Date indicates the most recent update of the restaurants listed
Bold indicates my recommendations; others come from what I consider to be good sources

Abiquiu

Bode’s General Store–21196 US 84 (American) Open daily until 7 pm. Breakfast burrito and green chile cheeseburger are the specialties, but also has sandwiches (reuben, cuban, etc.). Map (Store is open but restaurant is temporarily closed 12-19-21)

Alamogordo

Brown Bag Deli–900 Washington Ave. (Sandwiches) Open Daily. The Brown Bag Deli in El Paso was pretty good but probably nothing special. However, the one in Alamogordo has an interesting twist–the green chile chicken club (which is apparently the thing to get). Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Margo’s–504 1st St. (Mexican) Closed Sat & Sun. After trying a number of Mexican restaurants in Alamogordo I settled on this one as my favorite (although some new ones have opened since then that I have not tried). It is not strictly New Mexico style as would be found in Albuquerque or Las Cruces, but makes decent use of NM chiles and has good food. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Rockin’ BZ Burgers–3005 N. White Sands Blvd. (Burgers) Open to 3 pm (closed Mon). This is reputed to be one of the best places in NM for green chile cheeseburgers. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Thai Cuisine–604 E. 1st St. (Thai) Closed Sat lunch; closed Sun & Mon (and closed from 2 to 4 pm). Reviews are good and based on photos the food looks authentic. Most people like the curry and stir fried dishes, but pad thai does not get good reviews. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Waffle & Pancake Shoppe–950 S. White Sands Blvd. (Breakfast) Open 7 am to 1 pm (closed Tue). Huevos rancheros with green chile have especially good reviews. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Note: Alamogordo is usually a good place to get pistachios grown locally. These are sometimes available at local stores. Pistachios are also available at roadside stands along US 54 north of town (McGinn’s has a good selection of flavored pistachios as well as a wide selection of New Mexico salsas Map).

See listings under La Luz, Tularosa, and Mescalero for other nearby restaurants

Angel Fire

Mikuna Grill–48 N. Angel Fire Rd. (Peruvian) Dinner only (closed Mon). Good reviews. Has Peruvian cuisine as well as Southwestern (chicken fried steak, etc.). Map (Dining room is open 12-19-21)

Arroyo Seco

Taos Cow–485 SH 150 (Ice Cream) Summer hours: open daily 7:30 am to 5 pm (kitchen closes at 3 pm). Their web site lists many reasons the ice cream is popular–including the all natural ingredients. the pure cane brown sugar, and toppings from New Mexico pecan and pistachio farms. They have a wide range of somewhat exotic flavors (but some reviewers say they wish they could get vanilla and other simple flavors). The food menu includes burritos, sandwiches, bagels, and green chile stew. Has a large outdoor patio with picnic tables. Map (Dine-in and large outdoor patio 8-27-22)

Artesia

Adobe Rose–1614 N. 13th St. (New American) Dinner only (closed Sun). Upscale dining with some Mexican and Southwest style dishes (but the Mexican food does not get very good ratings except for the huevos rancheros). For dinner, though, get pork, chicken, elk, steaks, etc. The NM Magazine reader’s poll suggests pot roast or a Dr. Pepper lamb shank. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

El Dorado–317 W. Main St. (Mexican) Breakfast & lunch only (closed Sun). Has a good rating, and reviewers say enchiladas pack some heat. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Aztec

Wonderful House–115 W. Aztec Blvd. (Chinese) Closed Mon. This is standard American style Chinese food, but it has the good ratings that similar restaurants in Farmington seem to lack. To get closer to “real” Chinese food, it seems that you should order the Hunan or Szechuan style dishes. Also of note is that you can get food without MSG or other special dietary requirements. Map (Takeout only 12-19-21)

Belen

Pete’s Cafe–105 N. 1st St. (New Mexican) Open 11 am to 7 pm (closed Sun & Mon). A good bet for those traveling on I-25. Chile relleno, enchiladas, sopapillas are said to be good. Map (Dining room is open 8-22-21)

Capitan

El Paisano–442 Smokey Bear Blvd. (New Mexican) Open 7 am to 3 pm (closed Sun & Mon). Reviewers say food is made from scratch and tastes home made. In fact they will even make things that are not on the menu. Green chile stew (chile verde) is the most recommended item. The family has apparently been operating the restaurant for over 50 years and this is a good insight into what New Mexican cuisine was like before it became as widespread as it is now. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Smoky Bear Restaurant–310 Smokey Bear Blvd. (American) Open daily 6 am to 8 pm. Varied menu, but a popular item is the green chile cheeseburger with whole green chiles on top (also has a green chile omelet). Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Carlsbad

Danny’s Place–902 S. Canal St. (BBQ) Closed Tue. Has good reviews and national recognition as being one of the best BBQ restaurants anywhere. (This is the place that used to operate out of a Dairy Queen, and now it is just a BBQ place). I think Gil particularly likes the brisket, but there does not seem to be anything here that people do not like. Many recommend the St Louis cut pork ribs and the “flip plate” (a green chile cheeseburger served n a flour tortilla instead of a hamburger bun). Map (Dining room is open 10-4-22)

PJ & B’s Rio Cafe–711 Muscatel Ave. (Mexican) Breakfast & Lunch only (closed Sun) opens at 4 am Mon-Fri. This seems to be one of the best places for a Mexican breakfast (huevos rancheros, breakfast burritos). Country fried steak and green chile beef brisket enchiladas are also popular. From the photos it looks as if some of the food is Americanized, but it is not totally a Mexican restaurant. Has a patio that overlooks the river with benches but not tables. Map (Dining room is open 10-4-22)

The Flume–1829 S. Canal St. (American). A hotel restaurant that may not look very promising from the outside, but it gets excellent reviews from people who say it is not only good for Carlsbad, but it is good for anywhere. Steak, barbecue, and salad bar are all said to be excellent. Some non-American items, though, and said to be either mediocre or not very good (spaghetti, Mexican food, etc.). A reader of my blog said this was one of the highlights of a cross country trip, so I think it is worth checking out. Map (Dining room is open 6-27-22)

Trinity Hotel–201 S. Canal St. (American) Open daily except Sun evening & Mon lunch. The most popular rest. on the New Mexico Magazine reader survey (they say to order the Italian food). Yelp says the steak, sandwiches, and New Mexican food are also good. Upscale, but affordable. Open for breakfast, but the NM Magazine poll likes Blue House Bakery better. Map (Dining room is open 10-4-22)

Yellow Brix–201 N. Canal St. (American) Open Daily. Mostly gets very good reviews. Recommended items include sandwiches (including green chile cheeseburger, cuban, and french dip), roasted chicken, meatloaf, spicy pasta, salmon, and chicken fried steak. Outdoor pet-friendly patio is also a big plus. Map (Dining room is open 10-4-22)

