Santa Fe's Global Allure: Authentic Culture, Cuisine, and Experiences Without a Passport
Confusion between New Mexico and Mexico often sparks amusement in the long-running "One of Our Fifty is Missing" feature in New Mexico Magazine. Santa Fe residents chuckle at such mix-ups, like the recent Bachelor episode or the New York Times Magazine cover map labeling New Mexico as "Mexico." While our southern neighbor enchants, New Mexico excels with award-winning authentic history, culture, outdoor adventures, and unforgettable cuisine.
Santa Fe, the City Different, offers fresh adventures akin to international travel—cross only state lines to arrive.
Savor New Mexico's Rich Heritage
Santa Fe's regional cuisine draws from Old World roots. Founded in 1607 by Don Pedro de Peralta, it's America's oldest capital city, allowing centuries to perfect recipes.
An 1883 engraving from Harper's Weekly highlights Santa Fe's stunning mountain setting.
Enjoy Mexican-style tacos and tamales citywide, while innovative chefs blend Old and New World ingredients. Try green chile tempura at Shohko Café or Oaxacan Black Bean Mole at Restaurant Martin by 2015 James Beard nominee Martin Rios. Francophiles appreciate L'Olivier's Chef Xavier Grenet, one of 1,300 selected for the March 19 th Gout de France. Jambo Café brings African flavors from Chef Ahmed Obo. Savor Santa Fe spice in a Serrano margarita with chile-infused Herradura tequila at the Inn and Spa at Loretto's Living Room.
Serrano chiles infuse Herradura tequila at the Inn of Loretto Living Room.
For hands-on fun, join cooking classes at Las Cosas. Past highlights included Irish chef Audel Cayce's St. Paddy's Day adventure, Moroccan tagines, and Chef Christine Hickman's Italian gnocchi recipes.
Santa Fe's Global Sounds
Celebrate Mexican sonic traditions at the annual Fiesta de Santa Fe Mariachi concert or casual Plaza performances. Santa Fe offers year-round international music without visa hassles.
Past events featured Les Violons du Roy's Baroque classics at the Lensic Theater and HAPA's Hawaiian tunes. El Farol's Friday Flamenco Dinners transport diners to Spain.
Friday Flamenco at El Farol ignites the night! (Photo Credit: El Farol Santa Fe)
The Anasazi Restaurant hosts Madrileño singer-songwriter Jesus Bas on Saturdays. Argentine Tango Milongas draw crowds to El Mesón on Tuesdays, while Elise Gent's African dance classes at Railyard Performance Center feature live drum circles.
Santa Fe Style Knows No Borders
Traditional mantillas appear at La Merienda during Fiesta de Santa Fe. The Museum of International Folk Art gift shop offers unique finds, with the annual International Folk Art Market showcasing global fashions.
Vibrant colors and ethnic designs shine at Santa Fe's International Folk Art Market.
Origins on West San Francisco Street displays global fashions for over 35 years. Le Bon Marché in the Railyard inspires colorful home décor. For jewelry, Charlotte on the Plaza blends German precision with European elegance.
Santa Fe's Vibrant International Palette
As summer nears, Santa Fe bursts with color via events like Passport to the Arts. Spring brings ideal weather and deals for cultural explorers. No passport needed for this gateway to global culture.
Imagine yourself in Santa Fe!
