Savoring Santa Fe: 7 Fine Dining in New Mexico’s Capital

People move to Santa Fe for a number of reasons — the 300 days of sunshine, glorious sunsets, beautiful scenery, and world-class art galleries. But, as Ricky Allen, a principal of Ricky Allen Tara Earley Real Estate Group, can tell you, Santa Fe has a selection of fine dining restaurants that could make a large city jealous. So, put on your fancy clothes — or best boots — and check out some of these gourmet restaurants that are sure to please any palate.

Outstanding Restaurants Offering Fine Dining

The Living Room

Rated one of the most popular happy hour spots in Santa Fe, the Living Room features comfortable sofas and a fireplace. While enjoying cocktails, wine, or local craft beer, check out the happy hour menu for appetizers and entrées. Located at the Inn and Spa at Loretto, the Living Room is the perfect spot to start or end your evening out.

Luminaria Restaurant and Patio

Also located at the Inn and Spa at Loretto, the Luminaria Restaurant features a globally inspired menu in a beautiful setting. When the weather is warm, enjoy dining on the patio among trees, vines, luxurious fabrics, and hanging lanterns. Their Strawberry-Jalapeno Margarita is featured on the Santa Fe Margarita Trail.

Anasazi Restaurant, Bar, and Lounge

The Anasazi Restaurant, Bar & Lounge draws inspiration from Santa Fe’s cultural and culinary traditions. The menus feature contemporary American cuisine, highlighting fresh, local ingredients. Chef Oliver Cortez provides an array of offerings, including vegan and vegetarian items, on the menu.

Pair your meal with wines selected to accompany each entrée. Anasazi made the list of America’s Best 100 Wine Restaurants, awarded by Wine Enthusiast, and received the Best Of Award Of Excellence 2023 from Wine Spectator.

Ricky Allen loves to share all things Santa Fe. Visit some of these restaurants to sample the cuisine that helps make Santa Fe a culinary destination.

Terra at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe

Known for elegant dining, Terra presents flavors of New Mexico alongside globally inspired dishes. Enjoy a memorable meal and evening out while taking in majestic mountain views. The dinner menu features a special entrée each night in addition to the main menu, including options such as beef, local game, fish, and seafood. Go with an appetite so you can sample the unique and delicious appetizers.

El Farol

Known for its delicious Spanish-inspired cuisine, El Farol offers a menu filled with flavorful tapas, paellas, and other traditional dishes. Vegan options are also available on the tapas menu. For a uniquely Santa Fe experience, book a table for Friday or Saturday evening when you can experience passionate flamenco performances as you savor your meal. The restaurant’s rustic charm and lively ambiance capture the essence of Santa Fe’s cultural heritage, ensuring a memorable night out.

Tomasitas

Tomasitas combines fine dining with New Mexican cuisine at its best. Celebrating 50 years in 2024, this locally owned restaurant is regarded as one of the best places in the state to enjoy New Mexican food, accompanied by what are said to be the best margaritas in town.

James Beard Award Winning Restaurants in Santa Fe

These Santa Fe restaurants have won the James Beard Best Chef of the Southwest award: Fernando Olea at Sazón, 2022, Mark Kiffin at The Compound Restaurant, 2005, and Mark Miller at Coyote Cafe, 1996. What’s impressive about this list is that with a population of around 85,000 people, Santa Fe is considered a small city. Still, year after year, local restaurants win or are finalists in one or more categories of this prestigious award.

Ricky Allen loves to share all things Santa Fe. Visit some of these restaurants to sample the cuisine that helps make Santa Fe a culinary destination.