20 Best Restaurants in Taos, NM
Living amidst the beautiful and picturesque town of Taos, New Mexico, I've had the pleasure of exploring a range of culinary delights that our community takes pride in.
Here, we are gifted with a blend of traditional and contemporary dining establishments that offer a gastronomic journey, reflecting the diversity and richness of our culture.
Each restaurant in this quaint town exudes its unique charm, and the food served is a testament to the love and respect we have for our local produce.
As you walk down the vibrant streets of Taos, the aroma of delicious meals being prepared is enough to lure you into experiencing the culinary marvels the town has to offer.
Let me guide you through the best restaurants in Taos, New Mexico, that have left a lasting impression on my palate.
Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself
Sopalicious
Every once in a while, a pit stop at the Sopalicious food cart is all I need to sate my cravings for authentic New Mexican cuisine.
Right across the street from the John Dunn House shops, I find two welcoming ladies always ready to serve up a batch of hot, fluffy sopapillas.
For merely $8, I get myself a bag brimming with these greasy delights and two tiny containers of honey.
I've come to learn that the magic of these sopapillas truly unfolds within the first 5 minutes of them being served.
The dough puffs are delightfully chewy when cold, but I personally prefer them hot and crispy.
What's more, a single bag is enough for two, making it the perfect snack for a quick catch-up with a friend.
Bringing my own twist to the traditional sopapillas, I usually embellish them with the house special Chile.
It's a blast of homely flavors wrapped in the convenience of a fast-food meal.
And if you have a little extra time on hand, I'd recommend sitting out in their cute patio adorned with blooms.
My visits here are even more special by the sight of a flourishing garden, tomatoes which often find their way into my meal.
La Terraza de Taos Cocina
"Where culture meets flavor" - that's what comes to mind every time I visit La Terraza de Taos Cocina.
Nestled in the heart of Taos, this gem offers an assortment of authentic Mexican cuisine that excites your taste buds like no other.
Stepping into La Terraza, the rustic ambiance and the aroma of sizzling spices invites me in.
I usually start with their crisp chips accompanied by salsa and guacamole - a superb introduction to the meal that ensues.
The chicken enchiladas with red chili and chicken tacos served with rice, and pinto beans are a masterstroke of culinary brilliance that never fails to impress.
Not just the food, the unobstructed mountain views that the patio offers only adds to the charm of the place.
Dining here is not just about the food but also the breathtaking views and the feeling of being close to nature.
Last time, I decided to shake things up and ordered the alambres.
Oh, the sheer delight!
The perfect blend of flavors had me coming back for more.
And if you're a seafood lover, you must try the shrimp tacos - a symphony of taste that lingers in your mouth.
But, without a doubt, the star of the show has to be the churros.
Perfectly cooked, light yet dense, filled with caramel sauce - it's like a piece of heaven on a plate.
Accompanied by their house margarita, the dining experience transforms into an unforgettable memory.
Trujillo's Diner
Sometimes, the most remarkable experiences come from the unlikeliest places.
Picture this: an old gas station near a car wash transformed into a bustling hub of deliciousness.
That's Trujillo's Diner for you, a charming local haunt that's always abuzz with life.
The six-piece order, with a mix of chicken and beef, is nothing short of exceptional, complemented perfectly by the fresh and flavorful salsa.
But let me tell you about my personal favorite – the "build your own burritos".
Stuffed with pulled pork, beans, and cheese, I adore it fried and smothered with green sauce.
My wife, on the other hand, prefers hers, not fried, accompanied with a mild red sauce.
Both are delightfully filling and leave you with a sense of deep contentment.
Now, if you have kids, they would absolutely love the cheese quesadilla with the unique spiral-cut potatoes.
It's a crispy delicacy that stands somewhere between fries and chips.
Aji Restaurant
Walking through the doors of Aji Restaurant for the first time, I was immediately ensnared by the warm, inviting aroma of Peruvian cuisine.
When I slipped into my seat, I was greeted by a friendly server, setting the tone for an enjoyable dining experience.
Now, let's talk about the food.
If you're in for a hearty mouthful, the Pato, or duck, is a commendable choice.
Paired with sweet potato - albeit a tad too sweet for my palate - the dish is a delightful fusion of flavors.
Complementing the duck was an array of dishes - green noodle that was deliciously great, a slightly spicy sliced potato, and a decently good steak.
