When planning a special night out with your significant other, one of the key ingredients for a memorable experience is the perfect dinner. Imagine stepping into a restaurant where every detail, from the ambiance to the dishes, is designed to leave you in awe. El Paso is home to some upscale dining spots, but across the U.S., there are plenty of extravagant restaurants that promise more than just a meal—they offer an unforgettable experience, complete with hefty price tags.
From the charming, old-world ambiance of a wood-paneled steakhouse in the Midwest to sleek, oceanfront seafood restaurants on the coasts, there are numerous expensive dining destinations across the U.S. But let’s narrow it down to the most luxurious dining spots in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico!
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply indulging in a lavish evening, these restaurants are perfect for treating yourself to an exceptional dining experience.
Bourbon Steak – Scottsdale, Arizona
If you’re seeking pure luxury, Bourbon Steak in Scottsdale delivers just that. Located inside the stunning Fairmont Scottsdale Princess hotel, this upscale restaurant takes steak to the next level. The menu features everything from a 12oz New York strip ($74) to a staggering 32oz hay-smoked tomahawk steak for $210. While the price tag might make you gasp, the portion size ensures you’ll have leftovers for the next day, making it worth every penny.
Sazón – Santa Fe, New Mexico
I can personally attest to the incredible experience at Sazón, one of New Mexico’s most expensive and refined dining destinations. Chef Fernando Olea, whose culinary inspiration comes from his Mexico City roots, crafts dishes that are nothing short of exquisite. The restaurant’s warm, off-white walls are adorned with beautiful paintings and ceramics, which are also for sale. The menu features decadent options like the Popocatepetl—an Angus tenderloin encrusted with spicy black pepper, paired with snow peas and jasmine rice, priced at $55. For the full experience, the multi-course Chef’s Degustación Menu is available for $150, offering an unforgettable taste of Mexico’s finest culinary traditions.
Monarch – Dallas, Texas
Opened in 2021, Monarch quickly became one of Dallas’ most sought-after restaurants. Located on the 49th floor of The National building in Downtown Dallas, the restaurant offers panoramic views through its floor-to-ceiling windows, adding to the luxury dining experience. Monarch’s Royale Menu ($270 per person) is the ultimate splurge. It includes caviar service, Alaskan king crab legs, whole Maine lobster spaghetti, wagyu strip steak, and a selection of mouth-watering desserts—ensuring a truly extravagant meal.
These restaurants in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico offer a dining experience like no other. Whether you’re in the mood for a decadent steak, a multi-course tasting menu, or a luxury Italian feast, these spots promise to make any special occasion unforgettable.