While near Taos, New Mexico, I’ve driven past Orlando’s New Mexican Café many times and each time, it is packed with cars waiting to get in the parking lot. Finally, I decided to join the fray, and I’m glad I did.
Approaching Orlando’s, you’ll enter through the outdoor seating area. What you’ll notice first is that the vibe is high energy, the restaurant is colorful and the ambiance is fun.
The outdoor seating area features several tables, natural wood fencing and a small fire pit. Inside there are a few rooms also filled with bright colors and lively music and a lot of smiling patrons.
I overheard a table of people raving about the chicken enchiladas and “Christmas chile,” which is a combination of red and green chili together. There was a heated debate about which was better. Not being a chile person myself, I take their word that they’re both fantastic.
I’ve now been twice. I ordered the chicken quesadilla and was pleasantly surprised to find that it came with sour cream and guacamole, which is typically an extra charge in other places. The chicken was fresh, juicy and perfectly season. The quesadilla was enormous, almost too big to eat even as my main course, but I managed it. This is not your average, dry, disappointing quesadilla. It’s an entire meal and a good one at that.
On another trip, I had the chicken tacos and was pleasantly surprised by the ample amount, fresh quality and additional toppings. What pleased me the most was that they didn’t skimp on the cheese. I usually order extra, expecting only a pinch, but after my experience with the quesadilla, I decided to see what happened. Again, I was happy.
For dessert, I had the brownie and I highly recommend you do too. It was moist and a cross between being fudgy and cakey – just as a brownie should be.
The staff was prompt, friendly and accommodating, despite how busy the restaurant always is. They also have carry out, which is just as good as dining in.
There are many Mexican-style restaurants in and around this location and I've been to several of them, none is as fresh or as good as Orlandos. There's a reason there are so many cars in the parking lot - nobody goes just once. You should try it too.
Find it at 1114 Don Juan Valdez Ln, Taos, NM 87571.