Savor Santa Fe 2025: A Complete Guide to the Best Food & Drink Experiences

Best Biscochito

1: Santa Fe Biscochito Company

The Santa Fe Biscochito Company has perfected the art of crafting New Mexico’s state cookie. Owner Richard Perea emphasizes a simple, authentic approach, using lard for that rich flavor. These cookies are a must at any holiday gathering!

2: Chocolate Maven Bakery & Café

Chocolate Maven is famous for its hand-cut biscochitos, rich in cinnamon and anise. For the full experience, pair them with traditional hot chocolate.

3: Atrisco Cafe & Bar

Known for its commitment to local cuisine, Atrisco offers delicious biscochitos that resonate with New Mexico’s culinary traditions. Enjoy lunch there and grab some cookies for later.

Best Steak

1: Market Steer Steakhouse

At Market Steer, you get a personal touch with each steak, thanks to co-owner Kathleen Crook’s ranching background. They focus on farm-to-table practices, ensuring quality from pasture to plate.

2: The Bull Ring

The Bull Ring is popular for its top-notch USDA prime beef, a favorite among locals and politicians alike. Expect perfectly grilled steaks every time.

3: Dinner for Two

Chef Andy Barnes delivers incredible organic beef, making Dinner for Two a surprising yet desirable spot for steak lovers. Don’t forget their great cocktails!

Best Vegetarian

1: Paper Dosa

Specializing in Southern Indian cuisine, Paper Dosa offers delicious dosas and unique twists like idli fries. Owner Nellie Tishler aims to create unforgettable experiences here.

2: Sweetwater Harvest Kitchen

Sweetwater has become known for its healthy, vegetarian-friendly options. The yucca root flatbread paired with cashew basil pesto is a local favorite.

3: Jambo Café

Chef Ahmed Obo brings vibrant African and Caribbean flavors to dishes like chickpea berbere stew and coconut lentil stew, making vegetarian options exciting.

Best Tea

1: Santa Fe Teahouse & Bistro

Now under new ownership, Santa Fe Teahouse maintains its reputation for artisanal teas, offering a cozy brunch experience and a variety of lesser-known brews.

2: Bubble King

This popular boba spot offers a wide range of flavors, from classic Taiwan OG to imaginative creations like chocolate-covered strawberries. It’s a local favorite for a reason.

3: Turquoise Teapot and Cat Cafe

Combining a cat cafe with a teahouse is a recipe for joy. Sip on teas while spending time with adoptable cats, making your visit even more special.

Best Pizza

1: Back Road Pizza

For over 20 years, Back Road Pizza has delighted guests with flavor-packed pizzas, including a New Mexican twist with green chile.

2: Il Vicino

This local institution serves wood-fired pizzas that never disappoint. Choose from a classic margherita or create your own combination.

3: Pizza Centro

Known for its New York-style slices, Pizza Centro delivers great taste. Its prime location in the same building as SFR means it’s hard to resist.

Best Catering

1: Walter Burke Catering

Walter Burke has risen to the top for its classy, high-quality event catering. From presentation to taste, they make every gathering shine.

2: what THE truck

This mobile caterer brings food truck flair to events. Owner Victoria Bruneni provides delicious spreads that impress everyone.

3: Boxcar Santa Fe

Chef Eric Stumpf’s pop-up dinners and exciting catering menu highlight the culinary talent behind a sports bar’s reputation.

Best Gluten-Free

1: Sweetwater Harvest Kitchen

Locals recognize Sweetwater for its amazing gluten-free options, including creative flatbreads and tempting desserts.

2: Chocolate Maven

This bakery ensures that gluten-intolerant visitors won’t feel left out, offering an array of tempting gluten-free desserts.

3: Santa Fe Teahouse & Bistro

With numerous gluten-free options, the Teahouse makes dining out enjoyable for everyone.

Best Frozen Treats

1: La Lecheria

Located in the Railyard, La Lecheria’s unique flavors like butterscotch miso and prickly pear margarita sorbet are a must-try.

2: Frogurt Self-Serve Frozen Yogurt

This self-serve spot offers delightful flavors that keep customers returning for more frozen goodness.

3: Hello Sweet Cream

With unique dairy-free options like Moody Coconut, Hello Sweet Cream is worth the drive out to El Dorado.

Best Croissant

1: Clafoutis

At Clafoutis, the Ligier family ensures that every croissant is perfectly buttery and flaky, with exciting breakfast options like bacon and egg sandwiches.

