The Local Tap - Craft Kitchen & Alehouse — Restaurant in El Paso

It was ok. This is located in the old Dairy Queen in El Paso. They've done a very nice job in renovating the space to make it feel like a local hometown restaurant - Ie: it's -not- just an old Dairy Queen with a paint job. When we were there, several menu items were out of stock due to a "food truck delivery issue". The menu is mostly pub-type items -- burgers, fries, wings (these were out of stock), various fried appetizers and sides, several sandwiches options, and also a few salad options. It wasn't overly busy when we were there for lunch, but the service seemed slow -- more than expected delay to get drinks and refills (soft drinks) and food. We ordered an appetizer (fried chees curds), but they ended up being -mostly- clumps of cheese with 3-5 curds in each clump. The kitchen definitely needs to work on mastering the concept of frying curds so they aren't just all clumped together. As far as main dishes, for a group of 4, our food didn't all come out at the same time. The food (2 burgers and 2 hot sandwiches) all came out at different times (with the last sandwich coming out approx 8 min or so after the first 2 trays were delivered). The taste was ok, nothing special and serving size was average for the somewhat above-average prices (in my opinion). Tables weren't stocked well -- our table didn't have any silverware or salt/pepper, the ketchup was out and when we took a bottle from a nearby table, it was also nearly empty, so some lack of attention to the tables after someone leaves. When the table is being cleaned, I would think it would be somewhat customary to check to make sure everything is stocked in the "table basket". I would have liked a knife to cut my sandwich, but didn't want to ask because I thought it might take too long to actually get a knife given the somewhat slow service. Anyway, our experience was just ok -- nothing special. For 2 sandwiches, 1 soft drink, and 1 appetizer, the cost (without tip) was a little over $50. Based on the reviews, we had pretty high hopes. I would say, in the end, the experience here was less than what we had hoped for...

Local Tap Craft Kitchen and Ale House in El Paso, Illinois, has quickly become a culinary standout since its 2022 opening, blending community roots with inventive Midwest flavors. Owned and Managed by Aaron Thomas with his really great team. This family-friendly alehouse prioritizes local partnerships and menu creativity, earning its place as a surprise standout in central Illinois’ dining scene.

Culinary Highlights

The menu shines with elevated bar classics, including Ropp Jersey Cheese curds sourced from Normal, Illinois. ~a crispy, creamy nod to regional agriculture. Wings tossed in bourbon-Sriracha glaze and lemon-pepper buffalo rub draw regulars, while the Italian beef sandwich, paired with sweet potato fries and maple mayo, offers a sweet-savory twist. The showstopper is the custom steak-blend burger: certified Angus beef smashed on a brioche bun, smothered in American cheese, and served with loaded fries-a "step above" typical pub fare.

Surprise Standout

Culinary Chronicles’ sleeper hit is the maple mayo dip, a sweet-smoky companion to crispy sweet potato fries. While rumors swirl about its cult following, the dip exemplifies The Local Tap’s knack for balancing familiarity with innovation.

Community and Craft

True to its name, the restaurant champions local breweries such as White Oak, Riggs Beer Company, and Casper Brewing. Also, fostering a patio-to-indoor vibe that’s equally suited for family dinners or friend gatherings. Weekly cocktail features, like the raspberry Long Island iced tea and barrel-aged Old Fashioned, underscore their bar program’s versatility. With its commitment to Midwestern flavors, community ties, and dishes that surprise even seasoned foodies, The Local Tap is a destination worth the drive. As Osborn and Thomas expand their culinary playbook-including this week’s chicken cordon bleu ciabatta with white wine cream sauce-the restaurant solidifies its role as El Paso’s flavorful heartbeat.

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This is a place that matched my high expectations. I had the Italian Beef. The meat was incredibly tender (which it should be) with good flavor. Served with jus and a spicy giardiniera both worked well with the already tasty sandwich. My wife had a BLT on Texas toast which looked good and she was happy with. Kid had the cheeseburger with bacon. I took a bite, well toasted bun and seasoned beef. Another winner. Staff were great. Very friendly and service was quick. We felt welcome and had a good time because of it. Oh also good selection of local and not local beer on tap. You can tell this place is well taken care of by...