E.LA is a beloved local gem situated in Mescalero, New Mexico, offering a welcoming and laid-back dining experience. Known for its exceptional homemade taste and generous portions, this diner has become a staple for both residents and travelers passing through the Chiricahua Plaza area. The restaurant specializes in a fusion of familiar Mexican eats and regional favorites, most notably their signature Indian tacos served on fresh fry bread. With a reputation for fast, friendly service and a cozy, “hole-in-the-wall” charm, E.LA provides a high-value culinary stop for anyone seeking authentic Southwest comfort food.
170 Chiricahua Plaza, Mescalero, NM 88340, United States
Phone
+1 575-464-4549
Operating Hours
Day
Hours
Monday
6:30 am – 5:00 pm
Tuesday
6:30 am – 5:00 pm
Wednesday
6:30 am – 5:00 pm
Thursday
Closed
Friday
6:30 am – 5:00 pm
Saturday
6:30 am – 5:00 pm
Sunday
6:30 am – 5:00 pm
Service, Accessibility, and Amenities
Service Category
Available Features
Service Options
Dine-in, Takeout
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating
Atmosphere
Casual, cozy, quiet, and family-friendly
Parking
Free parking lot, free street parking, and ample space for trucks
Payment Methods
Credit cards, debit cards
Amenities
Restrooms, high chairs available, kids’ menu
Why Visit? Key Highlights
Authentic Indian Tacos: A standout favorite featuring large, fluffy fry bread topped with beans, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a choice of beef, chicken, or steak.
Massive Portions: Diners frequently remark on the impressive size of the meals, particularly the burritos and the Indian tacos, often providing enough for a second meal.
Signature Burritos: The “East L.A. Burrito” and the beef potato cheese red chile burrito are highly recommended for their rich flavor and authentic seasoning.
Fresh Breakfast Staples: Renowned for Saturday morning breakfasts, including homemade-style Huevos Rancheros and hearty breakfast burritos.
Exceptional Service: The staff and chef are noted for being highly social, knowledgeable, and efficient, ensuring food is served hot and quickly.
Unique Burger Options: For a local twist, guests can order burgers served on traditional fried bread.
E.LA Menu and Offerings
Breakfast Specialties
Item
Description
Huevos Rancheros
Two eggs with red or green chili, rice, beans, and corn or flour tortillas
Omelette
Choice of spam, sausage, bacon, ham, or turkey with vegetables and hash browns
Breakfast Burrito
Eggs with hash browns and choice of meat including chorizo or spam
Biscuits and Gravy
Warm biscuit smothered in sausage gravy, served with eggs and meat
French Toast
Two cinnamon-infused slices served with eggs and choice of meat
Breakfast Plate
Two eggs, choice of meat, hash browns, and toast or tortillas
2 Biscuit Sandwiches
Eggs, cheese, and choice of meat served with hash browns
Pancakes
Two fluffy pancakes served with eggs and choice of meat
Main Entrees and Plates
Item
Description
Indian Tacos
Large fry bread with beans, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and choice of meat
Chile Relleno Plate
Two chile rellenos served with rice, beans, lettuce, and tomato
Gordita Plate
Two gorditas stuffed with chicken, steak, or beef with rice and beans
Tamale Plate
Two tamales served with rice, beans, lettuce, and tomato
Enchiladas
Choice of cheese, chicken, or beef served with rice and beans
Rolled Tacos
Three rolled beef or chicken tacos with guacamole and sour cream
Burritos and Quesadillas
Item
Description
California Burrito
Grilled chicken or steak with cheese, guacamole, and pico de gallo
E.L.A. Burrito
Grilled chicken or steak with rice, beans, and pico de gallo
Beef Burrito
Ground beef with choice of red or green chili, potatoes, and cheese
Smothered Burrito
Choice of steak, chicken, or beef served with rice, beans, and garnish
Steak Quesadilla
Topped with guacamole, sour cream, lettuce, and tomato
Chicken Quesadilla
Topped with guacamole, sour cream, lettuce, and tomato
Burgers and Sandwiches
Item
Description
CB Combo
Cheeseburger served with fries and a canned drink
Indian CB Combo
Cheeseburger served on traditional fry bread with fries and a drink
Double CB Combo
Two beef patties with cheese, fries, and a drink
BLT Sandwich
Bacon, lettuce, and tomato served on white or wheat bread
Grilled Ham and Cheese
Classic grilled sandwich served with fries
Soups and Salads
Item
Description
Menudo
Traditional soup served with tortillas (available in small or large)
Pozole
Traditional soup served with crackers (available in small or large)
Crispy Chicken Salad
Romaine and spring mix with cheese, tomato, and avocado
Grilled Chicken Salad
Romaine and spring mix with cheese, tomato, and avocado
