La Cocina New Mexican Restaurant

Joe Velasquez

I have had good luck with the restaurant in the past, but their attitude and service seems to have really declined. I called a week before for reservations for a dinner with my team (18 people). I was told that they do not accept reservations, but to call the day of our dinner and they would try to accommodate me. I was also told at that time that it was most likely going to be seating outside, but they may be able to do something for indoor dining. So today, the day of our planned dinner, I called in the late morning and asked if we could be seated inside. They said no and were less than professional on the phone. We decided to go ahead with the dinner, as they indicated the outdoor seating was covered. Also, changing venues at the last minute wasn't really an option for nearly 20 people who were driving from all around the area. When we arrived, the hostess stated we could move the patio seating and tables around to accommodate the team (it was setup cafe style with seating for 2-4 each area and not conducive for us to interact as a larger group). We started rearranging and the manager came out to tell us we cannot move tables and he is sure whoever called about this (me) knew this and that it is not possible that the hostess said we could move tables. He forced us to move the tables back and said they don't do parties of 12 or more anymore (they could have communicated that on the phone), and that he was doing us a favor by letting such a large party sit outside. What kind of restaurant manager comes out to a large, paying party with such accusations and plain rudeness? One at La Cocina in Espanola. This could have been handled so much more professionally and service-oriented (isn't that the point of a restaurant?). By the way, the team had a decent time together (food is actually pretty good and the fellowship was great), but the consensus is that this is not a good place to return to, whether in a large party or small.

Clarissa Ortiz

Excellent delicious every time! Great service and authentic New Mexican atmosphere.

Shawn Hanna

As someone who has never had a sopapilla I can’t tell you how it compares, but I can say it wasn’t for me. Very bready and sloppy and the carne abodaba was chewy. If your measure of food is price per pound, then I suppose the sopapilla is a good value. The frito pie (stew/soup) with lamb and red chilis however was Amazing! Wow! 🥰 no need to eat the Fritos, they come on the side. The frito pie is bean heavy, but they are delicious beans.

Frank Roman

Boo! This food is not good! The dish I had was very spicy pork and over whelming seasoning. The rice is boiled then it was very bland and mushy. The Enchilada plate was not any better. The tortilla was rock hard and tasted old. They are definitely not fresh. The avocado was turning over ripe. I brought it up to the manager and he didn't hesitate to clear our bill. But I left the waitress $5 for her troubles. She didn't say thanks or anything. But we move on to the next stop. I don't recommend! ;((