The New Mexico Route 66 Association earlier this week presented its Heritage Award to Loretta’s Burrito Hut and the Roadrunner Lodge Motel, both of the Tucumcari.
Each winner gets a complimentary business membership to the association, a listing in the association’s quarterly magazine and a metal Route 66 sign.
The Roadrunner was honored “for the continuing revitalization of this classic Route 66 motel, merging a cool retro mid-century modern environment with groovy 1960s accents, providing a genuine and memorable Route 66 experience,” according to a news release from the association.
David Brenner, the owner of the Roadrunner, said he was glad the motel itself was honored and gave credit to its staff for the good ratings from travelers and maintenance of its 1960s style and architecture. The motel once was the Leatherwood Manor motel.
Loretta’s Burrito Hut was honored “for restoration efforts to this historic restaurant and creative adaptation of neon sign & trim while providing delicious, local flavors with friendly service, contributing to the roadside culture of Route 66.”
Owner Loretta Muller told the Quay County Sun it cost “a pretty penny” to reuse an old neon sign and its trim from the Joe’s Back In the Day Diner at that location.
Muller also was surprised and moved to receive the Route 66 metal sign during the presentation of the Heritage Award plaque. The awards presentation will be broadcast on a future episode of the Fast TV Network.