Santa Fe, the capital city of New Mexico, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and delectable cuisine. The city’s unique blend of Spanish, Mexican, and Native American influences has created a distinctive flavor profile that attracts foodies from around the world. Among the many restaurants that dot the city’s historic downtown area, one establishment stands out for its enduring legacy and commitment to traditional cuisine. In this article, we will delve into the history of the oldest restaurant in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and explore what makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the authentic taste of the city.
A Brief History of Santa Fe’s Culinary Scene
Before we embark on our journey to discover the oldest restaurant in Santa Fe, it’s essential to understand the city’s culinary context. Santa Fe’s strategic location at the crossroads of the Camino Real and the Santa Fe Trail made it an important hub for trade and commerce. The city’s cuisine reflects this cultural exchange, with popular dishes like posole, tamales, and chile rellenos showcasing the blending of Spanish, Mexican, and Native American flavors.
The city’s culinary scene has evolved significantly over the centuries, with various restaurants and eateries emerging to cater to the tastes of locals and visitors alike. However, one restaurant has stood the test of time, maintaining its commitment to traditional cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Oldest Restaurant in Santa Fe: La Choza Restaurant
La Choza Restaurant, located on North Guadalupe Street, is widely regarded as the oldest restaurant in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Established in 1972 by the Maryol family, La Choza has been serving authentic New Mexican cuisine for over 50 years. The restaurant’s name, which translates to “the shed” in Spanish, reflects its humble beginnings as a small, rustic eatery.
La Choza’s success can be attributed to its dedication to traditional cooking methods and ingredients. The restaurant’s menu features a range of classic dishes, including enchiladas, tacos, and chile stew, all made with locally sourced ingredients and prepared using time-honored techniques.
A Family Legacy
La Choza Restaurant is a family-owned and operated business, with the Maryol family playing an integral role in its success. The restaurant’s founder, Maryol, was a passionate cook who drew inspiration from her own family’s recipes and cooking traditions. Her commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking methods helped establish La Choza as a beloved institution in Santa Fe.
Today, the Maryol family continues to be involved in the restaurant’s operations, with the founder’s children and grandchildren contributing to the business. This family legacy has ensured that La Choza remains true to its roots, maintaining the same level of quality and authenticity that has made it a staple of the Santa Fe culinary scene.
Award-Winning Cuisine
La Choza Restaurant has received widespread acclaim for its delicious cuisine, earning numerous awards and accolades over the years. The restaurant has been featured in publications such as The New York Times, USA Today, and Bon Appétit, and has received awards from the Santa Fe Reporter and the New Mexico Restaurant Association.
One of the restaurant’s most notable awards is the James Beard America’s Classics award, which recognizes regional restaurants that are “treasured for their quality food, local character, and lasting appeal.” La Choza received this prestigious award in 2006, cementing its reputation as one of the top restaurants in Santa Fe.
What to Expect at La Choza Restaurant
Visitors to La Choza Restaurant can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with rustic decor and traditional New Mexican music adding to the ambiance. The restaurant’s menu is extensive, with a range of options to suit all tastes and dietary preferences.
Some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes include:
- Carne Adovada: A classic New Mexican dish made with slow-cooked pork, red chile, and served with rice, beans, and tortillas.
- Chile Rellenos: Roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, battered, and fried, served with a side of tomato sauce.
- Posole: A hearty stew made with hominy and pork or chicken, served with a side of tortillas, lime, and radish.
La Choza Restaurant also offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, including a delicious Vegetarian Chile Relleno and a Vegan Posole.
Special Events and Catering
La Choza Restaurant is available for private events and catering, making it an ideal choice for weddings, birthday parties, and corporate functions. The restaurant’s experienced staff can help plan and execute events, ensuring that every detail is taken care of.
La Choza also hosts a range of special events throughout the year, including live music performances, wine tastings, and cooking classes. Visitors can check the restaurant’s website or social media pages for upcoming events and to make reservations.
Conclusion
La Choza Restaurant is a true Santa Fe institution, offering a unique and authentic dining experience that showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage. With its commitment to traditional cuisine, warm hospitality, and family legacy, La Choza is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the flavors and traditions of New Mexico.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting Santa Fe, La Choza Restaurant is an excellent choice for a delicious and memorable meal. So why not come and experience the oldest restaurant in Santa Fe for yourself? We’re sure you’ll leave with a full stomach and a newfound appreciation for the city’s culinary scene.
