Looking for a taste of true southwestern cuisine? Here are some well-loved restaurants to hit up for authentic REAL New Mexican food that will hit the spot.
1. La Nueva Casita Cafe
This local favorite nestled in the Mesquite district has offered delicious flavors and meals, crafted from scratch since 1957. It doesn't get much more authentic than La Nueva Casita and their mouthwatering Mexican dishes. Warm up this season with a bowl of their menudo or posole.
Location: 195 N. Mesquite St.
2. Habaneros Fresh Mix
Find all your traditional Mexican and New Mexican dishes with a healthy twist. Habaneros prides itself with serving fresh and healthy food as well vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Popular dishes include their famous welcome soup, potato tacos, vegetable enchiladas and mole.
Location: 600 E. Amador Ave.
3. Andele's Restaurant
Whether breakfast, lunch or dinner, Andeles serves up traditional Mexican favorites, such as their signature tacos al carbon, posole and enchiladas. Get a taste of their high-quality tortillas from their tortilleria and their own renowned salsa bar.
Enjoy their signature dishes in a pet-friendly space at Andele's Dog House, where four-legged furry friends are welcomed.
Location: 1950 Calle Del Norte, Mesilla, NM
4. Si Señor Restaurant
Taste unique southern New Mexico recipes and unique cocktails. Savor dishes highlighting the flavor of local Hatch green chile, dip into one of four of their famous free chips and salsa and go seaside with their spice shrimp tacos and tangy ceviche. Check out the lunch and dinner specials at this award-winning spot.
Location: 1551 E. Amador Ave.
5. Salud! de Mesilla
Dine at this fine establishment for a lively environment and fresh local and fusion dishes. With many eclectic options, a full tapas menu and plenty of gluten-free options — Salud has something for you! Their menu includes items like their blueberry turkey sandwich, green chile pesto and prickly pear creme brûlée. Enjoy daily specials, cocktails and special events.
Location: 1800 Avenida de Mesilla
6. La Posta de Mesilla
From a hole-in-the-wall eatery to the iconic establishment it is today, La Posta offers color, history, classic family recipes and notorious margaritas. Located right outside of the historic Mesilla, NM plaza, La Posta is truly a can't-miss Southern New Mexico staple. Spruce up your lunch or dinner plans with their lively environment, delicious food and tequileria.
Location: 2410 Calle De San Albino
7. Nopalito Restaurant
Dishing out Mexican favorites since 1964, Nopalito is a spot to hit for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Try their signature green chile, a specialty plate like their beef or chicken flautas or a combination plate and head in for their Monday family special or their taco Tuesdays.
Locations: 310 S. Mesquite St. | 2605 Missouri St.
8. FARMesilla
Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at this restaurant and farm store. Taste local ingredients and fresh quality produce with their rotating menu catering to various palates. Vegans and vegetarians can partake in their unique dishes and support local and regional farmers while at it. Browse their store to discover plenty of local retail and food item finds.
Location: 1849 Avenida de Mesilla
9. El Sombrero
Taste true authenticity in recipes over 60 years old. Try their original red or green enchiladas and award-winning salsa. Pick from choices like fiesta steak tacos, tostadas compuestas and queso burgers.
Location: 363 S. Espina St.
10. ChaChi's
This family-owned restaurant continues to expand and serve up fresh flavors in their dishes. A local hot spot with multiples locations, ChaChi's offers dishes like chicken or ground beef enchiladas, tacos al pastor and their ChaChis burger.