2: Mille

This cafe combines French baking expertise with local charm, creating croissants and French toast that capture the heart.

3: Chocolate Maven

The Maven’s croissants are versatile and perfect for breakfast or a light snack—plus they’re highly sought after across Santa Fe.

Best Cakes

1: Chocolate Maven

Known for its variety of cakes, the Chocolate Maven’s silky ganache cake is a local favorite. There’s something for everyone here!

2: Clafoutis

With an array of tarts, pies, and cakes, Clafoutis draws you in with their stunning displays and delicious flavors.

3: Mille

This French bakery creates stunning cakes that taste as good as they look, winning hearts around town.

Best Bread

1: Sage Bakehouse

At Sage, each loaf of bread is crafted daily from high-quality ingredients. Their sourdough and whole wheat breads are particularly popular.

2: Clafoutis

Along with great cakes and croissants, Clafoutis’s bread is beloved by locals, making it a favorite spot to grab baked goods.

3: Bread Shop

At Bread Shop, each artisan loaf reflects the passion of its creators. Their focaccia, packed with flavor, is a standout.

Best New Mexico Winery

1: Gruet

Since 1984, Gruet has been a beloved name in New Mexico wineries, thanks to its exquisite tasting room and high-quality wines.

2: Black Mesa Winery and Cidery

With 25 years of experience, Black Mesa under the Burd family creates popular wines and ciders that consistently impress visitors.

3: Vivac Winery

The Padberg family’s winery not only offers delicious wines but also provides stunning views of the vineyards.

Best New Mexican Restaurant

1: La Choza

This popular eatery focuses on classic New Mexican dishes, all while providing a cozy atmosphere that keeps diners coming back.

2: Tomasita’s

Celebrating 50 years of service, Tomasita’s is famous for its enchiladas and tamales, coupled with mouthwatering honey butter for sopaipillas.

3: The Shed

The Shed remains a beloved destination in Santa Fe, well-known for its inviting patio and signature margaritas.

Best New Restaurant

1: Escondido

Chef Fernando Ruiz has created a hot new spot known for its variety, including ceviche, steaks, and award-winning chile en nogada.

2: Market Steer

Since relocating and re-concepting, Market Steer focuses on incredible steaks and has improved its already popular menu considerably.

3: Alkemē

This Asian fusion restaurant quickly gained accolades, showcasing creative dishes that capture an array of culinary flavors.

Best New Mexico Distillery

1: Tumbleroot Brewery & Distillery

Tumbleroot offers creative cocktails and great spirits in a vibrant atmosphere, complete with live entertainment.

2: Santa Fe Spirits

After 15 years in business, this distillery remains a local favorite for its unique offerings, including the apple brandy cask whiskey.

3: As Above So Below

This distillery stands out for its live music and innovative spirits that blend skill with artistry in every glass.

Best Locally Brewed Beer

1: Santa Fe Brewing Company

This brewery has created a vibrant scene with a diverse selection of seasonal brews and a great atmosphere for socializing.

2: Second Street Brewery

With phenomenal beers and an artsy atmosphere, their Railyard and Midtown locations have become staples for many locals.

3: Tumbleroot Brewery & Distillery

Tumbleroot not only excels in distilling but also brews delicious beers, with standout selections like the Honey Double IPA.

Best Italian Restaurant

1: Piccolino

This beloved restaurant continues to win over diners with its delightful pasta menu and inviting atmosphere.

2: Andiamo!

This Railyard-adjacent gem has been a favorite for 30 years and is loved for its excellent food and service.

3: Pranzo

Known for its hearty dishes, Pranzo provides a cozy dining experience, perfect for unwinding over delicious Italian fare.

Best International Cuisine

1: Jambo Café

Chef Ahmed Obo delights guests with an exciting Afro-Caribbean menu that’s kept locals coming back for years.

2: Paper Dosa

Paper Dosa brings authentic Southern Indian dishes to the community, with well-loved items like dosas on the menu.

3: Izanami

This Japanese-inspired eatery offers a unique dining experience with exceptional dishes and a warm atmosphere.

Best Food Truck

1: Fusion Tacos

Known for its legendary birria tacos, Fusion Tacos maintains a strong presence around Santa Fe with its tasty offerings.

2: El Chile Toreado

This award-winning food truck is always busy, popular for its breakfast burritos and flavorful tacos.

3: Bo’s Authentic Thai

This standout food truck serves up classic Thai dishes that keep customers satisfied and coming back for more.

