The Top 10 Mexican Restaurants in Santa Fe That You Need to Visit
With so many places to explore, outdoor recreation opportunities, and activities within walking distance of Santa Fe’s historic district, you will work up an appetite in our unique Northern New Mexico city. There is a wide variety of cuisines and offerings, including an amazing array of Mexican restaurants in Santa Fe. Green and red chiles rule in the Southwest, and you’ll find it at just about every single one of these handpicked selections. This list features everything from a no-frills joint featured on The Food Network to an upscale locally-sourced dining experience. Regardless of which restaurant you choose, get ready to taste some of the best Mexican flavors in the country. For more restaurants, attractions, and events in Santa Fe request our free Vacation Guide!
Our List of Top 10 Santa Fe Mexican Restaurants
1. The Shed
The Shed is the local go-to for classic Southwestern fare. Its cuisine lies on the foundation of the three main crops grown by the Pueblo People: corn, beans, and squash. The Shed also incorporates its freshly ground award-winning red chile, into most of its sumptuous dishes.
2. Tomasita’s
Tomasita’s cooks up their delicious fare the same way they have for the past 40 years. Their award-winning red and green chile and fresh sopaipillas make this one of the best Mexican restaurants in Santa Fe.
3. Tia Sophia’s
There are tons of Santa Fe Mexican restaurants, but there aren’t many that serve a traditional Mexican breakfast! Tia Sophia’s is a diner that’s only open for breakfast and lunch in addition to serving amazing old-fashioned Northern New Mexican cuisine.
4. La Choza
La Choza in Santa Fe, NM, is one of the top Santa Fe Mexican restaurants evidenced by its flavorful menu and colorful atmosphere. Make sure to save room for their mocha cake — a combination of coffee and chocolate mousse topped with whipped cream.
5. Gabriel’s
Gabriel’s picturesque patio is the perfect place to grab a bite of authentic Mexican food. They serve up tasty and affordable Northern New Mexico comfort food, including Guacamole Especial and Pollo en Mole Poblano.
6. Tune-Up Cafe
For a hot and quick breakfast, midday lunch getaway, delectable dinner, or dessert that makes your mouth dance, check out Tune-Up Cafe. Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives featured this eatery famous for its El Salvadoran specialties, Mexican entrees, and a few American favorites.
7. Mucho Gusto
The house specialties at Mucho Gusto include orange tequila shrimp and grilled salmon al mojo de ajo. Their most famous dish is known as “The Bomb,” which is a chicken breast stuffed with jack cheese, poblano chiles, almonds, and sun-dried tomatoes topped with a mushroom chipotle chile cream sauce.
8. La Casa Sena
La Casa Sena is a favorite of locals and visitors. This elegant adobe restaurant exemplifies “old Santa Fe” style cuisine along with beautiful furniture and museum-quality art decor. Their singing waiters even belt out show tunes as they carry the dishes to your table!
9. Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen
Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen still serves up homestyle Mexican food the same way it has for over 60 years. Choose from classics like beef stuffed sopaipillas, pulled pork tacos, and green chile chicken enchiladas. Plus, their margarita menu has over 100 drink options!
10. Sazon
Chef Fernando Olea of Sazon, originally from Mexico City, is known for his unique interpretation of both contemporary and traditional Mexican dishes. This upscale Sante Fe Mexican restaurant features a gorgeous dining space and delicious flavors. The basic menu is intentionally small so that the chef can create daily specials with locally sourced produce and meats.
Stay at El Farolito
Head back to your comfortable and relaxing room at El Farolito after sampling the most exquisite Mexican food in Santa Fe. Our signature guest rooms feature the best amenities in the area along with unique Southwestern decor and furnishings. If you want to get out and explore our city by foot, historic Santa Fe and all of its surrounding attractions are only a 10-minute walk.
