Do you ever pass by a restaurant chain and wonder to yourself, “How did that place get started?” Well, every place has its very own origin story, including New Mexico’s own Little Anita’s. The start of this iconic restaurant chain in New Mexico was inspired by one woman, and it’s grown to have multiple locations in both New Mexico and Colorado since the first location opened.

The very first Little Anita's restaurant opened in Albuquerque back in 1976. It was started by Larry Gutierrez, who named it after his beloved mother, Anita Tellez.
Little Anita's/Facebook
Anita had a hand in starting other restaurants around the country, including Anita's in the Virginia/Washington D.C. area.
Little Anita's/Facebook
Over the course of four decades, Little Anita's has grown tremendously, opening up nine locations in New Mexico and four locations in Colorado.
Little Anita's/Facebook

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Little Anita's restaurants are known for Mexican and New Mexican cuisine and are an iconic part of the state's restaurant scene.
JoeSeniorVideo Video/Google Reviews
Little Anita's is known for keeping it simple, fresh, and delicious. It's also well-known for its sopaipillas as well as its red and green chili.
Gayle V/Google Reviews
From tacos to tostadas, enchiladas, chile rellenos, burritos, chimichanga, taquitos, and more, you'll have your pick of classic Mexican dishes.
Little Anita's/Facebook
Get your dish smothered in red or green chili (or both!) and let your taste buds take you on a flavorful journey at a Little Anita's location!
Little Anita's/Facebook

Have you ever been to a Little Anita’s location? Do you have another iconic restaurant chain in New Mexico you’d like to share? Let us know, and visit Little Anita’s website and follow Little Anita’s Facebook page for more information.

If you’re visiting Albuquerque and want to do a little shopping, check out Expo New Mexico, the biggest and best flea market in the state! 

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