Carrizozo

Four Winds–111 Central Ave. (New Mexican) Open 6 am to 8 pm (closed Mon). I loved the red enchiladas here, and thought they were the best I have had in SE New Mexico. This is located at the intersection of US 54 and US 380 (on the SE corner). Map (Dining room is open 10-4-22)

ZZQ BBQ–6539 US 380 (BBQ) Open daily 8:30 am to 6 pm (closed Sat & Sun). This is barbecue served from a trailer that the locals say is quite good. It seems to follow the recent trend of Texas style BBQ in southeastern NM. Brisket sandwich and burritos are recommended. Map (Temporarily closed 5-13-23)

Chama

JV’s Place–1511 NM 17 (New Mexican) Lunch only (closed Sun & Mon). Stuffed sopaipillas with red chile and green chile cheeseburgers are recommended. Map (Dining room is open 5-13-23)

Chimayo

Rancho de Chimayo–300 Juan Medina Rd. (New Mexican) Open 11:30 am to 8 pm (closed Mon)-breakfast Sat & Sun. NM combination plate, blue corn enchiladas, carne adovada, sopapillas. Red chile is said to be one of the best. This is one of the best known and highly rated New Mexican restaurants in the state (according to many sources). Note: chile contains ground beef unless you request the vegetarian version. Map (Dining room and patio dining are open 5-13-23)

Cimarron

Lambert’s (at the St. James Hotel)–617 S. Collison St. (American) Closed Tue & Wed. Historic hotel that I understood had been purchased by a business leader from Oklahoma City who has a ranch in the area. Good reviews on Yelp (mostly for the burgers), but they also have Mexican food and sandwiches. Map (Dining room is open 12-19-21)

Cleveland

Teresa’s Tamales–3296 NM 518 (New Mexican) Open 8 am to 5 pm (closed Sun). Tamales (red chile pork, green chile chicken, and vegetarian) are the special. Also has good reviews for tacos, burritos, green chile cheeseburgers, frito pies (and others). Map (Dining room is open 12-19-21)

Cloudcroft

Dusty Boots–1315 James Canyon Hwy. (American) Open 7 am to 7 pm (closed Sun evening). This seems to be the most popular breakfast place in town, with Southwestern as well as American style breakfast (omelettes are popular). Note: serves authentic German food every Friday starting at 5 pm (German food is not only meat, but has a vegetable plate which is said to be very good). Map (Dining room is open 5-13-23)

Lepree’s Global Comfort Food (Sandwiches) Open 11 am to 6 pm (closes early on Sun; closed Mon & Tue). Serves soups, salads, and sandwiches that are said to be very high quality. Welsh leek & potato soup is recommended, but it runs out early (as I suppose some of the other more popular items do). Map (Dining room is open 9-4-21)

Mad Jack’s Mountaintop Barbecue–105 James Canyon Hwy. (BBQ) Open Thu-Sun only (11 am to 3 pm). Gil describes this as “certainly one of, if not THE very best barbecue restaurant in New Mexico” (I think Watson’s in Tucumcari and Danny’s in Carlsbad are probably close enough that he leaves some ambiguity in his statement). Mad Jack’s got its start in Lockhart, Texas, recognized as the capital of Texas barbecue where there is a standard of excellence that probably cannot be matched (at least by Texas style BBQ). I am convinced by Gil and by Yelp reviewers that the food is excellent here. The issue is that you have to arrive well before the 11 am opening time and get in line to be assured of having some of the more popular items (although Gil says even the less popular items are good). One Yelp reviewer said he had success by arriving at 9:55 am, although I do not know what day of the week that was. (Read Yelp and Gil’s Blog for their recommendations on meats and strategy for standing in line). Map (Dining room is open 6-27-22)

Rebecca’s–601 Corona Pl. (American) Dinner daily; Lunch Wed-Sun; Breakfast Sat & Sun. Located in the upscale setting of the Cloudcroft Lodge, this restaurant provides equally upscale food (although upscale in the context of a mountain resort area). Map (Dining room is open 10-4-22)

Clovis

La Espiga de Oro–109 S. Maple St. (Mexican) Breakfast and lunch only (closed Wed). Reviewers say it is authentic Mexican food with fresh flavors, good tacos, and house made tortillas. Tacos and flautas are very good. Enchiladas are very good. Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Saeng’s Orient–19 Lasso Rd. (Thai) Closed Sat lunch, closed Sun, and closed from 2 to 4:30 pm. Located just n. of the main gate to Cannon AFB. Very authentic tasting Thai food (if you ask for it spicy, you may get more than you want). My favorite item is the ginger stir fry. Map (Dining room is open 6-27-22)

Note: Clovis also has good steaks, including at Shogun Japanese Steakhouse Map. K-Bob’s is a local chain with budget steaks, but it seems to be better in Clovis than other places because it is close to the source Map

Cuba

El Bruno’s–6453 Main St. (New Mexican) Open 11 am to 8 pm (closed Tue & Wed). Carne adovada, enchiladas, huevos rancheros are recommended. The salsa is so popular they sell it in bottles for take-home. The red enchiladas with blue corn tortillas are the best I have had in recent memory. Map (Dining room is open 11-1-21)

Deming

Elisa’s–208 S. Silver Ave. (Southern) Open Thu-Sun (closes at 5 pm on Sun). A very good Southern cooking restaurant in Deming sounds improbable, but it seems to be true. Fried chicken or catfish along with Mexican style (jalapeno) cornbread is popular, as is mac & cheese. BBQ is one of their specialties. Millionaire pie is a “must try.” Note: entrance is on the alley behind the main building. Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Irma’s–123 S. Silver Ave. (New Mexican) Open 7 am to 8 pm (closed Sat). Similar to Las Cruces style. Stuffed sopapilla was recommended to me over the enchiladas by the waitress (and I thought this was a good choice). The chile is made fresh every day–the waitresses taste it every morning and make recommendations to customers about which to order based on the flavor and how hot they want it. Map (Dining room is open 11-1-21)

Note: There are several other Mexican restaurants in town. From the photos El Camino Real does not seem to be as authentic for NM food as Irma’s, but it has good reviews and I can’t confirm this one way or the other without trying it. Si Senor is related to the rest. in Las Cruces with the same name, and is supposed to be authentic NM style, but I haven’t been here). (8-22-21)

Eagle Nest

Cowboy’s Corner–50 N. Hwy. 38 (American). Not many reviews, but reviews are good. You can get green chile with just about anything on the menu (green chile cheeseburger is popular). Breakfast is the most popular meal here. I would find just about any excuse to visit Eagle Nest, so coming here seems to be as good as any. Map (Temporarily closed 5-13-23)

Thai Angel–144 E. Therma St. (Thai) Open 11:30 am to 6:30 pm (closed Sun-Tue). Small restaurant with excellent reviews. Pad thai and yellow curry are popular. Map (Dining room is open 5-13-23)

