Best Restaurants in Santa Fe

Santa Fe is the capital of New Mexico. This city wears its history proudly while embracing a modern, artsy vibe. With its adobe buildings, vibrant art scene, and rich cultural heritage, Santa Fe is like no other place in the U.S.

It is also a food lover’s paradise, blending traditional Southwestern flavors with contemporary culinary trends. If you plan to dine out, here are the top restaurants in Santa Fe that offer something special.

1. Geronimo

Geronimo is where elegance meets Southwestern charm. Located on Canyon Road, this 1756 adobe home-turned-restaurant is as cozy as it is refined.

The menu mixes eclectic American cuisine with a global twist. Their Tellicherry Rubbed Elk Tenderloin is a must-try – it is tender, flavorful, and unlike anything you’ve had before.

Of course, the warm, welcoming atmosphere is perfect for a romantic evening or a special occasion. You will love the attentive service and how every dish is perfectly plated. It’s the kind of place where the experience is as memorable as the food.

Address: 724 Canyon Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

Phone: +1 505-982-1500

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2. The Shed

For a taste of New Mexican tradition, The Shed is a staple. As one of the best restaurants in Santa Fe, it has been delighting locals and visitors since 1953.

Nestled just off the Plaza in a charming old adobe building, this is the place to go for authentic red and green chile. Their blue corn enchiladas are legendary, smothered in that spicy, flavorful sauce – the heart of New Mexican cuisine.

Moreover, the atmosphere is lively and casual, with colorful decor that makes you feel like dining in a local’s home. Don’t forget to save room for the mocha cake. Trust me, it’s worth every bite.

Address: 113 1/2 E Palace Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

Phone: +1 505-982-9030

3. Sazón

Sazón offers an upscale take on traditional Mexican cuisine, a culinary journey you won’t miss. Chef Fernando Olea crafts dishes that are both artistic and delicious. The focus is on moles – rich, complex sauces that are the highlight of the menu.

The Mole Negro is the star, dark and velvety with layers of flavor that unfold with every bite. The dining room is elegant yet comfortable, and the staff makes you feel like family. It is where you can savor each dish slowly, enjoying the fine-dining experience with a twist of Santa Fe’s unique style.

Address: 221 Shelby St, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

Phone: +1 505-983-8604Discover these exquisite restaurants in Kaneohe

4. La Boca

If you are in the mood for tapas, La Boca is the spot. This intimate, European-style bistro is all about small plates with big flavors. The chef brings a taste of Spain to Santa Fe. You can find dishes like bacon-wrapped dates, lamb chops with mint, and crispy calamari, light and perfectly seasoned.

The vibe here is lively and social. So, it is a great place to share a meal with friends or meet new ones at the bar. The extensive wine list boasts plenty of Spanish options to complement the menu. If you are looking for an award-winning restaurant in Santa Fe, La Boca is a little slice of Spain in the heart of the Southwest.

Address: 72 W Marcy St, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

Phone: +1 505-982-3433

5. Coyote Café

Coyote Cafe is a Santa Fe icon. It is known for its innovative Southwestern cuisine and rooftop cantina. In addition, it is the perfect blend of fine dining and laid-back New Mexican spirit.

Check out the creative menu, with dishes like the signature Mesquite-Grilled Lobster Tails and the Green Chile Cheeseburger, as juicy as it is spicy. The rooftop offers stunning views of the city. It is a prime spot for a sunset dinner or a casual drink under the stars.

The atmosphere is lively and fun, and the food is always on point. If you are looking for a place to kick back, enjoy the flavors of Santa Fe, and soak in the city’s unique vibe, this is spot on.

Address: 132 W Water St, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

Phone: +1 505-983-1615

6. Clafoutis

For a taste of France in the middle of New Mexico, Clafoutis is your go-to spot. This charming French bakery and café is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch.

Think buttery croissants, rich quiches, and delicate pastries that transport you straight to Paris. The savory crêpes are a highlight, especially with ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce. The café itself is cozy, with a welcoming, homey feel. The staff is friendly, and you’ll often find regulars chatting with the owners as they sip their coffee. It’s the perfect place to start your day with a little French flair.

Address: 333 W Cordova Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87507, United States

Phone: +1 505-988-1809

7. Vinaigrette

For a fresh and healthy dining option, Vinaigrette is a bright spot on Santa Fe’s restaurant scene. This salad bistro is all about fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

With a menu that features creative salads with names like “The Beet Goes On” and “The Omega,” there is something for everyone. Each dish is packed with nutrient-rich ingredients. The portions are generous, and you can add a protein like seared tuna or grilled chicken to make it a full meal.

