NM2007 - New Mexico Dining Guide

While New Mexico’s flavors include Mexican influences, there are also differences. Whatever its heritage, restaurants here pride themselves on the freshest ingredients available.

AMERICAN

• La Casa Sena
20 Sena Plaza, Santa Fe, NM 87501
• La Casa Sena Cantina
125 E. Palace Ave., Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 988-9232
Located in an historic plaza and surrounded by Santa Fe's most beautiful courtyard, La Casa Sena features innovative American Cuisine. The seasonal menu combines traditional New Mexican, Southwestern, and International cooking styles all served with distinctive Santa Fe flair. With an award-winning wine list and wine shop featuring more than 1,200 selections, La Casa Sena is a must stop for food and wine lovers alike. "La Cantina," next door, features a more casual menu served by singing waiters.

Fairway Café & Bar
Marty Sanchez Links de Santa Fe
206 Caja del Rio Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87509
(505) 955-4300; (888) 735-4657
The Fairway Café and Bar offers golfers breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a relaxing atmosphere in full view of the 18th hole. Grab a freshly made breakfast burrito on your way to the first tee or swing by for a boxed lunch heading to the 10th hole. After a round of great golf, enjoy draft or bottled beer and wine with house favorite appetizers on the outdoor patio. Non-golfers, families and fans always welcome!

Zia Diner
326 S. Guadalupe St., Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 988-7008
Serving upscale comfort food, the Zia Diner has been the locals' favorite for 20 years. Located in a beautifully restored railyard warehouse listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this high-energy restaurant now serves only River Canyon Ranch New Mexico certified organic beef, Agapao organic fair trade coffee, and Taos Farm free range, additive free eggs. Known for friendly, professional service, sit at the Zia's stainless steel soda fountain or on the beautiful patio. Full bar, great draft beers, kids' menu. Open daily 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

BARBECUE

Cowgirl BBQ & Western Grill
319 S. Guadalupe St. Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 982-2565
Great barbecue and exuberant nightlife. Down-home service and generous portions have made the Cowgirl a favorite with visitors and locals. The menu features mesquite-smoked true-pit barbecue and regional American specialties, ranging from New Mexican to Tex-Mex to Cajun-Creole and Caribbean. Nightly live entertainment with blues, country, singer-songwriters, and touring bands adds up to the best small club for music this side of Austin. Patio dining and a Kid Play area, too! Open daily for lunch and dinner ‘til late, with Ranch Breakfast on weekends.

Texas BBQ & Baking Company
710 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Ste. C6, Taos, NM 87571
(505) 758-5445
Why go all the way to Texas for authentic barbecue, when you can get it right here in Taos? All meats are rubbed by hand and slow-smoked for up to 18 hours. You will love the succulent baby back ribs that fall right off the bone, or brisket so tender it nearly cuts itself! The result — a palate pleasin' experience that will leave you coming back for more. We cater special events from 10 to 500 guests. Located in The Raley's Shopping Center close to all Taos hotels.

CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN

The Compound Restaurant
653 Canyon Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 982-4353
Mark Kiffin and The Compound Restaurant were selected by the James Beard Foundation as one of America's best restaurants, winning "Best Chef of the Southwest." Santa Fe's premier restaurant with Kiffin's acclaimed seasonal contemporary cuisine. The New York Times, Gourmet magazine, Wall Street Journal, and Wine Spectator have all selected the Compound as Santa Fe's favorite. The Compound presents its craft within historical adobe walls, picturesque gardens and romantic dining rooms. Special events are brought to life with the finest in service and cuisine for 12-250 guests.

Fuego at La Posada de Santa Fe
330 E. Palace Ave.,
Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 986-0000; (866) 331-ROCK; Fax: (505) 982-5474
One of Santa Fe’s AAA Four-Diamond restaurants, Fuego, invites you to celebrate fine food beautifully presented. Long considered one of Santa Fe’s most romantic dining rooms, Fuego is an elegant setting where dining is a sumptuous experience — from the unforgettable ambiance to the perfect vintage selected by our wine steward. On Sundays, experience the Rancher’s Brunch, a four-course indulgence. Dine on Santa Fe’s favorite patios in warmer weather and enjoy cocktails and bistro fare in the Staab House. Complimentary valet parking. For reservations please call 986-0000.

Railyard Restaurant & Saloon
530 S. Guadalupe, Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 989-3300
Railyard Restaurant & Saloon invites you to sample our menu of "American Classics Revisited." Located in the historic Santa Fe Railyard within the Gross Kelly Warehouse at 530 South Guadalupe, we offer steaks, seafood and spirits in a nonsmoking environment with continuous service throughout the day, ample parking and late dining. For more information please call (505)-989-3300.

