El Paragua Restaurant

The old man and I stopped in on the recommendation of 40-year Espanola local for Sunday lunch. We were floored with how cool the place is, and how amazing the food was!

I ordered the beef taco plate (“award winning” the menu says, and I believe it). The OM ordered the beef flautas de quesadilla.

The meal starts with chips and salsa. Really freaking good chips and salsa (and I’m picky). The chips are thick and the salsa was perfect. Then, they bring salad, it’s included I suppose. I am not usually into iceberg salad, but this was fresh and delish, in some sort of wonderful, light dressing.

The dinner plates were amazing, especially my tacos! The refried beans and rice were great, and the taco shells were the thick, homemade style. The shredded beef was textured like butter, and seasoned so well. The OM was very happy with his flautas, which also had that buttery shredded beef.

They also brought sopapillas, included as well with the dinner entrees, and jelly and honey for them. We each only managed to eat half our entrees for all the food involved!

The best part? Our bill was a mere $24. No kidding! So for a several course meal, it was more than affordable.

On Sundays they only have the dinner menu all day, but during the other days they have a lunch special (but without the courses, I think).

The decor was totally cool, especially if you are into the historic Southwest motif. Lots of historical bits on the walls, definitely historic adobe architecture, and a big ol’ tree growing up right through the bar!

The service was great, and the place had that whole authentic feel that made a great meal a memorable experience. We will definitely be going back next time we’re in Espanola!

Food is pretty good, but too expensive for what you get (esp. compared to other Mexican restaurants of similar quality and ambience). There was an extra charge for additional chips & salsa, even though the initial serving for a party of 6 was inadequate. Nearby Gabriels is better and more reasonably priced. Rancho de Chimayo is still better, but unfortunately closed at present due to a fire.