City: El Paso, TX

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (915) 532-1881

Address: 2525 North Mesa St.

Description: This moderately fancy restaurant is an El Paso staple for a special night out. The traditional restaurant atmosphere is heavy on theme, with lots of lamps, indoor plants, and old paintings and photographs that make you settle into the surroundings. The decor here nods to some 1950s New York Italian lounge without being smoky or stale. Highly decorated by several well-known wine publications, Mesa Street Bar and Grill has an extensive wine list that includes both local New Mexico and Texas wines, as well as a great selection of American and international wines for almost every budget. They also have a cigar room with a menu of both vintage and infused cigars.The food here, too, is traditional, with their steaks and seafood the crowning points of the menu, while the salads and greens feel a bit more like an afterthought. You’ll get great service that is neither overwhelming nor lacking, and they do monthly six-course wine tasting dinners. An excellent executive chef and pastry chef make all desserts in-house, including homemade ice cream. If you aren’t in the mood for a full meal (or don’t have the budget for it), you can opt to have a drink in the classic bar or on the cozy patio, where a limited (and more reasonably priced) bar menu boasts a few tasty offerings.