was melted to perfection. The tomato sauce was flavorful and complemented the dish well. The service was great, and the staff was friendly and accommodating.”
“The Carne Asada was delicious! The meat was tender and had a great flavor, and the rice and beans were perfectly cooked. The service was excellent, and the staff was very attentive.”
“I had the Tamales, and they were outstanding! The pork was juicy and flavorful, and the tamale was perfectly steamed. The service was top-notch, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.”
Kiki’s Restaurant & Bar is a fantastic Mexican restaurant in El Paso that offers delicious food, a family-friendly atmosphere, and excellent service. The Chile Relleno is a must-try dish, but all of the menu items are flavorful and satisfying. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or a fun night out with friends, Kiki’s is the perfect spot. They have earned the rank of the top 5 Mexican restaurants in El Paso.
Los Bandidos de Carlos & Mickey’s
Address: 1310 Magruder St.
Los Bandidos de Carlos & Mickey’s, among the top Mexican restaurants in El Paso, is a Mexican restaurant that has been a favorite since 1976. The restaurant has a festive and colorful interior, with murals, papel picado, and other traditional Mexican decorations. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere, with a bar area and plenty of seating for groups of all sizes.
The restaurant’s signature dish is the Carne Asada, which is a marinated and grilled steak served with rice, beans, and guacamole. The steak is cooked to perfection and seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices that create a delicious flavor profile that customers rave about.
One of the unique features of Los Bandidos de Carlos & Mickey’s is the wide variety of menu options available. The restaurant offers traditional Mexican dishes as well as Tex-Mex favorites, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Enchiladas – Three soft corn tortillas filled with cheese and covered with a flavorful sauce, topped with onions and shredded cheese.
▣ Fajitas – Sizzling grilled chicken or beef with sautéed onions and peppers, served with rice, beans, and tortillas.
▣ Tacos – Three soft or crispy tortillas filled with your choice of meat and topped with onions, cilantro, and salsa.
▣ Chile Relleno – Large, mild green chile stuffed with cheese, dipped in egg batter, and fried to a golden brown, served with rice and beans.
▣ Shrimp Cocktail – Fresh shrimp served with avocado, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro in a tangy cocktail sauce.
The service at Los Bandidos de Carlos & Mickey’s is attentive and friendly. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to provide recommendations to customers. The restaurant is often busy, especially during peak hours, but the staff ensures that the food is served hot and fresh, and customers are never kept waiting for long.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the Carne Asada, and it was amazing! The steak was perfectly cooked and seasoned, and the guacamole was fresh and flavorful. The service was great, and the atmosphere was lively and fun.”
“The Enchiladas were delicious! The sauce was flavorful and had just the right amount of spice, and the cheese was melted to perfection. The service was excellent, and the staff was very friendly and accommodating.”
“I had the Shrimp Cocktail, and it was outstanding! The shrimp were fresh and perfectly cooked, and the cocktail sauce had a great tangy flavor. The service was top-notch, and the restaurant had a great atmosphere.”
Los Bandidos de Carlos & Mickey’s is a fantastic Mexican restaurant in El Paso that offers a variety of traditional Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex favorites. The Carne Asada is a must-try dish, but all of the menu items are flavorful and satisfying. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. The lively atmosphere and festive decor make Los Bandidos de Carlos & Mickey’s a great spot for a night out with friends or a family gathering. They deserve to be ranked among the top 5 Mexican restaurants in El Paso.
Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop
Address: 2131 N Mesa St.
Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop, one of the most popular Mexican restaurants in El Paso, is a trendy and modern taco shop that offers a unique take on traditional Mexican street food. The restaurant has a colorful and vibrant interior, with Lucha Libre wrestling masks and posters decorating the walls. The restaurant has a casual and fun atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a quick lunch or a fun night out with friends.
The restaurant’s signature dish is the Korean Beef Taco, which is made with marinated and grilled beef, topped with pickled vegetables and a spicy gochujang sauce. The taco is a fusion of Mexican and Korean flavors and has become a fan favorite.
One of the unique features of Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop is the wide variety of taco options available. The restaurant offers creative fillings such as duck confit, carne asada fries, and lobster, allowing customers to try new and exciting flavors.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Carne Asada Taco – Grilled and seasoned beef topped with onions, cilantro, and salsa.
