Founded by English-born immigrant Fred Harvey, who opened his first Harvey House in 1876 in Topeka, Kansas, the company got its start catering to travelers of the American railroad era. At its peak, the company operated 84 Harvey House facilities, a chain of eating houses and hotels that spanned the American West.

In New Mexico, Harvey Houses were located across the state, from Albuquerque and Belen to Carlsbad, Clovis, Deming, Gallup, Lamy, Las Vegas, Raton, Rincon, San Marcial, and Vaughan. They’ve all disappeared except for La Fonda and La Castañeda in Las Vegas, currently undergoing renovations by the same owners of La Posada, a fully restored Harvey House in Winslow, Ariz.

Step into La Fonda today and you’re instantly transported through history to the hotel’s heyday as a Harvey House, re-designed in the 1920s in a combination of Pueblo and Spanish style that became known as Santa Fe Style. Harvey’s architect Mary Colter—designer of numerous noteworthy Harvey Houses including Bright Angel Lodge in the Grand Canyon and La Posada in Winslow—worked with Santa Fe architect John Gaw Meem to create the new La Fonda, which was Meem’s first big project.

Look up and admire the hand-carved beams, stained glass skylights and 25-foot cathedral ceiling. Then grab at a table at La Plazuela, located on the hotel’s original 1920’s patio. Executive Chef Lane Warner has worked at the hotel almost as long as La Fonda’s Harvey House chef, Konrad Allgaier, who had cooked for Germany’s Kaiser Wilhelm before coming to Santa Fe and combining his classical European training with traditional New Mexico cuisine at La Fonda for nearly 25 years.

Allgaier was famous for his Chicken Lucrecio, a chile-roasted chicken with almond and garlic gravy, beef empanadas, with vanilla sauce, huevos rancheros and sopapillas, according to Stephen Fried’s award-winning book, Appetite for America: Fred Harvey and the Business of Civilizing the Wild West—One Meal at a Time.

Other items on La Fonda Harvey House menu over the years included Fresh Lobster Farci Thermidor with Potato Chips and Boned Mountain Trout Saute au Buerre Noisette. There’s also Fresh Ox Tongue on New Spinach with a Sauce Madere and Whipped Potatoes; Shirred Eggs with Home Made Sausage Cakes; and a Fresh Scallop Patty a la Poulette. A La Fonda Favorites section of one menu from 1958 includes a Santa Fe Omelette with Green Chili and Rarebit Sauce with French Fried Potatoes and Tossed Green Salad, and there’s even a Peanut Butter and Bacon Sandwich option.

Impeccable service for dining at La Fonda was provided by the signature Harvey Girls, a staff of thoroughly well-trained waitresses who were famous for their role in the Harvey House success. “You never met anybody anywhere except at La Fonda,” syndicated newspaper columnist and New Mexico resident Ernie Pyle once wrote, “you never took anybody to lunch anywhere else.”

Today, you can dine in three different La Fonda locations—the La Plazuela the newly re-designed La Fiesta Lounge and the Bell Tower Bar, open seasonally for until just after sunset.

La Plazuela signature dishes include guacamole prepared tableside, along with Beeler’s “Haluka” Pork Chop, char-grilled and served with fresh thyme, Marsala jus, fingerling potato salad and fresh seasonal vegetables; and Chilean Sea Bass, wine-poached and served with roasted tomato butter sauce, roasted cauliflower mash and fresh seasonal vegetables.

La Fiesta Lounge offers casual, regional cuisine along with live music and dancing. Enjoy such starters as flight of house-made salsas, Kale and Roasted Jalapeno Hummus and La Fonda Caesar Salad with queso cojito Caesar dressing. For a full meal, try the Rellenos de la Fonda stuffed with Mexican cheese; the Braised Short Rib Tacos and the Hatch Green Chile Cheeseburger . A daily New Mexican buffet is available for lunch and the resident mixologist has concocted some delicious libations, including signature margaritas and martinis.

Up on La Fonda’s fifth floor, the Bell Tower Bar offers some of the best sunset views in the city and a menu of light bites that includes Ethel’s Chicken Salad and a variety of quesadillas—don’t miss the Pork Carnitas & Mexican Cheese and the Grilled Calabacitas with Black Mash & Mexican Cheese. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, order the Chocolate Nutella Quesadilla with Strawberries or Bananas. And don’t miss the Bell Ringer Margarita, the bar’s signature drink.The Bell Tower Bar is open for lunch also live entertainment on Sundays.

La Fonda is prized Santa Fe gem, and its current owners, Jenny Kimball and her brother Phillip Wise, are devoted to preserving the hotel’s Harvey House legacy. They bought the hotel in 2014 from the family of Santa Fe businessman Sam Ballan and his wife, Ethel, who purchased La Fonda from the Fred Harvey company in 1968 and have overseen extensive renovations aimed at returning the hotel’s design to the Mary Colter traditions.

