Santa Fe is famous for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and, most importantly, its incredible food scene. While tourists might swarm the Plaza for a taste of New Mexican cuisine, locals know where the real gems are. If you want to eat like a Santa Fean (and trust me, you do), these five spots should be at the top of your list.

1. La Choza – The Local’s Answer to The Shed

Sure, The Shed gets all the love from guidebooks, but Santa Fe locals know that La Choza is where it’s at. As the “newer”sibling restaurant to The Shed, it serves up the same iconic New Mexican flavors the Carswell family has been offering since the 1950s under the guidance of siblings Sarah and Kenji and their amazing staff.

What makes La Choza a local favorite? Three words: red or green. Their chile is legendary—deep, flavorful, and spicy enough to make you question your life choices (in the best way possible). Order the blue corn enchiladas smothered in your chile of choice or go all-in with a Christmas-style plate (that’s red and green chile for the uninitiated). And don’t even think about skipping the margaritas—strong, citrusy, and perfectly balanced, they’re some of the best in town at prices that are easy to swallow.

2. Horno – Where the Chefs Go to Eat

If you ask a Santa Fe chef where they grab a bite, chances are they’ll mention Horno. Opened by local culinary star Chef David Sellers, this gastropub has quickly become a favorite among foodies and industry insiders alike. And this one is actually in the Plaza district.

Horno is all about creative, ingredient-driven dishes with bold flavors. Think chile-glazed pork belly, roasted cauliflower with harissa, and a burger so good it might ruin all other burgers for you. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined—perfect for a casual night out with serious food. Whether you’re in the mood for a craft cocktail or a plate of something unexpectedly delicious, Horno delivers.

3. Paper Dosa – Sublime South Indian in the Southwest

Santa Fe isn’t exactly known for Indian cuisine, but Paper Dosa has changed the game. This spot is a favorite among locals who crave something beyond New Mexican fare, offering fresh, flavorful South Indian dishes that are as comforting as they are exciting.

Start with the crispy, oversized dosas (savory crepes stuffed with spiced potatoes, chutneys, and sambar) and work your way through their deeply spiced curries (that’s “spiced” not “spicy”) and vibrant street snacks. The flavors are bold but balanced, and the ingredients are always fresh. Paper Dosa is proof that Santa Fe’s food scene extends far beyond enchiladas and green chile stew.

4. Jambo Café – A Taste of Africa with a Santa Fe Twist

One step inside Jambo Café, and you’re greeted by the warm aroma of exotic spices and the buzz of happy diners. Chef Ahmed Obo, originally from Kenya, has created a spot that locals love for its flavorful, comforting, and utterly unique dishes.

Jambo serves up African-Caribbean fusion with dishes like coconut lentil stew, jerk chicken, and their famous lamb or goat curry. The sweet potato fries with spicy dipping sauce are addictive, and their refreshing hibiscus tea is the perfect complement to the bold flavors. Santa Fe may be thousands of miles from Nairobi, but at Jambo, you’d never know it.

5. Café Fina – Breakfast, Brunch, and Laid-Back Vibes

Just a short drive from downtown, Café Fina is the kind of place locals wish would stay a secret. It’s a cozy, unpretentious café that serves up some of the best breakfasts and brunches in town. And the patio is the perfect place to chill in the Santa Fe sunshine.

Everything here is made with high-quality ingredients, from their fluffy “cloudcakes” to their legendary breakfast burritos (pro tip: get it smothered in green chile). The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for a slow morning with a good cup of coffee. Plus, they have a killer pastry case that’s hard to resist—grab a homemade scone or croissant on your way out.

Eat Like a Local in Santa Fe

If you really want to experience Santa Fe’s food scene, skip the tourist traps and head to these local favorites. Whether you’re craving fiery New Mexican flavors, inventive gastropub eats, South Indian spice, African comfort food, or the perfect brunch, these five spots have you covered.

And if you see a line of locals waiting for a table, don’t worry—it just means you’re in the right place!

Where the Santa Fe Locals Eat: 5 Favorite Dining Spots You Might Miss But Shouldn't