Located on the bustling Sudderth Drive in the heart of Ruidoso, New Mexico, Taqueria La Patrona has quickly established itself as a premier destination for travelers and locals seeking genuine Mexican flavors. This Latino-owned establishment is celebrated for its casual, cozy atmosphere—complete with a fireplace for chilly mountain evenings— and a reputation for serving some of the most authentic tacos in the region. Whether you are stopping in after a trip from Texas or looking for a quick, high-quality bite during a local outing, the restaurant offers a welcoming environment paired with efficient counter service and impressive mountain views.
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating
Atmosphere
Casual, cozy, family-friendly, fireplace, sports on TV
Amenities
Restroom, changing tables, high chairs, private dining room
Parking
Free parking lot, free street parking, on-site parking
Payment Options
Credit cards, Debit cards
Pet Policy
Dogs allowed outside
Why Visit? Key Highlights
Handmade Tortillas: A standout feature of the menu, the corn tortillas are prepared fresh in-house, significantly elevating the flavor of every taco.
Signature Al Pastor: The marinated pork (Al Pastor) is frequently cited by patrons as a must-try, available in tacos, tortas, and loaded potatoes.
Generous Portions: Diners regularly highlight the substantial size of the tacos and the “heaping” amount of protein served on the loaded fries and potatoes.
Unique Beverages: The restaurant serves refreshing, authentic Aguas Frescas, with the pistachio and watermelon flavors receiving high praise.
Authentic Variety: Beyond standard steak and chicken, the menu offers traditional meats such as tripitas, buche, and barbacoa, providing a true taste of Mexican street food.
Efficient Service: Known for being a “tiny gem” that manages high volume well, food is typically served quickly even during busy lunch and dinner rushes.
Menu and Offerings
Authentic Tacos
All tacos are served with fresh onion and cilantro on homemade corn tortillas.
Item
Description
Bistec
Savory grilled steak
Barbacoa
Slow-cooked, tender beef
Tripitas
Crispy, traditional tripe
Pollo
Seasoned grilled chicken
Carnitas
Authentic slow-cooked pork
Buche
Traditional tender pork stomach
Pastor
Marinated pork with classic spices
Camaron
Shrimp topped with homemade coleslaw and cilantro
Traditional Tortas
Mexican-style sandwiches served on fresh bread.
Item
Description
Bistec Torta
Steak with mayo, lettuce, tomato, and avocado
Barbacoa Torta
Shredded beef with mayo, onion, and cilantro
Carnitas Torta
Slow-cooked pork with mayo, lettuce, tomato, and avocado
Signature Plates and Specialties
Item
Description
Flautas Plate
Chicken flautas served with rice, beans, lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and avocado
Red Chili Enchiladas
Four stacked cheese enchiladas served with a side of rice and beans
Tamales
Red chili pork tamales available by the dozen
La Patrona Burger
Double patty with cheese, tripitas, lettuce, tomato, mayo, and avocado
Nachos
Choice of meat with lettuce, tomato, cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream
Loaded Selections
All loaded items include cheese and sour cream.
Item
Description
Loaded Potato
Choice of Bistec, Pollo, or Pastor; includes butter
Loaded Fries
Choice of Bistec, Pollo, Carnitas, or Pastor; includes avocado
Quesadillas
Available on your choice of corn or flour tortillas.
Item
Description
Bistec Quesadilla
Grilled steak and melted cheese
Pollo Asado Quesadilla
Grilled chicken and melted cheese
Pastor Quesadilla
Marinated pork and melted cheese
Sides and Desserts
Item
Description
Rice and Beans
Traditional Mexican sides
Fideos
Mexican-style noodles
Chips con Queso
Warm tortilla chips with melted cheese dip
3 Leches Cake
Traditional soaked sponge cake in strawberry or chocolate
Beverages
Item
Description
Aguas Frescas
Freshly made fruit waters in various daily flavors
