PRESENTED BY

PRESENTED BY

WELCOME TO NEON DESERT! Neon Desert Music Festival is a multi-day music festival held each year on Memorial Day weekend in El Paso, Texas. From the festival’s inception in 2011, Neon Desert Music Festival has continuously strived to be a yearly music event for El Paso by El Pasoans, while providing the local artistic community an outlet to showcase their talents alongside national and international headliners. Featuring multiple outdoor stages, local and regional artist displays, and a diverse music lineup with acts from across the globe, Neon Desert Music Festival continues to be the Southwest’s premier music festival each Memorial Day weekend. Visit www.neondesertmusicfestival.com for more information.

WELCOME TO NEON DESERT MUSIC FESTIVAL AND THE SUN CITY! From our music scene to our art scene to our foodie scene we’ve got a little bit of something for everyone here in El Paso. And we promise we have a lot more than (amazing) tacos. You’ll find everything from the best Scenic View in the Southwest, haunted places, and tequila for days here in El Paso! Where else can you... • • • • • •

HARDWELL • FOSTER THE PEOPLE • J BALVIN • ALESSO • LOGIC • MIGOS • GHOSTLAND OBSERVATORY NELLY • LIL UZI VERT • MON LAFERTE • BAAUER • THOMAS JACK • KHALID • MIJA LOS AMIGOS INVISIBLES • DLD • PORTER • TY SEGALL • MARC E. BASSY • SNOW THA PRODUCT TRAE THA TRUTH • THE CHAMANAS • TENNYSON • MEDASIN • MICHAEL CHRISTMAS • BOGAN VIA FRONTERA BUGALU • J^HIR • SORRYTOWN • STAN Z • RIBO FLAVIN • RARE INDIVIDUALS THE OTHER HALF • KILO AND THE DEW • OUR FRIEND THE MOUNTAIN • MIIJAS • ACID PIE DAYLUTA MEANS KINDNESS • YUNG JUNG • EDDY BOY • TROST HOUSE • FRYTHM • MIKEY CLOUD POLAROIDS • IF WE WERE TURTLES • FLAMÉL • VOLTA • ROSE.GOLDEN • BRANDON BAILEY JOHNSON NICO AND THE SILENT FILMS

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YELP + NEON DESERT MUSIC FESTIVAL

Climb a mountain in the middle of a city through the Franklin Mountains State Park. Enjoy a margarita at Carlos & Mickey’s in the city that invented the margarita *allegedly*. Chow down on the seafood enchiladas at Kiki’s smothered in their famous chile con queso. Enter Fool’s Gold Bar, a speakeasy themed bar, through the secret refrigerator entrance. Drink a Morning Wood coffee porter beer while playing corn hole at Ode Brewery. Devour a barley baked cookie at Crave Kitchen & Bar with friends (it’s big!).

Whether it’s your first time here or you’re a local looking to rediscover EP, we’ve got you covered! And as an added bonus, check out our Bookmark Collection and let Yelp be your guide for all things EP. Sincerely, Tanya Young, Yelp El Paso Community Ambassador

TABLE OF CONTENTS Pg. 01

WELCOME TO NEON DESERT

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WELCOME TO EL PASO

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THE 411 ON EL PASO

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EAT AT NDMF

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SHOP AT NDMF

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NDMF 101

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LOCAL YELP FAVORITES

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THANKS!

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EAT LIKE A LOCAL One thing you should definitely know about El Paso– We’re kind of a big deal when it comes to Mexican food. We’re talking enchiladas, tacos, burritos, machaca, tortas, and menudo (pro tip: perfect hangover remedy)... how can you go wrong?

Kiki’s Restaurant & Bar

Casa de Torta

$ | Mexican, Bars

$ | Mexican

Fries covered in chile con queso, machaca from the heavens, and flan to satisfy that sweet tooth… Kiki’s covers it all when it comes to Mexican food. If you want to try something unique, order their green crab enchiladas that come smothered in their delicious green sauce and cheese. Kick it up a notch with their world-famous chile con queso!

When you’re on the go, it’s great to be able to take your food to go and what better way to go mobile, than to put all the flavors your heart desires in a sandwich (aka a torta). Casa de Torta has made a name for themselves as one of the top places to get not only tortas, but also burritos, flautas, and nachos. Some Yelper torta favorites include the milanesa, Colitas de Pavo, Cubana, and Montana tortas.

