Introduction
Stomach rumbling after a grueling physics lecture? Craving something more exciting than the usual suspects in the Union food court? You’re definitely not alone. Being a UTEP student, faculty member, or even a visitor means navigating the world of academia and, equally important, finding delicious and convenient meals. Luckily, the area surrounding UTEP boasts a vibrant culinary scene, offering everything from quick bites to satisfying feasts. This guide will take you on a flavorful journey through the best food options near UTEP, catering to diverse tastes and budgets, ensuring you stay fueled and focused throughout your Miner experience. Whether you’re a seasoned El Pasoan or new to the Sun City, there’s something delicious waiting just around the corner. We will explore a variety of restaurants and food options within a reasonable distance of the UTEP campus, focusing on the area easily accessible on foot or a short drive, so you can get your meal and get back to your studies or other pursuits quickly.
Budget-Friendly Bites
Let’s face it, being a student often means being on a budget. Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for affordability. There are several fantastic options near UTEP where you can grab a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
The Burrito Factory
A local favorite, The Burrito Factory is legendary for its massive, mouthwatering burritos packed with your choice of fillings. From classic carne asada to flavorful vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. The atmosphere is casual and lively, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner with friends. Expect to pay around eight to ten dollars for a burrito that will keep you full for hours. It’s located just a short walk from campus, making it a super convenient option. What makes it good for students? The portion sizes are incredibly generous for the price and they have frequent specials.
Lucy’s Cafe
Lucy’s is a small, family-owned eatery known for its hearty breakfast plates and comforting lunch specials. Think fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and savory enchiladas – all at incredibly reasonable prices. This is the kind of place where you feel like you’re eating at your grandma’s house, with friendly service and a warm atmosphere. Most breakfast plates are under ten dollars, and lunch specials are equally budget-friendly. Lucy’s is a short drive from campus, making it a great option for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday lunch. Its charm lies in its home-style cooking and down-to-earth prices, making it a great choice for students missing home-cooked meals.
Arandas
A great place to grab some fast Mexican food. Their tortas are very filling for under $10 and are located close to campus so you don’t have to go far. Arandas is a local chain so the menu is consistent and you know what you are getting. Perfect for a quick lunch after your morning classes.
El Taco Tote
Looking for a quick and tasty taco fix? El Taco Tote is a popular spot for delicious tacos, quesadillas, and other Mexican favorites. The portions are generous, the prices are affordable, and the service is fast. It’s a great option for a quick lunch or a late-night snack. You can easily grab a filling meal for under ten dollars. The location is close to campus, and is extremely popular with the student population.
Tex-Mex Treasures
El Paso is renowned for its Tex-Mex cuisine, and there are several excellent restaurants near UTEP where you can experience the authentic flavors of the Southwest.
L&J Cafe
A true El Paso institution, L&J Cafe (also known as “Los Originales”) has been serving up delicious Tex-Mex dishes for over eighty years. Their enchiladas, chile rellenos, and carne asada are legendary, and the atmosphere is lively and festive. While it’s slightly pricier than the budget-friendly options, the quality and portions are well worth it. Expect to pay around fifteen to twenty dollars for a meal. L&J Cafe is a short drive from campus and is a must-try for anyone visiting El Paso. It is the perfect spot to bring your family when they come to visit and show off the city.
Julio’s Cafe Corona
Another El Paso favorite, Julio’s Cafe Corona is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and its vibrant atmosphere. Their fajitas, tacos, and enchiladas are all incredibly delicious, and the portions are generous. It’s a great place to go for a casual dinner with friends or family. Expect to pay around ten to fifteen dollars for a meal. Julio’s is a short drive from campus.
Carlos and Mickey’s
A popular option among the UTEP crowd, this popular Tex-Mex eatery is a prime location for students and faculty to get their fix after a day of classes. It’s known for it’s strong margaritas and generous portions. You can grab some apps to share, or enjoy the extensive list of Tex-Mex plates.
International Flavors
Sometimes, you crave something beyond Tex-Mex. Luckily, the area near UTEP offers a diverse range of international cuisine.