CONTINENTAL AMERICAN

Las Fuentes Restaurant & Bar
Bishop's Lodge Ranch Resort & Spa
1297 Bishop's Lodge Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 819-4035; (800) 732-2240
Chef Patrick Hartnett balances flavor with harmony for a creative American cuisine with indigenous influences. The high ceilings and wood floors create a relaxed ambiance in a rich, romantic setting of Southwestern décor, textured Navajo rugs, and cozy fireplaces overlooking the famous New Mexico sunsets. Take in sweeping views of the Tesuque Valley and Sangre de Cristo Mountains from the outdoor terrace and sample distinctive seasonal cuisine infused with local flavors and fresh ingredients. The award-winning Sunday brunch is a local favorite and a veritable feast.

FRENCH

315 Restaurant and Wine Bar
315 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 986-9190
Continually voted one of the best French restaurants in Santa Fe and Best Restaurant 2002-2003 from the Santa Fe Reporter, 315 serves French provincial cuisine in a warm cozy setting. With a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list that includes more than 240 bottles and 14 wines by the glass, you are sure to have a memorable experience. Enjoy squash blossom beignets on our lovely garden patio in season. While in town, please visit our sister restaurant Railyard Restaurant and Saloon.

FRENCH-CREOLE

Le Moyne's Landing
402 N. Guadalupe St., Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 820-2268
Restaurant of the Year — 2006 Santa Fe Reporter. Le Moyne's is Santa Fe's destination restaurant for fresh seafood and French-Creole fare. Chef Honey Yohalem has transplanted to Santa Fe the flavors of her New Orleans home, the bayous of Louisiana, and the Caribbean islands. Menu items include roasted oysters on the half shell, blackened catfish and shrimp creole. To ensure our clientele the freshest seasonal ingredients we offer an extensive list of daily changing specials. Favorites include Dungeness crab, and a variety of ribs, fish, steaks, and vegetarian delicacies.

GLOBAL

Casa Vieja Bistro & Tavern
4541 Corrales Rd., Corrales, NM 87048
(505) 898-7489
A 300-year-old adobe hacienda, located in Corrales, a short drive from Albuquerque, is a long-time locals' favorite. Diners have a choice of patio dining or in one of the four distinctive dining rooms, all with kiva fireplaces. Casa Vieja offers an eclectic, global menu boasting the freshest of seasonal ingredients, accompanying a wide selection of fresh fish and meat, including Kobe beef, prepared in distinctive new ways, enhanced by distinctive sauces.

De la Tierra
El Monte Sagrado Living Resort and Spa™
317 Kit Carson Rd., Taos, NM 87571
(800) 828-TAOS; (505) 758-3502
Providing a premier, fine dining experience for the most discriminating guest, the award-wining De la Tierra restaurant at El Monte Sagrado is a true culinary destination. As amplified by the resort itself, the eclectic menu is a celebration of cross-cultural diversity with global and local influences. Award-winning Executive Chef Ruben Tanuz bases his cooking flavors on New Mexico's regional ingredients. The extensive wine list includes a wide but precise selection of domestic and international varietals.

The Ember Restaurant
Doubletree Albuquerque
201 Marquette Ave., Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 247-3344; (800) 222-TREE; Fax: (505) 247-7025
Newly renovated, the Doubletree Hotel location is ideal for both the business and leisure traveler and our connection to the convention center makes the hotel the premier location for convention travelers as well. The newly re-themed restaurant and lounge Ember and Ice blend seamlessly with the combination of West Hollywood Chic and Southwestern sensibility, for a dining and socializing experience you will want to experience over and over again.

The Rojo Grill
The Wyndham Albuquerque
2910 Yale Blvd. S.E., Albuquerque, NM 87106
(505) 843-7000; Fax: (505) 843-6307
Fresh seasonal ingredients are the starting point for a dining event not to miss. Renowned Executive Chef Roberto Carbone creates innovative new flavors with themes ranging from Caribbean to Southwestern. Even the most discriminating guest will find their taste buds tantalized. Located at the highest point on the East Mesa, one can enjoy stunning views of the valley, downtown and local mountain ranges. Special events are transformed into the perfect occasion with seating for up to 100 guests.

Tulips
222 N. Guadalupe St., Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 989-7340
Local Southwestern, Mediterranean, and Asian fine dining inspired dishes with a down home touch. "Top 100 New Restaurants in the world" — Condé Nast Traveler; "While in Santa Fe my best meal was in an elegant 15-table gem called Tulips" — L.A. Times; "… the finest, creative and eclectic menu in Santa Fe" — Bon Appétit; " … a menu that takes the Southwest to new levels" — Travel + Leisure. Consistently excellent, inventive cuisine by chef-owner, Steven Jarrett. Exquisite range of wine pairings. Dinner Tues.-Sat. from 6 p.m. Please call for reservations.