La Fonda hosts Harvey House weekends that celebrate its history in collaboration with the New Mexico History Museum that includes lectures, specials events and even Harvey House meals. The hotel also offers complimentary docent tours of La Fonda’s extensive art collection dating back to 1922, on Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10:30 to 11:30 am. You can sign up for these tours at the concierge desk or by calling (505) 995-2333.

Art collectors and enthusiasts looking to explore the treasures that abound in Santa Fe, the U.S.’s third largest art market behind New York and Los Angeles, need look no further than Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, an enchanting luxury boutique retreat comprised of 65 intimate casitas surrounded by rugged mountainous beauty, as it today launches the country’s first Art Concierge Program.

Lauded as a global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers and business leaders, U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 rankings highlight more than 35,000 hotels, including nearly 400 hotels in New Mexico. The prestigious list ranks the best hotels based on an analysis of industry awards, hotel star ratings, and user ratings.

Four Seasons Art Concierge Program

The latest honor is on the heels of the resort launching the country’s first art concierge program, which allows guests to explore the U.S.’s third largest art market behind New York and Los Angeles with a personalized and curated experience to fit any budget or taste. With more than 250 galleries, the highest concentration of any city its size, Santa Fe is a cultural mecca synonymous with artistic ventures.

Adventure Center at Four Seasons

Nicknamed the Land of Enchantment for the state’s otherworldly landscapes and natural wonders, Four Seasons Resort Santa Fe also provides immersive experiences with its Adventure Center, the only one of its kind in the city. All tours are catered for each individual guest and led by expert guides providing up-close experiences. The resort’s exclusive tours include the Journey to Abiquiu, the excursion is a blend of wellness with adventure in a hike-to-yoga meditation experience only available to resort guests. It explores private land inaccessible to the public and incorporates a visit to Plaza Blanca, a hidden gem with stunning scenery and towering hoodoos that was once the muse of the legendary artist Georgia O’Keeffe. The tour begins with a smudging ceremony, followed by intention setting and a scenic hike amid the awe-inspiring vistas, all leading to an hour of expert-guided yoga practice and mandala meditation.

The Spa at Four Seasons

For the ultimate self-care escape, The Spa offers high-desert healing and reinvigorating retreats in the mystical wonderland of Santa Fe. The Southwest has long been an alluring sanctuary revered for its majestic landscapes. Those seeking serenity and bucolic beauty will find The Spa unmatched in its wellness offerings and restorative treatments. Situated on a spiritual vortex, the indoor-outdoor spa is a spacious oasis complete with private courtyards. With regionally inspired treatments, the spa program is centered around pampering guests with paradisiacal experiences.

Terra at Four Seasons

The resort is also home to Terra, its signature restaurant serving elegant cuisine and backdropped by iconic mountain views in a sumptuous setting. As the oldest European community west of the Mississippi and settled as a province of New Spain, Santa Fe’s culinary landscape is a concoction of Spanish, Native American and Mexican influences and flavors – all reflected in the delectable menus by Terra where global influences meet regional delights. Tucked away alongside the chef’s garden is the horno, oven in Spanish, which is exclusively used in the spring and summer. The clay oven was custom built to commemorate the traditional Native American style of cooking and will soon mark its return for the season with new offerings. (Read more about Terra here.)

“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized as the best hotel in the state and it’s a true testament to our passionate team that ensures every guest experience is memorable,” said Bixente Pery, general manager of Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe. “From our incomparable Adventure Center and inimitable spa to our elevated menus at Terra and intimate casitas, guests are engulfed in the enchantment of the city at Four Seasons Resort Santa Fe.”

For additional information about Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe or to learn more about U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 Best Hotel in New Mexico, visit fourseasons.com/santafe.

Other Santa Fe Hotels on the List

Other hotels in Santa Fe made it on the U.S. News & World Report 2023 Best Hotels in New Mexico list. Here are some of them.

Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi

Bishop’s Lodge Auberge Resorts Collection

La Fonda on the Plaza

Hotel Santa Fe

Inn of the Governors

Drury Plaza Hotel

Hotel St. Francis

Since this is amongst the oldest hotels in Santa Fe, it has really taken its reputation and given the guests something to love. With historical arts and artifacts lining the hallways and the old fashioned furniture and lightings, it perfectly matches the history behind this hotel. So, if you decide to book a room and avail their services, you’ll literally experience a chance to “live in the past”. To give a more archaic touch, this beautiful hotel holds statues, chests, religious prints as well as a fireplace, each making their way from centuries past. That combined with the friendly faces that greet you will make your stay here worth every penny. Their staff is also trained to keep your priorities in check and make sure your stay there is exceptional.

What does it have to offer? 