THE 411 ON EL PASO

“I love El Paso for the small town feel that you get in this big city. Over the years, I have spent a lot of time traveling to different cities and even countries for my job. So for El Paso, the city has a lot to offer people in terms of a wide selection of restaurants, historic sites to visit as well as places to take family or friends. Also visiting big cities can be reached within a few hours to a day.” —Tom H.

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We asked a few our of local Yelp Elites what makes them so passionate about our city. Elites are the most active contributors on Yelp and the best go-to if you’re looking for expert recommendations on the top places to eat and shop in the area. Here’s what they had to say:

“Besides the obvious, FOOD?! I think what I love about El Paso is how this is an ever growing city that offers the locals so much. And they just keep getting better and better. From the diversity of food to the assortment of free festivities. My husband and I love the fact that the city is set up around its mountains. We especially love the night life it offers for our date nights. We live in the Northeast area so whether we venture out to the far Eastside off Zaragoza St. or to the Westside off Mesa St, it almost feels like we've entered a new city. Definitely a perfect place for a stay-cation lol. Let's not forget the gorgeous view of the city lights from El Paso and Mexico that one can view from Transmountain Highway. It's a perfect city for a young couple such as ourselves to live it up and continue to enjoy it all the way until we're too old to keep eating the town's delicious tacos.” —Judy B.


"In every corner of El Paso, there's a place for everyone. For an amazing seasonal dinner experience, check out Ripe's rotating menu and stellar staff. For a cozy place to chill with friends and a beer, or just coffee and a book, Joe Vinny and Bronson's Cafe is where it's at! For a great selection of small plates, I recommend Tabla, and then visiting the Dark Horse Tavern next door for some friendly faces and great beer! If you're looking for a local favorite Mexican joint, you can't miss L&Js, a popular place for a beer and a bite since the late 20's. And, after a long day of dancing at the music fest, you've burned enough calories to try Mi Piaci's rockin' creme brûlée. Enjoy!"—Kelly P.

“El Paso is a great city with fantastic food, beautiful views, and an active special event scene with big time concerts and shows. While there are obviously spectacular Mexican restaurants in abundance, El Paso surprises with a strong Middle Eastern food presence and top notch pizzerias. Spring marks the return of the local minor league baseball team which is always a big hit. Downtown continues to grow and expand with new breweries and exciting new restaurants and lofts. Now go explore El Paso!” —David T.

EAT AT NDMF

SHOP AT NEON DESERT

If there’s one thing we know how to do in EP, that’s eat! With some of the best Mexican food in the world, it’s no wonder we love to bring the heat and go bold with big flavors. Luckily for you, you don’t have to go too far to eat like a local.

Ready to switch up your outfit? Get a henna tattoo? From artists to clothing boutiques to paper flower vendors, it’s impossible to go home without a souvenir to remember NDMF 2017!

Crave Kitchen and Bar

Clasico Kitchen and Bar

$$ | American (New), Breakfast & Brunch

$$ | Mexican, Pubs

There’s a reason why Crave has been a long standing Yelper favorite… from their green chile chicken and waffles to the Barley Baked Cookie, Crave offers up some of most unique and delicious eats in the area. Check them out at NDMF to see what they’re cooking up!

Have you ever heard of a Toro Egg? It’s a jalapeño stuffed with cream cheese and wrapped in bacon. And Clasico is famous for them! If that doesn’t have you convinced, you should know their micheladas are top notch and come with options from everything like lime and chile to mango and chamoy.

NAHDA BOUTIQUE V&X BOUTIQUE HOMMEWORK WHERE PAPER BLOOMS UPTOWN CHEAPSKATE RUBY SUN STELA ROSE BOUTIQUE LE TRENDY DESERT PEOPLE CO. LOS VISIONARIES ART COLLECTIVE HENNA BY LUE FRESH

Hungry for more? Grab a bite at Eve’s Sinfully Good Sandwiches, Tacos Chinampa, or Mac’s Place — there’s something for everyone at Neon Desert! Pg 7

YELP + NEON DESERT MUSIC FESTIVAL Ruby Sun

NDMF: 101 First year at NDMF? Or maybe you’re a seasoned pro, but you’re looking to get the full experience. Between the music, the food, and shopping… there’s still a lot you have to see (and do)! You’ll find huge works of art being made during the festival, skaters zooming past you, large groups of people dancing with no music playing, and more!