The dessert menu is a treasure trove.
They’ve recently changed the passion fruit cheesecake from rectangle to round, but the burst of tangy passion fruit flavor is still there.
Just a heads up, though, the cheesecake is relatively small but layered with a delightful passion fruit-flavored jelly.
Now, as a heads up, there’s a card payment fee at this place.
I was a bit puzzled about it.
Not sure if it's common in New Mexico, but it's something to keep in mind when you pay your bill.
One thing that stands out about Aji Restaurant is the authenticity of their food.
The Lomo Saltado and Payo were among my favorites, and the Ceviche is to die for!
I would highly recommend these dishes to anyone visiting.
I must mention, however, if you plan to visit in the winter, the restaurant can feel a bit chilly, so remember to dress warm.
Orlando's New Mexican Cafe
You know you've found a gem of a restaurant when you're counting down the minutes until you can taste its delicious food.
That's exactly how I feel every time I step into Orlando's New Mexican Cafe.
Nestled on the busy main street of Taos, this colorful eatery has become my favorite spot for getting my Mexican food fix.
I always appreciate the vibrant display of hues, and the beautiful shaded patio area, adorned with colorful umbrellas that adds a nice touch to the overall dining experience.
It's dog-friendly, and there's always a pleasant hum of chatter and laughter, which makes the place feel lively and welcoming.
I'm a frequent visitor, and the wait time has never been an issue for me.
In fact, they have a comfortable waiting area outside the restaurant, featuring a warm fire pit for those chillier days.
Their open kitchen concept allows you to witness the magic as they whip up mouth-watering enchiladas, fish tacos, and more.
The food is always great and flavorful and even customizable—I recommend the smothered veggie burrito made vegan with no cheese and the blue corn tacos subbed with beans instead of meat.
For those with a hearty appetite, the smothered beef burrito and the 'choose your own bowl' are absolutely filling.
Mary Janes Home Cooking
Every town has a hidden gem, and for us, it's this delightful food truck called Mary Janes Home Cooking.
I was skeptical at first.
What can a food truck offer that a brick-and-mortar can't right?
I couldn't have been more wrong.
Stepping up to the window, I was met with a variety of mouth-watering options - from tacos and burritos to their infamous hamburger.
My first order was the beef burrito, and let me tell you, it was served quickly and tasted like a little piece of Mexican heaven right here in my hometown.
The authenticity of those flavors just blew me away.
Dining here is also a unique experience in itself.
With outside tables nicely placed, it's an absolute pleasure to enjoy your meal under the open sky.
And the people you meet here - oh, they're just the cherry on top!
I must mention their breakfast burrito.
It's served with both green and red sauce, which is a perfect balance of flavors.
The sausage is spread evenly, and they do an amazing job with the eggs.
My partner often indulges in huevos rancheros and swears by the taste of their beans.
I've heard some say the food can be a bit bland at times.
Gutiz
If you're looking for a unique dining experience that takes you on a culinary trip around the globe, then you can't afford to miss out on Gutiz.
While you may not expect such a cosmopolitan menu from a little eatery nestled in the small town of Taos, this place is full of surprises.
My first sip of their double shot latte told me I was in for a treat.
The bold, rich flavors warmed and prepped my palate for the main course.
The steak sandwich didn't disappoint, either.
Every bite was a testament to the art of sandwich-making, with the tender meat, crusty bread, and fresh ingredients melding together perfectly.
They even serve it with a side of mayo, but trust me, the sandwich can hold its own without any added condiments.
But Gutiz isn't just about the meat-eaters.
Their vegetarian offerings are just as impressive.
I still remember the vegetarian bowl I had one morning.
It was a masterful blend of sweet and salty, with fresh veggies that tasted like they were plucked from the garden that very morning.
And their sangria?
A delightful mix of fruits and wine that's just the thing to cool you down on a sunny day.
Lambert's of Taos
The night started off just like any other, except this time, we decided to explore Lambert's of Taos.
As soon as we stepped through the door, we were wrapped in an atmosphere of intimate sophistication.
Each section of the restaurant was like its own little world, tucked away from the rest.
The refrain of dressing well echoed in our ears as we looked around, but we quickly relaxed into the elegance of the place.
Starting off, we indulged in the carrot bisque and roasted beet salad.
The bisque had a spicy kick to it, but it was so delicious that we couldn't stop ourselves.