Pho Tre Bien
Craving a comforting bowl of pho? Pho Tre Bien is a popular Vietnamese restaurant known for its flavorful broths, fresh noodles, and generous portions. They offer a variety of pho options, as well as other Vietnamese specialties like banh mi and spring rolls. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Expect to pay around ten to fifteen dollars for a bowl of pho. Pho Tre Bien is a short drive from campus. Its aromatic broths and flavorful ingredients make it a popular choice for students seeking a comforting and healthy meal.
Tadka House
This is your go-to spot if you are looking for Indian food. There is plenty to chose from that is vegan and non-vegan friendly. Their prices are great for the generous portions and there is a large selection of flavors that will have your mouth watering.
House of Pizza
Sometimes, you just need a good slice of pizza. House of Pizza has been serving up delicious pizzas for over fifty years. From classic pepperoni to gourmet creations, they have something for everyone. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Expect to pay around ten to fifteen dollars for a pizza. House of Pizza is a short drive from campus and offers delivery. It’s a great option for a casual night in with friends.
Coffee Shops and Quick Snacks
Need a caffeine fix or a quick bite between classes? There are several excellent coffee shops and snack spots near UTEP.
Hillside Coffee & Donut Co.
A local favorite, Hillside Coffee & Donut Co. is known for its delicious coffee, creative donuts, and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place to study, meet up with friends, or just grab a quick pick-me-up. Expect to pay around three to five dollars for a coffee and donut. Hillside is a short walk from campus and is a popular spot for students. Their unique donut flavors and artisanal coffee make it a standout choice.
Joe Vinny & Bronsons Kombucha
Not only are there kombuchas tasty, but they have lots of other drink options and small eats that are easy to eat in between classes. Their unique drinks are perfect for getting your energy up.
Starbucks
Located conveniently on campus, Starbucks is the go-to spot for many students for a quick caffeine fix or a light snack. While it might be a bit pricier than other options, the convenience and familiarity make it a popular choice.
Treat Yourself Options
Sometimes, you deserve a special meal. For those occasions, here are a few slightly pricier restaurants near UTEP that are perfect for celebrations or just treating yourself.
Crave Kitchen and Bar
A popular spot for a more upscale dining experience, Crave offers a diverse menu with everything from burgers to pasta to seafood. The atmosphere is modern and stylish, perfect for a date night or a special occasion. Expect to pay around twenty to thirty dollars for a meal. Crave is a short drive from campus. While it’s pricier than other options, the quality of the food and the ambiance make it worth it.
Ripe Eatery
Located right outside the campus, Ripe is a more formal eatery that provides a unique dining experience. They are open for lunch and dinner, so you have more options when you choose to visit them.
Beyond the Restaurants
While restaurants are a great option, there are other ways to get your food fix near UTEP.
Food Trucks
The food truck scene near UTEP is constantly evolving. Keep an eye out for trucks parked near campus, especially during lunch hours. They offer a variety of cuisines at often lower prices. This is a perfect opportunity to try a one-of-a-kind restaurant.
On-Campus Dining
The Union food court offers a variety of options, including Chick-fil-A, Subway, and Panda Express. Miner Village also has a few dining options. While these are convenient, exploring the restaurants outside of campus offers a wider variety of cuisines and often better value.
Tips for Dining Near UTEP
Parking can be a challenge near some restaurants, especially during peak hours. Be sure to check for street parking or paid lots.
Many of the restaurants mentioned are easily walkable from campus, especially those on Cincinnati Avenue and Mesa Street.
Always ask if restaurants offer student discounts! Many local businesses are happy to support UTEP students.
Be sure to check the hours of operation before heading to a restaurant, especially for late-night options.
Many restaurants offer online ordering and delivery services through platforms like Grubhub and DoorDash.
Conclusion
From budget-friendly burritos to upscale dining experiences, the area surrounding UTEP offers a diverse and delicious culinary scene. Whether you’re craving Tex-Mex, Vietnamese, Italian, or something else entirely, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. We know that being a Miner is not just about studying and lectures; it’s also about discovering new places, making memories, and enjoying delicious food. So, get out there, explore the culinary landscape near UTEP, and find your favorite spots. Happy eating, Miners! And don’t forget to support our local businesses – they’re the heart and soul of our community. Remember to look for student discounts wherever you go; it never hurts to ask! And most importantly, enjoy the delicious journey. Remember the best food near UTEP is about discovering the best places that the Sun City has to offer.
