We're all familiar with the saying about good things coming in small packages. That's definitely the case with these 8 tiny restaurants in New Mexico. What they lack in seating, they more than make up for in flavor. So join the crowd elbowing their way into these teeny dining spots.
1. Taqueria Mexico, 415 Lomas Boulevard NE, Albuquerque
Often described as the best Mexican restaurant in Albuquerque, this place is tiny but mighty! Sure, seating is limited. But prices are low, portions are generous, and the recipes authentic. The tortas and tacos are standouts on this menu, along with the horchata.
2. Golden Pride BBQ Chicken & Ribs, 1830 Lomas Boulevard NE, Albuquerque
It wouldn't be an exaggeration to call Golden Pride an Albuquerque institution. This sister restaurant to Frontier has been in business since 1972. Come for the carne adovada breakfast burritos or the crunchy yet moist, fried chicken.
3. La Boca Feliz, 72 W Marcy Street, Santa Fe
This small restaurant also serves up small plates. The tapas will leave you rhapsodizing for months. The combination of flat iron steak with smoked sea salt caramel might sound weird but it works. The bruschetta is unlike anything you've had before and may cause a "When Harry Met Sally" moment. You've been warned!
4. Chat-N-Chew, Highway 64, Shiprock
Technically, there isn't any seating inside the Chat-N-Chew. But the restaurant's playhouse exterior along with its Frito Pie and corn dogs earned it a spot on the list. It's just too cute to resist.
5. Chris’ Café, 3568 5. Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe
Chris' Cafe is a great place to go if you want authentic, Northern New Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is known for its breakfast burritos and chicken enchiladas. Whatever you order here, make sure it comes with a side of the potatoes, which are boiled before being fried on a griddle in butter. The result is melt-in-your-mouth magic.
6. Bouche, 451 W. Alameda Street, Santa Fe
This French-style bistro is definitely petite. At times it feels like you're almost in the kitchen - a bonus because it's interesting to watch these fine dining chefs at work. I've never had a bad meal here.
7. Grapevine Bistro,
413 N Broadway St
Truth or Consequences
Grapevine is a cute little joint with great omelets and even a breakfast salad!
8. Hillsboro General Store Café, 10697 Highway 152, Hillsboro
Although this restaurant is housed in a teeny old general mercantile store, its menu isn't stuck in the past. It's a welcome surprise to find a freshly made veggie burger inside this little building in Hillsboro. The café also dishes up classics such as hot dogs and milkshakes.
Which of these restaurants have you been to? This list is far from complete. Are there any other tiny restaurants in New Mexico that are worth squeezing into?
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