When it comes to New Mexican food (not to be confused with Mexican food) the big question is Red, Green or Christmas? What is the difference between Mexican and New Mexican food? The most important thing is our Chile. Not to be confused with Texas chilli, but our home-grown, hot pepper chile like nothing else in the world. New Mexican’s pride themselves on our chile perhaps more than anything. We also use whole pinto beans, not re-fried.
The Shed
The Shed, a dining institution since 1953 is located on Palace Avenue just east of the plaza. Look for the small, vividly colored wooden sign that marks the entrance. The restaurant occupies nine quiet rooms behind Prince Patio, a sunny brick and flagstone courtyard shaded by trumpet vines and adorned with roses in the summer. Customers can downshift a couple of centuries and have one of the more satisfying experiences Santa Fe has to offer.
They offer locals and visitors alike a time tested taste of the best that Northern New Mexico has to offer both in cuisine and hospitality. We are a family owned and operated business now under the management of the 3rd generation of Carswells. Visitors and locals returning to Santa Fe don’t feel like they have arrived in Santa Fe until they have tasted the Shed chile once again.
Location: 113 E Palace Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501
Phone: (505) 982-9030
Tomasitas
Tomasita’s recipes have been handed down for generations, and still stand as witness the melding of cultures that together once depended on the corn, chile, beans and fruit of the area. Since 1974 the Maryol/Gundrey family has maintained a commitment to the recipes and ingredients of New Mexico, making Tomasita’s the local’s favorite for almost 40 years. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, in the spirit of a northern New Mexican farm house.
Location: 500 S Guadalupe Street
Phone: (505) 983-5721
The Pantry
Santa Fe`s meeting place for locals since 1948. A long time established restaurant off the tourist path on Cerrillos Road, The Pantry is where visitors can find some of Santa Fe`s best. It’s NOT on the Plaza and the green chile is simply to die for. Definitely a breakfast favorite of the locals!
Location: 1820 Cerillos Rd.
Phone: 505-986-0022
Santa Fe Bite
The famous Green Chile Cheeseburgers are back! Located right downtown and the locals say they’re the best. Formerly of the famous Bobcat Bite, this restaurant is now taking their food to the next level at the new location on Old Santa Fe Trail. Over the last few years, they have expanded their menu to include many Mexican favorites, great breakfast dishes, house-roasted coffee, and luscious desserts. It’s the best for a savory green chile cheeseburger.
Location: 311 Old Santa Fe Trail
Phone: 505.982.0544
Paloma
Paloma’s fine dining menu of lively dishes includes authentic and fresh interpretations of Mexican cuisine. All ingredients are carefully and sustainably sourced. The menu is a creative bridge between the agricultural traditions of New Mexico and the vibrancy of Mexican cuisine. Paloma has relationships with various farmers in the Northern New Mexico Valley where we source fresh, local ingredients continuously. They use 100% organic, heirloom blue corn from Masienda for their masa based snacks such as tlayudas, sopecitos, and our fresh masa quesadillas. The bar is agave-focused with a festive selection of freshly-made cocktails and a stellar list of mezcal, tequila, sotol, and other agave spirits.
Location: 401 S Guadalupe St
Phone: 505.467.8624
Discover the culinary gems of Santa Fe with our guide to the best New Mexican restaurants, showcasing the vibrant flavors of the region. From sizzling green chile enchiladas to traditional carne adovada, indulge in authentic dishes that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of New Mexico. After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a delectable dining experience before retreating to our cozy vacation rentals in Santa Fe, where comfort meets convenience for the perfect getaway. Don’t miss the chance to savor the essence of Santa Fe’s cuisine while enjoying the comforts of home in our charming accommodations.
