I finally checked out Ámbar inside the Plaza Hotel downtown and honestly... that burger alone…read morealready earned them a return visit. I had just come down from a Tom Lea gallery event upstairs and the restaurant was packed. I figured it was a long shot, but they still found a way to seat me. Service stayed friendly even with the rush, which I always notice. The burger was easily one of the best I've had in El Paso. Clearly handcrafted, cooked right, super juicy, really flavorful. What impressed me most was the bun actually held everything together instead of falling apart halfway through like most gourmet burgers do. At about $20, it felt justified. One thing worth noting, especially if you're into spirits: they have one of the largest tequila and mezcal collections around. Definitely a destination spot if that's your thing. I tried their carajillo but found out they add Baileys, which made it sweeter than I usually prefer. Not bad at all, just more dessert-leaning than my taste. Live music from Jordan Taylor was happening that night too, which made the whole atmosphere feel elevated without being stuffy. Because that first visit stuck with me, I went back recently to try their lunch special with a friend. For $26 you get an appetizer, entrée, sides, guacamole, tostadas, and dessert. It's honestly a great way to try a range of dishes without committing to just one plate. Funny enough, it doesn't look like a huge amount of food at first... but we were completely stuffed by the end, so kudos to them for balancing portions well while still giving variety. Standouts: * The octopus cocktail appetizer was excellent. Bright, fresh, good texture. * Carne asada was cooked exactly right. Tender but still had bite like a proper steak. * Mushroom components in several dishes were surprisingly flavorful. * Desserts were a highlight. The arroz con leche arancini especially. Crispy outside, creamy inside, not overly sweet. Very well done. Some things were more middle-of-the-road: * Salmon dish leaned bland, lots of texture but not much flavor. * Guacamole tasted a bit acidic. * Goat cheese in the enchiladas was subtle to the point of disappearing. * Corn and mashed potatoes were fine but nothing memorable. Timing was reasonable. Food came out in about 20 minutes, but with a full meal you'll want to plan roughly an hour to an hour and a half total if you're not rushing. One practical perk: they validate parking at the Plaza garage next door, which downtown absolutely needs more of. Overall, beautiful space, solid service, some really strong dishes, and a few that could use more punch. Still very much worth checking out, especially if you're downtown already or want a nicer but still relaxed lunch or dinner spot. Definitely recommend giving it a try. 106 W Mills Ave, El Paso, TX 79901

Nice ambiance. Business appropriate , date appropriate…read more Service was pretty good. We ate here 3 times and the food is ok to good but forgettable. Live music on certain nights. All I remember after 3 meals is that the guac wasn't very good. Too acidic and not enough flavor.

( Sunday 5-17-26. ) As usual ,Thomas, Sara , Ean and…read moreeveryone else was their gracious, warm, welcomming selves that I've grown to love! I've patronized Crave since they opened 13 years ago. By far my favorite El Paso restaurant. Eileen is the fly in the ointment! Very angry, very unprofessional. Better suited to Village Inn than Crave. .I actually try not to come in when she works....that's a shame. Robert Mason El Paso, TX

Amazing food, great service, and a casual, intimate ambiance. Check out my photos. I wish I was as…read morephotogenic and delicious as the food!

The to go bento boxes are huge and so delicious. They are packed so nicely and I've never seen a to…read morego container that looks like this. I would recommend this to everyone.

Pretty good food It just took a little bit to sit us down because there was nobody in the front for…read morea little