Breaking Dining Habits: Fresh Culinary Discoveries in Santa Fe
Habits provide structure and reliability in daily life, from consistent wake-up times to disciplined workouts and balanced meals. Yet, they can sometimes limit us from the thrill of new experiences, particularly in dining. As the New Year begins, I'm committing to stepping beyond routine by ordering something novel and unfamiliar at every Santa Fe restaurant visit, revitalizing my palate with exciting flavors.
Discover Atrisco's Lamb Burrito
Locals and frequent visitors alike have their go-to spots for authentic New Mexican chile. While I sample widely, Atrisco's fresh ingredients and efficient kitchen have captured my attention. Their soft, pillowy wheat flour sopapillas, rarely made at home, are a winter essential. Intrigued by rumors of their lamb burrito, I finally ordered it smothered Christmas-style in both green and red chile. Sourced from Talus Wind Ranch and slow-roasted for earthy depth, this dish highlights owner George Gundry's longstanding family restaurant expertise. I'll definitely return.
Experience the lamb burrito at Atrisco—new yet authentically Santa Fe.
BODY Café: Nourishing Vegan and Raw Innovations
My usual enchiladas with cheese or chicken are comforting staples. To dine inclusively with vegan and gluten-free friends, I've explored raw, plant-based options at BODY Café. Their raw enchiladas—bell pepper wraps filled with green cabbage, red bell pepper, corn, and red onion, atop chile Colorado sauce with cashew cream—are now a favorite. The full menu tempts further adventures, including raw onion rings, aligning with modern nutrition trends emphasizing minimally processed foods.
Savor the raw enchilada plate at BODY Café.
La Choza's Green Chile Clam Chowder Fusion
Challenging ingredient pairings has unlocked inventive dishes. Passing Santa Fe Railyard Park, La Choza's aromas always entice. Their green chile clam chowder—a seamless blend of briny clams, tender potatoes, carrots, and piquant chile—marries New England tradition with New Mexico heat. Family-owned for generations and tucked away from crowds, La Choza delivers comforting innovation.
Indulge in green chile clam chowder at La Choza, Santa Fe style.
Revisit Shohko for Japanese Delights
Rediscovery fuels resolutions too. At Shohko, Santa Fe's pioneering sushi bar (opened post-1972 natural foods store), chile appears in veggie tempura. The serene atmosphere encourages mindful eating. Beyond bento boxes, the Izakaya menu beckons—enoki mushrooms sautéed in sake and butter, fresh seaweed salad, and sushi paired with sake flights promise healthy, flavorful explorations.
Elevate your meal with Shohko's Fire Rolls, an insider favorite.
Craft Your Santa Fe Dining Adventure
Santa Fe's scene thrives on bold flavors: raw enchiladas, tempura chile, and fusion chowders. Dive in at ArtFeast (February 21-23) or Santa Fe Restaurant Week (February 23-March 2) for curated pairings and value. Join me in transforming food resolutions into memorable experiences.
