If you’ve been to the town of Española, you’ll know that it’s filled with rich history and many hidden gems. It can be easy to forget that this blip on the map is a treasure trove of Southwest wonders, but once you visit this historic restaurant with the most amazing New Mexican food, you’ll never think twice again. From fresh sopaipillas to rich chile sauce, and tortillas that are made right in front of you, this nationally recognized restaurant in this small historic town is truly full of the most authentic Southwest cuisine in the state. Get ready to devour traditional New Mexican food in an incredible atmosphere.

Please note, El Paragua is temporarily closed.

Welcome to El Paragua in Española! Just as the small town of Española is full of history, so is this family restaurant.
salvage_team/TripAdvisor
This nationally recognized restaurant started much smaller.
Atheria PsychicGal/Google
Larry and Pete Atencio started up a taco and tamale stand on the side of the historic Taos Highway when they were just children. They sold their mother's tamales and tacos, and just knew it would be a hit.
The tacos those two boys sold on the side of the road soon grew a local following.
GreenUnicorn/TripAdvisor
In 1966, the brothers opened up a restaurant in their home and soon added a bar next door due to the overwhelming popularity.
Over the last five decades, El Paragua has grown significantly, but it has always remained a family business.
GreenUnicorn/TripAdvisor
From their mother providing them with tacos to their father providing them an umbrella for shade in the New Mexico heat, this dream was only possible with the whole family involved. The name, "El Paragua" is an ode to that umbrella.

Related Stories

The Spectacular Small Town Mexican Restaurant That Is Iconically New Mexico

The Spectacular Small Town Mexican Restaurant That Is Iconically New Mexico

 The German Restaurant In New Mexico Where You'll Find All Sorts Of Old World Eats

The German Restaurant In New Mexico Where You'll Find All Sorts Of Old World Eats

 La Choza Is The Best Restaurant In New Mexico For Authentic, Spicy Food

La Choza Is The Best Restaurant In New Mexico For Authentic, Spicy Food
While the exterior has changed, the food has always stayed the same.
BoysieW/TripAdvisor
This little restaurant serves up the most authentic New Mexican food, and it starts with these handmade tortillas that are rolled right in front of you.
Whether you're enjoying those favorite tacos and tamales made with Mama's recipe or hot and fresh sopaipillas, it doesn't get any more New Mexico than this.
hkbuck/TripAdvisor
Besides to-die-for New Mexican food, this restaurant is full of amazing service and situated in a truly charming atmosphere. Dining at El Paragua is a whole experience in itself.
BoysieW/TripAdvisor
If you're looking for a small-town hidden gem that started from humble beginnings, with unforgettably authentic food, El Paragua needs to be the first on your list.
SWVagabond/TripAdvisor
Address: 603 Santa Cruz Road, Española, NM, 87532

For more information on El Paragua or to check out the menu before you go, you can visit their website right here.

Have you ever been to the incredible restaurant that is El Paragua? What did you think? We’d love to hear all about your experiences in the comments!

For another small town hidden gem in the Land of Enchantment, check out this old fashioned cafe in the northern town of Chama.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore New Mexico