10 Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants in New Mexico That Are Incredibly Tasty

When you're craving something delicious, you can count on the hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Mexico. We have such a soft spot for unassuming eateries here, and love to support restaurants that are run my families and members of our community.

From authentic tacos to burgers and fries and big, juicy steaks, these 11 New Mexican restaurants have meals for every taste and palate. Check out where each one is located, what's on their menu, and prepare to do a road trip around the Land of Enchantment for the ultimate dining bucket list. You won't regret a meal (or two) from these hidden gem restaurants in New Mexico.

1. El Farolito Restaurant - El Rito

The odds of finding El Farolito by chance are slim. It's located in El Rito, a small New Mexico town with a population of 808 between Ojo Caliente and Abiquiú. This teeny, cash-only restaurant is small in size but big on flavor. The chile relleno and the sopaipillas are standouts on this menu, but we also love the enchiladas, rice, beans, chips, and salsa. The quaint, family atmosphere makes it a great hangout space, or takeout is always a good idea, too.

El Farolito is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Learn more about menu items at the restaurant's Facebook page.

2. Hi-D-Ho Drive In - Alamogordo

Drive-ins aren't known for being scenic, but don't let the lack of ambiance steer you away from this restaurant. The folk at Hi-D-Ho dish up succulent burgers and, while you can add standard New Mexico toppings such as green or red chile, more unusual additions like pineapple are also available. The lemonade and limeade are fresh-squeezed—perfect on a hot summer day. It's truly an iconic burger spot.

Hours at this small-town drive-in may vary, so be sure to check out the Facebook page before visiting.

3. Duran Central Pharmacy - Albuquerque

The exterior of this establishment looks fine... for a pharmacy. In fact, it's been in business since 1942. The surprise comes when you go inside and discover that the old soda fountain has evolved into a restaurant specializing in New Mexican cuisine. This includes some scrumptious red chile and excellent carne adovada (available on Thursdays). You'll find all sorts of specialty food items, spices, and more at this hole-in-the-wall eatery.

Duran's Central Pharmacy is open Saturday through Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Learn more about this tiny Albuquerque taqueria and pharmacy by visiting its website.

4. Genaro’s Cafe - Gallup

What Genaro's lacks in flair, it more than makes up for with its sublime stuffed sopaipillas and salsa. The street tacos are also absolutely crave-worthy—folks travel far and wide to try them! The restaurant has been in business for more than 46 years, serving the community with authentic Mexican food and friendly service. Create your own massive burrito challenge with the top menu items.

While the cafe does not have its own website, it does have a Facebook page where you can learn more about weekly specials and other restaurant updates. Genaro's Cafe is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

5. Range Café - Bernalillo

Range Cafe in Bernalillo doesn't just buy local; it also attracts a loyal following of locals who flock here for breakfast. Whether you're craving a breakfast burrito or biscuits and gravy, the Range Cafe delivers. You'll be greeted by some kitschy decor and small-town diner atmosphere when you first arrive, and you'll be pleasantly surprised by all the options on the menu.

This off-the-beaten-path restaurant has grown to several locations: four in Albuquerque and one in Los Lunas. It's a locally owned treasure that supports the community's art scene, too. For hours, location details, and menus, visit the restaurant's website.

6. The Buckhorn Saloon and Opera House - Pinos Altos

Given that the Buckhorn Saloon and Opera House appears abandoned, the warm Western feel of the interior comes as a shock. So too does the quality of the steaks served here, and the fact that reservations are recommended for this out-of-the-way restaurant. This historic restaurant has been open since 1863, and has live music, a great bar, and an extensive menu of delicious seafood and ribeyes.

The saloon is the perfect combo of Old West atmosphere with modern-day luxury. It's open Monday through Saturday, from 3 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For more information, visit the restaurant's website.

7. Chopes Bar & Café - La Mesa

Chope's Bar & Cafe is a family-owned and operated restaurant in La Mesa, New Mexico. It's been serving up its delicious food since 1915, including several New Mexican and Southwest classics. Enjoy juicy green chile cheeseburgers, savory enchiladas, and spicy chile rellenos at this hole-in-the-wall. While the exterior seems more like a gas station or convenience store, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the amazing menu options here at this restaurant.

Chope's also occasionally offers $10 meal specials, and will host an upcoming market with local vendors. No matter what you're in the mood for, you'll find it here at this La Mesa establishment. Learn more by visiting its Facebook page.

8. Jambo Cafe - Santa Fe

You'd never guess that Jambo Cafe, located in a strip mall, offers innovative, African-Caribbean fusion food. Starters include mouthwatering, cinnamon-coated plantains and coconut shrimp with a mango dipping sauce. Jerk chicken, goat stew, and Kenyan-style beef kabobs are some of the more memorable entrees. Reservations are definitely recommended for this local New Mexican food spot—it's super popular.

Jambo is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Learn more by visiting its website.

9. Montaño’s Restaurant - Belen

From the outside, Montaño's is an unassuming little place. But its exterior belies the quality of the food found within—try the huevos rancheros, which are available all day long, or the deliciously plump stuffed sopapillas. Beyond that, you can also order classics, like taco or enchilada plates, or even burgers, roast beef sandwiches, and salads. It's the perfect combination of Mexican and American fare.

Montaño's Restaurant is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more menu items and specials, check out the restaurant's Facebook page.

10. Burger Nook - Las Cruces

Burger Nook has been around since 1983, and it has something of a cult following. While some claim that the burgers are the best in Las Cruces, almost everyone agrees that the homemade fries are to die for. Order a green chile hamburger, a New Mexico delicacy, a hot dog, tacos, or a side of onion rings or curly fries. The menu is simple but spectacular. To avoid a wait, call in your order ahead of time.

Burger Nook is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday until 5 p.m. Learn more by visiting the restaurant's Facebook page.

There you have it: 10 of the best restaurants in New Mexico that are considered hidden gems. What they may lack in outward appearance, they make up for tenfold in flavor, service, and overall atmosphere. Stop into one of these delicious eateries next time you're in New Mexico, or while taking a road trip through the Land of Enchantment.