El Rito

El Farolito–1212 Main St. (New Mexican) Open 1:30 pm to 7:30 pm (closed Mon & Tue). This is a quite small restaurant in a quite small town that seems to have a pilgrimage of people coming here to get some of the best New Mexican food in New Mexico (it is logical, of course, that it would be in New Mexico). There are several “El Ritos” in NM, but this is the one in Rio Arriba County on the highway between Ojo Caliente and Abiquiu (I’m sure that most people now know exactly where it is!). There is some controversy, though about what to order here. Gil (and many others) like the green chile cheeseburger, while many like the green chile enchiladas. Gil says the green chile beans and frito pie are also not to be missed. It is obvious, though, that everything is good, and that everything on the menu could be classified as “not to be missed.” Map (Dining room is open 5-13-23)

Española

El Paragua–603 Santa Cruz Rd. (New Mexican) Closed Tue. My experience is that, along with Santa Fe, Española is the quintessential New Mexican cuisine experience. Note: El Parasol is at the same address and has the same owner, but the menu is tacos, tamales, and tostadas, while El Paragua has enchiladas, steaks, and a more traditional dinner menu. The big restaurant is El Paragua, while El Parasol is in a small roadside stand. Map (Temporarily closed 9-18-22)

La Cocina–415 W. Santa Clara Bridge Rd. (New Mexican) Closed Sun. Reviewers say it has New Mexican food prepared the way it should be. Stuffed sopapilla is said to be one of the best choices. Seems to have a consensus that the red chile is better than the green. Also popular for tacos and flautas. Map (Dining room is open 9-18-22)

La Fonda del Sol–233 N. Paseo de Onate (New Mexican) Closed Tue evening. “Modern” New Mexican cuisine (gordita with blue corn, quesabirrias, etc) but the red and green chile are traditional. Map (Dining room is open 9-18-22)

Eunice

Outlaw Grill–1007 E. Main St. (Steaks) Open Daily. Good steakhouse in an area known for its good steaks. Also in Hobbs. Map (Dining room is open 8-22-21)

Farmington

AshKii Navajo Grill–123 W. Broadway St. (Navajo) Open Mon-Fri 11 am to 4 pm. Navajo taco, fry bread, mutton are mentioned in the reviews as favorites. Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Boon’s Family Thai–321 W. Main St. (Thai) Closed Sun (and closed from 3 to 4 pm). Noodle dishes and curries are very good (especially massaman curry). Map (Dining room is open 5-13-23)

Francisca’s–1000 N. Butler Ave. (New Mexican) Closed Sat evening & Sun. New Mexican restaurant with good reviews. Carne adobada and chile relleno are especially recommended. Red chile looks like the real deal from the photos on Yelp. Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Infinite BBQ–1801 Sullivan Ave. (BBQ) Open 10 am to 7 pm (closed Sun & Mon). Most popular item here seems to be the brisket (reviewers say it is very tender and one of the best). Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Los Hermanitos–2400 W. Main St. (New Mexican) Open 7 am to 9:30 pm (closed Sun). One of the most popular places in town for New Mexican food. Enchiladas, stuffed sopapillas, and sopapillas are said to be especially good. You have to pay extra for chips and salsa, but this is actually a sign that it is a traditional New Mexican restaurant. Issues seem to be mostly with the service and not the food (except that some say the chile is not spicy enough). Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Porter’s–2210 E. 20th St. (BBQ) Open daily except Sun evening (breakfast Fri-Sun). Barbecue restaurant that has steaks and other items. When I ate here I found the BBQ to be comparable to what they serve in Oklahoma and the same quality. However, the beef ribs, something I have never seen in Okla. restaurants, were a real treat (beef ribs are widely available in Texas and the ones here were comparable). Map (Dining room is open 9-18-22)

Silver Star BBQ–In front of Lauter Haus at 1806 E. 20th St. (BBQ) Open 11 am to 6 pm (Wed-Sat only). Note: sometimes is not open Wed or Thu because of their catering schedule. BBQ seems to be very popular in the area, and this is another option with very good reviews (this is a food truck). Has traditional plates with side dishes but another popular item is the brisket taco with green chile. Reviewers also like the brisket sandwich and brisket burrito. I think customers can dine inside Lauter Haus (and get a drink there if they want). Map (Food truck is operating 12-23-21)

Gallup

Avalon Restaurant–1104 E. Hwy 66 (Chinese). Has Tinolang chicken (This is Filipino, which is the type of food the reviews recommend). Has Chinese food also. Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Bombay Grill–3405 W. Hwy 66 (Indian) Open Daily. Indian restaurant inside the NKS Royal Truck Stop. The lunch buffet is popular (ends at 4 pm). I am tired of Indian food that is not spicy, but I don’t think that’s a problem in Gallup (based on my experience at Jerry’s). Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Jerry’s Cafe–406 W. Coal Ave. (New Mexican) Open 8 am to 8 pm (closed Sun). As good as the New Mexican restaurants in the Rio Grande Valley. An added bonus is that you can sometimes buy Navajo jewelry on the sidewalk in front of the restaurant. Map (Dining room is open 9-18-22)

Route 66 Railway Cafe–2150 E. Hwy 66 (American) Open 7 am to 7 pm (closed Sun evening & Mon). Very good ratings, but what stands out in the reviews is the omelette with green chile (and breakfast in general). Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Grants

El Cafecito–820 E. Santa Fe Ave. (New Mexican) Open 7 am to 8 pm (closed Sun & Mon). Some reviewers say it has the best sopapillas they’ve ever had, and most recommend the stuffed sopapillas. You have to pay extra for chips and salsa (this is how many traditional New Mexican restaurants do it). Many say skip the breakfast and go there for lunch. Map (Dining room is open 9-18-22)

Hatch

Pepper Pot–207 W. Hall St. (New Mexican) Open daily 6 am to 2 pm. One of several restaurants in town specializing in dishes made with the famous locally grown Hatch chile. Red and green chile are both extremely hot, but I think the red has a better flavor. Chile relleno is not as spicy and also extremely good. Map (Dining room is open 9-18-22)

Sparky’s–115 Franklin St. (Hamburgers) Open 10:30 am to 5:30 pm Thu-Sun only. Known for its green chile cheeseburgers, which some say are one of the best in the state (in fact, almost everyone says this). The line waiting to get in and order frequently goes out the door. Also has barbecue that is said to be very good. Map (Dining room is open 9-18-22)

Hillsboro

Hillsboro General Store–10697 Hwy. 152 (American) Open 8 am to 3 pm Fri-Sun only. Mostly known for its burgers (including the green chile cheeseburger), but some say it has one of the best red enchiladas in NM. (Anyone who has the chance should take Hwy 152 through Hillsboro even if you don’t eat here). Map (Dining room is open 10-4-22)

