El Pasoans are encouraged to keep their holiday shopping within the community on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 28. The nationwide event, founded by American Express in 2010 and co‑sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration, highlights the value of independent retailers that give the Borderland its unique character.
Taste of the Islands at 787 Restaurant & Bar
Located at 6219 Airport Road, 787 Restaurant & Bar offers a menu steeped in Puerto Rican tradition. Signature dishes include mofongo, slow‑roasted pernil, chuleta frita and tostones, complemented by tropical cocktails. The venue provides online ordering, table reservations and catering, making it a convenient stop for a sit‑down meal or take‑out on Small Business Saturday.
Vietnamese Flavors at Wicked Pho
Wicked Pho, at 12102 Montwood Drive, Suite B, serves classic pho, banh mi, dumplings, pad Thai and specialty bowls such as oxtail pho, spicy beef soup and drunken noodles. Since opening in 2017, the restaurant has blended familiar comfort food with creative house specials. Diners can enjoy dine‑in service or order online for delivery.
Home‑Improvement Essentials at So‑Lo Hardware
For contractors, DIY enthusiasts and homeowners, So‑Lo Hardware at 11130 Rojas Drive, Suite B, supplies interior and exterior doors, cabinets, lighting, plumbing fixtures and hardware. The store’s in‑house door shop can duplicate existing doors, and it offers pre‑hung units and installation services. Local pickup is available for online orders.
Designer Selections at Union Fashion
Union Fashion reopened in 2025 at The Shoppes at Solana, 750 Sunland Park Drive, Suite D12A, reviving a downtown retail legacy that began in 1892. The boutique showcases curated designer and contemporary apparel, footwear, fragrances and accessories for men and women, featuring labels such as Versace, Burberry, Etro and Hugo Boss. Shoppers can find special‑occasion outfits or elevated wardrobe staples.
Western Wear at Starr Western Wear
Family‑owned Starr Western Wear, operating three El Paso locations and an online shop, offers boots, jeans, shirts, hats, jackets, belts and accessories for the whole family. Brands include Ariat, Wrangler, Levi’s, Carhartt and Stetson. The store’s selection reflects the region’s western heritage, making it a go‑to spot for holiday gifts and everyday wear.
Collectibles for Fans at Doc’s Unique Collectibles
Doc’s Unique Collectibles, at 2077 N. Zaragoza Road, Suite A‑103, caters to pop‑culture enthusiasts with more than 4,000 new and sealed items. The inventory spans figures, statues, model kits and licensed merchandise from franchises such as Star Wars, Marvel, DC Comics, Godzilla, Star Trek and anime. The shop also offers pre‑orders, rewards, layaway and trade‑in programs for hard‑to‑find pieces.
All six businesses encourage shoppers to verify current hours, inventory and holiday schedules before visiting. Supporting these local establishments helps preserve El Paso’s distinctive character and keeps holiday spending within the community.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
