When it comes to spiciness, New Mexico definitely excels in bringing the heat, especially with its Chile peppers! Being a fan of spicy food, I have to confess that certain places I've visited to sample the red and green chile have been too spicy even for my taste. I've explored various eateries in Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Gallup, and Taos, and the restaurant that has stood out as my favorite is "Orlando's New Mexican Cafe" in Taos.
During our exploration of the Taos area, my partner and I became hungry, prompting us to opt for a different lunch spot. As we passed by, we couldn't help but notice the crowded parking lot, a sign that usually signals a promising dining experience.
I was happy to find out that the restaurant had a parking lot with available spaces. While I wouldn't classify this restaurant as fully meeting ADA standards for wheelchair accessibility, it is manageable. The outdoor seating patio was mostly flat, but the ground was covered in gravel, which could pose challenges for individuals using manual wheelchairs, rolling walkers, or canes. Since it was cold and rainy, we decided to sit inside the restaurant.
The interior was very crowded and there wasn't much room to maneuver In terms getting around the tables to get to my seat. In terms of restroom facilities, there was only one very small restroom, which even I found cramped, so I wouldn't describe it as accessible.
The decor was right up my alley: very colorful, artsy and eclectic.
Photography by Denise Vasquez ©2024
We were welcomed by the host with friendly smiles, and our server proved to be amiable, sociable, and extremely attentive throughout our visit. After being presented with menus, I requested a coffee and water as I considered my meal options.
Nearly every dish on the menu featured green and red Chile. We had numerous inquiries, and our server gladly responded and even offered us a sample of the green Chile. It was delightful, prompting me to opt for the blue corn enchiladas with green Chile. My meal was authentically Southwestern, accompanied by posole, beans, and was so tasty that I cleared my plate!!! The spiciness of the green Chile was invigorating, yet it did not overshadow the other flavors.
If you’re ever in Taos looking for a New Mexican restaurant to experience, be sure to add “Orlando’s” to your to do list!
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