▣ Pork Belly Taco – Slow-cooked pork belly topped with pickled vegetables and a spicy aioli sauce.
▣ Lobster Taco – Lobster meat topped with avocado, cilantro, and a spicy mayo sauce.
▣ Carne Asada Fries – Crispy fries topped with grilled beef, cheese, and guacamole.
▣ Churros – Fried dough pastries dusted with cinnamon sugar, served with a side of caramel dipping sauce.
The service at Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop is quick and efficient, with staff who are knowledgeable about the menu and ready to provide recommendations to customers. The restaurant is often busy, but the staff ensures that the food is served hot and fresh, and customers are never kept waiting for long.
Customer Reviews:
“The Korean Beef Taco was amazing! The beef was perfectly cooked and had a great flavor, and the pickled vegetables added a nice crunch. The service was friendly and efficient, and the restaurant had a great atmosphere.”
“I tried the Pork Belly Taco, and it was delicious! The pork was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the spicy aioli sauce was the perfect complement. The staff was knowledgeable and helpful, and the restaurant had a fun and trendy vibe.”
“The Carne Asada Fries were outstanding! The fries were crispy and topped with a generous amount of beef, cheese, and guacamole. The Churros were also delicious, and the caramel dipping sauce was the perfect sweet touch. The service was top-notch, and the staff was very friendly and accommodating.”
Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop is a must-visit spot in El Paso for anyone looking for creative and delicious tacos. The Korean Beef Taco is a fan favorite, but all of the menu items are unique and flavorful. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the restaurant has a fun and trendy atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a night out with friends, Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop is the perfect spot to indulge in some delicious tacos. They stand out among the top Mexican restaurants in El Paso.
Chico’s Tacos
Address: 11381 Montwood Dr.
Chico’s Tacos, one of the top Mexican restaurants in El Paso, is a famous institution that has been serving its unique take on Mexican food since 1953. The restaurant has a retro interior with a distinctive 1950s vibe, and it has become an icon in the local community. The signature dish at Chico’s Tacos is the rolled tacos, which are small, crispy tacos filled with ground beef and topped with a savory tomato sauce and shredded cheese.
One of the unique features of Chico’s Tacos is the way the rolled tacos are served. Instead of being served on a plate, the tacos are placed in a bowl and smothered in the savory tomato sauce and cheese, creating a messy and delicious meal that customers have come to love.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Rolled Tacos – Small, crispy tacos filled with ground beef and topped with a savory tomato sauce and shredded cheese.
▣ Chico’s Special – Two rolled tacos, a beef burrito, and a small order of fries, all smothered in the savory tomato sauce and cheese.
▣ Tostadas – Crispy corn tortillas topped with beans, lettuce, cheese, and tomatoes.
▣ Fries – Crispy french fries served plain or smothered in the savory tomato sauce and cheese.
▣ Hot Dogs – Grilled hot dogs served with a variety of toppings, including chili, cheese, and onions.
The service at Chico’s Tacos is quick and efficient, with staff who are friendly and accommodating. The restaurant is often busy, but the staff works hard to keep the food coming out hot and fresh, and customers are never kept waiting for long.
Customer Reviews:
“The rolled tacos at Chico’s Tacos are a must-try! They are crispy and delicious, and the savory tomato sauce and cheese take them to the next level. The staff is quick and friendly, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.”
“I love the Chico’s Special! It’s the perfect combination of rolled tacos, a beef burrito, and fries, all smothered in the delicious tomato sauce and cheese. The restaurant has a fun and retro atmosphere, and the staff is always friendly and helpful.”
“Chico’s Tacos is a local institution, and it’s easy to see why. The rolled tacos are a unique and tasty take on Mexican food, and the smothered fries are a must-try. The service is always quick and efficient, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.”
Chico’s Tacos is a must-visit spot in El Paso for anyone looking for a unique take on Mexican food. The rolled tacos are a signature dish and a fan favorite, and the smothered fries and Chico’s Special are also must-try items. The restaurant has a fun and retro atmosphere, and the quick and friendly service makes it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal. They rank amid the top 5 Mexican restaurants in El Paso for good reasons.
Each of these restaurants in El Paso offers unique menu items, fantastic service, and a welcoming atmosphere, making them all great options for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
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