GLOBAL FUSION

Geronimo
724 Canyon Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 982-1500
This cutting-edge, landmark restaurant serves the highest quality, creative food in an historic adobe. Geronimo ranks with the finest restaurants in the country. The exquisite décor, with its contemporary artwork and comfortable bancos, is serene, intimate, and conducive to socializing. Chef Eric Di Stefano, who calls his cuisine "Global Fusion," ranks with the top chefs of the world. Geronimo has consistently won major local and national awards. If you're going to a restaurant for fine dining, eating at Geronimo is an experience that must not be missed.

HIMALAYAN

Himalayan Cuisine
2440 Cerrillos Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87505
(505) 471-6688
Invigorate your senses at the only restaurant of its kind in New Mexico! You are in for a special Himalayan culinary treat by tasting the blends of Indian, Tibetan, and Nepalese food. Santa Fe Himalayan Cuisine opened in 2007 to rave reviews along with two sister restaurants in Las Vegas, Nev., and Durango, Colo. Enjoy aromatic, delicately prepared combinations of herbs and spices from a menu of poultry, lamb, seafood, and vegetarian. Check the Web site for hours and tantalizing menu. Catering available.

ITALIAN

Il Piatto
95 W. Marcy St., Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 984-1091 Fax: (505) 983-6939
Cucina Italiana — "a trip to Italy in the heart of Santa Fe." Voted Best Italian Restaurant by the Santa Fe Reporter in 2006. Chef Matt Yohalem has been hailed in Esquire, Gourmet, Bon Appétit and nominated for the James Beard Award. Il Piatto proudly offers moderate pricing, regionally authentic cuisine, seasonal daily specials, homemade pastas, and fresh ingredients. Available for catering and large parties.

MEXICAN

Maria's New Mexican Kitchen
555 W. Cordova Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 983-7929
A Santa Fe tradition for five decades, specializing in Old Santa Fe home cooking and fajitas. Watch tortillas being made by hand. A choice of more than 100 margaritas, reputed to be the best in the world, are each made from scratch and hand-shaken. Owners Al and Laurie Lucero have even published a book, The Great Margarita Book (Ten-Speed Press), with recipes and the history of tequila. Most Mexican beers available. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

NEW MEXICAN

Baleen Santa Fe
Inn & Spa at Loretto
211 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 984-7915
Nestled in the heart of Santa Fe, the Inn & Spa at Loretto's signature restaurant, Baleen features award-winning "Modern New Mexican" cuisine. Using fresh ingredients from local farms and ranches, Chef John Cox adds a modern touch to traditional New Mexican cooking. Surrounded by warm adobe walls, rich hardwood floors, intimate banquettes, and a kiva fireplace, BALEEN's ambiance sets the mood for guests and locals alike. During the summer months, BALEEN's outdoor patio, overlooking the famous Loretto Chapel, is perfect for alfresco dining.

Church Street Café
2111 Church St., N.W., Albuquerque, NM 87104
(505) 247-8522
Hot Chili! This is the place to go. Recipes four generations old. The best New Mexico cuisine. Located in the oldest residence in Albuquerque. Sandwiches and salads too! Wonderful patio dining during the summer. Open daily 8 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Tomasita's Santa Fe Station
500 S. Guadalupe, Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 983-5721
Located at the renovated red brick station house (circa 1904), Tomasita's is a Santa Fe institution. A visit to Santa Fe is not complete without experiencing its wonderful food. Voted by locals as the best New Mexican restaurant, serving the best green chile, red chile, sopapillas, chile rellenos, and margaritas, Tomasita's caters to palates desiring the true spicy taste of Northern New Mexico. Seasonal patio dining. Open Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Visa, MC, Discover and American Express accepted. Parking. First come, first served.

ORGANIC/NATURAL

Vitality Bar
102 Gold Ave. S.W., Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 224-9040
Vitality Juice, Java and Smoothie Bar truly is a lifestyle store, featuring organic and natural foods, nutritional supplements, wellness resource items, fresh organic juices and organic coffees, sugar free, dairy-free soft-serve ice cream, healthy balanced smoothies and a full lunch menu including burgers, sandwiches, wraps, soups, and salads. Vitality is definitely the place "Where Healthy…Tastes Good!" Located in the heart of Downtown at the corner of First and Gold. Dine in, carry out, or have us cater!

