Sometimes, preconceived notions can keep you from discovering a true gem. For me, Adelita’s Mexican Restaurant, located at 3136 Cerrillos Road in Santa Fe, almost fell victim to my childhood memories. Knowing it was once a Burger King, I couldn’t quite picture it as a place for authentic Mexican food. However, when a friend suggested Adelita’s Mexican Restaurant for a business meeting, my enthusiastic “Yes!” surprised even myself. It turned out to be a brilliant choice, a delicious reminder of why Adelita’s is a local favorite and a must-visit for anyone seeking great New Mexican cuisine.
The experience immediately highlighted a key benefit, especially in Santa Fe: parking. Unlike the downtown bustle, Adelita’s Mexican Restaurant offers ample parking, a welcome relief for those of us who prefer to avoid circling blocks endlessly before enjoying a meal. On this visit, the inviting covered patio was open, and whether it was the time of day or simply the restaurant’s spaciousness, we were quickly seated, enjoying complimentary chips and salsa in no time. This ease and comfort are significant advantages of Adelita’s.
Beyond the practicalities, Adelita’s Mexican Restaurant truly shines with its food. My dining companion, who has celiac disease, pointed out Adelita’s as a reliable spot for gluten-free options. Specifically, they ordered the taco asada dish, emphasizing that while not explicitly labeled gluten-free, it’s one of the few places where they can enjoy tacos without issues. This is a valuable piece of information for those with dietary restrictions, highlighting Adelita’s consideration for various needs. The taco asada itself looked fantastic – grilled tenderloin beef served in authentic corn tortillas with onions and cilantro, a truly Mexican-style offering.
For my part, my culinary journey led me to the carne adovada stuffed sopaipilla. As someone who appreciates a good burrito, I’m increasingly drawn to the unique delight of a stuffed sopaipilla, a New Mexican specialty unlike anything I’ve found elsewhere. Adelita’s Mexican Restaurant version is nothing short of incredible. The slow-roasted pork was exceptionally tender and flavorful, generously portioned and perfectly complemented by their red chile. The red chile itself was a standout, boasting a rich flavor profile with a noticeable cumin presence and a pleasant, delayed spiciness.
The dish was completed with rice and refried beans, a classic New Mexican trifecta. The refried beans, in particular, were noteworthy, reminding me of a nostalgic craving for truly good refried beans, a surprisingly elusive find in Santa Fe. Adelita’s delivered on this front, providing some of the most praiseworthy refried beans I’ve had recently, topped with melted cheese for extra indulgence.
My experience at Adelita’s Mexican Restaurant was overwhelmingly positive. From the convenient parking and comfortable patio to the delicious and thoughtfully prepared food, it’s clear why this restaurant is a local treasure. Hearing my companion’s regular visits to Adelita’s with their partner, enjoying the patio and the food, resonates perfectly with my own experience. I can easily see myself becoming a regular, recommending Adelita’s Mexican Restaurant to anyone seeking authentic and delicious New Mexican food in Santa Fe. It’s a place you’ll want to return to again and again.
