Terry R.
Google
The place is modest in decor and feel which is enduring to me because the food is the primary star of this place. A feel good and welcoming place that delivers great food at really great prices.
After spending a Sunday at the feast day celebration in Jicarilla Apache Nation, we had arrived late in Hernandez, NM, needing to stop for gas. My friend suggested we dine at Socorro's Restaurant, having researched open eateries on Google Maps. Upon arrival, we were delighted to find the place bustling with cars bearing New Mexico license plates, a promising sign of a great dining experience.
Perusing the menu, we discovered the fascinating story of Socorro's Restaurant, owned by Socorro Herrera, who transitioned from singer to restaurant owner. With endearing self-deprecation, she acknowledged her initial lack of culinary knowledge and the skepticism of locals regarding her cooking abilities. I found her story and attitude captivating and was eager to sample her cuisine. My expectations were soon surpassed.
Both of us were famished, so we opted for combination plates, hers with red chile and mine with the spicier green chile. Our table was graced with ginormous plates of aromatic and flavorful goodness, accompanied by separate servings of sopapillas, a taco, and distinct salsas.
While the combination dishes were excellent, the highlight for me was the beans. They were evidently fresh and cooked to a rich crémeux textured perfection, reminiscent of ambrosia. My dining companion and I agreed that the beans were truly exceptional. Having family members who owned Spanish restaurants and being familiar with Northern New Mexican cuisine, I judge establishments based on three key factors: beans, Spanish rice, and sopapillas or tortillas. Chile is an entirely distinct category, influenced by my upbringing on a chile farm in my youth.
Based on these criteria, I would rate Socorro's Restaurant as follows: the beans were outstanding, the green chile was flavorful and excellent, the Spanish rice was delightful, and the sopapillas (a generous four of them!) were also exceptional. I rank this restaurant among the best in the area, and the prices are reasonable considering the quantity and quality of food received. The use of disposable paper drink cups and cutlery is practical given their commitment to providing quality food at affordable prices.
As stated in the beginning of my review the decor is modest and unpretentious, but this is inconsequential as the food takes center stage. Socorro's Restaurant is a welcoming and convivial space that consistently delivers exceptional cuisine at remarkable prices.
