Many of the foods that were grown here centuries ago by Native Americans in including corn, squash and chile are still the basis of the unique, regional cuisine. Chile is so much a part of the landscape that the official state question is red or green? There is a cosmopolitan flair in many of Santa Fe’s restaurants with notable chefs and innovative menus. Here are just a few of the many dining options in the City Different.

Fine Dining

Anasazi Restaurant
Diners savor Executive Chef Tom Kerpon’s contemporary Southwestern flavors imbued with influences of Native American, Northern New Mexican and American cowboy cuisines. (505-988-3236)

The Compound
In 2004, Chef Mark Kiffin was a James Beard  nominee for Best Southwestern Chef.  This Canyon Road establishment has a distinctive flare to its regional meets continental seasonal menus.  (505-982-4353)

Geronimo
A Santa Fe favorite set in a historic home.  This elegant restaurant has won numerous awards.  Executive Chef Eric DiStephano has created innovative, contemporary fare with Southwestern influences, all artfully presented.  (505-982-1500)
*Voted a top choice in New Mexico by ZAGATSurvey

Old House
One of Santa Fe’s most celebrated restaurants. Chef Martin Rios specializes in French technique with influences and ingredients from around the world. He received the Mondavi Award of Excellence in 2002. The wine list was honored by the Wine Spectator. (800-995-4555 or 505-995-4530)
* Voted a top choice in New Mexico by ZAGATSurvey

Northern New Mexican

Maria’s
Owner Al Lucero literally wrote the book on margaritas and Maria’s offers over a hundred to choose from.  Maria’s serves up traditional fare in a family environment.  For more information call 505-983-7929.

The Shed
This is probably one of Santa Fe’s most popular spots for New Mexican food in cozy adobe rooms date from 1692. The Carswell family has been in charge of the food since 1953. This is one of the most authentic culinary experiences in the City Different where they take the state question of “red or green?” seriously.  All the meals are served with garlic bread, a Shed tradition. (505-982-9030)

Tomasita’s
You may have to wait for a table at this New Mexico Institution because they don’t take reservations but it will be worth the wait.  Here, too the on-going debate of red vs. green chile continues.  One can of course choose Christmas and have both on tasty enchiladas or other specialties. (505-983-5721)

Breakfast/Casual Dining

Plaza Café
A downtown landmark on the west side of the Historic Plaza.  The Plaza Café has the atmosphere reminiscent of a Route 66 diner and some of the best food in town.  Large portions with dishes that range from burgers to breakfast burritos.  They have their own bakery that created heavenly pies and local specialties like the Bizcochito, New Mexico’s state cookie. (505-982-1664)

Tia Sophia’s
Definitely Santa Fe’s morning meeting place, this small eatery is packed with locals and visitors alike.  More business gets conducted around these tables than in most offices.  The menu is packed with favorites like huevos rancheros, burritos and enchiladas smothered in chile.  (505-983-9880)

Café Pasqual’s
One of Santa Fe’s favorite corner spots that is well worth the wait.  Known for breakfast, Pasqual’s cuisine is a blend of Old Mexico, the flavors of Pan Asian and Northern New Mexico.  They also serve lunch and dinner.  Most ingredients are fresh, organic and locally grown. (505-986-9162)

Tapas

El Farol
One of the oldest establishments in Santa Fe, El Farol still has bullet holes in the wall in the 1835 adobe house.  Chef James Campbell Caruso is a master of tapas, paellas and other Spanish treats.  Nightly, lively entertainment including Flamenco performances. (505-983-9912)

El Mesón & Chipsa
Chef David Huertas tales a traditional approach to Spanish cooling including a wide range of tapas dishes. Entertainment most evenings. Tuesdays feature tango dancers. (505-983-6756)

Other Santa Favorites

The Cantina at La Casa Sena
Set just off the courtyard in the 1690’s Sena Plaza, The Cantina serves up Broadway show tunes with drinks and delightful treats. (505-988-9232)

The Cowgirl Hall of Fame
Everyone loves the Cowgirl.  From the addictive black-eyed pea dip to tasty barbeque, the menu is filled with surprises.  It embodies Santa Fe’s diverse-is-an understatement charm with several small rooms, kid’s area, an always crowded bar and its world famous patio. (505-982-2565)

The Pink Adobe
A Santa Fe tradition since 1944, The Pink as the locals call it serves an eclectic menu with seafood, steak and northern New Mexican dishes.  Home of the world famous Dragon Room bar. (505-983-7712)