Hobbs

El Caballero–210 W. Marland St. (Mexican) Open daily 6 am to 9 pm. A small hole-in-the-wall with good Mexican food (authentic Mexican style). Get tacos or meat dishes. Map (Dining room is open 9-18-22)

Saxony Steak Room–501 N. Marland Blvd. (Steaks) Dinner only (Wed-Sat only). Steak with good side dishes (such as spicy potato soup). Restaurant in an old motel–you’re paying for the food and not the setting. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Note: There do not seem to be very good options for Asian food. I believe Pacific Rim (map) would have the best food but the prices I saw do not seem that it would be worthwhile even if this was the best Asian food in New Mexico. Buffet Time Chinese (map) looks to be the best choice for a buffet (which are the only other options in Hobbs). (9-4-21)

Jemez Pueblo

Dave’s Burgers and More–Open 11 am to 6:30 pm Tue-Fri only. I remember Jemez Pueblo as being a very good place for Indian fry bread, and it is sold at Dave’s. It also has Indian tacos and chile bowls. Pueblo burger (with green chile and cheese) is also recommended. Map (Dining room is open 11-1-21)

Laguna

Laguna Burger–Hwy 66 (Hamburgers) Open daily 6 am to 7 pm. Famous for its green chile cheeseburger. West of Albuquerque just off I-40. Map (Dining room is open 12-19-21)

La Luz

Knuckleweed Place–526 La Borcita Canyon Rd. (American) Open Thu-Sun (dinner only). A destination restaurant in a small town north of Alamogordo (that I think is one of the most scenic places in NM). Upscale food. Steak, chicken fried steak, onion soup, Monte Cristo, cheesecake, and carrot cake are recommended. Compared to Buckhorn Saloon in Pinos Altos this looks much better, although all they really have in common is that they serve steaks and they are in secluded locations. I don’t know the price here but it is listed as $$$. Map (Dining room is open 11-1-21)

Las Vegas

Charlie’s Spic & Span–715 Douglas Ave. (New Mexican) Breakfast & lunch only (closed Tue). One of the long time well regarded New Mexican restaurants in town. Stuffed sopapillas and carne adovada are good. Tortillas, donuts, and cream puffs are popular to eat here or for take-out. Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

El Rialto–141 Bridge St. (New Mexican) Open 11:30 am to 8:30 pm (closed Sun & Mon). Green chile has more New Mexico style heat than the red, but both have a good flavor. Stuffed sopapilla is said to be good. Map (Dining room is open 10-4-22)

Kocina de Raphael–610 Legion Dr. (New Mexican) Closed Sun. One of the city’s long time standbys. Here the things to get are the Navajo taco or the red enchiladas with sopapillas on the side. Map (Dining room is open 9-4-21)

Little Saigon–2001 N. Grand Ave. (Vietnamese) Closed Sat; closed Sun lunch (and closed from 1:45 to 4:30 pm). LV is known for its good New Mexican food, but this was the highest rated of all the restaurants on Urbanspoon. Vermicelli bowls have better reviews than the pho, though. Map (Dining room is open 9-4-21)

Olivia’s Cafe–233 Plaza St. (New Mexican) Open 7 am to 3 pm (closed Sat & Sun). Reviewers say this is authentic Northern NM food and that the owner puts her heart into it. Green chile seems to be very popular and many like the stuffed sopapilla. Map (Dining room is open 10-4-22)

Lordsburg

Kranberry’s Family Restaurant–1405 Main St. (American) Closed Sun. Burger, hot open face turkey sandwich, pie and cobbler are recommended. Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Ramona’s Cafe–944 E. Motel Dr. (New Mexican). Green chile and traditional New Mexican dishes (red enchiladas, etc.) are recommended (some do not like the chile relleno, though). Map (Dining room is open 9-18-22)

Los Lunas

Europa–2105 SH 314 (European) Open 9 am to 7 pm Sun-Thu; 9 to 8pm Fri & Sat. European food served in a rural setting that is probably most popular at breakfast (Belgian waffles, salmon lox, etc.). Regular menu only has 6 entrées, but restaurant is currently expanding so that it can add more items to the menu. Not upscale on the price, but it is located on a farm and I think it is meant for you to take your time and enjoy the meal European style. Map (Dining room is open 8-27-22)

Teofilos–144 Main St. NW (New Mexican) Closed Sun & Mon. Said to be one of the state’s best New Mexican restaurants. Chicken enchiladas, chiles rellenos, and sopaipillas are recommended (Note: blue corn enchiladas are recommended). Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

Lovington

Pioneer Steak House–2510 Main St. (Steaks) Closed Sun evening, Sat, & Mon (and closed from 2 to 5 pm). Steakhouse that seems to be a good value and good quality. Buffet is available. Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

Mescalero

Old Road–692 Old Rd. (New Mexican) Open 9 am to 6 pm (closed Sun & Mon). Stacked enchiladas are good (cash only and no alcohol is served). Note: I tried to go in Jan. 2018 and found that they were on their annual Christmas break until the third week of January. Map (Dining room is open 8-27-22)

Peñasco

Sugar Nymphs Bistro–15046 SH 75 (Organic) Lunch Wed-Sun; dinner Fri & Sat (to 7 pm). Some items are New Mexican cuisine. Gil recommends salads, chipotle pork loin, vegetable lasagna (and several other items). Map (Dining room is open 11-1-21)

Pinos Altos

Buckhorn Saloon–32 Main St. (Steaks) Open Dinner only (closed Sun). $$$ (but it’s one of Gil’s recommended restaurants–he says order the steak and the sasparilla). Some reviewers did not like the rib eye (Gil says get the porterhouse or the New York steak). Green chile stew is also available. Note: most people say the building and the setting is really a bigger draw than the food, but they like the food also. Also added to the picture is the fact that it has a new owner, and some of these reviews may now be dated. Map (Dining room is open 8-18-22)

Portales

El Rancho–101 S. Chicago Ave. (New Mexican) Open daily except Sun evening. I thought the food was somewhat “dumbed down” New Mexican cuisine but since my visit it changed owners and supposedly the food is now more spicy. Some say this has the best NM cuisine in the far eastern part of the state. Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

Hong Kong–113 N. Chicago Ave. (Chinese) Closed Tue. Buffet restaurant. Customers can ask for authentic Chinese dishes but I have found two responses–if the owners are there they will cook it for you but if the other couple is there who many times manage the restaurant they will only suggest some of the menu items that are the closest to being authentic (which is OK but probably not worth a special trip). The buffet is pretty good as Chinese buffets go. Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

Ramah

Ancient Way Cafe–4018 Ice Caves Rd. (American) Open Thu-Sun 9 am to 5 pm. Upscale, organic food (with a large number of vegetarian options). Many say the dinners on weekends are a special treat (but at the moment they are not serving dinner). Note: even though it’s upscale, I don’t think it’s all that expensive. I think it is actually located in El Morro, about 12 miles east of Ramah on SH 53. Map (Dining room is open 9-8-22)

