At first glance, one might be surprised to see that they are partners: Antonio, a Mexican chef with a long journey through life, and François, a high-level French business executive who has lived in Mexico for thirty years.We don’t just serve you food; we serve “Good vibras,” happiness, and optimism.
Both arrived in Taos via very different paths. However, a visit by François to Antonio’s one night in July of 2024 after a long road trip. The restaurant was the only place open, and to his surprise, he was personally served by the chef, with whom he sat down to chat.
This encounter sparked a long conversation that quickly moved from friendship to partnership, as they talked and realized they shared the same values regarding what a great restaurant should be.
That is to say: the authenticity of Mexican cuisine (“The Taste of Mexico”), a genuine love for food, and a vocation for service, warmth, and approachability. Integrity, trust, family, and ambition for growth are the foundations of their partnership and what they aspire to achieve with Antonio’s Restaurant.
Added to this is the purpose of offering a great experience: food is the starting point; what makes a moment special is the complete experience.
Antonio didn’t learn to cook in an academy; he learned on the road of life. His story is one of Head, Heroism, and Heart . From a hindu kitchen and crossing borders walking in the darkness, to perfecting the art of flavors in demanding kitchens of Anderson’s Group in Cancun and the United States, Antonio learned an unbreakable lesson: cooking is service, and service is respect.
That was precisely what happened the night François arrived, after driving from Juárez toward his new favorite skiing destination: Taos, New Mexico.
François arrived from South-East France to Mexico in 1992 where he started both his beloved family and a succesful career as a top executive and CEO for companies like Casa Cuervo, Pernod Ricard among other Expansion 500 CPG household names. Of course, he also fell in love with the country, and mostly the amazing food.
Today François acts as a C-Suite advisor and consultant with his firm KIS – Primero La Gente, working with Medium to Large companies to achieve profitable sustained growth.
That’s why, upon entering and being greeted in person by Antonio, he immediately identified with the warmth of the service and the empathy toward the guests. Antonio welcomed François with his best dish, the amazing service and experience that started a bigger vision of what this amazing restaurant can become.
Behind every dish on our menu, there is an alliance of values. Antonio shares with François the conviction that “Primero La Gente (People First)” is not a romantic motto; it is a life strategy.
Our philosophy in Taos is simple yet profound: to treat every person who walks through our door as if they were a guest of honor. We ensure that each of them takes away a memory that transcends the plate and turns it into something truly meaningful.
We do not judge by clothing or origin; we value the human story that each guest brings with them. Because, just like Antonio and François, we believe that resilience and hard work are the core ingredients that can be tasted on the palate
Visit our new location, closer to the ski community, and enjoy the open air experience of our patios.
After a visit to Taos Plaza or business in down town, enjoy a fantastic lunch at our original location.
The best place in Taos for open-air lunch, a relaxed dinner and fun, fun, fun.
Enjoy the shade of our old beloved Cottonwood trees and a stage for live music when in season.
Experience the perfect blend of Taos and Mexican styles – complete with thick adobe walls, stucco, and a gallery featuring local artists.
Unwind on our newly opened outdoor patio. Enjoy handcrafted margaritas, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant vibes with your crew.
Our World famous margaritas and mixology concept offers unique drinks, prepared only with the best brands.