Photos by Emily Rahn
I grew up in Texas so my expectations for authentic Mexican food is influenced by the state’s proximity to the country. Certainly, Texas has its own twist on traditional dishes and Mexico is quite large and encompasses a wide variety of cuisines — much like Southern cooking in Augusta, Georgia varies from that in Augusta, Maine or Augusta, Kansas. No matter the location, it’s safe to judge any Mexican restaurant by its tacos and margaritas.
That meant I had to try the new El Paso — Tacos & Tequila restaurant shortly after they opened. Located next to Grantski Records in the former Mellow Mushroom building on Broad Street, the family-owned restaurant is poised to be a downtown favorite.
Manager Obed Castillo has a vested interest in the success of El Paso, having worked his way up from practically every restaurant position. He has a thorough understanding of the business and a growing love for his customers. “I see the customer happiness. I see them try the food and the drinks. I love seeing people arrive and leave super happy. They’re excited to be here!”
Every plate of Enchiladas con Mole, Nachos Locos with steak, chicken and shrimp, Fajitas al Pastor, and Chile Relleno is made with care by the Hispanic chefs. “All my food is authentic Mexican food,” says Castillo. “They’re not big plates, not outrageous portions — just real, authentic Mexican food.”
Street tacos with carnitas wrapped in a warm, corn tortilla and topped with fresh onions and cilantro will always be my favorite. The classic combination requires quality ingredients, leaving the simplicity of the combination no place to hide. Beef tacos and shrimp or fish tacos are also available, and an El Paso favorite is the Puff Taco — a large crunchy taco filled with beef, lettuce and tomato and then topped with chile con carne and queso.
Whether you’re enjoying dinner with friends or just stopping in for some choriqueso and tableside guacamole, anything can be paired with a fabulous drink from the bar. “I’m from Mexico,” says Castillo, spreading a big smile across his face. “My bar is my baby. Everybody loves what’s on draft — it changes weekly. The margaritas are fresh. There are lots of options.”
The 15 margaritas on the menu are just a start. There are other Latin drinks like mojitos or a paloma and an extensive beer selection between on-draft and in-bottle options. Imports from Mexican breweries like Dos Equis®, Corona® and Tecate® make a great pairing for those looking for a lighter beverage.
The tequila selection is the most impressive with over 30 varieties of blanco, añejo, and reposado. Most of the margaritas are made with the house Jose Cuervo®, whether frozen or on the rocks. Popular varieties include the Cucumber Jalapeño Margarita, Coronarita and the original Champagne Margarita. My personal favorite is the Mangonada with Chamoy and Tajín balancing the sweetness of the mango in a drink that tastes like the classic Mexican dessert in a glass.
The bar toward the front of the building is filled with light from the large windows of the corner building, a comfortable space for hanging out with friends or people watching on Broad Street. The rest of the building has been updated beautifully with brightly painted murals of traditional Hispanic and Augustan symbols for a scintillating environment perfect for authentic food, mouthwatering drinks and a good time.
Seen in the October 2024 issue of Augusta magazine.
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