Ranchos de Taos

Ranchos Plaza Grill–8 Ranchos Plaza (New Mexican) Open 8 am to 2 pm (closed Mon & Tue). Good New Mexican food in a hacienda setting, but it has other menu items as well. I always like to know whether most people prefer the enchiladas or the stuffed sopapilla, and here it seems to be the enchiladas. Map (Dining room is open 5-13-23)

Raton

La Cosina–745 S. 3rd St. (New Mexican) Open Thurs, & Fri only. New Mexican cuisine. People say the enchiladas are decent, but the best items are posole and the sopapillas. Items with green chile (enchiladas, burritos, etc.) are not as spicy as in other parts of NM, but flavor is said to be good enough that you can get a taste of New Mexican cuisine. Map (Dining room is open 8-22-21)

The Ice House–945 S. 2nd St. (BBQ) Open Thu-Sat only. Reviewers say the meat is excellent, particularly the pulled pork (but people who eat the brisket or ribs say they are excellent as well). The sauces are very different (mostly sweet) but diners like them. They say, though, that they go best with the pork. Also has steak, which gets even better reviews than the BBQ. Map (Dining room is open 9-4-21)

Note: Elida’s in Springer is probably a better alternative for New Mexican food than eating in Raton (based on the reviews I have found on the Internet) Map

Roswell

Amigos–1300 N. Main St. (New Mexican) Breakfast & lunch only (closed Mon). I enjoyed the red enchiladas–good flavor and good spice level. Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

Hunan–1000 W. Hobbs St. (Chinese) Open 11 am to 8 pm (closed Sat & Sun). Really good, authentic Chinese food available. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Pasta Cafe–1208 N. Main St. (Italian) Closed Mon. The now closed Pasta Cafe in Ruidoso had very good food and an even better wine selection, so I assume the Roswell restaurant will be good as well. Chicken cacciatore (in Ruidoso) was very good, but I did not care for the marsala. Yelp reviewers like the manicotti. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Taqueria Jalisco–1622 S. Main St. (Mexican) Open daily 8 am to 9 pm. Has a full menu (not just tacos). I thought the red enchiladas were very good, and taste like the ones in El Paso (this is a good thing!) Carne adobada is also good, and is a special on Fri. night. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Taste of Thai–1303 W. 2nd St. (Thai) Open daily 11 am to 8:30 pm. Has good ratings (from people who seem to know how Thai food is supposed to be prepared). Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Ruidoso

Casa Blanca–501 Mechem Dr. (New Mexican) Open Thu-Sun only. I was very impressed that they had good New Mexican food in an area of the state where it is not easy to find. Stuffed sopapilla with green chile was very good. Map (Dining room is open 8-27-22)

Cornerstone Bakery Cafe–1712 Sudderth Dr. (Bakery) Open daily 7 am to 3 pm. Serves bacon, eggs, pancakes, biscuits, etc., but their specialty is anything that is baked. Pastries are also very good. Map (Dining room is open 9-18-22)

Lincoln County Grill–2717 Sudderth Dr. (Southwest) Open daily 7 am to 5 pm. Green chile cheeseburger, green chile chicken fried steak. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

San Antonio

Buckhorn Tavern–68 US Hwy 380 (Hamburgers) Closed Sat evening & Sun (and closes at 7 pm Mon-Thu). The “other” place in town for green chile cheeseburgers (many say it is as good or better than Owl). Google confirms that it is open Jun. 2020 (other sources had said that it closed). Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Owl Bar & Cafe–77 US Hwy 380 (Hamburgers) Closed Sun. Known for its green chile cheeseburger. Manny’s Buckhorn Tavern across the street may be just as good or even better. Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

San Antonio Crane–17 Pino St. (New Mexican) Breakfast & lunch only (closed Mon & Tue). Authentic and good tasting New Mexican cuisine. John Shipman (who writes a food blog for Socorro) says this is the best NM cuisine in Socorro County. He recommends the carne adovada (Yelp readers like the stuffed sopapilla). Note: this is not to be confused with the Crane Cafe at the Lemitar exit on I-25 (a truck stop), although this restaurant also gets good reviews on Yelp. Map (Dining room is open 8-22-21)

San Jon

Taste of India–2405 NM 469 (Indian) Open daily 8 am to 8 pm. Located in a truck stop on the n. side of I-40 at the San Jon exit. Map (Reviewers report restaurant is closed but I’m not sure if this is correct 9-18-22)

San Lorenzo

Three Questions Coffee House– (American) Open 7 am to noon Tue-Sat. A very small place that specializes in a breakfast buffet of fresh, healthy, home cooked food (some items have green chile). I was alerted to this restaurant by the New Mexico Magazine article showing the results of the readers’ poll (they said it was “Worth a Drive” to this place). The breakfast buffet was $6.50 at the time of the article. Conflicting info about its location but the town is small and it should be easy to find. Map (Dining room is open 6-27-22)

Personal Note: The Mimbres Valley is a beautiful place to see fall foliage of the cottonwoods around early November after the higher elevations have already had their fall season.

Santa Fe

Cafe Pasqual’s–121 Don Gaspar Ave. (New Mexican) Open daily (closed from 3 to 5:30 pm). There is a consensus about the food being good, but it might be hard to categorize. They emphasize being organic with pasture raised meat. There are separate menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Has both traditional NM style food, Southwest/organic style, and interior Mexican style. Dinner is too expensive to be on this list, but breakfast and lunch are OK. The “interior Mexican” category includes in dishes such as huevos motuleños for breakfast and mole or Oaxacan tamales for lunch and dinner. Map (Dining room is open 8-27-22)

Dolina–402 N. Guadalupe St. (Cafe) Breakfast & lunch only (closed Tue). Food is Slovakian inspired. Hungarian goulash is their signature dish. House made pies, cakes and pastries are recommended. Large breakfast menu is popular (green chile omelette, English muffins, ricotta pancakes, etc.). Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

El Queretano–4430 Airport Rd. (Mexican) Closed Sun. Food truck that serves south of the border style Mexican food that reviewers say is authentic and delicious. People compare it to food truck style, but it is better because it is in a regular location (it is not a mobile food truck) and the menu gives you a wide variety of choices. Map (Takeout only, but has outdoor covered picnic tables 12-23-21)

Geronimo–724 Canyon Rd. (Fine Dining) Dinner only (Open daily). Expensive, and perhaps does not meet the criteria for this list, but Gil and others point to it as possibly the best fine dining in Santa Fe and worth the money. Elk tenderloin, crab cakes, and apple & pecan crostade are recommended. Map (Dining room is open 8-13-21)