Getting There
La Choza Restaurant is located at 905 Alarid St, Santa Fe, NM 87501. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, Monday through Saturday, and for dinner only on Sunday. Reservations can be made by calling (505) 982-0909 or by visiting the restaurant’s website.
Hours of Operation
- Monday to Saturday: 11:30 am to 9:00 pm
- Sunday: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Contact Information
- Phone: (505) 982-0909
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: lachozarestaurant.com
What is the oldest restaurant in Santa Fe, New Mexico?
The oldest restaurant in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is the Palace Restaurant and Saloon, which has been in operation since 1850. This historic eatery has been serving up delicious meals to locals and visitors alike for over 170 years. The Palace Restaurant and Saloon is not only a great place to grab a bite to eat, but it’s also a step back in time, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history.
The Palace Restaurant and Saloon has been beautifully restored to maintain its original charm and character. The restaurant’s décor features many of its original architectural elements, including wooden floors, brick walls, and a wooden bar that dates back to the 19th century. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a romantic dinner, the Palace Restaurant and Saloon is the perfect choice.
What type of cuisine does the Palace Restaurant and Saloon serve?
The Palace Restaurant and Saloon serves a unique blend of traditional New Mexican cuisine and classic American comfort food. The restaurant’s menu features a wide range of delicious dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and entrees such as steak, chicken, and fish. The Palace Restaurant and Saloon is also famous for its traditional New Mexican dishes, including enchiladas, tacos, and chile rellenos.
One of the standout features of the Palace Restaurant and Saloon’s menu is its use of locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant prides itself on using only the freshest ingredients, sourced from local farmers and suppliers whenever possible. This commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients ensures that every dish on the menu is not only delicious but also supports the local community.
What is the history behind the Palace Restaurant and Saloon?
The Palace Restaurant and Saloon has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The restaurant was originally built in 1850 as a saloon and general store, catering to the needs of the local community. Over the years, the building has been used for a variety of purposes, including as a hotel, a restaurant, and even a brothel.
Despite its colorful past, the Palace Restaurant and Saloon has always been a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant has hosted countless events and celebrations over the years, including weddings, anniversaries, and birthday parties. Today, the Palace Restaurant and Saloon is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience its unique history and charm.
Is the Palace Restaurant and Saloon haunted?
According to local legend, the Palace Restaurant and Saloon is haunted by the ghost of a former owner, as well as several other spirits. Many guests and staff members have reported strange occurrences, including unexplained noises, ghostly apparitions, and objects moving on their own.
Despite the rumors of paranormal activity, the Palace Restaurant and Saloon remains a popular destination for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers. The restaurant even offers ghost tours and haunted history walks, which provide a unique glimpse into its spooky past. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, a visit to the Palace Restaurant and Saloon is sure to be a memorable experience.
Can I take a tour of the Palace Restaurant and Saloon?
Yes, the Palace Restaurant and Saloon offers guided tours of its historic building. The tours provide a unique glimpse into the restaurant’s rich history and architecture, including its original wooden floors, brick walls, and wooden bar. Visitors can also see many of the restaurant’s historic artifacts and memorabilia, including old photographs, menus, and advertisements.
The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about the Palace Restaurant and Saloon’s history. The guides provide a wealth of information about the restaurant’s past, including its role in the local community and its significance as a historic landmark. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique experience, a tour of the Palace Restaurant and Saloon is a must-do.
Is the Palace Restaurant and Saloon family-friendly?
Yes, the Palace Restaurant and Saloon is a family-friendly restaurant that welcomes guests of all ages. The restaurant’s menu features a wide range of dishes that are sure to appeal to both kids and adults, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and traditional New Mexican cuisine.
The Palace Restaurant and Saloon also offers a children’s menu, which features smaller portions of its popular dishes at a lower price. The restaurant’s staff is friendly and accommodating, and they are happy to provide high chairs, booster seats, and other amenities to make your dining experience as comfortable as possible.
Can I host an event at the Palace Restaurant and Saloon?
Yes, the Palace Restaurant and Saloon is a popular venue for events and celebrations of all kinds. The restaurant’s historic building provides a unique and memorable backdrop for weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties, and other special occasions. The restaurant’s staff is happy to work with you to customize a menu and event plan that meets your needs and budget.
The Palace Restaurant and Saloon offers a range of event spaces, including private dining rooms, banquet halls, and outdoor patios. The restaurant’s event coordinators are experienced and knowledgeable, and they will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your event is a success. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large celebration, the Palace Restaurant and Saloon is the perfect choice.