Conference in Santa Fe

Frommer's Review

This restaurant, which appeals mostly to tourist traffic, offers more atmosphere than flavor. The food is a muted version of real northern New Mexican cuisine. If you want the real thing, I suggest Duran Central Pharmacy or Sadie's. Still, this place is full of history. It's set in a 100-year-old adobe structure and has been in business for over 70 years. A mural on La Hacienda's outer wall depicts the construction of this Villa de Albuquerque at the turn of the 18th century, and President Clinton ate here during a 1998 visit. Diners enter through a large gift shop. The interior, which has an intimate, laid-back atmosphere, has brightly painted tables and chairs set very close together. In summer, choose the sidewalk dining with a view of the plaza. Most like to start with one of the big margaritas in a variety of flavors, from strawberry to pineapple. The specialty here is the chimichanga, a fried burrito stuffed with carne adovada and topped with guacamole and sour cream, tasty but muy rico (very rich). The chicken enchilada is also a nice choice. Meals come with chips and salsa and good sopaipillas. The servers are friendly but elusive.