Izanami–3.5 mi. up Hyde Park Rd. (Japanese) Open daily except Tue lunch. Izakaya style Japanese rest. Said to be one of the best Japanese rests. in the S.W. Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Jambo Cafe–2010 Cerrillos Rd. (Jamaican) Open 11 am to 9 pm (closed Sun). African & Caribbean cuisine. Gil gives this a higher rating than many restaurants which are much more expensive. Good choices are jerk chicken or combination plate, and just about all the desserts they serve. Note: they have another location at 505 Cerillos Rd. Map (Dining room is open 8-13-21)

La Boca–72 W. Marcy St. (Spanish) Open Wed-Sun 5 pm to 9 pm. Expensive, but looks like extremely good food that is worth the price. Specializes in tapas. Map (Dining room is open 8-13-21)

La Choza–905 Alarid St. (New Mexican) Closed Sun (and closed from 2:30 to 4:30 pm). Gil recommends this as the place to get a stuffed sopaipilla. Some say their red chile is the best in NM. Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

Los Potrillos–1947 Cerrillos Rd. (Mexican) Closed Wed. One of Gil’s favorite upscale Mexican restaurants other than the Rick Bayless restaurants. Reviewers like enchiladas with various sauces (including suizas), moles, chiles en ahogada. Gil likes cabrito in peanut and almond sauce, quesadilla sincronizada, molcajete al pastor, costillas Pancho Villa, chiles rellenos en nogada. Map (Dining room is open 12-19-21)

Paper Dosa–551 W. Cordova Rd. (Indian) Dinner only (closed Mon). South Indian style dosa that is very popular with customers. Some of the dosa served is different than you will find elsewhere (this and the quality make it very popular). Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

Pho Kim–919 W. Alameda St. (Vietnamese) Closed Mon & Tue. Recommended by people from the west coast. Good pho, and the vermicelli dishes are apparently even better. Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Sazon–221 Shelby St. (Mexican) Dinner only (closed Sun). Mexico City style restaurant. Mole negro and chiles en nogada are recommended. Expensive ($$$) but won a James Beard award in 2022 (also Gil thinks very highly of it). Map (Dining room is open 9-18-22)

The Shed–113 E. Palace Ave. (New Mexican) Closed Sun (and closed from 2:30 to 5 pm). Same owners as La Choza, but many think the food is better here (actually, both are better at certain things). Gil and others recommend this as the place to get blue corn enchiladas. The Shed is in a historic building for a better ambiance (but parking can be a problem). Map (Dining room is open 8-27-22)

Tibet Kitchen–3003 S. St. Francis Dr. (Himalayan) Closed Sat evening & Sun. Reviewers say this is traditional Tibetan food. People like the flavor and the selection (including a large choice of vegetarian food). Dumplings are popular, some of the food is spicy (such as chili chicken), but reviewers say it is not too spicy. Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Tomasita’s–500 S. Guadalupe St. (New Mexican) Open daily. New Mexican food that some say is inconsistent but I had an excellent experience with the red enchiladas. Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

Note: I have several comments about Santa Fe: (1) This is one of the best food cities in the U.S., (2) It is very common to provide a fusion between New Mexican food and other cuisines (at least to the point of having both on the menu), (3) Some of the restaurants listed here are $$$ or more, but unique to Santa Fe (thus I want to include them on the list), (4) rather than list all the good restaurants here, I have purposely tried to narrow the list for those who just want to try the most recommended restaurants, (5) La Choza, The Shed, and Maria’s were voted the best New Mexican style restaurants in the New Mexico Magazine poll of 2016.

Santa Rosa

Comet II Drive In–217 Will Rogers Dr. (New Mexican) Closed Mon & Tue. Has hamburgers and other American food items, but the New Mexican cuisine is its specialty. Blue corn enchiladas and chiles rellenos are recommended. Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Note: Joseph’s is the restaurant for nostalgia in Santa Rosa, and I even ate there when I was a kid (and still remember it). Today, though, it has mixed reviews, and Comet seems to be better (but if you go to Joseph’s the carne adovada and green chile cheeseburger are recommended). Map (Dining room is open 12-23-21)

Santa Teresa

Penny’s Diner–12 Kitty Hawk Dr. (American) Open 24 Hours. There are three locations in New Mexico but apparently they have some measure of autonomy in the food. This location did not have the NM green chile I found in the Vaughn restaurant, but it had excellent hamburgers. Has milkshakes if you can afford to pay $7 or $8 for them. Restaurant is located near the Santa Teresa Airport. Map (Dining room is open 2-14-22)

Shiprock

Cheii’Yazhi Food Stand–US 64 about 2500 ft. east of US 491 then north about one block (Native American) Open Wed & Sat only (according to Google Maps). Has a larger menu of Native American items than D N M but the important thing is to find out which one is open (and both are said to be good). This is about 500 ft. w. of D N M (both are on the north side of the highway). Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

D N M Grillen Native–N. Kirk Center on US 64 (Native American) Lunch only (closed Sun & Mon). Food is cooked outdoors and I think it is takeout only. Stew and fry bread are recommended. Map (Takeout only 9-18-22)

Silver City

Adobe Springs Cafe–614 N. Bullard St. (New American) Closed Sun evening & Mon. Diner that serves American food, with some Mexican. Specials are recommended (such as Belgian waffles on Wed.and the Czech potato salad). Reviewers say avoid the standard sandwiches and diner food, and instead get some of their specials, upscale dishes, or Mexican food. Open to 8 pm, when most other restaurants are closed. Map (Dining room is open 2-22-22)

Chinese Palace–1010 Hwy 180 E. (Chinese) Closed Sat & Sun. Has good reviews. A reviewers recommends Mongolian beef, and the photo looks very good with brightly colored vegetables. Map (Dining room is open 2-22-22)

Jalisco Cafe–100 S. Bullard St. (New Mexican) Closed Sun & Mon. Good reviews–commenters say you can tell this restaurant is not too far from Hatch (the chile capital of the US). Chile relleno is especially popular (and there is no sauce on top, as it should be!). Map (Dining room is open 1-28-22)

Nancy’s Silver Cafe–514 N. Bullard St. (New Mexican) Closed Sun. Has regular cafe style food as well as legit New Mexican cuisine. Recommended by readers in the NM Magazine poll for the New Mexican style breakfast (although they like Jalisco Cafe better for dinner–perhaps because Jalisco is open later. Chiles rellenos, red enchiladas, and sopapillas are recommended here. Map (Dining room is open 2-22-22)

Revel–304 N. Bullard St. (New American) Closed Wed. Food seems to be good not only for Silver City, but for anywhere. Has grass fed burgers and food is locally sourced “whenever possible.” Map (Dining room is open 2-22-22)

Wrangler’s Bar & Grill–2005 US 180 (American) Closed Sun & Mon. Information on the Internet indicates that their beef is grass fed and finished on rotational pastures. This is not a steakhouse but steaks and burgers are some of the most popular items. Map (Dining room is open 6-27-22)