SKATEPARK

LIVE VISUAL ARTISTS

SILENT DISCO Pg 9 YELP + NEON DESERT MUSIC FESTIVAL

GIANT JENGA

LOCAL YELP FAVORITES EATS

GRAB A BITE RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER.

Tabla

115 S Durango St, Ste D Tapas Bars, American (New) Sa: 11a-11p Su: Closed

Tabla is a great little classy Tapas Bar just by the Union Plaza… This place is best if you go in groups. Especially if you're like me and enjoy variety and willing to share you can maximize your experience by being able to try an assortment of Tapas… The Pear salad was great. One of the best salads I've had in my life. The Chickpea fries were intriguing in a good way. Bacon dates are a must. —Jason L.

Coco Loko Clamatos Y Mariscos 400 S Oregon St Seafood, Vegetarian Sa: 12p-12a Su: 11a-7p

Must go if you are in the mood for seafood snack type appetizers, beer and a great time. I think this place is ideal for the afternoon pre-game and sunday hangover… They serve the Coco Loko which is Pg 11

exactly that... it’s an actual open coconut filled with shrimp, peanuts and clamato sauce and other spices. This tastes like heaven… This place does know how to make their munchies. —Sergio M.

The Pot Au Feu 307 E Franklin

Breakfast & Brunch, French Sa: 10a-10p Su: 10a-3p

The food? Man...To die for (in my opinion)... I ordered the Philly cheesesteak. But dude, it was amazing! My side?!? Ooohhhh, I dunno...Just some MF'N POUTINE!!! Dude you don't know? Take crispy seasoned fries, and drizzle some legit brown gravy and cheese on top. Yea, the French have their flaws, but those dudes can eat. —Amos S.

Nolita Corner Bistro 420 E San Antonio Ave

American (New), Burgers, Bars Sa: 11a-10p Su: Closed

They have a very large and diverse menu, with everything from burgers and paninis to salads, tacos, and


sushi! Personally, the Steak Caprese The Downtowner Salad and the Plymouth Rock Panini 325 N Kansas St are my favorites… Stop by Nolita if Latin American, Mexican you're looking for a quick and casual Sa: 6:30a - 11:00p Su: 6:30a - 10p bite to eat! I had the burger first time and it —Adrienne A. didn't disappoint. Second time was the hatch chicken sandwich very El Tenedor different and delicious. Friday I had 414 E San Antonio Dr a ribeye that was cooked just as I Mexican, Spanish, Seafood asked for and was great quality. – Sa: 9a-9p Su: Closed Jonathan B. —Jonathan B. Shrimp Ceviche Corn Toast (Shrimp Tostadas): Holy FOODGASM!!! Probably the most flavorful well WHEN THE MUSIC STOPS, THE PARTY KEEPS GOING. marinated ceviche I've ever had ever since I left Latin America where Dark Horse Tavern I grew up! Dayam, you get two 115 S Durango St, Ste C tostadas LOADED with fresh and Bars, American (New), Gastropubs juicy shrimp marinated in tomato, Sa: 5p - 2a Su: Closed onion, cilantro, and hot peppers Dark Horse Tavern is a fun bar. with sliced avocados on top. Next Bartenders are nice and friendly. time I visit, gonna try to the Fish Drinks are strong and reasonably one! —Brain M. priced. Décor is actually pretty upscale with dark finished wood and high ceilings. Very nice Delight aesthetic overall. —David T. 502 N Oregon St

DRINKS

Burgers, Salad, Sandwiches Sa: 5p-10p Su: 11a-3p

I picked the lamb schwarma. If you never had one it is a Middle Eastern dish and the meat is placed on a roll similar to the kind on a gyro. The one I had so much flavor that I could not even tell what exactly the sauce applied to the meal but it was incredible… This is definitely a place to try when you are downtown and it is very close to San Jacinto Plaza. —Tom H.

Blackbird Cantina Deluxe 533 W Franklin Ave Bars Sa+Su: 5p-2a

The bartenders are fantastic, they really know their stuff and will make you whatever your heart desires. They also have quite a few beers on tap and the patio is big and pretty at night with all the lights. —Ellen W.

