Café Central has always been a staple of fine dining in the borderland. Whether for celebrations or just post–Plaza Theatre dinners, this restaurant is the perfect exclamation point. Lunch or dinner should always begin with the signature cream of green chile soup, presented in a pitcher. Another delicious (and new) combination is the Farro and Kimchi Salad, which also features beets, brussels sprouts, shiitake mushrooms, and a miso-tinged yogurt. Entrées seldom fail to impress, like the Miso Chilean Sea Bass atop subtle ginger jasmine rice and the puntas de filete, fabulous beef tenderloin tips with strips of aggressive green chile. For dessert, consider the tres leches cake or a glorious cheese tray. The dining room is elegant but the bar is fun—and often full of El Paso notables like Beto O’Rourke and Grammy Award–winning cellist Zuill Bailey. Sommelier Phillip Boccuto will guide you to the ideal wine choice for any meal.