Located in a co-working space in downtown El Paso, Taconeta may be counter-order but the kitchen’s expertise, not to mention the happy surroundings, with green plants in macramé hangers, tall ceilings with floor-to-ceiling windows, and delightful painted wooden animals from Mexico, gives it a loyal clientele. The suadero taco comes filled with confit brisket, guacamole, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.. The Baja fish taco (tempura fried cod with cabbage slaw, chile mayo) is classic; on the other hand, the fried mushroom taco, with black bean puree, crispy kale, and avocado, is definitely not the same old thing. A great plus is Taconeta’s bar program: You can get a hibiscus margarita (beautiful purple color) or an agua fresca of your choice (traditional flavors include cucumber, watermelon, and the ever-popular hibiscus—that’s “jamaica” in Spanish) mixed with tequila or mezcal. The wine list includes a Spanish tempranillo that goes extremely well with that mushroom taco.  But don’t just take our word: The place got a nod as a semifinalist in 2024 from the James Beard Foundation in the Outstanding Wine and Beverages Program category.