The boyfriend and I were wandering through historic Corrales just for fun. Noticed this old school sign reading "Tijuana Bar" off Corrales Rd and popped in for a beer. This place is classic NM, it's like walking into a movie - an old creaky wooden door leaves you questioning if this place is even open anymore.. upon entering you greeted by a very pleasant barkeeper (didn't get his name). The bar easily sits at least 8, and there's some great bottles of local beer available, a sweet old jukebox (more of a charming antique) and an old piano which still works! The walls are filled with historical tidbits about the joint - from old photographs to great magazine reviews written about the adjoining family restaurant called "Perea's". I'd love to try lunch there! The barkeeper told us (this is as of March 2013) that the restaurant is open for lunch 11am - 2pm weekdays I believe. I'd call them to confirm. And bring CASH! We ordered a beer each and discovered we didn't have any cash only cards (which they don't take). The nice man told us he also takes checks (so cute!) or we could enjoy our beers and grab cash out of the nearby Wells Fargo atm if we like. I thought that was so nice of him! So we did just that. The dining room of this place is adorable and the patio is a super charming little haven off the dusty road out front.
This place is what I think of when I think old New Mexico. Maybe I've seen too many movies, but either way this a pleasantly gritty little spot off the beaten path. LOVES it and can't wait to go back!!! Worth the drive from Albs for sure. :)
The real deal! Â Excellent, healthy, traditional New Mexican food served by the Perea family. Â There are only a few other places in the middle Rio Grande River Vally that make simple amazing chile plus use good quality meats, home made tortillas and tamales - Padillas, Durans, and Apple Tree cafe at Wagner Farms store. Â Plus Pereas has a rustic bar. Â Can you say local flavor? Â Places like El Pinto, Dos Quates, and Sadies are food factories and just don't come close. Â The full name is Pereas' Tijuana bar! Â Only open for lunch and some days for breakfast.
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