By Del Cromartie on March 27, 2025
Nestled in the heart of El Paso, Lucy’s Restaurant isn’t just a place to grab a meal—it’s a cherished local gem where every guest is treated like family. Alberto Lepe has been at the helm for decades, carrying forward the legacy his mother, Lucy, began in 1972. Lucy’s has become a cornerstone of the community because of its welcoming atmosphere, heartfelt service, and delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine.
During our conversation, it became clear that Alberto isn’t just running a restaurant—he’s continuing a tradition of kindness and connection that started with his mother. “My mom was loved in the community,” he shared. “She had this way of making everyone feel special, and that’s what we strive for daily.”
Alberto was born and raised in El Paso, and though his time in the military took him away for a while, his heart never left home. When he returned, stepping into the family business was only natural. Over the years, he has upheld the same principles his mother instilled—providing great food at great prices while treating every customer with warmth and respect.
One of the restaurant’s core values is generosity. Alberto recalled his mother’s compassion toward those in need. “She always said, ‘If someone is hungry, we feed them.’ That’s the kind of place Lucy’s is.”
This philosophy is still alive today. Whether it’s a long-time patron or someone walking through the door for the first time, everyone is greeted with the same kindness and hospitality.
What makes Lucy’s stand out in a city filled with incredible Mexican restaurants? According to Alberto, it’s a combination of authentic flavors, affordability, and a welcoming atmosphere.
“We serve homemade food at prices everyone can enjoy,” he explained. “Our menu is crafted carefully, using recipes that have been in our family for generations.”
Their signature dishes, Lucy’s Machaca and Tacos Antoñia, have been featured in Texas Monthly and on The Texas Bucket List. “We take pride in our food, but what keeps people coming back is how we make them feel,” Alberto said. “We treat our guests like family.”
Beyond serving incredible food, Lucy’s has woven itself into the fabric of El Paso’s community. The restaurant has welcomed everyone from local families to sports teams, including UTEP’s basketball program members.
“The coach brings his players here regularly,” Alberto shared. “It’s a great way to stay connected with the local sports scene and support our teams.”
The impact of Lucy’s goes far beyond its doors. Over the years, Alberto and his team have built relationships with generations of customers, watching families grow and welcoming new faces along the way. “It’s about more than just food,” he said. “It’s about being a place where people feel at home.”
Running a restaurant is no easy task, but it’s a labor of love for Alberto. With the support of his wife, Isela, his brother Javier, his son Joshua, and longtime employee Maria, he has managed to keep Lucy’s thriving.
“Our team is the heart of Lucy’s,” Alberto said. “Every person here plays a vital role in creating the warm, welcoming experience we’re known for. Without their dedication and passion, none of this would be possible.”
Through the industry’s ups and downs, one thing remains constant—the collective commitment of Lucy’s family to its customers. “We’ve been fortunate,” Alberto shared. Even when times are tough, our loyal community supports us. And that means everything.”
If you haven’t enjoyed dining at Lucy’s, Alberto extends a warm invitation. “Come visit us. Get to know us. Let us make you feel at home,” he said with a smile.
Whether you’re a longtime resident of El Paso or just passing through, Lucy’s is more than a restaurant—it’s an experience. A place where tradition, flavor, and hospitality come together to create something truly special.
Lucy’s Restaurant has four convenient locations throughout El Paso, making it easy to enjoy their beloved dishes no matter where you are in the city. To visit Alberto himself, stop by the flagship location:
📍 4119 N Mesa St, El Paso, TX 79902
⏰ Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
☎️ 915-544-3922
Website: lucysrestaurants.com
Come in, enjoy a meal, and become part of Lucy’s family!
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