Sadie’s of New Mexico: Famous for its spicy, flavorful New Mexican cuisine, Sadie’s serves up a great mix of enchiladas, chile rellenos, and their famous red chile sauce. You can't miss it!
The Frontier Restaurant: A Route 66 landmark offering hearty breakfasts and delicious New Mexican dishes like burritos, sopapillas (fried bread), and green chile stew.
El Pinto: For a more upscale experience, El Pinto offers award-winning traditional New Mexican food with a great ambiance. Don’t miss their signature green chile and margaritas.

Route 66 Diner: This diner blends retro vibes with a robust menu that’s inspired by New Mexico’s local flavors. Enjoy a burger, fries, and their famous green chile cheeseburger. You can’t go wrong with a hearty, comforting diner meal here.

The Shed: A must-visit in Santa Fe, known for its incredible red and green chile dishes, from enchiladas to tamales. The flavors are authentic, and the atmosphere exudes the charm of New Mexican dining.
Cafe Pasqual’s: A local favorite for breakfast and brunch, offering an organic menu with New Mexican staples like huevos rancheros and a variety of chile-laced dishes.
La Choza: A casual, authentic spot for some of the best New Mexican food in the area. The carne adovada (slow-cooked pork in red chile) and fried sopaipillas are legendary.

Kix on 66: A Route 66 classic in Tucumcari, Kix serves fantastic diner-style breakfast and lunch. Try the green chile cheeseburger or their famous milkshakes for a fun, nostalgic stop.
The Blue Swallow Café: This small gem offers New Mexican-inspired diner food, where you can indulge in traditional breakfasts, plus hearty lunch options with southwestern flavors.

Comet II Drive-In: Famous for its chili cheese fries and burgers, this retro stop offers a variety of classic diner food but with a southwestern twist. Their chili is spiced just right for the ultimate Route 66 experience.
La Fiesta: Known for serving up some of the best New Mexican food in the area, La Fiesta offers amazing chile rellenos and other delicious southwestern dishes.

Mary & Tito’s Café: This hidden gem is known for serving some of the best New Mexican food in Albuquerque, especially their green chile chicken enchiladas and chile con carne. A perfect stop for an authentic, down-to-earth experience.

Earl’s Restaurant: This spot is a longtime favorite in Gallup, serving delicious classic American diner fare with a southwestern influence, including flavorful green chile cheeseburgers and fries.
The Red Rock Café: A cozy spot offering a fusion of local and southwestern flavors. From breakfast burritos to grilled meats, it’s a solid stop for a filling and affordable meal.

Grants Café: A perfect diner stop where you can try some traditional New Mexican fare, including green chile stew and other comfort foods. The café is a local favorite for a satisfying meal while on the road.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (Seasonal): If you're in Albuquerque during the annual Balloon Fiesta, enjoy local food trucks offering everything from tacos to freshly made pastries.
Chocolate Maven: A bakery and café that serves up decadent treats, including the iconic New Mexico-themed desserts like chocolate chile cakes and southwestern-inspired pastries.

Sopaipillas: Don’t leave New Mexico without trying these delicious puffs of fried dough, often served as an appetizer or dessert. Pair them with honey or dip them in green chile for an authentic experience.

Don’t Miss the Green Chile: New Mexico’s green chile is a star ingredient. Whether you’re having it on burgers, fries, or enchiladas, it’s the essence of local cuisine. Try it everywhere you go!
Enjoy Local Coffee: Many diners along Route 66 in New Mexico serve locally roasted coffee. Stop at spots like Java Joe’s in Albuquerque for a caffeine pick-me-up with a regional twist.
Explore Farmers Markets: Some towns like Albuquerque and Santa Fe have fantastic farmers’ markets where you can pick up local products like roasted chile, homemade salsas, and artisan bread.

Wandering Souls