KLAQ recently lost a really cool neighbor on El Paso’s west side. Well, not really “lost” … he didn’t move far. Question now is, what will happen to his, (now empty), building?
We had the coolest next door neighbor ever here at The Q studios on N. Mesa. An amazing restaurant that used, among other things, wood fired ovens. Every morning, it was like having a campfire next door.
Extra nice on cold, cloudy mornings.
Who Was Next To KLAQ?
It was a Burger King for decades and then, suddenly, the king abdicated. It was just as KLAQ was moving in when I saw the BK signage replaced with a new sign that said, simply, “beer”.
READ MORE: KLAQ’s Past & Current Locations
“Genius” I thought … word must have gotten out that we were moving next door and some smart guy said, forget burgers; let’s open a bar. Right next to KLAQ? We’ll make a fortune. Makes sense, right?
Meeting Chef Rulis
I remember first meeting Chef Rulis over pizza. He was settling into his new restaurant and trying to get his wood fired ovens dialed in by making pizzas. He had to make a bunch and, not wanting to waste them, he brought them to us. BEST first impression ever.
Rulis International Kitchen was off and running but, not long ago, Rulis decided to up his game and really bust out with the goodness, rebranding as Sazon By Chef Rulis.
Sazon And Starlight Gastropub
Not content to rest on his incredibly delicious laurels, Rulis saw yet another opportunity and joined forces with the nearby Starlight Gastropub. That, so far, has been the best idea in the history of El Paso restaurant ideas. Peek inside here.
What’s Next For 4176 N. Mesa?
That remans to be seen. It’s currently empty and, you would think, will soon be another restaurant//bar property. Thing is, the area is already restaurant heavy and the Sazon/Starlight combo makes for some TUFF competition.
Knowing El Paso, I predict one of these things moving next door:
Vape Shop – El Paso can’t seem to get enough of these things … even if Texas still says no to the good stuff.Nail Salon – Only business in El Paso giving vape shops a run for their money.Strip Club/Independently owned bar with half naked chicks and warm beer – Our staff alone could keep it in business. Low risk investment.Flashback – The triumphant return of the king? It’s already got the size, shape and feel .. except now it’s a little spiffier inside. Or maybe Mickey Dees could stage a coup.
Final, (most likely), answer – Spirit Halloween Store.
Top 10 Oldest Restaurants in Texas
We have looked high and low, all over the Lone Star State and after comparing notes this is the list we have come up with, the oldest restaurants in the Great State of Texas. Feel free to update your Bucket List accordingly.
Gallery Credit: Jim Weaver
El Paso’s Oldest Restaurants
10 Oldest Restaurants In El Paso
Gallery Credit: Dubba G