The beet salad was a fresh bite, perfectly balancing the heat of the bisque.
And the bread and butter with roasted garlic was to die for.
For the main course, we decided to share the special scallop dish and the Regal Crest Farms Chicken Breast.
Each bite was cooked to absolute perfection, the flavors dancing on our tongues.
The vegetables were fresh, adding that beautiful crunch to the meal.
We couldn't have asked for a better dinner.
We then decided to head to the bar upstairs, lovingly called the treehouse by locals.
The vibe was relaxed, and the service was impeccable.
The smoked trout deviled eggs were a delightful surprise, a perfect addition to the unique menu offerings.
La Cueva Café
If you're in the mood for some authentic Mexican cuisine, then you need to experience La Cueva Café.
I remember stepping into this charming Pueblo-style eatery for the first time; it was like being instantly transported to Mexico.
The aroma of freshly cooked Mexican food that hit me was intoxicating, and I knew I was in for a treat.
I've dined at La Cueva several times since that first visit, and I must say, it's never disappointed me.
The menu is filled with traditional Mexican dishes, each more delicious than the last.
My go-to is usually the seafood enchiladas, packed with lots of crab, or the veggie burrito; but you can't go wrong with anything on the menu.
Their ceviche and mole are worth a try too.
One thing that stands out about La Cueva, apart from its food, is the service.
They're always on hand to help with recommendations or accommodate any dietary restrictions.
On my last visit, I took along a vegan friend, and they were more than happy to customize her order.
The café itself is quite small, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in ambience.
There's a cozy indoor seating area with a few tables and a large patio that's dog-friendly.
Jalapeños Tacos and More
There's nothing that warms my heart - or my belly - quite like the authentic Mexican street food at Jalapeños Tacos and More.
After a long day of skiing, I find myself drawn to the inviting atmosphere of this local gem.
I'm a vegetarian, and let me tell you, it's not always easy to find places that can accommodate my dietary needs, especially in smaller communities.
Jalapeños, though, never disappoints.
They've got a variety of tasty meat-free options that are just as delicious as their counterparts.
The food is nothing short of great, but what really sets Jalapeños Tacos and More apart is their service.
Their comfortable, dog-friendly patio is perfect for enjoying a sunny day and the interior, while simple, has a charm of its own.
But the star of the show has to be their food.
My friends, who are big fans of seafood, swear by the fish tacos.
They've tried many across the country and insist that Jalapeños' are the best they've ever had.
I, for one, am partial to the green chili stew.
It's served in a large bowl, brimming with rich, excellent flavors that will have you craving more.
Leonel's
There's something special about the food in Taos, especially at Leonel's Tamales.
Let me tell you, the tamales here are out of this world, and has to be the best in town!
I've eaten at quite a few places around here, but the flavors at Leonel's are by far the most authentic.
I remember the first time I tasted their tortillas; o boy, they were the real deal!
It was the first time I had a genuine tortilla in New Mexico.
And their fajitas, full of flavor, with just the right amount of seasoning.
Their rice and beans are great too.
Although they serve in to-go plates, the taste, and the ambiance more than makeup for it.
One of my favorite weekly rituals involves Leonel's breakfast burritos.
Every Wednesday, my boss and I make it a point to get the sausage with green chili.
We like to try different places, but we're never disappointed when we choose Leonel's.
The burritos are always filled to the brim and perfectly seasoned, unlike some other places that tend to overdo the salt.
The highlight, though, has to be the tamales.
On one of my RV trips, I ordered a dozen hot tamales on a whim.
I was so taken in by the taste I walked right back and ordered a dozen more to take with me!
Whether it's red or green, these tamales are exceptional, and the price is just right for the quality and quantity you get.
Michael's Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery
You know, there's nothing quite like starting your day with a hearty, homemade breakfast that can only be found in one place: Michael's Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery.
Now, this isn't just any breakfast spot; no, it's a culinary gem tucked away in the bustling part of town.
Don't be surprised when you pull up, and their parking lot is packed tighter than their delicious enchiladas - you've got to get there early to nab a spot.
But let me tell you; it's worth the hustle.
The moment you step inside, you're greeted by a casual space that feels like home, adorned with quirky knickknacks and the mouthwatering scent of baking pastries.
Their menu is considerably vast, offering a fantastic range of regionally inspired items.
Personally, I'm partial to the breakfast enchilada.