St. Francis Hotel is among the most well-known hotels in Santa Fe, NM and it lives up to the reputation by providing the guests with excellent service as well as excellent facilities that cater to their every need. With access to Wifi throughout the hotel, you wouldn’t even have to worry about leaving your work behind! Apart from that this hotel holds walking tours for their guests to learn the historical and cultural background of Santa Fe. Through this, you wouldn’t even have to worry about missing out on any of the famous places to visit! Here are some more things that you can take advantage of while you’re at the St. Francis Hotel:

Dining

From fine dining to bars, tasting rooms and even casual restaurants, Hotel St. Francis allows you to indulge in exquisite cuisines as well as drinks. You’re bound to have a great time all the while giving your palate a taste of what it’s truly like living in a place that’s rich with history and culture.

Events and catering

Hotel St. Francis is beautiful and makes sure its history is represented throughout every nook and curve of this hotel. That’s what makes it the best venue to hold meetings and plan events. They provide ballrooms, lounges and bars so you can have a sophisticated touch for your events. Apart from that, they even offer the best place for weddings and cater to whatever else you are interested in.

Hotel St. Francis has kept up its originality and elegance for several years past and has continued to do so. This hotel is definitely one that’s built to make you feel like royalty, so whenever you get the chance, don’t miss out on the opportunity to avail their excellence.

If you’re looking for the ultimate way to unwind in Santa Fe, a vacation rental with a private hot tub delivers both comfort and character. 

These homes combine Southwestern charm with modern amenities, offering a place to relax after exploring mountain trails, downtown galleries, or the desert landscapes that surround New Mexico’s capital city. 

Whether it’s a couple’s retreat, a winter getaway, or a gathering with friends, hot tub rentals create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation under Santa Fe’s famous starry skies.

Why Choose a Santa Fe Vacation Rental with a Hot Tub?

Santa Fe’s high-desert climate makes hot tubs appealing in every season. Crisp evenings and clear skies turn an ordinary soak into a luxury experience. During winter, when temperatures drop and snow dusts the nearby mountains, a steaming spa becomes the ultimate retreat. In summer, a late-night dip under the Milky Way is equally memorable.

Many travelers value the privacy and comfort of having their own spa instead of sharing facilities at a resort. A hot tub offers a soothing reward for those returning from the ski slopes, hiking trails, or a day exploring the city’s galleries.

Why hot tub rentals are worth it:

• Year-round comfort and relaxation, especially during winter stays.
• A private setting ideal for couples and small groups.
• Wellness benefits that come from soaking in warm, mineral-rich water.
• A cozy, luxurious touch that enhances any stay in the Southwest.

The appeal is clear for many guests: a private spa experience beats crowded resort amenities while still delivering all the comforts of a high-end getaway.

Summary: Hot tub rentals in Santa Fe combine romance, privacy, and luxury, desirable features for travelers throughout the year.

Best Neighborhoods for Hot Tub Vacation Rentals in Santa Fe

Santa Fe offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own atmosphere and appeal. From historic adobe homes to modern luxury estates, there’s a perfect fit for every traveler.

Eastside and Canyon Road

This area is known for classic adobe architecture, narrow streets, and proximity to Santa Fe’s most famous art galleries. Vacation homes here often feature enclosed courtyards, cozy kiva fireplaces, and secluded hot tubs, perfect for soaking in peace after an afternoon of shopping or dining along Canyon Road.

Tesuque and the Foothillsx

Tesuque and the surrounding foothills provide a more private escape north of the city. These properties often include panoramic mountain views, outdoor spas, and expansive patios for evening stargazing. Guests staying here enjoy easy access to hiking trails and ski areas, making it a top choice for winter visits and nature-loving travelers.

Railyard District and Downtown Santa Fe

Travelers who want to be near restaurants, live music, and the Santa Fe Plaza can choose a modern home or condo in the Railyard area. These rentals combine contemporary style with comfort, like rooftop decks, outdoor fire pits, and bubbling spas within walking distance of galleries and nightlife.

Summary: Choose your neighborhood based on your travel style: Downtown for easy access to events and dining, Eastside for historic charm, or Tesuque for quiet mountain views.

Top Santa Fe Vacation Rentals with Hot Tubs

The best Santa Fe vacation rentals with hot tubs attract guests year-round for good reason. Listings range from small adobe casitas to luxury estates with panoramic views. Properties with private spas often see higher occupancy rates because travelers prioritize comfort, wellness, and exclusivity.

Private patios with steaming tubs are especially popular during ski season, when guests return from the slopes at Ski Santa Fe and unwind under the stars. In the summer, the same space transforms into a gathering spot for evening conversations surrounded by mountain air.

Each property is unique, but it’s common for these features to be included:

• Southwestern décor with natural wood and adobe finishes.
• Kiva fireplaces and heated floors for winter comfort.
• Outdoor seating areas that highlight mountain or desert views.
• Pet-friendly options for travelers bringing furry companions.