Note: see listing under Pinos Altos for another nearby restaurant

Socorro

El Camino–707 N. California St. (New Mexican) Open 6 am to 10 pm (closed Mon & Tue). Good New Mexican food in a coffee shop style restaurant that has been around for decades. Not the highest rated NM food in Socorro, but it’s good. I had a very good experience ordering a breakfast plate with a side dish of green chile to put on top. Map (Dining room is open 2-22-22)

La Pasadita–230 Garfield Ave. (New Mexican) Open 10 am to 7 pm (closed Sat & Sun. Blue corn enchiladas are recommended (NM Magazine readers say to get the empanadas). Map (Dining room is open 2-22-22)

Socorro Springs–1012 N. California St. (Brewpub) Closed Sun evening & Mon. Shipman’s blog says the food is “great” (not just good), so this is a good source. Wood fired pizza is popular here. Other popular items are Italian (pasta, calzone, etc.). Map (Dining room is open 2-22-22)

Note: see listings under San Antonio for other nearby restaurants

Springer

Elida’s Cafe–801 Railroad Ave. (New Mexican) Breakfast & lunch only (closed Mon). Most reviews are positive, some say the green chile is not as flavorful as the red, some say several items are too salty. Huevos rancheros are recommended. I’m listing it as probably a good place to get New Mexican cuisine. (Based on reviews I’m uncertain about whether I should put the Brown Hotel on this list). Map (Dining room is open 1-28-22)

Sunland Park

Ardovino’s Desert Crossing–1 Ardovino Dr. (Italian) Dinner Thu-Sat; brunch Sat & Sun. Not a fine dining restaurant but food is upscale (good quality). Flavorful Italian food, but the manager says it is also well known for its pizza. Dress code here seems to be blue jeans (which I like). Go south from the intersection of SH 273 (McNutt) and SH 498 (Racetrack Dr.). Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

Billy Crews–1200 Country Club Dr. (American) Open Daily. Steakhouse with other entrees available (chicken, fish, etc.). This is one of the better steakhouses I have found because of the food, the variety on the menu, and the value you get for your money. Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

Taos

La Cueva–135 Paseo del Pueblo Sur (New Mexican) Open 10 am to 8 pm (closed Sun). Upscale Mexican & New Mexican–organic & local ingredients. Not traditional New Mexican, but has a lot of New Mexican elements. Tortilla soup may be better than the ones that are traditional style. Map (Dining room is open 1-28-22)

Michael’s Kitchen–304 Paseo del Pueblo Norte (New Mexican) Open 7 am to 2 pm (closed Mon & Tue). A Taos staple for NM food. Stuffed sopapilla is good. The NM Magazine reader’s poll voted it the best place in town for breakfast. Map (Dining room is open 1-28-22)

Orlando’s–1114 Don Juan Valdez Ln. (New Mexican) Closed Sun & Mon (closed from 3 to 5 pm). Los colores enchiladas (3 enchiladas, each with a different sauce) is popular, and is the specialty of the restaurant. Chile relleno is good. Reviews say the red chile is especially good. This was the most recommended NM style restaurant on Urbanspoon (also the most popular on the NM Magazine reader’s poll in 2016). Note: Gil’s Blog indicates that this is better New Mexican food than Michael’s Kitchen, and information I have read indicates that this is the case. Map (Dining room is open 1-28-22)

Sushi Siam–106 Paseo del Pueblo Norte (Thai & Sushi) Closed Mon & Tue (and closed from 3 to 4:30 pm). Reviews indicate that this has the most authentic Asian food in town (the Thai food). Curries look good but there are not a lot of reviews to tell what else might be good. Note: Donabe also has very good reviews but it is fusion in the sense that it has dishes from different countries. There are at least 3 Chinese restaurants in Taos–all seem fairly good. Map (Dining room is open 1-28-22)

Tiwa Kitchen–Taos Pueblo (n. of Taos) (Native American) Open 11 am to 4 pm Fri-Mon only (Open longer hours Jun-Aug). Serves traditional food from Taos Pueblo. Blue corn taco and phien-tye (blue corn fry bread with buffalo meat covered with red or green chile) are the owners’ recommended items for traditional food (also has traditional New Mexican food). Map (Dining room is open 8-27-22)

Taos Ski Valley

Bavarian Restaurant–100 Kachina Rd. (German) Open 11 am to 3:30 pm daily; dinner Fri & Sat (summer hours). Authentic, but expensive and service is slow. Reviewers say reservations are a must. Some of the reviews indicate the food is hit or miss. he best bet seems to be the sausages and goulasch. Schnitzel is disappointing to many. Map (Dining room is open 5-13-23

)

Tinnie

Tinnie’s Silver Dollar–28842 US 70 (Steaks) Open 11 am to 8 pm Fri & Sat; 11-2 on Sun. This restaurant has been around for years, but has been open off and on over the past few years. Steaks are the specialty, although it has other items. People also say good things about the bar. Tinnie is located west of Roswell on US 70. Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

Truth or Consequences

Grapevine Bistro–413 N. Broadway St. (Sandwiches) Breakfast & lunch Fri-Mon; dinner Thu-Mon. Reviewers mention that the BLT and green chile cheeseburger are very good. Food seems to be fresh & healthy (as opposed to fried & greasy). Map (Dining room is open 1-28-22)

Pacific Grill–800 N. Date St. (New American) Closed Sat lunch, closed Sun & Mon (and closed from 1:45 to 5 pm). Chicken fried steak is recommended, but also the Chinese food. One item on Yelp that looks good is the North Atlantic cod with coconut lime sauce. Also has egg rolls and egg drop soup. Most of the dishes look “elevated” like the cod and I think include both Asian and Latin American styles. Map (Dining room is open 1-28-22)

Tucumcari

El Herradero–112 E. Main St. (Mexican) Open 8 am to 3 pm (closed Sun). The name on the sign outside says “El Pueblito,” but this is the same place. Enchiladas are New Mexico style but other items are authentic Mexican (get the red enchiladas if you want them spicy). Has higher ratings than La Cita (reviewers like the food better here but mostly it is not New Mexican style). Map (Dining room is open 1-28-22)

La Cita–812 S. 1st St. (New Mexican) Open daily except Sun evening. Stuffed sopapillas are recommended. Chile relleno is said to be another good bet. Map (Dining room is open 1-28-22)

Watson’s BBQ–502 S. Lake St. (BBQ) Open 10:30 to 4:30 (3:30 on Sat) closed Sun. Proclaimed as one of the best barbecue restaurants in the US by almost everyone who has tried it (the owner is originally from San Antonio). Cooked on mesquite wood that is not used until it has been sufficiently dried (usually about 2 years). Gil proclaims both the ribs and brisket of being worthy of being eaten without the sauce, although all the meats really get high praise by everyone who reviews them. This is located in the owner’s other business, Tucumcari Ranch Supply. Map (Dining room is open 1-28-22)

Note: La Cita is the best place in Tucumcari that I have tried personally. Del’s is very popular and has high ratings, but it had a number of problems for me. El Herradero has the best ratings in town, but this is south of the border Mexican (not New Mexican). I would not bother with the New Mexican food in Tucumcari if I were headed to Albuquerque where it is a lot better, but if I were going the other direction I might stop here for my “last chance” to eat New Mexican cuisine.

