El Sombrero
210 mesquite, +1 575 835-3945. known to locals as "the hat". classic new mexican food, great ambience, easy on the wallet, the "number 4 blue green chicken over easy" is not be missed. there have been intermittent complaints about the service, but it seems good and attentive more often than lax.
Armijo's
602 hwy. 85 continuation of california ave., +1 575 835-1686. open 11am - 9pm 7 days. mexican food with a "new mexican" flavor; more of a diner-type place than fine dining, but you can't eat ambience. their taco burgers are a drippy, juicy delight unlike any other.
Socorro Springs
1012 n. california ave., +1 575 838-0650. microbrewery and hand-made pizza. known to locals as simply "the brewpub" as it is the only one in town. good service and pleasant atmosphere.
The El Camino
707 california ave., +1 575 835-1180. "the road," "elcam," or simply "camino" as it is sometimes called by locals, serves new mexican and american food. all night greasy-spoon diner for the college students. green-chile cheese fries are not to be missed and make a meal all their own, as long as you're not expecting haute cuisine.