Takeaway: A hot tub can turn an ordinary stay into an unforgettable experience, offering a private retreat after a day of exploring Santa Fe’s landscapes and culture.

Amenities That Enhance Your Santa Fe Hot Tub Stay

A well-equipped vacation rental goes beyond a great spa. The best homes pair their hot tubs with amenities that make every moment feel like a retreat.

Look for features such as:

• Fireplaces or outdoor fire pits that create cozy spaces after dark.
• Spa-like bathrooms with soaking tubs and rainfall showers.
• Private patios, full kitchens, and heated floors for year-round comfort.
• Large windows or decks that showcase sunsets and mountain views.

During winter, there’s nothing better than stepping from a warm hot tub into a living room with a crackling fire. In summer, shaded courtyards and open patios make for perfect morning coffee spots and evening sunset viewing.

Summary: For the ideal Santa Fe stay, choose a home that combines its hot tub with thoughtful design, like a fireplace, private courtyard, or panoramic view.

Best Times to Book Santa Fe Hot Tub Rentals

Santa Fe’s peak season for hot tub stays runs from December through March, when snow falls in the mountains and visitors come for a cozy winter escape. Rentals during this period fill quickly, especially for holidays and ski weekends, so early booking is recommended.

Spring and fall, however, offer excellent value. Rates are typically lower, and the mild weather allows for comfortable outdoor soaking. Many guests also plan their stays around Santa Fe’s summer festival calendar or use these seasons for wellness retreats and quiet getaways.

Things to Do Near Santa Fe Vacation Rentals with Hot Tubs

A Santa Fe vacation can be as active or restful as you choose. Pair your hot tub time with nearby attractions and experiences highlighting the region’s art, culture, and landscapes.

Relaxation and wellness

Visit nearby spas or yoga studios, book a massage, or spend a day at the mineral hot springs at Ojo Caliente. Many travelers combine their private spa rental with a full wellness itinerary.

Outdoor adventure

Visit Ski Santa Fe during the winter or explore hiking or biking trails in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains when the weather warms. Scenic drives along the Turquoise Trail and through Tesuque Canyon offer delightful day trips.

Cultural exploration

Browse galleries on Canyon Road, tour museums, or join a local cooking class to learn about New Mexican cuisine. In the evenings, unwind with local wine or dine at one of the city’s acclaimed restaurants before heading back to your private spa.

Summary: After a full day of adventure or art exploration, there’s no better way to unwind than a quiet soak under Santa Fe’s desert stars.

FAQs About Santa Fe Vacation Rentals with Hot Tubs

Are Santa Fe vacation rentals with hot tubs open year-round?

Yes. Most properties maintain their hot tubs throughout the year for all-season use.

Do rentals with hot tubs cost more?

Typically, they’re 10 to 20 percent higher in price but offer better value for guests seeking comfort, privacy, and premium amenities.

Are hot tub rentals popular with couples?

Absolutely. They’re among the most booked features for romantic and wellness-focused getaways.

Can I use an outdoor hot tub in winter?

Yes. Santa Fe’s cool, dry air and clear nights make outdoor soaking a favorite winter pastime.

Plan Your Romantic or Luxury Santa Fe Getaway

Santa Fe’s blend of art, architecture, and mountain scenery creates an unforgettable backdrop for relaxation. Choosing a vacation rental with a private hot tub adds extra comfort to any trip, making your stay perfect for stargazing nights, quiet mornings, or romantic weekends.

Start planning your getaway today and discover why so many travelers consider a hot tub the essential finishing touch to the perfect Santa Fe stay.

November Experiences

Among the many artful experiences planned for the season of giving are the Paradise Country Mart, a pop-up retail outlet in the Yarrow Room at Bishop’s Lodge. Here you will find a shopping experience that is part general store, part souvenir stand, part trading post, and part cabinet of curiosities. Of the many brands housed within are Tadalan Studio, a contemporary jewelry brand based in Santa Fe; Cactus Bluff, a collection of refurbished vintage western hats; and Surf Santa Fe, a casual apparel and accessory brand.

The Paradise Country Mart will launch with a cocktail reception on Thursday, November 16, 2023, from 5 – 7 p.m. It will then stay open through January 7, 2024, from 12 – 6 p.m., Thursday through Monday.

The following night, Bishop’s Lodge hosts Golden Hour: A Shopping Experience hosted in collaboration with local lifestyle store, SOTE. Pop in for a special trunk show and sunset toast with Santa Fe-based fine jeweler Tony Malmed, whose work has captured the magic of Santa FE with stones that illuminate gold that glows, and hand-hammered sterling silver that feels like moonlight. Join Tony in the Wine Room at Bishop’s Lodge, Friday, November 17, 2023, from 3 – 6 p.m.

