A refurbished Navajo Hogan reopened in May following the devastating fire that closed its doors in 2021; based on the nearly full parking lot, the number of full tables and the resulting noise level that comes from multiple conversations competing with loud music, it’s like there was no interruption at all.

The Menu

The new owners have put their mark on the bill of fare. Gone are the burritos and enchiladas, but there is a Southwestern chopped salad. Broasted chicken is a thing of the past, but in its place is fried chicken. Hamburgers, salads, soups, pizza, fry bread and several entrees round out the offerings.

Critic’s Tip

There are lots of reasons to go to the Hogan: the food and service are good. And there’s live music most nights. The place gets even louder with a live band, so if that’s not your thing, consider going for lunch or an early dinner.

On the Table

Fish and chips ($20) seemed to be popular based on what we saw delivered to other tables. I had my eye on the fried chicken ($18), which exceeded my expectations!

Two pieces of chicken breast were thinly pounded into impossible-to-identify shapes. Each wore a golden, crunchy shell that I consider the benchmark of good fried chicken. The other yardstick of juicy meat was also met. The meal came with house made, skin-on mashers and grilled veggies: zucchini, carrots and onions. I’d return for this no matter how noisy the place might be!

Mac & cheese ($14) was another comfort food that caught our attention. We added pork ($4 upcharge) and I’m glad we did. No knife was needed for the large pieces of pork. The meat was fork-tender and well-seasoned. It was the saving element of the dish since the pasta was simply bland. It was a hefty serving of both, so thank goodness for the pork.

We also ordered a side salad ($5) and crab cakes ($12). The salad was a bargain, although there was not much to distinguish it except the price, but it did satisfy a craving for greens.

Two crab cakes came with house-made remoulade and a side of coleslaw. Thick blue crab discs fell apart at the slightest touch of a fork. This made for difficult eating, but meant these were not bits of crab with lots of filler, but lots of the seafood with little to no discernible additions. The sauce highlighted the natural sweet flavor.

The Venue

The Navajo Hogan has a rich history, so be sure to note the National Register of Historic Places plaque outside the entrance. Once inside, though, the ceilings are what draw attention. It’s like looking up inside of a woven basket. The domes were patterned after a “Navajo Indian dwelling,” according to the signage.

As noted, the decibel levels were elevated. While private conversations might be difficult, it was easy to enjoy our meal and the fact that the Navajo Hogan is open and the neon sign is once again lit.

Afterthoughts

While dining we debated where it was possible to accurately call the Hogan just a bar or just a restaurant. We concluded it is both.

                                              Know before you go                                                                                                                           

Navajo Hogan

Shareables and entrees

Location: 2817 N. Nevada Ave.

Contact: 719-259-9559; thenavajohogan.com 

Entrée Prices: $8 to $22

Hours: 10:30 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Wednesday; 10:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. 

Details: Credit cards accepted. Wi-Fi. Alcohol. Patio. Kids menu.

Favorite dishes: Fried chicken

Other: Gluten-free and limited vegan options available