La Choza Restaurant

The Best Place to Celebrate Christmas in the U.S.

"The move here is ordering “Christmas”—red and green chile—over enchiladas, burritos, or tamales, followed by a honey-filled sopaipilla for dessert." - Zoe Baillargeon Zoe Baillargeon Zoe Baillargeon is a freelance writer and creative copywriter who specializes in travel, tourism, and food journalism. Her work has appeared in publications including National Geographic, Vogue, and Wine Enthusiast. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

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"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

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"For some of Santa Fe's best New Mexican, I head to vegetarian-friendly La Choza." - Vicki Denig

"The Shed's Understated Sibling Located in the Railyard District, the friendly and efficient La Choza (Spanish for “the shed") doles out traditional New Mexican fare. Start with the satisfying posole (a hominy). Try the stuffed sopapillas with an earthy red chile , and classic huevos rancheros. Don't be afraid to sample the hearty, non-traditional green chili clam chowder. The series of dining rooms are peppered with local art, and while you wait for your order, don't miss the ample tequila list."

"The Shed's Understated Sibling Located in the Railyard District, the friendly and efficient La Choza (Spanish for “the shed") doles out traditional New Mexican fare. Start with the satisfying posole (a hominy). Try the stuffed sopapillas with an earthy red chile , and classic huevos rancheros. Don't be afraid to sample the hearty, non-traditional green chili clam chowder. The series of dining rooms are peppered with local art, and while you wait for your order, don't miss the ample tequila list."