Tucked away on Galisteo Street since 2016, this unassuming spot has quietly become Santa Fe’s go-to destination for authentic Central Mexican cuisine. 🌮
El Callejon Taqueria and Grill serves fresh Mexican food with a modern twist, featuring their flagship lineup of nine fantastic taco options available by the plate or a la carte.
This hole-in-the-wall gem proves that the best authentic Mexican food doesn’t require fancy presentation—just quality ingredients, traditional techniques, and flavors that transport you straight to central Mexico.
How El Callejon won Santa Fe’s hearts
The owners opened El Callejon with a clear vision: bring puro Mexican cuisine to Santa Fe with thoughtfully prepared dishes that honor tradition while embracing innovation.
Their breakthrough came from understanding that diners were craving fresh Mexican cuisine made from scratch rather than the typical Americanized versions found elsewhere.
The restaurant’s famous taco lineup, featuring nine distinct varieties, quickly became legendary, with each taco carefully crafted and served alongside signature spicy guacamole, red and green tomatillo salsas, escabeche, and black beans.
After establishing themselves as a taqueria powerhouse, they added beer, wine, and agave cocktails in January 2017, creating the complete dining experience that keeps visitors and locals alike coming back repeatedly.
The cozy wooden interior, decorated with unique touches like a sparkling jukebox, creates an energetic atmosphere where exceptional hospitality meets bold flavors. 🎵
Food Highlights
- Carne Barbacoa Tacos: Decadent and tender slow-cooked beef that’s simple yet shredded beautifully, topped with fresh cilantro and onion for authentic flavors that guests can’t stop raving about.
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Al Pastor Tacos: Marinated pork combined with onion and pineapple grilled to perfection in shepherd style, these tacos deliver the classic Mexican street food experience with absolutely delicious results.
- Lechon Tacos: Savory slow-cooked tender pork loin chopped and topped with their signature spicy guacamole. This dish showcases why quality ingredients make all the difference.
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Carne Asada Tacos: Top sirloin marinated in beer, garlic, lime, and black pepper then grilled and chopped, creating tasty tacos that represent traditional Mexican grilling at its finest. 🥩
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Pollo Asado Tacos: Tender chicken breast marinated in orange juice and red chile then grilled and chopped, offering a lighter option without sacrificing authentic Mexican flavor.
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Fish Tacos: White basa fish marinated in orange, red chile, and spices, sautéed and topped with habanero salsa, served with Spanish rice and avocado for coastal Mexican vibes.
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Calabacitas Tacos: Vegetarian sautéed squash with bell pepper, poblano, and onion finished with queso fresco, proving that meatless options can be just as satisfying and flavorful. 🌱
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Chile Relleno: Roasted poblano chile pepper filled with melty asadero cheese, lightly battered and pan-fried to superb perfection, served with rice, beans, and warmed corn tortillas.
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Chicken Mole Enchiladas: Traditional Aguascalientes-style mole poblano creates a rich, chocolaty sauce over savory chicken that delivers an authentic flavor extravaganza with every bite.
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Torta de Lechon: Slow-cooked roast pork that’s fall-apart tender, paired with signature spicy guacamole on a hoagie bun, creates a hearty sandwich packed with authentic flavors.
Atmosphere
This cozy, artsy space, built entirely in wood, features particular decorative objects that create a relaxed yet vibrant dining experience perfect for any occasion.
The open layout allows guests to watch the kitchen in action while enjoying live music that adds energy to lunch and dinner service. 📱
Bottom Line
You should visit for the authentic Central Mexican cuisine prepared with quality ingredients, the legendary lineup of nine different tacos that make choosing a favorite impossible, the signature spicy guacamole and house-made salsas, the cozy, artistic atmosphere with live music, and exceptional service that sets the standard for genuine hospitality. 🌟
Address:
208 Galisteo St, Santa Fe, NM 87501
📞 (505) 983-8378
🕔 Open Tue-Wed 4:30 PM–10 PM, Thu-Sat 11:30 AM–11 PM, Sun 11:30 AM–10 PM (closed Mon)