The historic Castaneda Hotel in Las Vegas, New Mexico, has been sold to entrepreneurs who hail from the city.
Allan Affeldt, known as the savior of La Posada Hotel in Winslow, Arizona, purchased the rundown hotel in 2014 and spent five years renovating it to its former glory.
Affeldt and the hotel announced the sale Saturday to Dennis and Annette Lucero and Carlos and Patricia Lopez, who operate the nearby Buffalo Hall Bar & Cowboy Café BBQ. Dennis Lucero and Carlos Lopez were also a part of Castaneda’s initial restoration team.
“The moment we learned this historic hotel was available, we saw a chance to protect a piece of our city’s history,” said Annette Lucero. “We want to maintain the charm, the stories, and that one-of-a-kind historic appeal our town cherishes.”
Carlos Lopez added, “Just like we transformed Buffalo Hall, we’re eager to reenergize this hotel—offering hospitality that feels both soulful and welcoming.”
Drawing on their success with Buffalo Hall — an event hall, bar, and barbecue restaurant, built from a repurposed early 1900s structure — the partners plan to open an exclusive yet approachable restaurant and bar at the Castaneda. They envision a menu combining refined flavors with familiar favorites, ensuring affordability for locals and guests alike while celebrating regional cuisine.
“Our roots run deep in Las Vegas,” said Dennis Lucero, “and we’re committed to strengthening that connection. We’ll source local ingredients, retain and hire homegrown talent, and create spaces that serve both travelers and long-time residents.”
Patricia Lopez emphasized, “Whether guests are staying overnight or just stopping in for a meal, we want them to feel at home—surrounded by history, character, and the warmth of our community.”
Allan and Tina added: “We are delighted to have found a great local team to share the Castaneda with the next generation. We are grateful for the hundreds of fine people who helped bring the Castaneda back to life – from the builders, to our team that runs this property so lovingly. We are confident that Carlos, Patricia, Dennis and Annette will do wonderful things with the Castaneda.”
Affeldt also announced in March that he had put another of his Las Vegas properties, the Plaza Hotel, on the market, saying it was time for him and his wife to simplify their lives. Both hotels continued to operate in the interim.
Las Vegas, New Mexico, sits a few miles from the Santa Fe Loop alignment of Route 66, but it has become a common side trip for those travelers.
The Castaneda Hotel was built in 1898 and 1899 by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway and was operated by the Fred Harvey Company until 1948.
(Image of Castaneda Hotel in Las Vegas, New Mexico, via Facebook)