Another creative adventure follows when Garcia Street Books brings notable local authors together to engage in all things style, architecture, and design. Here the authors will share the inspiration behind their books, their design background, and what’s next for their creative careers. Join the fun in the SkyFire Den at Bishop’s Lodge on Saturday, November 18, 2023, from 2 – 4 p.m.

Thanksgiving Week

What would Thanksgiving be like without dinner? SkyFire at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collections invites guests to inhale the atmospheric earthy scents of cuisine that celebrates storied, Southwestern ingredients, as they gather around the table for a Thanksgiving celebration like no other. Served on Thanksgiving day, Thursday, November 23, from 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m., expect expert wine pairings, camaraderie, and gourmet dining from Chef Pablo Peñalosa.

Additional Thanksgiving experiences at Bishop’s Lodge, for guests only, include a Biscochitos-Making Class on Wednesday, November 22, 3 – 4 p.m., where guests can learn how to make the traditional cookie of Mexico. A festive workshop to create Holiday Paper Crafts will also be held on the same day, from 1 – 2 p.m. Or you can visit the stables that same day to greet the Lodge’s heart-full horse pals, from 2 – 3 p.m.

The Thanksgiving events for guests continue at Bishop’s Lodge on Thursday, November 23, when, in addition to the curated Thanksgiving meal at SkyFire, you can visit the stables from 11 – 12 p.m., then pop in to Two Dogs and indulge in the Hot Cocoa Bar and a holiday-themed movie, starting at 4 p.m.

On Friday, November 24, a Tortilla Making class will show guests how to make their own Southwestern favorite from 3 – 4 p.m., followed by evening Native Storytelling with Navajo storyteller, Ehren Kee Natay, around the fire for stories and traditional blue corn atole, from 8 – 9 p.m. Saturday, November 25 brings another visit to the stables from 2 – 3 p.m., following by The Art of Pairing in the Wine Room, from 3 – 4 p.m., where Sommelier Missy Auge has curated wines that traditionally pair with holiday dinner classics.

December Experiences

The adventures continue into December, beginning with the 3^rd Annual Tree Lighting + Holiday Market, at Bishop’s Lodge. The public is invited to get into the holiday spirit with the lighting of the farolito tree in the plaza, along with carols, cookies, and camaraderie, Friday December 1, from 1 – 6 p.m. The Market continues on Saturday, December 2, from 1 – 5 p.m.

Guest experiences include a Holiday Craft Hour at Two Dogs on Friday, December 22, from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., followed by another Biscochitos-Making Class from 3 – 4 p.m., and another farolito tree lighting from 6 – 8 p.m. Another craft hour takes place at Two Dogs on Saturday, December 23, from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Then, on Saturday, December 23, guests can take another Biscochitos class from 3 – 4 p.m., and learn all about sparkling wines from across the world with Missy Auge, from 4 – 5 p.m. Chapel Service will also take place from 4 – 5 p.m. in the historic chapel, for a seasonal experience guests won’t soon forget.

Chef Pablo pulls out all the stops for the Christmas Eve Dinner at SkyFire, on Sunday, December 24, from 6 – 9 p.m., followed by a Christmas Day Feast on Monday, December 25, from 11 – 2 p.m., then again from 3 – 9 p.m. For those who can’t get enough of the masterful menu, a New Year’s Eve Dinner with live Jazz music is also planned, on Sunday, December 31, from 5 – 10 p.m. Visit the website to get all the details for these dinners, including the menus and wine pairings.

Other Amenities

For guests of Bishop’s Lodge, there are also a wide range of amenities to sweeten the holiday that much more. Among them are a variety of personal experiences at the Stream Dance Spa, including an Alpine Arnica Apres Massage, the Seasonal Body Polish, a Journey into Shamanism Experience, and the Celestial Connection. For those who love to ski, Bishop’s Lodge has custom ski packages at both Ski Santa Fe, and Ski Taos. Or maybe Fly Fishing is your speed, or how about a walking tour of Santa Fe? All this and more can be found at the website.

About Bishop’s Lodge

A legendary landmark re-imagined, Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection is a luxurious and soulful retreat steeped in heritage in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Set on 317 secluded acres bordering Santa Fe National Forest and just minutes from downtown, the 100-room resort invites guests to connect with nature with organic adobe architecture that invokes rich New Mexican heritage and conveys a genuine sense of place. Amenities include a collection of exhilarating outdoor experiences, horse stables, fitness center, pool, onsite stream for fly fishing casting lessons, healing arts experiences at Stream Dance Spa and several dining venues, including the resort’s signature restaurant SkyFire. Expansive indoor and outdoor event space includes The Hall with 3,200 square-feet of meeting space and the historic Lamy Chapel and Garden, featuring dramatic views of the Tesuque Valley. A restored Bunkhouse is ideal for family gatherings with 12 individual bedrooms and personal butler service.

For more information about the many holiday-themed events taking place at Bishop’s Lodge this season, visit the website.

