New Mexican Enchiladas at Michael’s Kitchen (Taos, NM)

Michael’s Kitchen is a very popular restaurant with the locals. One big reason is that it serves all kinds of food besides New Mexican, a diner that appeals to many tastes. Today being Saturday, patrons (including families with children) were out in force. There was a wait for us to get seated.

It’s a testament to the omnipresence of Mexican food that enchiladas are thought of as rolled tortillas with fillings. Yet, here in New Mexico, enchiladas are instead stacked, called enchiladas montadas, typically made with fried corn tortillas laid flat, alternately layered with onions, shredded cheese and red or green sauce. Anxious to try one, we ordered chicken enchilada (☆☆½) for lunch. The chopped chicken pieces were somewhat dry, combined with shredded romaine lettuce, chopped tomatoes, red onion and cheese. Red and green chile sauces were ordered on the side. Theirs is likely not the best interpretation of the dish, but it satisfied our curiosity.