S R I grew up in Houma and moved away in 1998. I haven’t eaten here since. I was blown away by the transformation of the place. I first stopped by a Mexican restaurant closer to my parents’ house, but it was too noisy; the music was way too loud. At El Paso, the new decor, inside and out, is pitch perfect: a fresh, bright fusion of traditional Mexican elements and modern design. It’s just a pleasure to sit in the space. The music is played at the right volume level and service was warm, friendly, and attentive. I had a skinny margarita and pork carnitas. Both were excellent. They bring perfect, freshly made thin and crispy tortilla chips with three dips when you sit down: a traditional fresh red salsa, a very nice, soupy bean dip, and the third dip recalled enchilada sauce. I enjoyed them all. They do quite a unique and mercifully short birthday song, with tambourines and rustic noisemakers, I had the privilege of observing at a nearby table. Come check it out if you haven’t been here in a while. Also, I’d forgotten how large the place is. And I can’t wait to come back in spring to sit on the renovated patio.