The dinner, “A Gathering of Heritage,” will spotlight diverse textures and flavors of homemade dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients that speak to both indigenous Mexican and native New Mexico techniques with a modern approach. Each course will be accompanied by a menu of mezcal, “the spirit of Oaxaca.” The Thanksgiving weekend dinner will be a journey of the influence and ingredients found along the trade route from Mexico to Santa Fe.

“We look forward to welcoming the esteemed Chef T.J. to our soulful Southwestern kitchen,” says Chef Peñalosa. “A Gathering of Heritage is dedicated to celebrating the rich history and influence of Oaxaca and will explore ancient culinary techniques through a modern lens.”

Claro is where New York and Oaxaca meet and the result of Chef T.J. Steele’s long-time love for Oaxacan food and culture. In his many years living part-time in Oaxaca, Steele has cultivated relationships with craftsmen, artists, mezcaleros, cooks, and farmers throughout the region. He visits them regularly and sources the corn for Claro’s menu from farms that hand-pick non-GMO heirloom (criollo) varieties. All meat and produce are organic and sourced locally when possible. His restaurant is dedicated to making everything by hand, including the masa, cheeses, chorizo and moles.

SkyFire at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collections invites guests to inhale the atmospheric earthy scents of cuisine that celebrates storied, Southwestern ingredients. Beyond the resort’s textured and multi-layered restaurants, its one-of-a-kind experiences, healing elements, nature-driven adventures, and picturesque views of the Santa Fe National Forest create cherished memories for creativity, reflection, and discovery.

Additional Thanksgiving experiences at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection include a Biscochitos-Making Class on November 22, where guests can learn how to make the traditional cookie of Mexico. A festive Wreath-Making Class will also be held on the same day. Resort guests can also visit the stables to greet the Lodge’s heart-full horse pals on November 23, followed by evening Native Storytelling with Navajo storyteller, Ehren Kee Natay, around the fire for stories and traditional blue corn atole. A Gather & Give Thanksgiving Dinner will be held on November 24 in addition to a Gratitude Hike. On November 25, guests can attend a Tortilla-Making Class and enjoy live music and spirits in SkyFire the evening of the 25th through November 27th.

For more information on, or to reserve you place for, A Gathering of Heritage, click this link. To find out more about the many Thanksgiving-themed events taking place at the resort, visit the website.

Three Little Words — The Patio’s Open!

Mother’s Day has traditionally signified the reopening of outdoor dining spaces for brunch and lunch around town. I think of this as a great occasion for some of our prettiest patios, porches, courtyards, and terraces. And be sure to use those other three little words for Mom, too.

Compound

If you’re thinking of the grand gesture, this is one of only two Sundays annually that the venerable Compound opens. I’m looking at Chef Mark Kiffin’s menu right now and already salivating over the first course options, such as the spring pea soup that will be poured around a goat cheese flan. Then though, I started thinking about the salmon gravlax with tangy arugula and dill dressing, and well, then there are Hog Island “Sweetwater” oysters from California’s Tomales Bay. I’m already torn, and I’m not even yet to the entrees, where I have to choose among the classic chicken schnitzel, one of the best dishes — hands down — coming out of a restaurant kitchen anywhere on the planet. But then I see lobster salad, a Benedict on polenta with basil Hollandaise, beef tenderloin with scrambled eggs, and chicken-fried quail with a waffle and drizzle of maple syrup. Finishes include strawberry shortcake made with fresh-baked biscuits or perhaps lemon buttermilk cake with tangy lemon curd, or — of course — there’s chocolate. Maybe you’ll be able to choose more easily than I can.

Sasella

Classy Sassella offers the shaded brick terrace beside the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Chef Cristian Pontiggia’s pre-fixe Italian menu excites me more than any that has come across my desk so far. Everyone gets a petite multi-mushroom “cappuccino” soup with truffle foam. Three antipasti options are tempting — pears with sheep and goat cheese artichokes, mint, and pistachios, or tuna tartare with creamy burrata, or the chef’s charcuterie board. Then it’s on to choices among lobster and asparagus risotto, sausage-stuffed quail, or seabass with sun-dried tomato and preserved lemon relish. You can take advantage of wine pairings too, should you like. If the full menu’s more involved or pricey than you or Mom want, The Deli at Sassella’s putting together beautiful baskets to go, or to ship if your mom’s not nearby. Molto bene!

Heading North

Making a drive can be a scenic part of the day, too, if you plan it right. A delightful destination up the High Road is Peñasco’s Sugar Nymphs. I love to sit on the porch, taking in the high mountain air and looking out to the Truchas peaks. The place is a rustic charmer, sharing a colorfully funky building with the local theater.

