When it's hot in Phoenix through October, many have the desire to get away to where it feels like fall. Northern New Mexico is just that place. A one hour flight to Albuquerque from Phoenix Sky Harbor provides you with a gateway to the fall pleasures of New Mexico and a taste of fall. We'll be writing a series of articles on fall in New Mexico to help you plan your trip.
Country Restaurant Stop on the High Road to Taos
When you are driving the back roads in northern New Mexico, not all that far from Santa Fe, you'll have the opportunity to go back in time. Locals, descended from Spanish settlers and still living on historic family property, abound. You'll find them in the Chimayo weaving shops and in stores and restaurants. Take the High Road to Taos and see what you might discover.
One such historic stop you may enjoy is Rancho de Chimayo. Rancho de Chimayó is an easy drive from Española, Santa Fe, Los Alamos, Taos, and Albuquerque. Plan to spend the day, or spend the night at their historic country inn (unreviewed).
In October 1965, the adobe home of Hermenegildo and Trinidad Jaramillo became Restauranté Rancho de Chimayó. Arturo, Hermenegildo’s grandson, and his wife Florence had the goal of preserving the rich traditions of their family and its proud culture.
The restaurant, at one point, fell victim to a fire. But now, the restaurant is open and gives visitors the opportunity to relax in a pastoral setting, have an authentic New Mexican cuisine lunch or dinner and perhaps even shop for some local gifts.
Located just up the road from the famed Santuario de Chimayo, the restaurante is a popular stop for visitors. They do take reservations. We went for lunch one weekday and found the place to be rather crowded. We had a leisurely lunch and walked through the grounds and the gift shop afterwards. I enjoyed a stuffed sopapilla smothered in the famous Chimayo red chile sauce. Delicioso!
The restaurante was the first to use the famous Chimayó red chile in virtually every main dish and has been accredited with its rise in culinary stature. Their cook bookhas some fantastic chile recipes.
More Information
Map and Directions
Restaurant Website
Other Northern New Mexico Finds
Theresa's Folk Art Gift Shop
Northern New Mexico Road Trip to Chama
Visiting Taos Pueblo
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