Savoring the Essence of Mesilla: La Posta's 85-Year Legacy of Authentic Cuisine and Captivating Ambiance

Nestled in the heart of Mesilla, New Mexico, La Posta de Mesilla has stood as a beacon of culinary excellence and cultural preservation for over eight decades. This iconic establishment, with its rich history and unwavering commitment to family recipes, has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a truly immersive dining experience that transcends the boundaries of a traditional restaurant.

Unlocking the Secrets of La Posta's Enduring Success

A Humble Beginning, a Lasting Legacy

In 1939, Katy Griggs, a young and ambitious entrepreneur, opened the doors to a modest "little chile joint" in Mesilla, just outside of Las Cruces. With the support of her uncle, Edgar Griggs, who sold his property to her for a mere $1, Katy's vision for a thriving culinary destination began to take shape. From humble beginnings with a dirt floor and a kitchen without running water, Katy's unwavering work ethic, business acumen, and warm hospitality laid the foundation for what would become a beloved institution.

Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future

Over the years, La Posta has evolved into a captivating compound of interconnected adobe buildings, each with its own unique history and architectural charm. Tom Hutchinson, who acquired the property and business in 1996 with his wife, Jerean Camuñez Hutchinson, describes the property as a "series of adobe buildings connected over time," with some structures dating back to the early 1800s. This rich tapestry of history, combined with the restaurant's commitment to preserving its family recipes and traditions, creates a truly immersive dining experience that transports guests to a bygone era.

Culinary Artistry and Unique Attractions

La Posta's menu has remained remarkably consistent over the decades, featuring traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos and enchiladas, as well as signature items like the Tostadas Compuestas, a creation allegedly invented by Katy Griggs herself in 1939. The restaurant's culinary prowess, however, extends beyond its menu, as it also boasts an aviary and the only piranha in the state of New Mexico, both introduced by Katy Griggs during her travels to South America. These unique attractions, combined with the restaurant's historic adobe architecture and tequila-focused bar, create a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience that sets La Posta apart from any other establishment in the region.

Embracing Tradition, Adapting to Change

While the foundation of La Posta's menu has remained steadfast, the restaurant has demonstrated a willingness to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences. Over the years, the menu has expanded to include vegan, gluten-free, and seafood options, while still maintaining the core essence of its traditional New Mexican cuisine. This commitment to preserving the past while embracing the future has been a key factor in La Posta's enduring success, allowing it to cater to a diverse range of diners without compromising the authenticity that has made it a beloved institution.

The Secret Ingredient: People and Loyalty

At the heart of La Posta's success lies the dedication and loyalty of its staff and customer base. Hutchinson emphasizes that "it starts first with good people working for you and obviously our loyal customer base." This unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and fostering a sense of community has been instrumental in La Posta's ability to thrive for over eight decades, cementing its status as a beloved and indispensable part of the Mesilla Valley's culinary landscape.