The food is sophisticated home cooking, with a special menu for Mom’s Day. Talented owners Kai Harper Leah and Ki Holste are planning lump crab cakes with chipotle mayonnaise, an asparagus-and-goat cheese scramble, and a corn, cheddar, and green chile quiche, among other delectable dishes. If there are scones, be sure to have one — or maybe five. Expect scrumptious desserts. Ki is one of the pastry chefs I know, and her cakes manage, simultaneously, to be down-to-earth delectable and over-the-top stunning. She’s baking up coconut cake, chocolate espresso truffle torte, and almond cake soaked in Earl Grey syrup with Earl Grey buttercream.

Another choice destination, going north, is Rancho de Chimayó in the village of Chimayó. The Jaramillo family’s hacienda, strung with red chile ristras, is hundreds of years old. The home’s terraces are a lovely place to enjoy the afternoon. Start with the tequila-and-apple cider Chimayó cocktail or the naturally technicolor prickly pear lemonade. Then proceed to plates of chicken flautas, enchiladas, carne adovada, and more. Make sure Mom saves room for the flan.

Heading South

Ojo Santa Fe, the spa resort just beyond the city’s south side, has simply stunning grounds to amble about before or after brunch. Its Blue Heron restaurant overlooks the pond from both the dining room and patio. Order one of their three great rosés for mom — or yourself.

If Mom’s tastes run more to craft beer, visit the expansive beer garden of Santa Fe Brewing Company’s mothership south of town. I always feel like I’ve wandered onto a college campus here. The Beer Hall has 27 taps of beer, cider, and other possibilities. Fusion Tacos offers tacos, tortas, and nachos along with their strawberry, spinach, and feta salad.

One of my most fun Mother’s Days ever was also out south of Santa Fe, down Route 14, at Madrid’s rustic Mine Shaft Tavern. It was a delight to hang out on the highway-side terrace with a green chile cheeseburger and live music, watching motorcycles and cool cars cruise by.

And everywhere else

Some other great Sunday patio destinations include La Casa Sena, Restaurant Martín, Bishop’s Lodge Auberge Resorts Collection (read our story about Mother’s Day at Bishop’s Lodge), Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi, Four Seasons Rancho Encantado, and La Posada de Santa Fe. At La Fonda’s skylit La Plazuela, you feel like you’re outdoors.

Whatever you choose, celebrate your mom or any other important women in your life this Sunday and every day.

The Details — Mom’s the Word

Unless otherwise noted, all places have easily located online presences to confirm details, hours, and locations. Much is in flux, with even fires possibly affecting some operations, so check ahead to avoid disappointment.

Story and photographs by Cheryl Alters Jamison.

Four-time James Beard Foundation Book Award-winning author Cheryl Alters Jamison is the host of Heating It Up on KTRC and is now the “queen of culinary content” for SantaFe.com. Find new stories about the Santa Fe food scene each week on SantaFe.com.

Read Cheryl Alters Jamison’s bio here!

If you haven’t been there in a while, Managing Director Lutz Arnhold has been steadily raising the bar in the Anasazi’s food and beverage service. The hotel has a new Champagne Room and a new food and beverage manager, who is expanding the wine list as well as the Tequila Table’s offerings of agave spirits. Lutz also coaxed Andre Sattler, a chef within the Rosewood collection of hotels, to join the team. It was a dinner from Chef Andre’s new mid-winter menu that was such a world-class experience.

CHEF ANDRE

Chef Andre grew up near Heidelberg, Germany, eating hearty from-scratch meals prepared by his mother. On a family vacation to balmy Spain, when that heavy German food was still being served, he had his own epiphany about more seasonally appropriate food. The desire to showcase cuisines of the world that fit their setting put in motion his thoughts about a culinary career. He also understood that working as a chef would give him a way to travel the world. His first job offer outside of Germany was from a Rosewood hotel in Saudi Arabia. He jumped at it. After all, Rosewood is among the world’s most respected ultra-luxury hotel brands, each with a strong sense of place.

He landed jobs later with other Rosewoods properties, crossing paths with Lutz when both were at Mayakoba, the Mexican Riviera Maya resort. When Lutz had an opening for executive chef late last year, he sought out Andre, who was by that time working in Miami. Andre jumped at the chance to leave urban Miami behind.

AN EPIC DINNER by Chef Andre

One of Chef Andre’s first priorities was to source more food locally. He brought in Beck & Bulow as the supplier of much of the hotel’s “center of the plate” protein. While Tony Beck and J.P. Bulow made their name initially as purveyors of local bison, they also provide New Mexico Wagyu beef, heritage pork, a variety of charcuterie, and seafood sourced by JP’s brother, an Alaskan fisherman. One of the dishes in my dinner featured pristine bison tartare paired with Siberian caviar, and another used that bison in a crispy fried meatball with a berry crumble.

Chef Andre has found a variety of area produce vendors too. I was initially surprised to see a tomato salad on this January menu, but Growing Opportunities delivers full-flavored heirlooms straight from their greenhouse. It would be a stretch to find a better tomato on a warm August day.

