by Anonymouse

Created on: October 07, 2009   Last Updated: October 09, 2009

Bordering the Rio Grande, El Paso, Texas, sits across from Mexico's Ciudad Juarez. The city is known as a cultural staple of America's Southwest. It earned itself the nickname "Six Shooter Capital" due to crime in the late 1800s. The booming economy and favorable year-round climate drew entrepreneurs to El Paso, but it also attracted thieves, gamblers, murderers, and prostitutes. El Paso has since grown from its Wild West roots and now ranks as the 22nd-largest city in the United States, boasting hundreds of restaurants and mouthwatering meals. The food and atmosphere of the top five El Paso restaurants simply can't be beat.

1. Los Bandidos de Carlos & Mickey's ($$)

Known to locals as Carlos & Mickey's, this family-owned restaurant offers more than 70 menu items. Stop by for some of the best authentic Mexican food in El Paso. For extra kicks, order a few drinks. Carlos & Mickey's serves the tastiest margaritas in town! Depending on when you come, live mariachi or jazz music might spice up your visit even more. Los Banditos de Carlos & Mickey's has been serving fresh food for more than two decades, and everyone in El Paso seems to know about it. Be sure to make reservations at this always-busy restaurant.

2. Cattle Baron Steak & Seafood ($$$)

Cattle Baron Steak & Seafood is conveniently located near the El Paso International Airport. Many visitors assume it's a tourist trap, but that couldn't be farther from the truth. Locals visit this restaurant often. They keep coming back for three reasons: the service, the steak, and (believe it or not) the salad bar. Cattle Baron steaks come in a variety of cuts, flavors, and sizes. Servers are quick and attentive. Best of all, the salad bar is colossal. Vegetarians can easily create filling meals with so many delicious options. Your needs will always come first at this restaurant.

3. Capetto's Italian Restaurant ($$)

Capetto's is called "El Paso's Favorite Italian Restaurant" for good reason. Scrumptious authentic food has been served here since the 1976 grand opening. It doesn't matter whether you're in the mood for Veal Florentine, Steak Pizzaiola, or Chicken Vesuvius, your meal is going to be cooked to perfection at Capetto's. Each of the menu items is made from scratch with only the highest-quality ingredients. Best of all, if you're ever in a hurry - or just don't feel like waiting for your food at the restaurant - you can pre-order. Capetto's will have everything ready when you arrive!

4. Little Diner ($)

Little Diner is situated just 15 minutes northwest of El Paso, in a small town called Canutillo. It's not easy to find, but the food is definitely worth the drive. Everything at this critically acclaimed Mexican restaurant is fresh and homemade. Little Diner chefs even grind their own corn for tortillas and gorditas! Publications from Gourmet Magazine to the Texas Monthly Guidebook have praised Little Diner for its unparalleled meals. Celebrities like Tommy Lee Jones and Don Henley have even enjoyed the generous portions of genuine Mexican food served here.

5. Crave Kitchen and Bar ($$)

Crave Kitchen and Bar is a tiny El Paso restaurant with a sophisticated atmosphere, not to mention an eclectic mix of menu items. Try dipping the sweet potato fries in chipotle ketchup, or sample the macaroni and cheese with green chilies. Crave is known for serving comfort foods with a surprising twist. It also boasts a vast selections of beers from around the globe. Crave Kitchen and Bar offers casual-fine dining at its very best, so don't miss out on the chance to shock your tastebuds with new and exciting foods.

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