But there is more to experience; the atmosphere is light and airy. Inside has a modern, minimalist design that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a chic urban café. When you want to dine in top restaurants in Santa Fe, this is a great spot for a casual lunch or a light dinner.

Address: 709 Don Cubero Alley, Santa Fe, NM 87505, United States

Phone: +1 505-820-9205

8. Paloma

I cannot mention excellent restaurants in Santa Fe, without Paloma. This amazing spot brings a fresh and modern take on Mexican cuisine. As a stylish restaurant, it offers a menu about vibrant, fresh flavors with a contemporary twist.

The tacos stand out, especially the pork carnitas with pineapple salsa and the crispy fish with avocado crema. But don’t stop there; the small plates like the esquites (Mexican street corn) and the ceviche are also worth trying.

The space itself is beautiful. It boasts a mix of modern design and rustic touches. Again, the patio is a great spot for a relaxed evening meal, and the cocktails are crafted with the same care as the food.

Address: 401 S Guadalupe St, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

Phone: +1 505-467-8624

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9. L’Olivier

L’Olivier is where French cuisine meets the flavors of the Southwest. The chef combines his classical French training with local ingredients to create elegant and hearty dishes.

Among the dishes, the duck confit is a must-try. Tender and rich with a crispy skin, it is paired perfectly with seasonal vegetables. The atmosphere is refined and relaxed. Soft lighting and a warm color palette make you feel instantly at ease.

Whether you plan to celebrate a special occasion or just treat yourself to a nice dinner out, L’Olivier is a place where every detail is carefully considered. That is, from the presentation of the dishes to the wine pairings.

Address: 229 Galisteo St Santa Fe, NM 87501

Phone: (505) 989-1919

10. Cafe Pasqual’s

Cafe Pasqual’s is a Santa Fe institution. It is the locals’ paradise, boasting a vibrant, eclectic atmosphere and commitment to organic, locally sourced ingredients. T

You will find a menu that fuses New Mexican, Mexican, and Asian influences. Expect dishes like the smoked trout hash and the chile relleno filled with organic cheese.

The dining room is small and lively, with colorful folk art covering the walls and a communal table where you can share a meal with fellow diners. Breakfast and brunch are particularly popular, and the house-made salsas and sauces add a flavorful kick to everything on the menu.

Here is the kind of place where you can feel the energy and creativity of the city in every bite.

Address: 121 Don Gaspar Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

Phone: +1 505-983-9340

11. Radish & Rye

When you want to eat in mouthwatering restaurants in Santa Fe, Radish & Rye is a farm-to-table restaurant. It celebrates the flavors of the Southwest with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients.

The menu changes regularly, based on fresh ingredients in the market. Yet, you can always count on a meal thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. Their bourbon selection is impressive. That makes it a great spot for those who appreciate a good whiskey.

In addition, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, with rustic wooden tables and soft lighting that create a cozy vibe. If you want an ideal place for a date night or an intimate dinner with friends, this is a great idea. You can savor each dish and enjoy the relaxed pace of the evening.

Address: 505 Cerrillos Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

Phone: +1 505-930-5325

12. The Compound

The Compound is a Santa Fe classic, boasting a fine dining experience steeped in history. Located in a building designed by renowned architect Alexander Girard, the restaurant has been a favorite since the 1960s.

Also, the menu is contemporary American with Mediterranean influences, featuring dishes like the rack of lamb with polenta and the seafood risotto. The setting is elegant but not stuffy. There is a series of intimate dining rooms that make it feel special and comfortable.

The service is top-notch, with a knowledgeable and attentive staff, ensuring your meal is nothing short of exceptional.

Address: 653 Canyon Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

Phone: +1 505-982-4353

13. Joseph’s Culinary Pub

Joseph’s Culinary Pub is where comfort food meets creative flair. The cooks always craft a menu that’s both familiar and innovative. High-quality ingredients and attention to detail elevate top dishes like the green chile cheeseburger and the buttermilk fried chicken.

The space is cozy and unpretentious, with a relaxed atmosphere that invites you to linger over your meal. The wine list is carefully curated; each selection pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the food. You can enjoy a satisfying meal that feels indulgent and down-to-earth.

Address: 428 Agua Fria St, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

Phone: +1 505-982-1272

Conclusion

Santa Fe’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Each of these restaurants in Santa Fe offers something different. But they all commit to quality, flavor, and creating memorable dining experiences.