Iconic Women-Inspired Restaurants in Santa Fe: Celebrating Culinary Legends
New Mexico's rich culinary heritage owes much to the women who shaped it—grandmothers, mothers, aunts, sisters, and friends. Santa Fe proudly honors this legacy through several renowned restaurants named after inspiring women. Discover these culinary icons of Santa Fe.
Georgia: Inspired by the Legendary Artist
Nestled beside the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum on Johnson Street, Georgia restaurant pays homage to the iconic painter, not just for her art but for her unique culinary influence. Housed in a historic brownstone—once U.S. Army officers' quarters from the late 19th and early 20th centuries—the dining room evokes the elegance of a Victorian mansion.
Black-and-white photographs of Georgia O'Keeffe enhance the intimate ambiance, perfect for family dinners or evenings with friends. Savor seasonal, inventive contemporary American cuisine that delights the palate.
Dine in stylish surroundings—you could say Georgia herself is in the room!
Eloisa: A Tribute to Grandmother's Kitchen
Chef John Rivera Sedlar named Eloisa after his grandmother, Eloisa Rivera, who taught him to cook. Dubbed the "Father of Modern Southwest Cuisine" by Gourmet magazine, Sedlar has graced Bravo's Top Chef Masters, taught at the Culinary Institute of America, and authored books like Modern Southwest Cuisine.
His accolades include Esquire's "Chef of the Year" in 2011, with RIVERA named among the nation's best new restaurants. He's featured in Cook's Magazine, Food & Wine, and received Food Arts' Silver Spoon Award. Recently, Eater listed Eloisa among America's top 21 restaurants.
Open daily for lunch and dinner, Eloisa offers Southwestern Latin fusion cuisine.
Try the Chile Primavera: roasted green chile, fresh queso, baby peas, favas, and New Mexican springtime pistou!
Maria's New Mexican Kitchen: 60+ Years of Tradition
Established in 1952 by Maria and Gilbert Lopez as a take-out spot for authentic Northern New Mexican cuisine, Maria's New Mexican Kitchen has evolved into a Santa Fe institution. Some records note its opening during Fiesta weekend in 1950, serving the same beloved menu today: dishes with traditional red and green chile, handmade tortillas, and margaritas made with 100% agave tequila.
The Seattle Times dubbed it "The Motherlode of American Margaritas!"
Original 1950 menu from Maria's. Check out those prices! (Courtesy of Al Lucero)
Julia: Honoring a Historic Muse
Built in 1882 by merchant Abraham Staab for his wife Julia, this Victorian mansion at La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa inspired the spirited Julia restaurant and bar. Julia's legendary hospitality lives on through innovative, locally sourced dishes by award-winning Chef Todd Hall, paired with fine wines and spirits.
Chef Todd Hall and Julia Staab
Tomasita's: A Railyard Staple
Founded in 1974 by Georgia Maryol with Tomasita Leyba, Tomasita's began as a small café on Hickox Street, bringing local recipes to life. Now in Santa Fe's Railyard in a red brick building, it's family-owned by the Maryol and Gundrey families for over 40 years. Renowned for classic Northern New Mexican cuisine, quality food, friendly service, and great margaritas.
Tomasita Leyba in her later years, chatting with customers at the bar.
Tia Sophia's: Family Legacy Since the 1970s
Celebrating over 40 years, Tia Sophia's Restaurant—named after Sophia Kellis, a Greek immigrant married to Tony Maryol—serves breakfast and traditional New Mexican fare to locals and visitors.
The signature breakfast burrito features soft tortillas stuffed with bacon and hash browns, smothered in cheese, topped with a poached egg. Opt for the "Christmas" style with red and green chiles for extra heat.
Georgia Maryol, Sophia Kellis, and Jim Maryol.
These "Great Ladies" have enduringly shaped Santa Fe's culinary scene. Visit to experience their legacy firsthand—and toast to the next generation!
