+1 505-753-3016
Located in the heart of Española, New Mexico, La Cocina New Mexican Restaurant offers an authentic taste of classic New Mexican cuisine that leaves a lasting impression. This beloved Mexican restaurant invites diners to experience the comforting, robust flavors that define the region’s culinary heritage, all served in a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
La Cocina’s menu shines with celebrated dishes such as their Grilled Fajitas for Two, where tender, sizzling strips of marinated meat release a smoky aroma that’s impossible to resist. The signature Huevos Rancheros and Huevos La Cocina breakfast plates are brimming with freshly cooked eggs nestled on corn tortillas, smothered generously in red or green chile, then topped with melted cheese—delivering a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and heartiness to start your day. For a savory treat, don’t miss their Green Chile Stew and the mouthwatering Chile Relleno, each bite inviting you deeper into the rich culinary traditions of New Mexico.
La Cocina doesn’t just serve food; it creates an experience. From the very first moment, guests are greeted with hospitality as comforting as the dishes themselves. One diner praised the service by Victor, who was “very nice and polite,” an emblem of the attentive care the staff consistently show. The thoughtful touch of bringing warm, fluffy sopapillas alongside meals enhances the welcoming vibe, making you feel like more than just a customer—like family at the dinner table.
The restaurant’s commitment to authentic flavors is evident, especially for those with dietary considerations. A celiac diner expressed heartfelt appreciation for the red chili that’s free of flour, allowing them to indulge without worry or compromise. The freshness of the ingredients shines through in every dish, from the crisp lettuce on the Tewa Taco to the tender, smoky meat in the enchiladas, elevated by homemade salsas and perfectly cooked beans.
Whether you’re sitting down for a leisurely breakfast—featuring standout options like the Blue Corn Pancakes with Ham—or enjoying a hearty lunch plate, such as the Frito Pie or the comforting Menudo, La Cocina delivers generous portions packed with flavor. The restaurant’s layout ensures ample parking and comfortable seating, meaning you can relax and savor your meal without feeling rushed or cramped.
La Cocina New Mexican Restaurant is more than just a meal stop; it’s a vibrant culinary destination. It invites both locals and travelers to savor the true spirit of New Mexican cooking—bold, genuine, and heartwarmingly familiar. If you find yourself passing through Española, this is not just a place to eat, but a place to connect with the soul of New Mexico, one delicious bite at a time.
Contact: 415 Santa Clara Bridge Rd, Española, NM 87532 | +1 505-753-3016
Agree with all who loved the food. Had red pozole and steak with a red chili enchilada. Loved it. The sopapillas are brought with your meal. A nice gesture. Victor took great care and was very nice and polite.
We drove through from Albuquerque, and I'll tell you it's been a long time I've really super enjoyed red chili from a restaurant in general, and theirs is SOOO dang delish. The enchiladas hit the spot, fresh, quick, service was great. Highly recommend. We're definitely stopping in next time. Also, the chili doesn't have flour, (being celiac) I can actually eat here! Definitely try them out!
A co worker suggested this place while we were in town. She said it was authentic and different from the "tex mex" food typically around. There is plenty of parking and plenty of seating. We did not have to wait for a table. The fajitas were so good and the rice and homemade pita. Really enjoyed this meal. Great service!
Maria was so wonderful and a true giver of service and was great at making me feel welcomed. I was pleasantly surprised with the variety of my combination plate and the taste of all of it was perfect! I would and will go back! You just try it.
Driving through the town and wanted a classic NM burrito. I called in an order and was told it would be ready in 20 minutes. We drove straight over and it was ready when we got there. Potatoes are in hash brown form. Green chili was tasty but not hot. The salsa was a bit of a let down. Tasted like Pace Picante sauce Don't forget to ask for salt. You're gonna need it. Overall it satisfied my craving and filled my tummy. Good size burrito.
This was a really good meal. The service was great. Everything was so good and so authentic. Plenty of parking and plenty of seating. The fajitas were cooked really good and the different onions along with the pitas set it off. The salsa is really hot so be ready if your not down with heat. Really good food.
La Cocina is known for their pinon blue pancakes and they do not disappoint. Their chili salsa is also delicious. My dad came in later and had karne adovada, and he said it was really tasty. They have margaritas also.