The best restaurants in Santa Fe

“Ozu is a restaurant and market serving fresh homestyle Japanese food. Think satisfying, from-scratch comfort and a small shop with senbei and shichimi so you can keep the goodness going at home. Put it on your week plan, your taste buds will thank you.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Local South Valley folks are slinging charcuterie, craveable snacks, and the kind of homemade pickles and cookies that mysteriously disappear five minutes after you open the container. If your week needs an easy crowd-pleaser or a personal treat, check out The Munchie Truck this week.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 7, 2026

“M'tucci's Italian is the West Side flagship serving up familiar Italian comfort with a little theater, thanks to dishes finished table-side, plus daily specials. Put their Wednesday prix fixe on your calendar and let the crew handle dinner decisions while you sip, chat, and just hang.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 8, 2026

“When the craving hits, Yoshi Mame has you covered with an all-you-can-eat menu that actually delivers, from fresh nigiri and sashimi to hibachi plates, yaki udon and signature rolls. Grab a friend this week, claim a booth, and let the plates keep landing.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Cozy restaurant, breakfast cafe known for its steak-and-egg burritos and huevos rancheros.”

“KūKri - Hot Chicken Tenders does Nashville-style hot chicken with Pakistani spice and 100% halal vibes, so you can pick your heat, demolish juicy tenders or sliders, then sink into loaded fries or house mac. Basically the cure for boring dinners, especially with that green chile queso sneaking in.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Whether you're craving fresh seafood, sizzling Chinese plates, or rolls made right in front of you, Empire Sushi and Grill Buffet delivers a lively, pile-your-plate experience locals can rally around. Bring friends or the kids, then finish strong at the juicy fruit bar because balance matters.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Relaxed, inviting eatery for Spanish tapas and wine service.”

“i Grill Korean BBQ & Hotpot does the Albuquerque holy trinity of nights out: all-you-can-eat meats and veggies, table-side grilling, and a simmering hotpot that turns dinner into a hang. Bring friends, pick your broths, and cook up seafood, noodles, and more until the conversation slows.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Green Jeans Food Hall turns stacked shipping containers into an easy Albuquerque hangout where indecision is a virtue. Grab a pint from the brewery, chase it with tacos, then sweeten the deal with ice cream, or sample the distillery... a mix-and-match lineup locals can agree on.”

“Crispy thin-crust slices & whole pies served alongside pasta & meat dishes from family recipes.”

“Johnny’s Pizza is bringing legit New York-style pies to Albuquerque’s West Side, baking on a Hot Rocks black granite stone oven for that crisp, golden crust. Family-run by Frank Khalil, they sling specialty pies, build-your-owns, strombolis and garlic knots that make weeknight dinner feel like a little victory.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Elegant eatery featuring local cuisine with Southwestern flair, cocktails & a rooftop bar.”

“Gatsby's is the Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge locals break out when the mood swings from green chile comfort to full-on splurge. Think Green Chile Clam Chowder, bison tartare, and a 30-day dry aged ribeye, with seafood like Chilean Seabass and fried oysters, plus caviar if you’re feeling a little Gatsby about it.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Masa Sushi keeps it fresh with a lively exhibition kitchen that turns dinner into entertainment, plus a deep lineup of rolls and comforting Japanese plates. Ideal for a midweek reset when you want ocean vibes in Santa Fe, friendly service, and zero fuss.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Craving clean cuts and creative rolls without the fuss, Sushi Hana covers the bases with a wide range of nigiri, sashimi, classic tempura, and satisfying bento boxes. Order online for a quick to-go situation or grab a reservation when the sushi urge hits.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Refined New American dishes served in a contemporary space with a garden-lined patio.”

“Hip eatery with an urban vibe features modern comfort cuisine along with an upstairs wine loft.”

“Family-friendly buffet chain featuring all-you-can-eat American fare, plus salad & dessert bars.”

“Casual Japanese restaurant serving sushi, bento boxes, and sake, plus a hibachi grill.”

“Wood fired pies, patio vibes, and a tight little natural wine list make Esquina Pizza / Copita Wine Bar the kind of spot you wander into and end up lingering. Slide into a cozy seat, sip something funky or bright, then let that blistered crust steal your attention.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Casual taco joint featuring Mexican fare such as burritos, enchiladas and fajitas, plus an all-day breakfast menu.”

“Thin-crust cravings meet laid-back vibes at Back Road Pizza, a community-loved spot that treats you like a regular and keeps it consistent, from crisp pies to hearty salads. Voted Santa Fe’s #1 Best Pizza in The Reporter’s Best of Santa Fe for years, and yes, they were on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives.”

“Relaxed venue along Route 66 offering grilled items, diner-style comfort classics & ample coffee.”

“Since 1977 across from UNM, Saggio's has been serving Albuquerque classic pies and comforting pastas with authentic home-style Italian flavor. When the week gets loud, skip the stovetop and lean on their not-just-a-pizza-place menu, then toast it with beer on tap.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Horno Restaurant calls itself a gastropub where street food meets indoor dining, and it delivers with creative plates alongside familiar seafood, steaks, and pasta, plus a thoughtful wine list and cocktails. Great for locals chasing big flavor without the fuss, the vibe reads polished yet relaxed.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Casual outlet for Vietnamese eats like pho soup and vermicelli bowls.”

“Bento Sushi Japanese Restaurant leans into intention with low lighting, warm cedar, and plates that feel like a quiet ceremony. Think pristine tuna nigiri with aged soy, a decadent Dragon Roll, and a fresh poke salad, plus bento boxes when you want everything in one happy tray.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Basically Santa Fe’s living room since 1905, Plaza Cafe Downtown keeps locals fueled with all-day breakfast and New Mexican comfort food that never tries too hard.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.”