The perfect blend of soft tortilla, spicy chili, and gooey cheese served with a side of eggs - it's the kind of dish that makes you want to return day after day.
If you've got a sweet tooth, I'd recommend swinging by the bakery before you leave.
Their cinnamon rolls are to die for.
Sushi Siam Taos
Have you ever found yourself craving authentic Thai food right in the heart of Taos?
Let me tell you about Sushi Siam Taos, a culinary gem right here in our town.
My wife, an ardent duck lover, still raves about their Siam Crispy Duck she relished a while ago.
She found it perfectly cooked - exceptionally moist and succulent on the inside, crispy on the outside, and elegantly served on a bed of vibrant, fresh vegetables.
As for me, a hearty Panang Curry with Chicken never fails to hit the spot.
Trust me when I say this, their curry is perfectly balanced with rich, bold flavors that will leave you craving more.
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room - Sushi.
Yes, contrary to previous reports, sushi is back on the menu.
And it's not just sushi, it's sushi made with freshly flown seafood from Hawaii.
Let that sink in for a moment.
Not just that, their sashimi and Tom Kha are to die for.
The sashimi, in particular, is cut into large, hearty pieces that really allow for the flavor to shine through.
And boy, do they shine!
Their Tom Kha, on the other hand, is unlike any other I've tasted.
It's flavorful, aromatic, and a delight for the taste buds.
But it's not just about the food and service.
What sets Sushi Siam Taos apart is the genuine care and love they put into their dishes and the fact that they don't over-sauce their food.
Every dish is a testament to their commitment to bringing out the authentic flavors of each ingredient.
The Love Apple
From the moment you step into The Love Apple, you're greeted by a warmth that extends beyond the rustic charm of its former church setting.
The brick patio, drenched in the soft glow of the fairy lights, sets the mood for a night of intimate fine dining.
As a vegetarian, the seasonally changing menu is always a delight.
Its unique blend of fresh and locally sourced ingredients ensures a new experience each time.
My favorite is Seasonal fruit, local greens, pecans, and warm goat cheese salad.
It's like a burst of summer freshness in each bite.
Following it up with the Love Apple Tacos, brimming with the best of local produce, is a culinary treat.
The Love Apple may not have a bustling bar scene, but what it lacks in variety, it makes up for in quality.
The selection of pre-made drinks and hand-picked wines perfectly complements the food.
Remember to make some room for dessert; it's a sin to miss it!
Yu Garden Asian Cuisine
Ever thought you'd find a culinary oasis in the heart of the town?
Well, I did!
Yu Garden Asian Cuisine, tucked away in a cozy corner of our bustling town, is a must-visit for every food lover out there.
This little sanctuary marrying the tastes of the Far East with our local palate is a revelation.
My usual pick from their menu is the succulent chicken dumplings, lightly fried to perfection and devoid of any unwanted hard edges.
Follow this up with the cashew chicken, brimming with chunks of zucchini, mushrooms, pineapple, and of course, generous servings of chicken and cashews - it's a sight for sore eyes and a delight for the stomach.
Then there's the mushu pork, so impeccably crafted in the kitchen that it neither sags with sogginess nor drips grease.
But if it's a punch of flavor you are after, their volcano shrimp will not disappoint.
I've had friends from Texas rave about it, likening the experience to a culinary Mount Vesuvius eruption on their taste buds.
The sesame chicken is another crowd-pleaser with its lean, white meat, cooked to a delectable crispness, lightly battered, and invitingly golden.
Ricky's Restaurant
There's something nostalgic about Ricky's Restaurant, something that reminds me of quieter times and old-school charm.
Nestled in the heart of my town, I've been driving past this little cozy joint for years, but it was only recently that I discovered its true culinary value.
The other day, I decided to drop by Ricky's for breakfast around 9 am.
I was greeted with an offer to dine in, a courteous gesture that added to the charm of the place.
As I stepped inside, the warm, cozy ambiance enveloped me, taking me back to the diners of yesteryears.
I opted for the mountain lover, a delectable dish heavy on the stomach but satisfying.
The portions were hefty, perfect for a voracious eater like me.
The chorizo was saucy, and the bacon added a nice crunch, but it was the red chili that stole the show.
It won the chili contest against the green one, hands down.
The hash browns, though a tad oily, were a nice complement to the hearty meal.
In fact, when they realized they had forgotten to include my toast, they promptly brought it to my car.
