Desert views, mezcal brews, and the best bites in the 915.
Let’s be honest—El Paso doesn’t always get the spotlight when it comes to Texas nightlife. But that’s exactly why it should. This border town is bursting with flavor, personality, and some of the most underrated bars and bites in the Lone Star State. From rooftop mezcal moments to taco truck turn-ups, we scouted the city for the best spots to sip, snack, and soak in that iconic El Paso sunset.
Whether you’re a local looking to shake up your usual spot or just passing through with a craving for cold drinks and killer tacos, these spots have your night out handled. Let’s get into it.
The Tap
Neighborhood: Downtown
Vibe: Divey, iconic, and packed with El Paso personality
Why Go: Insane nachos. Cold beer. And locals swear by it.
👉 Visit The Tap
One word: legendary. The Tap has been serving up soul-soothing nachos and stiff drinks for decades. It’s cash-only, gritty in the best way, and somehow always bumping. This is where you go for your pregame AND postgame. Plus, their jukebox? Fire.
DeadBeach Brewery
Neighborhood: Downtown
Vibe: Industrial beer garden meets El Paso edge
Why Go: Local brews, rotating taps, and hearty bites
👉 Visit DeadBeach Brewery
A brewery with attitude. DeadBeach delivers bold beer, backyard-style seating, and a laid-back energy that’s perfect for winding down or turning up. Grab the Borderland Lager and pair it with their rotating taco menu when the food truck’s out back. It hits every time.
Bowie Feathers
Neighborhood: Inside Tricky Falls (Downtown)
Vibe: Speakeasy meets dive bar
Why Go: Cool cocktails, moody vibes, and occasional live sets
👉 Visit Bowie Feathers
Hidden above Tricky Falls, this spot gives major secret-club energy without the pretension. Bowie Feathers is where you come for good music, low lighting, and a cocktail menu that surprises. Try their house mezcal drinks and thank us later.
Lick It Up (Yes, that’s the name)
Neighborhood: Downtown
Vibe: Vegan Mexican street food with a punk edge
Why Go: Insanely good tacos and agua frescas—BYOB encouraged
👉 Visit Lick It Up
Technically a food truck turned brick-and-mortar, Lick It Up brings heavy flavor and high energy. Their mushroom asada tacos and homemade chips are the real deal. Bring your own beer or grab one nearby, and turn the sidewalk into your own little taco-and-tequila party.
Rubik's Arcade Bar
Neighborhood: Westside
Vibe: Booze + retro games + neon
Why Go: Because Pac-Man + Palomas = elite combo
👉 Visit Rubik's
If you're into cocktails and nostalgia, Rubik’s is your spot. With arcade classics, themed nights, and a rotating drink menu that leans quirky (in the best way), this bar blends fun with flavor. Great for groups, date night, or reliving your Street Fighter glory days.
Later, Later
Neighborhood: Five Points
Vibe: Chill house party, but make it craft cocktails
Why Go: Mezcal, live DJs, and street tacos out front
👉 Visit Later, Later
This funky little spot feels like a backyard party with bartenders who know what they’re doing. Come for the cocktails, stay for the taco stand that posts up out front on weekends. It’s effortlessly cool without trying too hard.
Quick Tips for Bar Hopping in El Paso
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Start downtown to hit a bunch of spots in walking distance.
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Sunset sweet spot? Around 7:30–8:30 PM. Head to Hope & Anchor for the best views.
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Craving tacos? Honestly, almost every bar here is near a taco truck. Bless.
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Need a chill night? Stick to DeadBeach and The Tap.
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Want music + vibes? Bowie Feathers and Later, Later never miss.
Final Sip:
El Paso’s bar scene is vibrant, gritty, and completely its own. Whether you’re looking for fancy cocktails or just a good beer with even better tacos, this city knows how to deliver. And the best part? No long lines, no overpriced nonsense—just real drinks, real food, and real good times.
Want more guides like this? Follow @ShopBarLife for your next round of drink-worthy destinations.
