Navajo Hogan has the unusual distinction of being one of the very few restaurants in the country that serves strictly Native American food. The restaurant from the outside is merely a plain cinderblock stucture. Upon entering, however, you are greeted with an interior that is tastefully adorned with Native American art and decor.
The owner, Bill, a Native American originally from New Mexico, told me that Navajo Hogan first opened their doors in 1989. He said they specialize in Navajo tacos, which are tacos without tortillas. In place of tortillas the taco toppings are served on warm, chewy, fresh-from-the-fryer fry bread.
Considering this was my first visit, I chose the traditional Navajo taco which includes homemade chili, beans, lettuce, tomato, and sour cream. You can add red or green salsa, onions, and jalapenos at your own discretion at the toppings bar. There are several other Navajo taco topping options including shredded beef, chicken, and green chili, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can even choose blue corn fry bread.
For dessert, conclude your meal with sweet fry bread dusted with cinnamon sugar and veins of melted honey butter. A final note: Navajo Hogan serves mutton stew every Saturday; however, according to Bill, you need to get there early before they run out.
Visiting Navajo Hogan proves that sometimes there are pleasant surprises hidden inside a plain box.