Now that's what I call customer service!
Despite the rush, they never fail to make each customer feel special.
Azteca Mexican Grill
Ah, just another perfect evening in Taos, and my foodie instincts lead me to the doors of Azteca Mexican Grill.
The laid-back vibe of the place hits you instantly, and the inviting terrace calls out for a leisurely dinner.
What I love about this place is that even during the busiest of times, like on a Memorial Day weekend, they manage to seat you promptly.
Oh, and they are ever so patient with all my curiosity about their menu items!
The real gem in their crown is their classic Mexican comfort food.
Whether their nachos, tacos or any other dish, it's nothing short of a fiesta for your taste buds.
The food portions are impressively large, and the price is surprisingly affordable.
The huaraches are my personal favorite; they are fantastic!
And the cherry on top?
They are dog-friendly!
So, my furry friend also gets to enjoy the open-air courtyard atmosphere with me.
The quick service, well-seasoned food, and apt temperature make every meal here a pleasant experience.
Song's Restaurant
When Friday night rolls around, and I don't feel like cooking, I have a secret spot I love to order from, Song's Restaurant.
This place has become my go-to for Asian cuisine in the town.
The food has always been super flavorful, with large portions guaranteeing leftovers for the next day.
The variety on their menu is impressive, offering something for everyone.
Being a vegetarian, I appreciate the multitude of options available to me.
Their eggplant with garlic sauce, kung pao tofu, and vegetable lo mein are a delight for the taste buds.
And for those who love their meat, my friends can't stop raving about the handmade steam dumplings.
As you walk in, you can't help but notice it has a more minimalistic approach to its interior design.
It may not have all the extra decorations and ambiance items most places have, but don't let that put you off.
The food's quality speaks volumes about where their priorities lie.
And if you prefer, it's just as great a place for takeout.
There was one time they were out of an item I ordered, but they promptly offered a different dish as a substitute.
It was a pleasant surprise and a testament to their customer service.
Casa de Valdez
There's something about the twinkle of twilight in Taos that goes perfectly with a meal at Casa de Valdez.
The ambiance is just as enchanting as the town itself — rustic, warm, and inviting.
It's become a bit of a tradition of mine to spend my evenings here, enjoying delicious food and excellent service.
I remember my third visit to Casa de Valdez; the food was just as incredible as the first two times.
The barbecue ribs were a bit overcooked, but the brisket was excellent, as always.
It's one of those places where you can't help but try different dishes.
The fish and chips, for example, were an unexpected delight.
During my visits, I usually find myself drawn to the bar.
And, of course, I never miss out on the food.
The combination platter Christmas style is a personal favorite.
The hatch chili might be mild for some, but it hits the spot for me.
The red chili, on the other hand, is smokey and delicious.
But if there's one dish that keeps me coming back, it's the Sopapilla stuffed with beef.
It's a stand-out dish that I can't resist, no matter how many times I've had it before.
Martyrs Steakhouse
Let me tell you about a gem I found nestled in the heart of our town, Martyrs Steakhouse.
A day at Martyrs Steakhouse is truly a culinary delight!
The first time I walked in, the aroma of their sizzling steaks wafted toward me, instantly making my mouth water.
The mouthwatering journey began with their Carne Adovada Tostadas, which were a feast, not only for my taste buds but also for my eyes.
Their Wedge Salad and grilled shrimps were equally impressive, each bite providing a burst of fresh flavor.
But what really took the cake were their French fries.
Freshly cut and thinly sliced, they were the best I've ever had.
The crunchy sound they made with every bite was music to my ears.
Their trout, an absolute work of art cooked to perfection, was a delight to devour.
They say service is the lifeblood of any organization, and Martyrs Steakhouse could be a case study on this.
The elegant atmosphere, with its classy table settings, added to the charm of this place.
It's perfect for special occasions or a casual get-together with friends, offering spectacular seating both inside and outside.
My second visit was equally delightful.
Their much-talked-about hamburger lived up to its reputation.
Juicy and cooked to perfection, it was simply glorious.
Final Thoughts
Taos is truly a culinary treat, offering a plethora of dining options that cater to every palette.
Every dish and every restaurant in Taos tells a story - of heritage, authenticity, and the simple joy of good food.
So whether you're a foodie on the hunt for your next delightful treat or just someone appreciating the local fare, the vibrant gastronomic scene of Taos is sure to captivate you.
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