Crispy Kurobuta pork belly came with a charred scallion and a deeply savory sauce of morel mushrooms and Marsala wine. Wagyu beef was served over a bed of hot stones, a striking presentation, and one that kept the velvety meat warm on a chilly night. A thickly sliced single elegant trumpet mushroom accompanied the beef. I’d love to sample the bison New York strip steak on another visit. There was a special that evening of a whole fried red snapper in a sublime tempura batter. The chef had cut the fillets of the fish into cubes so that every bite was wrapped fully in the shatteringly crisp crust. My companion and I dunked each morsel into a chipotle aioli or an Asian fish sauce. The dish was perfect for two. Chef Andre’s also offering a whole chicken and a whole halibut tail for people to share.

That evening, a whiskey-laced bread pudding was on offer, with a crown of cinnamon ice cream. We finished with an ultra-anejo tequila, 818, full of caramel and vanilla aromas.

OTHER DINING OPTIONS

A dinner on this scale will set a diner back a substantial amount of cash. Not only will you be eating an excellent meal, but it will be served by trained friendly staff in a warm and inviting dining room. One can eat here for a more modest investment by ordering just a couple of dinner dishes or coming for breakfast or lunch.

I love this space in the daytime too, with golden light streaming through the windows. In the morning, I often opt for either the tres leches French toast or huevos rancheros. Mid-day, I most often pick from an assortment of tacos or the crunchy chicken sandwich, but there’s a full array of salads and other dishes with Southwestern flair. The more moderately priced Tuesday taco night will return for dinner in warmer months, as will dining on the outdoor terrace overlooking all the action of downtown Santa Fe. The bar offers simple scrumptious dishes like ceviche with its famous Silver Coin margaritas or other beverages.

If you’re looking ahead to Valentine’s Day, Andre and staff will be serving a special dinner on February 11, the Saturday evening before. The meal starts with a Champagne reception featuring raw East Coast oysters and other finger foods. A five-course dinner follows. Check with the restaurant for more details and to reserve your seats. You might think about booking a room for the night, too. What a sumptuous pairing!

Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi

113 Washington Avenue, just off the Santa Fe Plaza
Rosewoodinnoftheanasazi.com
505-988-3030

Story by Cheryl Alters Jamison. Photos courtesy Open Kitchen and Chef Nikki Tran.

Four-time James Beard Foundation Book Award-winning author Cheryl Alters Jamison is the host of Heating It Up on KTRC and is now the “queen of culinary content” for SantaFe.com. Find new stories about the Santa Fe food scene each week on SantaFe.com.

Read Cheryl Alters Jamison’s bio here!

Eldorado Hotel

Built in an old fashioned style that brings life to the historical background of Santa Fe, the Eldorado Hotel is known to keep up its standards of style and class combined. While its attractive outer structure is a definition of beauty standing in all its glory, the interior of this hotel perfectly complements it by taking into consideration intricate details that speaks out the history of Santa Fe, NM. At Eldorado Hotel, you can expect more than just your average accommodation for it strives to provide the ultimate comfort.

Luxury Rooms

Luxury rooms that excels your expectations is just one part of the vast variety of things you can get in the Eldorado Hotel. With so many amenities at your disposal, you wouldn’t want to leave the hotel at all! Here are some of the key features that are bound to catch your interest:

Spa, Wellness Services, and Fitness Center

The guests are fully aware of how hospitable Eldorado Hotel is but have you heard of their spa? Well, knowing full well of how taxing traveling can be, Eldorado hotel has provided the guests with a spa where they can go and relax with a nice, sensual massage or a hot tub and many more. Apart from the spa, the hotel even provides you with a fitness center, so you wouldn’t have to worry about losing your fitness routine while traveling. It also has a business center which would take care of all your work needs.

World-Class Fine Dining

You’d think that was all but there’s still more to come! Santa Fe, NM, Hotels pay careful attention to make sure their guests feel right at home. Eldorado hotel takes that an extra mile and provides the guests with a wide range of lounges and restaurants with exquisite cuisines and drinks. All that available in one hotel makes the stay worthwhile.

Special Events

Eldorado hotel also excels in providing the guests excellent meeting spots and spaces to hold events. They’ve taken advantage of their scenery and provided a wedding venue for anyone interested to avail a romantic spot for the perfect dream wedding!

Comfort & Hospitality

Apart from these, Eldorado hotel ensures comfort and hospitality so that you don’t have any complaints. They have excellent Wifi, excellent parking and valet service and much more. With a little bit of modern touch, Eldorado Hotel takes its cultural and historical style into whole new levels to provide you with an experience you’ll never forget. Even if you’re not availing the accommodations, you can still drop by for their open mike and several other events as well as using their dining and spas as well.