Blackbird Saloon is a casual, no-frills dining experience located on Main Street in Cerrillos. The menu is not large but filled with elevated classics and playful flavor twists. If you are heading to Madrid turn off in Cerrillos, you will not be disappointed. We tried the “Nest of Fries”, “the Ortiz”, “Campfire at the CrossRoads” and “Fuddled Outlaw” and everything was delicious. 

The Nest of Fries is a small basket filled with deliciously crispy, salty matchstick fries. These were addictive without being greasy and begged to be stuffed into a sandwich but alas, there was no room in “the Ortiz”. MY wrap was Naan bread, stuffed with thinly shaved roasted lamb, dressed in spicy mustard, tomato and red onion. An elevated gyro if you must, the lamb was tender, fatty, melt in your mouth delicious contrasting with sharp mustard and brightness of the tomato and onion. The Naan bread was soft and fluffy but I do wish the lamb was a bit crisper but that is just my preference. 

The Fuddled Outlaw burger was fantastic! A good quality beef patty topped off with caramelized onions and back bacon all hugged in a huge bun. My mouth could not properly bite through the entire burger! The light seasoning on the patty highlighted the delicious beef with added sweet richness from the caramelized onions which was perfect with a salty bacon bite. Hands down one of the better burgers I have had in Santa Fe. 

Since we were off the beaten path and feeling adventurous the “Campfire at the Crossroads” was ordered. The elk and bison smokies were a little spicy with pronounced seasoning. They had that perfect crisp bite while being deliciously moist. It is served with spicy and blueberry mustard, which are perfect complements. A little tart and sweet. As apprehensive and hesitant as I was, I needed to try a small bite of the rabbit and rattlesnake sausage. It was moist and lightly flavored. Similar to chicken and alligator. Not my favorite but yeah for me for trying it! Lol!

 I loved the casual vibe with the modern delicious menu options and drinks available. If you are a bit adventurous and don’t mind straying off the beaten path. Check these guys out! They are doing some amazing things. It’s a small spot, not a lot of frills, and be prepared to wait a little but definitely worth it.  If you check it out let me know what you think.