Las Cruces, NM
(575) 526-4275
Spanish Kitchen
In my college days which I think must have been during the New Mexico territorial period I was in attendance at a local school that I think was known as New Mexico A&M, although I have a hard time remembering that far back. One thing I do remember, though, was a local neighborhood restaurant on Madrid Avenue called Spanish Kitchen. This restaurant was notable for its traditional New Mexican flavor with the red sauce soaked in lard, giving what many believe is the true taste of enchiladas, tamales, chile con carne, and other local favorites. This restaurant, established in 2010, brings back my memories of the old restaurant (and run by the same family) and how I enjoyed the flavor of New Mexican cooking done the traditional way.
The walls carry photos of historic Las Cruces
Although Spanish Kitchen is nowhere near as old as La Posta, its historic photo collection is worth coming here to check out.
Chips and Salsa
Chips and salsa
Thick chips and thin but spicy and flavorful salsa gets the job done.
Enchiladas and all Things Red
“Chile Rojo Dinner” with enchilada, chile con carne, and tamal (and taco)
The chile rojo plate gives you a trifecta of red chile specialties, with the Red Enchilada being my favorite. Sure, there is some stiff competition in the area, but the one here rates favorably. The Tamal and Chile con Carne are quite good as well.
Beans
The Beans were more than just good, with a generous amount of cheddar cheese on top.
Taco
The Taco provides a good offset to the more spicy food.
Sopapillas
Sopapillas
These are not the fluffiest Sopapillas in town but they taste good and for me are part of the traditional meal experience.
RATING: 24
Cuisine: Mexican New Mexican
Cost: $$
Hours: Tue 11-3, Wed-Fri 11-7, Sat 11-3
Accessible: Yes
Smoking: No smoking
Alcohol: No
Most Recent Visit: Mar. 7, 2026
Number of Visits: 4
Best Items: Red Enchiladas, Chile con Carne, Sopapillas, Salsa
Mexican Food Details
| Chile Index: |  |
| Cooking Oil: | Lard |
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Red Enchiladas |
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Tamal |
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Chile con Carne |
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Taco |
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Sopapilla |
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Beans |
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Chips |
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Salsa |