8 Unassuming Restaurants To Add To Your New Mexico Dining Bucket List
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Juliet White
Author
There’s no limit to the number of restaurants you can add to your New Mexico dining bucket list. And that’s a good thing because the Land of Enchantment could equally well be called the Land of Scrumptious. We have so many great eateries that it would take a lifetime to visit them all. So you’d better get started! Here are eight unassuming local restaurants in New Mexico that serve delicious food:
821 W San Mateo Road, Suite C, Santa Fe
Chocolate Maven
could easily be mistaken for a warehouse. However, the folks here prepare one of the best brunches in Santa Fe. Ask to be seated downstairs, where you can watch the bakers preparing goodies through a massive glass window, while you eat. Don't leave without stopping in the attached bakery to pick up cupcakes, or pastries the size of your head.
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514 N Bullard St, Silver City, NM 88061, USA
Nancy's Silver Cafe, 514 N Bullard St, Silver City, NM 88061, USA
This restaurant offers both New Mexican and American fare, which are equally good. However, the light yet crunchy chile relleno stands out. Locals are well aware that the food here is yummy, so arrive early or be prepared to wait. But trust us -- after you've tasted the delicious, flavorful dishes at Nancy’s Silver Café, you'll want to eat here every weekend.
2064 US-70, Ruidoso Downs, NM 88346, USA
Although Jorge’s Cafe is known for breakfast, you’ll find yourself cleaning your plate whatever time of day you show up. The green chile here elevates all the dishes it accompanies, from enchiladas to burritos.
Thai Tip, 1512 Wyoming Blvd NE e, Albuquerque, NM 87112, USA
Thai Tip may be housed in a bland strip mall, but the food here is bursting with flavor. The menu features classic dishes such as curries and pad Thai along with less typical fare such as Bobby’s green bean tempura salad – an unexpected delight.
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3420 Mountain View Blvd, Angel Fire, NM 87710, USA
This locals’ hangout has been in business for 25 years. Breakfast is served all day and includes everything from chicken fried steak, to migas, or French toast. As you’d expect, the baked goods are stellar, as are the burgers. Whether you come for a fresh donut and cup of coffee, or you want to indulge in a gigantic sandwich, The Bakery and Café will delight your taste buds.
641 Thorpe Rd suite 5, Las Cruces, NM 88007, USA
As you cross the black and white checkered floor and slip into a red booth at Jake’s, it feels like you’ve traveled back to the 1950s. You can’t go wrong the Dona Ana burger or the big messy guacamole burger. All of their dishes are hearty, indulgent, and scrumptious. Treat yourself to a satisfying meal at Jake's Cafe.
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La Escondida Cafe, 109 N Delaware Ave, Roswell, NM 88203, USA
If you’re craving a breakfast burrito in Roswell, make a beeline for La Escondida Café. This joint has been around for ages because the folks here create delicious Mexican fare, while keeping prices low and portions generous.
El Modelo Mexican Foods, 1715 2nd St SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, USA
El Modelo makes the ultimate tamales. We’re all agreed, right? Judging by the volume of people streaming in and out of this restaurant, that’s a resounding "yes." Outdoor seating is available but this is mostly a to-go restaurant.
Have you been to any of these local restaurants in New Mexico? If you had to eat at one New Mexico restaurant for the rest of your life, which one would you pick? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! And if you know another delicious eatery in the Land of Enchantment, nominate it for a chance to be featured!
For more diamonds in the rough, check out these unassuming restaurants in New Mexico and these family-owned restaurants in New Mexico.
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More to Explore
Restaurants in New Mexico
What are the best restaurants in New Mexico?
The best restaurants in New Mexico are:
- Farm and Table, an upscale restaurant that specializes in farm-fresh meals. Located at 8917 4th Street NW, Albuquerque.
- Charlie’s Spic & Span, A relaxed eatery that's a true diamond in the rough. They're known for their delicious baked goods and scrumptious burritos. Find them at 713 Douglas Avenue, Las Vegas.
- Passion Pie Café, a charming restaurant that specializes in breakfast treats. Try their buttery waffles at 406 Main Street, Truth or Consequences.
- The Pantry, a beloved institution that has served savory burritos and fresh breakfast potatoes since 1944. Find them at 1820 Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe.
- Owl Bar & Café, home to the iconic green chile cheeseburger. Satisfy your cravings at 77 US Highway 380, San Antonio.
- Three Rivers Eatery and Brew House, a delicious restaurant that sits inside a 1920s drugstore. They serve unique dishes that will send your taste buds on an adventure. Visit them at 111 E. Main Street, Farmington.
- Sazón, a welcoming restaurant that serves delicious and authentic moles. You'll find them at 221 Shelby Street, Santa Fe.
- Zeffiro Pizzeria Napoletana, a casual eatery that serves authentic Italian pizzas. Located at 136 N. Water Street, Las Cruces.
What are the best food road trips in New Mexico?
The best food trails in New Mexico are:
- A New Mexico Road Trip Centered Around Pizza
- The Ultimate Pie Shop Road Trip In New Mexico
- Hole-In-The-Wall Mexican Restaurant Road Trip in New Mexico
- Road Trip To 3 Different Wineries On The New Mexico Wine Shuttle
- The Enchilada Trail: 10 Of The Best Enchiladas In New Mexico
- The New Mexico Donut Trail
- The Mouthwatering Ice Cream Trail In New Mexico
What kind of food is New Mexico known for?
The most famous foods in New Mexico are:
- Blue corn pancakes, a delicious play on the classic breakfast dish. Out-of-towners don't know what they're missing!
- Piñon coffee, a delicious coffee that combines Arabica beans, some piñon nuts, and piñon flavoring. The result? A morning brew that's rich and smooth.
- Breakfast burritos. We don't do breakfast tacos here!
- Carne adovada, a delicious medley of marinated pork with onion, red chile, and spices.
- Posole, often served as a soup, is made with boiled hominy corn. It's rich, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying.
- Green chile stew, commonly eaten when people feel under the weather. It's hot and spicy, and it nourishes the soul.
- Chile relleno, a Mexican dish comprised of a green chile pepper stuffed with a variety of different meats.
- Frito pie, a classic comfort food dish comprised of chile and Frito chips. It doesn't get much better than this.
- Biscochito, the state cookie of New Mexico. It's sweet and crumbly, and it tastes like cinnamon and anise.