Step into the enchanting Church Street Cafe, nestled within the heart of Albuquerque, New Mexico. This isn’t just a dining destination; it’s a journey into the past, set within a meticulously restored 18-room Hacienda dating back to 1709. Here, Spanish colonial charm meets New Mexican spirit, creating an ambiance that is both elegant and inviting. But beyond the delightful cuisine and picturesque setting, whispers of resident spirits add an intriguing layer to the Church Street Cafe experience.
The cafe beautifully embodies the Albuquerque Spanish influence, offering a truly authentic New Mexico feel. Inside, the original thick walls and wood-beamed ceilings of the Hacienda’s rooms, now intimate dining spaces, whisper tales of centuries past. Traditional ceramic fireplaces and ovens stand as proud relics, while carefully selected antique furniture and artwork enhance the historical atmosphere. The grand great room, boasting soaring 15-foot wood-beamed ceilings, continues the Spanish décor theme with another traditional fireplace, mosaic tabletops, and warm tile floors. Complementing the mosaic tables are intricately carved wooden chairs, stained in rich orange and brown hues.
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The outdoor patio is equally captivating, a tranquil oasis adorned with vibrant hanging flower baskets, potted plants, and a soothing fountain. The gentle melodies of strolling guitarists often fill the air, creating a perfect backdrop for relaxed dining. Guests can choose to dine under the shade of umbrellas or beneath a charming lattice, soaking in the delightful New Mexico weather and ambiance.
This remarkable structure, known originally as Casa de Ruiz, stands as Albuquerque’s oldest building, its history deeply intertwined with the city’s origins. Constructed around 1706, the telltale signs of its age are evident in the type of adobe bricks used and the impressive thickness of its walls. In the early 18th century, before Albuquerque had a drainage system (established in 1820), the marshy lands around the Rio Grande River provided the essential building material: terrones, a type of adobe brick. Structures from the 1700s are characterized by exceptionally thick walls, designed to provide insulation against both the harsh winter cold and the intense summer heat. Casa de Ruiz, with walls exceeding two feet in thickness, exemplifies this architectural ingenuity.
For two centuries, this Hacienda served as the cherished family home of the Ruiz family, believed to be one of Albuquerque’s founding families. Originally built in the classic Spanish “U-shape” hacienda style, Casa de Ruiz remained largely unchanged for generations. However, in 1920, a devastating flood swept away half of the hacienda, marking a significant turning point in its history. Despite the damage, it remained the Ruiz family residence until the passing of Rufina G. Ruiz in 1991 at the age of 91, the last of her lineage to reside there. Rufina’s family roots trace back to Julianna Lucero and Francisco Ruiz, both born within these walls around 1834. Their daughter, Sarah, Rufina’s mother, was known in the community as a gifted healer.
In 1992, a new chapter began for the hacienda when Marie Coleman acquired the property. Recognizing its historical significance and inherent charm, Coleman embarked on a major renovation project, transforming the former family home into the Church Street Cafe. Her vision was to create a commercial restaurant while preserving the authentic New Mexico character of the Ruiz Hacienda.
However, such significant changes were not welcomed by all, particularly by those who considered the hacienda their eternal home.
Image of the Church Street Cafe patio area, highlighting the outdoor dining space with umbrellas and foliage.
Legend has it that the spirit of Sarah Ruiz, deeply connected to her family home, expressed strong disapproval of the extensive renovations. Spirits attached to places often react when they perceive unwanted alterations to their beloved surroundings. Sarah, it is said, loved her hacienda exactly as it was and made her displeasure known through various paranormal manifestations.
While some spirits may struggle to share their earthly domains with the living, the spirit of Sarah at Church Street Cafe seems to have found a way to coexist, albeit with occasional reminders of her presence. She is believed to find moments of peace and enjoyment within the bustling cafe, but also subtly expresses her lingering annoyance at the changes made to her cherished home.
Furthermore, there are suggestions that Sarah may not be alone. It’s believed that spirits of other Ruiz family members may visit, drawn to the enduring presence of Sarah and their ancestral home. These visiting spirits add another layer of intrigue to the Church Street Cafe’s paranormal narrative.
Diners at Church Street Cafe often report unexplained occurrences, contributing to its reputation as a haunted location. These manifestations range from subtle to more overt, creating an atmosphere of mystery and fascination for those intrigued by the paranormal. Whether you come for the historical ambiance, the delicious New Mexican cuisine, or the possibility of a spectral encounter, Church Street Cafe in New Mexico offers a truly unique and memorable experience.
