The universe has smiled upon us, and, after a Job like period of suffering, given back JoAnn's restaurant in Espanola. It had been several years since I had the pleasure of eating at one of northern New Mexico's best eateries (not for the classiness or anything, but for the good food, big servings, police protection, and good prices). So, for the "Velvet Revolution" we made the trip down into the valley to see if Joann's new restaurant in it's new location was as good as the old.
It became obvious when we pulled into the parking lot that Joann's was back, and serving food up to their old standards. There were 3 state police cars in the lot, and those guys know where to go for the good eats. On the inside, the decor is still a bit on the new side, but there isn't that much that one can do about that. It will take time for the ambiance to settle in. No matter, still interestingly decorated with sand paintings and other native art styles. It was still early, and there was plenty of seating (it filled up in the next 20 mins).
The menu had all of the old favorites, including the half orders for those of slight appetite. Well, for those who aren’t horse eatin' hungry. We got a pretty good selection of grub. Chimi Changas, chili rellenos, stuffed sopapillas...hmmm chocolate covered stuffed sopapillas...The only thing that was missing (well, unfortunately they don't have their alcohol license yet, so there was no beer) was the a la carte menu. I always used to get the breakfast burrito, half order, with a chili relleno on the side. Hmmm...chili relleno on the side...
We were too full for desert, the sopapillas and honey made do for sweets at the end of the meal.
Yes, I am happy to report that JoAnn's is back, and just as good as it ever was. It was never a place to take to ol' prom date (tho mine didn't mind all that much), and it's not a place to take you socialite Santa Fe style auntie (unless, like mine, she understands it's the food, not the status that takes people out to Espanola), but it is a great place to eat some well prepared, fresh (they have a farm up north of town where they grow quite a bit of the produce they use, including the green chilies) New Mexican food. For those of us in Lost Alamost, JoAnn's new location is about 5 minutes farther to drive, but still well worth it. Now all's I need is a new keychain...
...fuego