So-so Mexican Food
The decor could induce cognitive dissonance since it is better suited to a steak house than one which specializes in Mexican cuisine.
The menu does not have a great variety of Mexican combination dishes but the a' la carte menu is quite extensive.
It bills itself as 'Hot Food' although the meal was rather bland. The salsa was one of the meal's highlights having a nice bite, chunky consistency, and evidence of fresh cilantro.
The hostess needs to get a sense of humor ... and a hearing aid. While escorting me into the dining area she asked if I wanted smoking or non-smoking, a table or booth, and seating in the main area or by the wall. I commented that a table would be fine and that these were a lot of decisions to be made.
She didn't react to the mild joke and promptly showed me to a booth...    [20 Jan 2003 22:05:59]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: Numero 2

     ­Anonymous   

The BEST!
We just returned from a drive through Colorado and New Mexico, eating all meals out. Gourmet food is for others. And chain restaurants are a last resort. We generally eat with the locals wherever we may be. Too many are only passable, though. The most surprising of the whole trip was dinner at La Cocina in Truth or Consequences. Because I had been disappointed so many times, I ordered off the a la carte menu two soft tacos. They took up the whole platter. Adding a little red and green chilli and some of their knock-out salsa, they were the best I've ever had, even for a Tex-Mex devotee. Everyone at the table raved about their meals, which were huge and very attractively presented. This place ranks up at the top now, serving as the standard by which all others are measured!    [19 Jun 2003 14:56:44]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: I would try anything!

     ­Linda   

La Cocina Rocks!!!
This restaurant was the highlight of our New Mexican road Trip!, The Steaks are to die for. The Salsa was perfect!. Service was better than expected and the portions WOW! We had the Red enchilada's and Rib-Eye. The red chili was obviously the real thing and the best I ever had. Other restaurants need to follow. this is what eating out should be Fun and Good! And a good wine list.    [03 Jun 2004 00:32:56]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: Steaks, Anything!

     ­Chef Mike   

Take a bit of time
La Cocina is one of the upperclass restaurants for this area. One thing that infrequent customers miss is the Hot stuff. I discovered this queso mix one day when I asked if they had some type of cheese dip since I don't care much for chunky salsa. The food overall is presented very well and the environment is great. Don't expect to be able to get in and out during your lunch hour though. Service, though not terribly slow does lend itself to those who have more time to wait and sample the appetizers.    [09 Feb 2005 13:32:36]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: Hot stuff as an appetizer w/ your chips and salsa

     ­Token   

Luke warm
Hostess was on the phone while leading us to our table then pointed the way. Food was "ok", not great. Chain atmosphere, somewhat disappointing.    [18 Apr 2005 16:37:39]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: Really, none.

     ­Reggie Daniel, www.danielinc.com