It’s a given … every trip to Taos we have our first breakfast at Michael’s Kitchen. And on our recent jaunt, a 4 hour drive southeast of Durango … a misty chilly morning … rainy but no less charming because it’s Taos after all …
… I knew that when we walked through these doors, into this famous coffee shop and bakery known for authentic northern New Mexican cooking, huge portions … a favorite for locals and tourists … that we’d be warm and welcomed in no time at all.
Viga ceiling beams …
… and cozy booths and tables, worn with scuff marks from years of love.
Pot belly stove in the middle of the dining room. This place has character.
Where the sun is always shining.
I order something different every time … and just as I wrote that I realized that I’m working my way through their menu. Pictured is “Build Your Own Omelette” enough for two. With big chunks of ham steak, fresh sauteed mushrooms, tomato, diced green chile …
… plus smothered in their divine green chile sauce that is somewhere between mild and medium heat.
With a side of red chile … we always order the red and green. (“I’ll have Christmas.”) Earthy, fruity … I really shouldn’t name names but allegedly some people sip it straight up from the bowl. It’s that good.
Mr.D’s Breakfast Enchiladas. Oftentimes in the Southwest the corn tortillas are stacked, with filling between each layer like a cake. At Michael’s Kitchen they roll them … filled with scrambled eggs, onions and cheese. Served with rice, and choice of pinto beans or hash browns. Then smothered in chile and more cheese.
As usual we thought we’d finish our plates. Couldn’t do it. So we filled a to-go box to the brim to re-heat for dinner.
However … we knew to leave a little room for sopaipillas. I measure all others by these. Some can be thick, like a cake donut. These are poofy, light like a pillow with hollow center. And P.S. it’s a terrific excuse to have dessert with breakfast … more honey please.
On the way out, it’s always a good idea to stop into the bakery to buy fresh cream puffs, donuts, pastries and breads.
And if you’re lucky Tim will be there … the friendliest cashier in town with the best turquoise jewelry.
If you’re looking for a real deal Taos experience hearty New Mexican start to your day … this place is a must. Located only 3 blocks from the historic Taos Plaza, galleries and shops.
I’d Order That …. Again!
Monday – Thursday 7 am – 2:30 pm
Friday – Sunday 7 am – 8 pm
Reminder to check their website for hours, as they may change seasonally.
