Mateo E.
Yelp
Whenever someone's going to Santa Fe and asks me where to eat, Horseman's Haven tops the list for New Mexican food. Situated far down Cerrillos from the Plaza (next to a gas station), this no-frills place caters mostly to locals. It's known for the hottest green chile in town, but offers so much more.
We rolled in for breakfast and sat down. No wait. Servers came quickly and we had drinks in no time. After ordering, we had time to take in the surroundings, which reflect the varied tastes of people who live here. MMA event posters. A longhorn rack above the kitchen window. Vigas in the ceiling. Figurines of horses and livestock. Various paintings, prints, and busts. In a short few minutes, our food arrived.
Adovada Enchiladas with Green Chile
This dish is listed in my Yelp profile as what I'd choose for my last meal on Earth. Thankfully, that wasn't the case, but it was incredible, as always. Blue corn tortillas are layered with rich, delectable chunks of adovada and topped with cheese and green Chile that commands your attention, but isn't crazy hot and plays well with the red adovada. The quality of chile here stands out. It comes with beans, a side of posole, and a tortilla.
The rest of the family ate traditional breakfast items--eggs, bacon, pancakes, toast. Each was good quality and up to par. Everything starts with quality ingredients and tastes great. Both red and green are on the hot side of average and rich in flavor. That's square one for New Mexican food. I vouch for the enchiladas with any filling, the huevos rancheros, and the sopapillas.
Level 2
This special green chile comes only as a side. Why? It scorches.
While paying, I asked if I could try it. I got a few chips, a little cup of phosphorescent green stuff--and an extra large cup of ice water.. My mouth was on fire, my tongue swelled up,before running next door to get a pint of ice cream at the gas station. It took an hour to speak again. Be careful!
Horseman's Haven is a must-stop for me when I'm in town. Don't come if you want to see and be seen or for instagram. Come for incredible New Mexican food in a low-key setting.