We just wrapped up our Santa Fe Culinary Tour for this year (you can probably hear the buttons popping on my pants).
This is one big culinary town so it’s hard to nail down a short list of where to eat in Santa Fe. But, here’s a start for some places you don’t want to miss.
Why not start your day with something sweet or savory from Sage Bakehouse? You can grab a pastry to go or have a seat and enjoy something from the kitchen. I had the spinach and cheese (was it goat or bleu – can’t remember but it rocked) quiche. I probably blew my calories for the day but it was so worth it. And it was a culinary tour so I wasn’t counting the calories (too much).
You’ll always be asked at a Santa Fe restaurant whether you want red or green (chile). If you want to fit in like a local, ask for Christmas which is a combo of both. The Shed, located very close to the Plaza, specializes in authentic New Mexican food, like these enchiladas.
I know. It looks like a hot mess. But I assure you a plate of these are flavorful and good to the last drop.
If you get the chance to head out of town and make the pilgrimage to the church in Chimayo, be sure to stop in at nearby Rancho de Chimayo for lunch. This is their combo plate with a taco and enchilada and rice and veggies on the side.
Not that the nachos are bad (they’re great), but the best thing about eating at the Bell Tower Bar atop the Hotel La Fonda is the view. Sitting up there gives you an excellent viewpoint over the town and out to the surrounding mountains.
I did not have a problem polishing these off…
Located a few miles away from the Plaza (you’ll need a car to get there), Dr. Field Goods is the kind of place where you generally only find locals. My friend Marcia took me here and, well, do I need to say anything other than YUM? I mean, just take a look at these green chile and cheese-smothered onion rings.
Honestly? I’m glad we don’t have something so tasty in Seattle. I’d be in major trouble otherwise.
You can also get healthy food at Dr. Field Goods, like this quinoa salad. (But I much preferred the onion rings!)
It’s a simple dish, but don’t escape Santa Fe without trying a cup (or bowl) of queso. This is simply melted cheese for dipping warm chips. These are from the Blue Corn Cafe.
And if the queso isn’t enough, try a full-on burrito plate from the Blue Corn Cafe. Yes, I ate the whooooooole thing.
Once you’ve eaten your fill of cheese and chile, Vinaigrette is the place to be. This small restaurant specializes in salads as the main course. It’s not a strictly vegetarian restaurant since you can add beef, seafood or chicken to your salad. But if, like me, you prefer a vegetarian meal, try the grilled tofu and/or the panko crusted cheese. 🙂
Convinced that you can’t go another day without planning a trip to Santa Fe? Come with us on next year’s culinary tour! We’ll be announcing the itinerary soon. But in the mean time, send me a note to let me know you’d like to be on the mailing list.
Travel Well,
Beth
Related links:
Where to eat in New Orleans
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