Indulge in the vibrant culinary scene of Santa Fe, where a kaleidoscope of flavors paints a gastronomic masterpiece. This city marries its deep-rooted cultural influences into an exuberant cuisine that is distinctly Santa Fe. Spanish, Mexican, and Native American elements mingle to form a unique flavor profile, a testament to the city’s rich multicultural heritage.
Unearth the city’s culinary secrets, from the sizzle of the chile to the warm comfort of blue corn tortillas. From farmers’ markets brimming with local produce to cooking classes that reveal age-old culinary traditions; from tasting tours that guide you through the burgeoning food scene to inventive farm-to-table restaurants that showcase the best of Santa Fe’s gastronomy – this itinerary is a feast for both the palate and the soul. Nourish your understanding of Santa Fe’s gastronomic evolution. Every New Mexican dish tells a vibrant culinary tale.
Sweetwater Harvest Kitchen, Pacheco Street, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Clafoutis, West Cordova Road, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Santa Fe School of Cooking, North Guadalupe Street, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Tomasita's Santa Fe New Mexican Restaurant, South Guadalupe Street, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Kakawa Chocolate House, Paseo De Peralta, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Wander New Mexico Food Tours, East Palace Avenue, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Restaurant Martin, Galisteo Street, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Sazón, Shelby Street, Santa Fe, NM, USA
The Parador Santa Fe, West Manhattan Avenue, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Pueblo Bonito Santa Fe, West Manhattan Avenue, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Secreto Lounge, Don Gaspar Avenue, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Santa Fe Farmers Market, Paseo De Peralta, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Jambo Cafe, Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Best Places for Breakfast in Santa Fe
Clafoutis
Clafoutis, a French bakery and restaurant, brings a slice of Paris to Santa Fe. Famous for their pastries and breads baked fresh daily, they also offer a selection of classic French breakfast dishes. Don’t miss their Croque Monsieur or the house specialty – Clafoutis, a French-baked fruit dessert. It’s an elegant beginning to a day filled with culinary adventures.
Sweetwater Harvest Kitchen
The charming Sweetwater Harvest Kitchen is known for its diverse menu that incorporates global and local flavors, using organic and locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. Enjoy a savory Southwestern breakfast bowl or indulge in their buckwheat pancakes for a delightful start to your day.
Best Places for Lunch in Santa Fe
Tomasita's
Indulge in New Mexican cuisine at Tomasita’s, a Santa Fe tradition since 1974. It’s famous for its classic dishes, such as blue corn enchiladas and sopaipillas. The red and green chile sauces, both made from locally grown chiles, are among the city’s best. Lunch at Tomasita’s is a true feast of Santa Fe flavors.
Jambo Cafe
Experience an unexpected fusion of Afro-Caribbean flavors at Jambo Cafe. Chef Ahmed Obo, originally from the island of Lamu off the coast of Kenya, brings his culinary heritage to life in the form of flavorful, aromatic dishes. Popular menu items include the coconut chicken curry, the jerk chicken plate, and the African lentil soup. The decor is lively and colorful, reflecting the warmth and richness of the food. No wonder Obo is recognized by the James Beard awards.
Best Things To Do in the Afternoon in Santa Fe
Santa Fe Wine Tours
Unearth the flavors of Santa Fe on an intimate, guided food and wine tour with Wander New Mexico. Small group sizes and passionate guides ensure an experience that transcends other food tours. Venture into acclaimed local eateries to savor wine, cheese, and regional cuisine. Taste and learn Santa Fe’s history and people through a sensory story of local fare.
Best Places for Dinner in Santa Fe
Sazón
Dine at Sazón, which brings an avant-garde approach to traditional Mexican cuisine. Chef Fernando Olea, a native of Mexico City, masterfully combines indigenous ingredients with modern techniques. They use locally sourced ingredients, some of which have been staples of the indigenous diet for centuries. It’s a lovely gourmet experience from a 2022 James Beard Award Winner.
Best Places to Stay in Santa Fe
The Parador
Stay at The Parador, a charming 200-year-old farmhouse converted into an inn that offers a warm, homey setting. Situated in the heart of Santa Fe, it is within walking distance of several dining hotspots, making it an excellent lodging choice for this gastronomic journey. The hearty, Southwestern-style breakfast is another delightful bonus.
Pueblo Bonito
Pueblo Bonito, a 150-year-old adobe pueblo-style estate, offers a uniquely authentic New Mexico lodging experience. Each of the 19 guest rooms boasts original architectural elements such as kiva fireplaces and exposed wooden beams. Their traditional Southwestern-style breakfast, featuring tamales and homemade green chile stew, provides a delicious start to your day of culinary exploration. Located in the heart of Santa Fe, it offers comfort and value.
After Dark in Santa Fe
Secreto Lounge
End your day at the Secreto Lounge, a craft cocktail bar specializing in “garden-to-glass” and “farm-to-bar” cocktails. Using fresh, local ingredients, they create drinks that reflect Santa Fe’s vibrant flavors. Sip a signature cocktail as you reminisce about your day of culinary exploration.
Bonus Pro Tips
Don’t miss the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market, one of the largest and most respected in the country. Discover the bounty of the region’s agricultural produce, and meet the local farmers and artisans who nourish the city with their high-quality, sustainable products.
Santa Fe is blessed with many James Beard Award Winners:
Zacatlán Restaurant
Best New Restaurant
Restaurant & Chef
Semifinalist
2022
Ahmed Obo
Best Chef: Southwest
Jambo Cafe
Restaurant & Chef
Semifinalist
2022
Fernando Olea
Best Chef: Southwest
Sazón
Restaurant & Chef
Semifinalist
2020
Martin Rios
Best Chef: Southwest
Restaurant Martín
Restaurant & Chef
Nominee
2018
Colin Shane
Rising Star Chef of the Year
Arroyo Vino
Restaurant & Chef
Semifinalist
2018
Martin Rios
Best Chef: Southwest
Restaurant Martín
Restaurant & Chef
Nominee
2017
Colin Shane
Rising Star Chef of the Year
Arroyo Vino
Restaurant & Chef
Semifinalist
2017
Best New Restaurant
Restaurant & Chef
Semifinalist
2016
Andrew Cooper
Best Chef: Southwest
Terra at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado
Restaurant & Chef
Semifinalist
2016
Martin Rios
Best Chef: Southwest
Restaurant Martin
Restaurant & Chef
Nominee
2015
Andrew Cooper
Best Chef: Southwest
Terra at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Restaurant & Chef
Semifinalist
2015
And the list goes on to 2014 and earlier…
