Discover Four Must-Visit Dining Gems in Santa Fe County
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Winter in Santa Fe County is an ideal time to indulge your palate in one of the world's top culinary destinations. After exploring outdoor adventures, spas, shopping, and more, unwind with exceptional meals at acclaimed restaurants. Experience authentic Northern New Mexican dishes alongside innovative contemporary and global cuisines. Here are four essential food stops to inspire your next visit.
Izanami
Izanami offers upscale izakaya dining with breathtaking views. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe County)
Elevate your evening at Izanami, nestled high in the mountains overlooking stunning valleys. Located just four miles north of Santa Fe Plaza within the Ten Thousand Waves Japanese-style spa resort, this casual Japanese gastropub specializes in seasonal small plates made with organic, sustainable, local, and fresh ingredients, paired with around 80 varieties of artisanal sake.
Enjoy small-plate Japanese izakaya in a relaxed setting. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe County)
Begin with a cheese and sake pairing, followed by smoked pork ribs glazed with sweet chile and ginger, served with parsley peanut sauce. Witness Wagyu beef ishiyaki sizzled at your table on a hot stone, accompanied by premium Japanese condiments. Finish with yuzu crème brûlée and fresh berries or house-made green tea ice cream.
Izanami features an extensive selection of artisanal sake. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe County)
Insider Tip: In January and February 2018, Izanami celebrated Ten Thousand Waves' 37th anniversary with 37 Days of Sake. Guests could collect stamps via a Sake Passport for a complimentary dinner.
El Nido
Mrs. Martha Nelson, Patron, El Nido Roadhouse, Tesuque, New Mexico, 1937, Wyeth, W.M., Courtesy Palace of the Governors Photo Archives (NMHM / DCA), Neg. No. 173022
Step back in time with a short drive to the charming village of Tesuque, home to El Nido—a historic gem attracting diners for decades. Originally a 1920s roadhouse, then a dance hall, and later a celebrity-favored restaurant, El Nido was revived by new owners after a brief closure. Savor wood-fired steaks with signature sauces like black truffle demi-glace, Chianti sugo, Dijon whiskey, or green peppercorn. Wood-fired pizzas and house-made pastas, such as Garganelli al Trapanese with cherry tomatoes, arugula-almond pesto, cream sauce, and Parmesan, are highlights.
Insider Tip: Secure a seat at the chef's counter for a front-row view of the rotisserie and grill, or opt for a table by a cozy fireplace to escape winter's chill.
Cafe Fina
Café Fina occupies a charming renovated former Fina gas station. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe County)
When visiting Pecos National Historical Park or shopping in Eldorado, don't miss Café Fina, a beloved neighborhood spot offering all-day brunch. Indulge in huevos motuleños—over-easy organic eggs atop sautéed bananas, black beans, local feta, peas, and red or green chile. Corncakes with chipotle-marinated shrimp and Cloud Cakes (ricotta pancakes with fresh berries and maple syrup) are customer favorites, as is the Reuben sandwich. Freshly baked goods like bacon date scones, muffins, and daily pies round out the menu.
Insider Tip: Skip the brunch rush and visit for dinner (Thursdays through Saturdays), featuring upscale options like fried Washington State oysters, Thai chicken noodle bowl, and Lasagna Bolognese.
El Parasol
El Parasol delivers authentic Northern New Mexican and Mexican flavors. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe County)Since 1958, El Parasol has been a local staple serving traditional Northern New Mexican and Mexican dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner using cherished family recipes. Featured in Bon Appétit, Gourmet, The New York Times, and more, the menu boasts handmade tamales, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, posole, green chile stew, carne adovada burritos, and biscochitos—the state cookie. Visit one of three Santa Fe County locations: Pojoaque on Cities of Gold Road, Santa Fe on Cerrillos Road, or Santa Fe South on Dinosaur Trail Road.
Insider Tip: El Parasol is featured on New Mexico's Green Chile Cheeseburger Trail and Breakfast Burrito Byway, curated by the New Mexico Tourism Department for the best iconic eats.
Mark your calendar for Santa Fe Restaurant Week (historically late February). Explore more in the 2018 Santa Fe Travel Guide. Check Deals and Specials for planning your culinary escape!
This article was created in partnership with TOURISM Santa Fe and Santa Fe County.
