La Choza Restaurant

12 Best Things to Do in Santa Fe

"La Choza (Spanish for “the shed”), an unfussy eatery which happens to be the longtime sibling of its famed Plaza restaurant – also called The Shed – has maintained its Railyard District locale since 1983. And for good reason. A down-home haunt known for its mostly locals vibe, a sprawl of authentic New Mexican grub makes use of its owners – the Cardwell’s – family recipes: an earthy dark red chili and a vibrantly smooth green chili. A series of cozy, darkly-colored dining rooms – always lively and always crowded – are dotted with local art and vigas lined across the ceiling. A coveted stool at the 12-seat bar is best for interacting with town folk, in between sips of Silver Coin margaritas. On a recent night, the bartender suggested combining the menu’s mushroom soup with the green chile stew. The result? A comforting spoonful of roasted chilies, potatoes, pork, and crimini mushrooms – and producing a just-spicy enough, sinus-clearing jolt (sop any remnants with toasted garlic bread). Other notables include pork carne adovada burritos, cheese enchiladas, pork tamales and a chile relleno plate fried to a perfect golden brown." - Kate Donnelly