SEAFOOD

Landry's Seafood House
5001 Jefferson St., N.E., Albuquerque, NM 87109
(505) 875-0101
Classic Seafood ... With fresh seafood and spectacular scenery, Landry's Seafood House echoes the sights, sounds and sensations of a 1940s seafood house. Our mouthwatering menu has the very best of everything from irresistible appetizers like Oyster Bar Trash, a delicious combination of blackened shrimp and crabmeat, to fresh salads and our world-famous seafood specialties, such as our freshly prepared Gulf snapper, stuffed flounder or our Shrimp Fresca. And for those who desire non-seafare, Landry's offers tempting steaks and chicken delicacies. You're always welcome at Landry's Seafood House!

SOUTHWESTERN

Gabriel's Restaurant
Hwy. 285, Exit 176, Santa Fe, NM 87506
(505) 455-7000
Five minutes north of the Opera on Hwy. 285. Savor the cuisine of the Southwest and Old Mexico at the eatery Zagat labels "one of America's top restaurants, a true Mexican classic, rated excellent in all categories." Enjoy the spacious outdoor patio with a spectacular view. Inside, the thick adobe walls and kiva fireplaces create a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Featuring guacamole made fresh at your table, renowned margaritas, handmade corn tortillas and mouthwatering baby back ribs. Lunch and dinner served daily. Visit Gabriel Gallery, right next door.

Pueblo Artist Café
Camel Rock Casino (10 minutes north of Santa Fe)
Hwy. 84/285, Santa Fe, NM 87506
(800) GO-CAMEL (984-8414)
The Pueblo Artist Café is ready when you are, with all your favorite selections, and lots of it. With an incredible buffet for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, salad bar and dessert bar, you'll never go away hungry! So come see why everyone's talking about the food at Camel Rock Casino's Pueblo Artist Café. And when you're in the mood for snacks, try the Oasis Snack Bar, for sandwiches, popcorn, candy, and more.

SOUTHWESTERN/FRENCH

Ristra
548 Agua Fria St., Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 982-8608
Ristra's Victorian building captures New Mexico's spirit. Dine in one of the serene rooms or our elegant full bar. "This popular restaurant turns out cleanly presented, powerfully flavored food that draws on the cuisines of both France and the Southwest," — Gourmet magazine. "The spot for excellent, imaginative cuisine. Excellent service plus a sophisticated setting with a wonderful patio," — Zagat. Featured in Gourmet, Bon Appétit, Travel + Leisure, and The New York Times plus the prestigious James Beard Foundation. Dinner nightly. Patio dining. Private room available for groups. Bar menu. Cocktails.

STEAKS AND SEAFOOD

The Ore House On The Plaza
50 Lincoln Ave., Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 983-8687
Visit The Ore House for wonderful lunches and dinners served daily featuring the freshest seafood, prime beef, and New Mexican specialties. A heated balcony overlooking the Plaza is open year-round for lunches, appetizers, and cocktails. "Balcony Happy Hour" is 4-6 p.m., with drink specials and complimentary chips and salsa. The Ore House is Santa Fe's margarita headquarters, with 100 custom varieties, and the winner of Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence for one of the best wine lists in the world. Reservations are recommended.

The Bull Ring of Santa Fe
New Mexico Bank & Trust Building
150 Washington Ave., (one block north of the Plaza) Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 983-3328
Santa Fe's tradition-rich Bull Ring offers a special atmosphere just one block from the City Different's historic Plaza. It is Santa Fe's prime steak house, offering US Prime, corn-fed, Mid-Western beef, served sizzling to your desire. The menu is also highlighted with lamb, veal, pork chops, ribs, prime rib, chicken, and fresh fish. Full bar with extensive wine list. Lunch: Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; dinner daily from 5 p.m.

VEGETARIAN

Annapurna Chai House & World Vegetarian Cafe
905 W. Alameda, Santa Fe, NM 87505
(505) 988-9688; (505) 988-9276
Delicious food that promotes healing and balance is the creed of Santa Fe's Annapurna Chai House and Vegetarian restaurant. A charming, relaxed ambiance sets the tone of always-fresh vegetarian cuisine prepared from locally grown, chemical-free ingredients. Annapurna is a Sanskrit word that means complete food. Indian mythology has that the goddess Annapurna is from which food and nourishment emanates. A diner's delight for the palate and the soul.

BARS AND CLUBS

Anaconda Bar
El Monte Sagrado Living Resort and Spa™
317 Kit Carson Rd., Taos, NM 87571
(800) 828-TAOS; (505) 738-3502
The Anaconda Bar at El Monte Sagrado™ offers live jazz and blues, Latin, and world rhythm music in a casually elegant atmosphere, Friday and Saturday nights. An amazing snake sculpture wriggles across the ceiling to a 1,100-gallon saltwater fish tank. Enjoy a full lineup of premium spirits, beer and wine by the glass selections complemented by a light and eclectic bar menu that is a celebration of cross-cultural diversity with global and local influences.