I had an incredible meal at Mi Asia in the Eat Up Market Food Hall. If you're looking for a unique blend of Asian flavors and classic staples, this is the spot.
Aree, the owner, brings her Hmong heritage into the mix, offering inventive tacos and rice bowls that you won't want to miss.
I tried the Pho Tacos, and they were outstanding. Priced at around $4.50 each, the meat was so tender it literally fell off the bone. The sriracha and hoisin at the bottom added the perfect kick, and they were loaded with cilantro, green onions, and jalapeño slices. Surprisingly, I was full after just one taco, although I did miss having a sprig of Thai basil and a lime wedge, which I believe should have been included.
What stood out to me was how Aree used just the right amount of furikake to enhance the rice in the Squid Games Rice Bowl. Many places in El Paso seem to load up on togarashi, making it the only flavor, but Aree knows what she's doing. A little furikake goes a long way, adding a lovely nuttiness without overpowering the dish.
The Squid Games Rice Bowl was equally amazing at about $14. The rice was perfectly cooked, and the bowl had a fantastic mix of textures and flavors: salty fried Spam, tangy kimchi, and a surprise--since they ran out of anchovies, they doubled up on black beans. Instead of the expected salty anchovies, the black beans brought a creamy sweetness that contrasted beautifully with the other ingredients. I tried a little while I was there, but I took the rest home for dinner--such a great value.
I also can't believe I forgot to mention the taiyaki! They make them fresh from their own batter, and you can choose between s'mores or sweet black beans as a filling. If you're a UTEP or EPCC student, you get them for free when you show your ID. It's a limited-time offer, so come on by and check them out. They're really good--not too sweet, which is the highest compliment I can give.
I didn't get to try the boba teas this time (I opted for Glia's Coffee from the same market), but I highly recommend Mi Asia if you're in El Paso. Unique and flavorful--definitely worth a visit!
Location: 404 Arizona Ave Suite 4, El Paso, TX 79902 read more