Known as the City Different, Santa Fe, New Mexico, is one of those places that is singular: if you’re there, even for the first time, you know that you’re in Santa Fe. You don’t finish a day and think, “This city could be anywhere in the Southwest like, let’s say, Albuquerque.” That said, the places to savor both food and drink in Santa Fe are not always so obvious for first-time visitors. As a recent resident, I’d like to share some in-the-know locales:
The Santa Fe Plaza is a place to keep coming back to. Downtown life around the plaza is boppin’ – especially in the warmer months. Filled with shops of all types and sizes, from high-end furniture to book stores, restaurants and even an old five-and-dime store, the plaza is one of the hippest places to be. Dating back to the 17th century, the plaza’s streets are narrow and quaint, with all of the Spanish colonial architecture preserved or restored (and in fact, new buildings must conform to this architectural style by city law).
For a sweet treat during the day, drop in to the French Pastry Shop at the La Fonda Hotel for a crêpe and cup of coffee. The décor and ambience will transport you back to a rustic Parisian bakery. Or, for something a little more hip, head over to Ecco Gelato and Espresso where yummy artisan coffee and authentic gelato are served up to a very sociable crowd – many of whom are sipping while lounging outside on their Vespas (oh yes – I am not kidding).
For the best margaritas – and you’re in Santa Fe remember, so margaritas are something you need be thinking about seriously now – head over to Del Charro Saloon, the restaurant and bar at the Inn of the Governors. As evening moves into night, the crowd gets all kinds of interesting and fun.
For something swanky and cool after hours, slink into Rouge Cat. The first floor has an intimately lit cocktail bar that also serves up light bistro fare. Downstairs is a dance floor that spins classic disco, new wave, classic House, 80s retro and contemporary dance music. It’s also become the token gay bar in Santa Fe, which is good, given Santa Fe’s significant LGBT population.
For something a little less “on the prowl,” try Atomic Grill downtown near the Hotel St. Francis (which also has a wicked cool bar, the Secreto Bar and Loggia). Open until 3 a.m. Monday through Saturday (and with an enormous beer selection to boot), Atomic is a great place to kick back with a friend and drink, eat, drink some more and then start getting friendly with other patrons. My friend and I used to love to come here on Saturday nights when were 19 and just hang out and see who there was to chat up, flirt and chill with until the wee hours of the morning (drinking cappuccinos, mind you, since we weren’t of age).
For an evening of delight and refreshment back in your hotel, first stop by La Casa Sena Wine Shop and visit my friend Jim Cook, who runs the place. He’ll hook you up with an excellent bottle or two of almost anything you want in nearly any price range – and he’ll totally geek out with you on the details of what you’re going to imbibe. Also try the Wine Grotto at La Casa Sena, which is the city’s only open-air wine tasting of awesome wines paired with light foods.
(Images: Santafe.org , Inn of the Governors)