Tularosa

Casa de Sueños–35 St. Francis Dr. (New Mexican) Open Daily. Very good New Mexican style restaurant (somewhat of a rarity in SE New Mexico). The red enchiladas here probably “stack up” with anyone’s (pun intended, since these are stacked enchiladas). Map (Dining room is open 5-13-23)

Tulie Freeze–419 St. Francis Dr. (Ice Cream) Closed Tue (and closes early on Sun). I have passed by this place so many times I decided to look it up on Yelp. This is a New Mexico version of Dairy Queen–ice cream is the specialty. Root beer floats are very good. Chicken tacos are recommended, but the other food does not sound especially worthwhile from the reviews. Map (Dining room is open 12-1-21)

Yum-Yum’s–460 Central Ave. (Mexican) Open 5 am to 3 pm (closed Sun). For Mexican food in Tularosa I feel that there is no need to go anywhere other than Casa de Suenos. However, Yum-Yum’s is open for breakfast (which Casa de Suenos is not) and the breakfast burritos get good reviews. Indian tacos are also recommended. I have also read that the stacked enchiladas are very good. If you can get their donuts fresh out of the oven this would be very worthwhile. Note: for traditional Mexican pan dulce (sweet bread) you can go to Laredo Bakery. Map (Dining room is open 2-14-24)

For additional explanation of this list see Index
Please feel free to leave your own comments or suggestions.

Recommendations for New Mexican Food

There is no shortage of recommendations for the state’s claim to fame when it comes to food, but I will attempt to provide some sources that I think are particularly useful. Please note that this list encompasses the area outside of Albuquerque and Las Cruces (they are each on a separate list).

New Mexico Specific Cuisine (Trip Advisor discussion originally posted Mar. 8, 2022)

The original poster (OP) was asking for recommendations along the following route: Albuquerque — Bandelier — Taos — White Sands — Carlsbad — Santa Fe. The OP was particularly interested in stuffed sopapillas, although several types of food were included in the recommendations. I thought the recommendations by canbelto were particularly relevant because (1) they are based on recent experiences (2) they include some that I have tried and thought were particularly good, and (3) they are mostly in the non-urban area that is covered by this page. They mostly cover small towns, and are not meant to be inclusive of all the best restaurants in Santa Fe because the list there would be “too long.”

- Santa Fe– Tomasita’s is good for stuffed sopapillas or “anything else” but gets very crowded to the point of interfering with one’s enjoyment of the food
- Cuba– El Bruno’s is one of the best small town restaurants
- Los Alamos– El Parasol is the best in town (but doesn’t seem to be on canbelto’s list as one of the best NM restaurants in the state)
- Española– Steve’s La Cocina or the equally good Rancho de Chimayo in the town of Chimayo about 10 miles east of town
- Abiquiu– Good place for a green chile cheeseburger at either Bode’s or Cafe Abiquiu
- Taos– Michael’s Kitchen is good all around but stuffed sopapillas are not particularly notable
- Pojoaque– Gabriel’s (New Mexican food is the minority of the menu but said to be fantastic)

Recommended by others:

- Santa Fe– Atrisco Cafe 193 Paseo de Peralta (has green chile from the Hatch Valley and seems to specialize in dishes with green chile)

James Beard Foundation America’s Classics

The following are locally owned restaurants that are distinguished by their timeless appeal, and which serve quality food that represents the character of their communities:

Chimayó: Rancho de Chimayó–300 Juan Medina Rd.
Santa Fe: Café Pasqual’s–121 Don Gaspar Ave.
Santa Fe: The Shed–113 E. Palace Ave.

James Beard Foundation Best Chef Southwest Region 2022

Fernando Olea, Sazon, Santa Fe

Note About “50 States, 50 Dishes” (Condé Nast)

Condé Nast published an article on Jul. 3, 2018 using various sources to compile a “list of the dishes that capture the hearts, souls, and (oh, yes) stomachs of these 50 states (plus Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico), and where you should order them.” For New Mexico it was green chile enchiladas. The editor suggests that The Shed in Santa Fe is known for its green chile stew, but the green chile enchiladas with blue corn tortillas is another don’t miss experience.

Note About “50 States, 50 Cuisines” (Condé Nast)

Condé Nast published an article on Sep. 14, 2020 explaining how they set out to go beyond a previous article that had identified the signature dish for each state, and to find food that goes beyond the classics and “to highlight a cuisine worth traveling to each state for, much of which you truly can’t get anywhere else.” For New Mexico it is New Mexican cuisine, a blend of the flavors brought over by the Spanish colonists in the 16th century and Native American cultures–with corn, chile peppers, and roasting techniques originating from the latter.

In Santa Fe they suggest La Choza for carne adovada, The Shed for stacked red or green enchiladas, and Pantry or Cafe Pasqual’s for breakfast burritos. In Albuquerque the recommendations are Mary & Tito’s for chile rellenos and stuffed sopapillas, Cocina Azul for green chile stew, and Sadie’s for red chile sauce.

Closed (Formerly on the Restaurant Guide)

Bamboo Garden–2617 N. White Sands Blvd., Alamogordo (closed 2023) The chef prepares special authentic Chinese dishes on request, with Korean food also available
Great Wall of China–2913 Sudderth Dr., Ruidoso (closed 2023) Ryan made special request orders that I really liked, and the regular menu was better than most

Sources:

James Beard Foundation (America’s Classics Award Winners)

Chowhound (former web site)

Condé Nast Traveler “50 States, 50 Cuisines: The Food Worth Traveling For in Every State”

Condé Nast Traveler, “50 States, 50 Dishes: America’s Favorite Foods and Where to Get Them”

Eater Guide to the Southwest 2019

EGullet (Southwest)

Gil’s Thrilling (And Filling) Blog

Google Maps

New Mexico Magazine “2016 Readers’ Poll Winners” (Mar. 2016)

New Mexico Magazine “Hidden NM” and “Tasting NM” (Jul. 2016)

New Mexico Magazine “Readers’ Choice Dining Awards 2017” (Mar. 2017)

John Shipman (Socorro)

TripAdvisor “New Mexico Specific Cuisine” (Mar. 8, 2022)

Urbanspoon.com (former web site which I used for preliminary research)

Yelp (New Mexico)

Zomato (Santa Fe)