The Wander Guide to Santa Fe's Best Restaurants
We know the feeling. You're visiting a new city. There are 400 restaurants to choose from. You want to make every meal count. That's why we've put together our unbiased guide to Santa Fe's best restaurants, from timeless classics to what's currently trending.
This guide focuses on places that are farther away from downtown, but worth a special trip. We would love to include these in our tours but unfortunately we can't walk everywhere!
If you're looking for recommendations within walking distance of town, check out the list of restaurants we visit on our tours. Each of our partners has been handpicked and represents the best of Santa Fe's nearly 400 restaurants.
Izanami at Ten Thousand Waves
The place: As if the divine Japanese-style spa weren't enough, Ten Thousand Waves is also home to Izanami, an izakaya (or Japanese gastropub) specializing in small plates that manage to feel both traditional and inventive. Leave time before your meal to relax in one of the spa's outdoor soaking tubs!
What we order: Izanami boasts the best selection of artisanal sake in the country. Try a tasting flight to sample sakes with names like 'Seven Spearsmen' and 'Cabin in the Snow.'
Harry's Roadhouse
The place: A perennial local favorite, Harry's is often packed - for good reason. Their eclectic menu features hearty comfort food, as well as lighter fare - all of it fresh and satisfying. If the restaurant is full, their atmospheric and friendly bar serves a full menu, as well as a mean margarita.
What we order: The blue corn turkey enchiladas are a delicious twist on a classic New Mexican dish. Enjoy at the bar while drinking a La Cumbre IPA and reading the latest copy of Local Flavor.
Dr. Field Goods
The place: Calling themselves a 'New Mexican fusion' restaurant, Dr. Field Goods uses local, sustainable ingredients to create mouth-watering enchiladas, burgers, pizzas, and other bites. Most people head to the main restaurant, but for something different, check out their butcher shop and bakery (located in the same shopping plaza as the restaurant). Open for lunch from 11-4, they serve a small menu of outstanding sandwiches with local beers on tap. More often than not you'll see Chef Josh in there manning the meat counter.
What we order: The special (when they have one). And definitely pick up some green chile enchilada sausages to take home.
Rowley Farmhouse Ales
The place: This welcoming gastropub and brewery was started by a former Los Alamos chemist who also happens to be the president of the Santa Fe homebrew club, so it's not surprising that they make some great Belgian-style and sour beers. They also feature an inviting outdoor space, and offer upscale takes on classic pub fare.
What we order: Any of their own beers (they sometimes run out - we're eagerly awaiting for them to ramp up brewing production). Since their beers are higher octane than most, you'll need something substantial in your stomach, like the Braised Flat Iron Poutine. Cheese, meat, and fries - it's not healthy, but it's delicious.
Posa's Tamale Factory
The place: This family-run tamale kitchen has been around since 1955. Pay them a visit and you'll understand why. In a town with a lot of tamales, these stand out. Can't get enough? They ship nationwide.
What we order: The red chile pork tamale is everything a tamale should be - a spicy, savory filling surrounded by light, fluffy masa. Their vegan tamales are also excellent, if you're not a meat eater.
Want to take the guesswork out and have a Santa Fe local show you where to eat and drink in Santa Fe?