Best Fine Dining

1: Market Steer

This steakhouse blends upscale dining with a welcoming atmosphere, prioritizing an exceptional dining experience.

2: Geronimo

Chef/co-owner Silin Cruz brings innovation and creativity to the kitchen, making Geronimo a must-visit fine dining destination.

3: The Compound

Chef Mark Kiffin’s restaurant consistently ranks high for its elegant vibe and outstanding dishes.

Best Gastropub

1: Joseph’s Culinary Pub

Chef Joseph Wreade offers a menu with standout options that elevate the pub dining experience. His food consistently impresses.

2: Horno Restaurant

With a focus on unique flavors, Horno stands out with intriguing dishes and inviting ambiance that draws visitors in.

3: Rowley Farmhouse Ales

Combining great brewing with an enticing menu, Rowley Farmhouse Ales delivers a quality experience in a relaxed setting.

Best Coffee

1: Ohori’s Coffee Roasters

Known for its excellent brews, Ohori’s has become a community staple, fostering a warm environment for coffee lovers.

2: Iconik Coffee Roasters

This local favorite mixes expertly roasted coffee with a charming atmosphere, making each visit a pleasure.

3: Java Joe’s

With its delicious coffee and friendly service, Java Joe’s remains a go-to spot for residents and visitors alike.

Best Cocktails

1: Tomasita’s

A true local favorite, Tomasita’s offers exceptional margaritas and cocktails that reflect Santa Fe’s vibrant culture.

2: Dinner for Two

With noteworthy cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere, Dinner for Two is where excellent drinks meet great dining.

3: As Above So Below

This distillery enhances the cocktail scene with a creative menu that highlights expertly crafted drinks in a stylish setting.

Best Chef

1: Ahmed Obo: Jambo Café

With talent for creating flavorsome Afro-Caribbean dishes, Chef Obo remains a beloved figure in the Santa Fe culinary scene.

2: Eric Stumpf: Boxcar

Chef Stumpf surprises diners with elevated pub fare that impresses across the board, blending quality with accessibility.

3: Chefs Hue-Chan Karels and Erica Tai: Alkemē

These duo brings a refreshing twist to Asian cuisine, keeping their menu innovative and exciting.

Best Burger

1: Santa Fe Bite

Santa Fe Bite is known for its delicious green chile cheeseburgers, a true local gem loved by all.

2: Jambo Bobcat Bite

Offering a taste reminiscent of the original Bobcat Bite, Jambo’s burgers are a must-try for any burger enthusiast.

3: Realburger

This cozy spot serves hearty burgers and scrumptious sides, making it a perfect choice for casual dining.

Best Breakfast

1: The Pantry (Original)

A beloved local diner since 1948, The Pantry offers both New Mexican and classic breakfast favorites in a welcoming atmosphere.

2: Tia Sophia’s

This spot is famous for its breakfast burritos, celebrated for their classic flavors and warm service.

3: Clafoutis

The Ligier family’s café serves delectable breakfast dishes like croissants and omelets that keep patrons coming back for more.

Best BBQ

1: The Ranch House

Known for its house-smoked meats and diverse menu, The Ranch House caters to BBQ lovers looking for upscale yet casual dining.

2: Cowgirl BBQ

This BBQ joint features a vast menu and catering services, pulling in crowds with its delicious offerings.

3: Whole Hog Café

With award-winning pulled pork sandwiches and a variety of sauces, Whole Hog Café is a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts.

Best Asian Restaurant

1: Izanami

A popular choice for Japanese-inspired cuisine, Izanami offers a unique dining experience, even for those just enjoying a soak.

2: Jinja Bar & Bistro

Keen on offering family-style Asian dining, Jinja’s menu is as diverse as its creative cocktails.

3: Alkemē

Chef Karels and Tai’s restaurant has quickly become known for its fantastic fusion dishes, igniting interest among diners.

Best Artisan Chocolate

1: Kakawa Chocolate House

Kakawa is famed for its chocolate elixirs and artisan treats, offering something unique for every chocolate lover.

2: Chocolate Maven

Known for a variety of creative chocolate options and bakery items, the Maven constantly delights its customers.

3: The Chocolatesmith

This shop specializes in organic chocolates that make great gifts or an indulgent treat for yourself.

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Best of Santa Fe 2025,Food,Drinks,Restaurant,Restaurants,Alex De Vore,07.30.2025*,Adam Ferguson