International 114 E Mills Ave Bars Sa+Su: 4p-2a

I was blown away it was like I was back home… I sat at the bar, the music was sultry and sexy. I was captivated by the mezzanine and the the third floor out looking the San Jacinto Plaza. It was a rooftop paradise with an additional bar the staff was terrific and attentive to everyone. —Armando A.

Gray Dog

500 N Oregon St Cocktail Bars Sa+Su: 4p-2a

They have a large assortment of craft beers available but most of them are in a bottle which is understandable, it's a small place. From what I can tell they have a decent size liquor selection and when I was leaving I noticed table toppers with a little menu, so they have food. —Jorge R.

Craft and Social 305 E Franklin Ave

Pubs, Wine Bars, Sandwiches Sa: 3p-2a Su: 1p-9p

Craft and Social is my favorite bar in town… I have actually been here on several occasions in the past year. Each and every time has been Pg 13

enjoyable and super chill. Whether I was hanging out here with a couple of friends and playing Cards Against Humanity late on a Saturday night or stopping by on my own in the late afternoon on a weekday, I have enjoyed every moment at Craft & Social. —Arianna F.

The Tap

408 E San Antonio Ave Dive Bars, Mexican Sa: 9a-2a Su: 10a-2a

It reminds me a bit of the bars in Brooklyn, with its long shape and funky decor lined with twinkle lights. The place draws in a varied crowd, even at mid-afternoon on a Monday… They have a couple pool tables in the back and a jukebox too. —Kelly P.

Pint & Peanut

518 W San Antonio, Ste E Pubs, Cocktail Bars Sa: 12:30p-2a Su: 4p-12a

Perfect little bar in the middle of the El Paso club scene by Union Plaza… Their specialty cocktails include flavored moonshine like the Front Porch Peach. They are all definitely worth trying if you like sweet mixed drinks. The moonshine shots are also delicious. —Eddie P.


SIGHTS

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THESE SPOTS WHILE IN EP.

El Paso Downtown Arts District

El Paso Museum of History/ Digital Wall

400 W San Antonio Ave

Museums

El Paso Star

Arts & Entertainment

510 N Santa Fe St Sa: 9a-5p Su: 12p-5p

If you are from around here or just visiting I highly recommend checking out the museum… There is one new addition to the museum that I absolutely love and the reason I bring my groups. The Digie Wall, a 3-D Digital Wall that houses over 12 thousand images and videos that showcase the history of the borderland. The digital wall is interactive and can be used with just the touch of your finger. —Saif A.

San Jacinto Plaza

N Oregon St and W Mills Ave Parks

It's hard not to be impressed by what they've done to San Jacinto Plaza, it has been transformed to a first class park and reflects the revitalization of Downtown EP. More than just a facelift, the SJP has a plethora of walkways and activity areas for people of all ages, they have a sprinkler walkway, a horseshoe area, and even ping pong tables! —Albert K.

Scenic Dr

Landmarks & Historical Buildings

EAT24 We know it’s gonna be a crazy weekend and we know you’re going to be hungry… but wouldn’t it be nice if you could have your food right now? We’ve got you covered. All over El Paso, restaurants have joined Eat24 to make your life easier!

DOWNLOAD THE APP AND CHECK OUT THE RESTAURANTS BELOW FOR PICKUP OR DELIVERY! MEXICAN Don Cabón • Cilantro Mexican Eatery Los Toreados • El Tenedor Forti’s Mexican Elder Restaurant

BBQ

custom props

Dickey’s Barbeque Pit Great American Steakhouse Tony’s The Pit Bar B Q

SUSHI Dragonfly Wine & Sushi Bistro

AMERICAN (NEW & TRADITIONAL) Delight The Kitchen at 150 Sunset Texas St. Cantina Grill

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no timer

custom prints

vintage bus

THANKS EVERYONE!

PARTNERS PRESENTED BY:

ON BEHALF OF YELP EL PASO, THANKS FOR VISITING THE SUN CITY DURING NEON DESERT MUSIC FESTIVAL. AND THANK YOU FOR LETTING US BE YOUR GUIDE TO EVERYTHING THAT LOCALS LOVE ABOUT EP. SEE YOU NEXT YEAR IN EL PASO – AND ON YELP!

E l P as o M us eums & C ul t ural Affai r s D epar t ment

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@YELPELPASO @NDMF @NEONDESERT

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