About
Few meals carry as much history as a plate of red chile served beside a 200-year-old adobe church. Family recipes, passed down along more than four generations, have transformed Ranchos Plaza Grill into a Northern New Mexico favorite.
Located just a short drive south of downtown Taos, Ranchos Plaza Grill sits inside a well-preserved 1780 adobe building on the historic plaza in Ranchos de Taos. Nearby stands the iconic San Francisco de Asis mission church, which has been captured in paintings by Georgia O’Keefe and in celebrated Ansel Adams’ photographs.
Travelers come from around the world to see the church's thick, sculpted walls. Walking next door to savor the authentic New Mexico dishes at Ranchos Plaza Grill is nearly a rite of passage.
In 2012, National Geographic listed Ranchos Plaza Grill as the best place in Taos to get the most authentic Northern New Mexico food. At the same time, Taos Ski Valley was among the top 25 places to ski in the world - making for a beautiful pairing of adventure and dining out.
The restaurant keeps its focus on authentic New Mexican and Southwestern cooking. That means regional recipes built around local red and green chile, served in a setting that reflects the area's Spanish colonial roots.
Vibe
From the outside, Ranchos Plaza Grill blends into the plaza with earthen adobe walls and a simple, traditional look. Traditional chile ristras frequently adorn the entry, enhancing the true New Mexico feel.
Inside, rustic wooden beams stretch across the ceiling. Colorful artwork by local artists brightens the walls, and traditional decor adds regional charm. An indoor oven, horno, intensifies the warmth and authentic comfort of the dining room. The space feels warm and welcoming, with friendly servers who keep the pace easy and relaxed.
Outdoor seating is available when the weather cooperates. On a sunny Taos morning, a table outside with a view of the plaza is hard to beat. Ranchos Plaza Grill is a comfortable, family-friendly spot where you can linger over a meal before continuing your day. It’s the perfect starting point for a day-adventure over the High Road to Taos.
Ranchos Plaza Grill: Menu & Drinks
For many locals, Ranchos Plaza Grill not only defines what Northern New Mexico cuisine is, it is a reflection of the community itself.
All plates come with generous portions, with rice and beans accompanying most of the traditional NM dishes. The real treat is the big fluffy sopaipilla that comes with every lunch meal, served with honey.
The carne adovada is a favorite for good reason. Tender pork is marinated and cooked in rich red chile until it falls apart, delivering deep, earthy flavors with a gentle kick.
The green chile enchiladas come smothered in a sauce that reviewers call true to regional tradition. Ask for "Christmas" if you'd like to try both red and green chile on one plate. Vegetarians will also find solid options, including huevos rancheros.
A meal at Ranchos Plaza Grill gives you more than a full plate. It combines generous portions, fair prices, and authentic New Mexican flavor with a front-row seat to Taos history. Pair this with a visit to San Francisco de Asis mission church for one of the most memorable days on a Taos vacation.
Local Tips
- Bring cash, as reviewers note that paying cash may earn you a discount.
- There is additional parking in front of the church next door
- There may be a wait, but it is well worth it.
- Pack a light layer since the dining room can feel drafty on cooler days.
