El Paso's main shopping district is downtown -- targeting both Mexican and American shoppers -- and there are several enclosed malls scattered around the city. The area is known for Western wear, Southwestern art, and Mexican imports.
The three-story Galeria San Ysidro, 801 Texas Ave. (tel. 915/544-4444; www.galeriasanysidro.com), is more than just an antiques store, housing an impressive selection of art, furniture, and decor from all over the world. Renowned for the talent that it represents, Adair Margo Gallery, 415 E. Yandell Dr. (tel. 915/533-0048; www.adairmargo.com), specializes in sculpture and paintings by local and regional artists, including Tom Lea and James Magee. Cowtown Boots, 11401 Gateway W. (tel. 915/593-2929; www.cowtownboots.com), claims to be the world's largest Western wear store, with 40,000 square feet of boots (alligator to ostrich), jeans, clothing, and accessories. If you want some custom boots that are leather works of art, make an appointment at Rocketbuster Boots, 115 S. Anthony St. (tel. 915/541-1300; www.rocketbuster.com), but you'll need at least $750 for a pair. For tongue-searing delicacies, we love the El Paso Chile Company, 909 Texas Ave. (tel. 888/4-SALSAS or 915/544-3434; www.elpasochile.com), for its sauces (with such fiery names as "Hellfire & Damnation") and all things spicy.
Shopping centers include Sunland Park Mall, 750 Sunland Park Dr. (tel. 915/833-5595), and Cielo Vista Mall, 8401 Gateway W. (tel. 915/779-7070). Located where Pancho Villa and General Pershing once negotiated, Placita Santa Fe, 5034 Doniphan Rd., features 20 quaint shops, specializing in art, designer clothing, antiques, and jewelry.
