Exploring the Flavors of New Mexico
New Mexican cuisine has a distinct blend of flavors that are unique to the landscape and culture that have been cultivated for more than 400 years. Venturous diners can experience these authentic flavors across the state from high-end dining to traditional eateries and food trucks — you are guaranteed to encounter something new and savory.
Meet Chef Fernando Olea
Mexico City native Fernando Olea has been a part of the Santa Fe culinary scene for more than three decades now. Fernando began his career in Santa Fe by purchasing the beloved Bert’s Burger Bowl, famous for its green chile cheeseburgers. From there he opened Bert’s La Taqueria, which was followed by El Encanto, his first upscale establishment. His current endeavor, Sazón, serves contemporary takes on traditional Mexican cuisine influenced by Olea’s grandmother and mother’s cooking. This includes his signature “New Mexican Mole” that he created to celebrate Santa Fe’s 400th anniversary. Sazón offers both a dinner menu and Chef Olea’s Degustación menu: Curated by Olea with limited seating, this is an experience unlike any other.
Indulge in Santa Fe Cuisine
Santa Fe is a hotbed for culinary expertise. The local flavors are influenced by chile, both green and red, but not limited to it. You can find all sorts of cuisine across the city, from traditionally inspired Italian dishes to steakhouses, breweries and food trucks. Not only are there great restaurants to experience but Santa Fe is home to some of the best treats as well! Check out a local chocolatier, coffee roaster or pastry shop for your favorite morsel.
Explore Santa Fe
Established in 1610, Santa Fe is the oldest and the highest state capital in the United States. While the history of Santa Fe has been tumultuous, it has flourished as a home for artists, chefs, and adventurers alike. If you’d like to learn more about the deep ancestral history of Santa Fe, check out the New Mexico History Museum or the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture on Museum Hill. Not a history buff? Head up into the mountains for some outdoor fun or take a walk through the galleries of Canyon Road.
Other Things to Do
Santa Fe Food Tours
Not sure where to start your culinary adventure? Fear not: Food Tour New Mexico and Wander New Mexico have the answer! Not only do they curate paired courses across the city for tour members, but they also include information regarding historical points of interest that are encountered during the tour. Perfect for someone who wants a little bit of everything! Santa Fe School of Cooking offers courses for those looking to up their cooking game with unique New Mexican flavors.
Meow Wolf
Looking for something a bit different than the historical museums and art galleries? Come interact with the exhibits at Meow Wolf, a multiverse showcasing the collaborative work of more than 100 artists. The bright colors and weaving hallways filled with engaging audio-visual components lend to the sense of awe and wonder that has given Meow Wolf its staying power. The venue also hosts musical acts, so if you are looking for a modern and engaging exhibit for all ages, stop by Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return!
Bandelier National Monument
Just an hour north of Santa Fe, Bandelier National Monument was a home to Ancestral Puebloans and is saturated with petroglyphs, dwellings, and other structures for visitors to explore. The main loop trail covers the archeological sites and isn’t too much of a challenge for those who don’t hike, but there are other options for those who want to explore off the beaten path. The visitor center is home to a museum that details the history of the land and peoples that inhabited it.
Ghost Ranch
Interested in finding a retreat outside of Santa Fe but with the same focus on art and culture? Take a trip out to the Ghost Ranch notably inhabited by Georgia O’Keefe which is now a center for getaways, relaxation, and exploration. Offering quaint housing away from the bustle of the city, engaging workshops, trail walks, and dining, Ghost Ranch has everything for an authentic New Mexico adventure!