“Family-friendly cafe serving hearty, inventive breakfasts, along with regional lunch & dinner items.”

“Smok'D Pit Barbecue is bringing low-and-slow, real-wood smoke to Rio Rancho with Texas-style brisket, St. Louis-style ribs, and pulled pork finished with house-made sauce. Pile on mac & cheese, sweet potato casserole, or banana pudding, then let that Southern hospitality vibe do its thing.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Unpretentious joint offering creative American comfort eats in a hip space with outdoor seating.”

“Gourmet, thin-crust pies with unique toppings offered amid exposed-brick walls & on a patio.”

“Grass fed patties on brioche, green chile cheeseburgers that actually bring the heat, and wildcards like the Fried Avocado Burger or Roasted Red Pepper & Goat Cheese, Holy Burger nails the cravings. Seal the deal with a thick Oreo or Salted Caramel Pretzel shake, then call it a weeknight win.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Craving a no-fuss pho fix that tastes like it came from a family kitchen? Mr. Pho is a laid-back, family-run spot serving traditional Vietnamese fare and steaming bowls of pho that hit the soul, perfect for weeknights when Albuquerque winds whisper it’s soup time.”

“M'tucci's Bar Roma leans into Roman traditions with comforting pastas, savory plates, and a proper cocktail list in a sleek, neighborly space. Settle in on the patio, catch a music night, or snag the private room when the group text suddenly needs a plan.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Upbeat, colorful place for creative New American dishes & a large selection of wines by the glass.”

“Because sometimes you just want classic family recipes and a serious tequila lineup, El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina delivers with a tequila bar and family-crafted salsas bottled in-house from recipes dating back to 1962. You’ve probably seen their jars at the store, but it hits different fresh from the source.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Boisterous Australian-themed chain serving steaks, seafood & other hearty steakhouse fare.”

“Acclaimed taproom & gastropub featuring a spacious, dog-friendly patio & gourmet comfort food.”

“Intimate, refined locale featuring locally sourced New American plates & a wide bourbon selection.”

“Relaxed restaurant offering artisanal burgers, hearty plates & craft beers, plus Sunday brunch.”

“Warm, brick-walled eatery known for thin-crust pizzas from a high-heat oven, plus pastas & wine.”

“Azuma Sushi & Teppan nails the combo of serene vibes, a legit sushi bar, and teppan hibachi theatrics with steaks and other entrees grilled to order. Perfect when you want dinner to feel like a mini event, not just another Tuesday takeout.”

From the Rio Rancho newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Craving a proper crunch? Chile Chicken Nashville Hot Chicken brings that Nashville-style bite to ABQ, with six heat levels from none to really cluckin' hot so everyone finds their happy sweat. Make it a midweek ritual your taste buds will brag about.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Il Vicino Wood Oven Pizza - Santa Fe serves authentic wood-fired pies and calzones, baked lasagna and pastas, panini and piadine, plus signature salads and crafted drinks. Established in 1992, they’ve spent over 30 years proving weeknight dinner can be easy, fresh, and legitimately craveable.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Relaxed spot serving American & New Mexican grub, including green chile, burgers & breakfast.”

“Whether you’re meeting friends to actually watch the game or just pretend while you work through sports bar-style classics, 12th Street Tavern nails the neighborhood hang. Beer on tap, wine, craft cocktails, a patio, and a fresh new menu make it an easy weeknight go-to.”

From the Rio Rancho newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Modern, counter-serve joint offering New York-style pies & slices, plus calzones & sandwiches.”

“Mexican fare from local & organic ingredients along with a community table in a historic adobe.”

“Colorful spot serving innovative New American fare & wine amid modern art & sculptures.”

“Craving a green chile burger, a hand-spun shake, or a slice of homemade pie? 66 Diner keeps it classic with a real jukebox and soda fountain on Historic Route 66, a local favorite for comfort food with personality, plus easy pickup or delivery.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Laid-back restaurant specializing in Asian cuisine along with soul-food staples.”

“Eclectic sushi rolls and Japanese entrees presented in a laid-back space.”

“Duke City BBQ is the kind of spot where low and slow borderland smoke does the talking, with brisket, ribs, pulled pork and house-made rubs that actually taste like someone cares. Order online for an easy take-home feast, or tap their catering for your next backyard victory lap.”

“Izanami Restaurant at Ten Thousand Waves is the kind of upscale izakaya you hit when you want precise flavors without the fuss, from wagyu and thoughtful small plates to an extensive lineup of premium Japanese sake and craft beer. Chill, polished, and reliably delicious for Santa Fe nights.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 18, 2026

“When you need a warm-up that outperforms the space heater, Saigon Cafe serves straightforward Vietnamese comfort like steaming pho, springy vermicelli bowls, and other familiar staples. Easygoing vibe, quick plates, and flavors that make you plan tomorrow’s leftovers before you’ve finished the first slurp.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Bowls of pho and other Vietnamese staples served in a casual atmosphere with friendly staff.”

“Santa Fe's quietly stellar Kai Sushi & Dining balances tradition and creativity, with pristine nigiri, sashimi, and inventive rolls built from certified-vendor fish.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Nexus Brewery & Restaurant pairs house-brewed, award-winning beers with New Mexican Soul Food like gumbo, frito pie, and bread pudding, plus their chile-forward New Mexican Hot Chicken you won’t find anywhere else. Easygoing vibe, big flavors, the kind of spot you return to whenever cravings hit.”

From the Rio Rancho newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Clean restaurant featuring Thai and Japanese options, including sushi.”

“Santa Fe Bite carries the Bobcat Bite torch with an award-winning green chile cheeseburger, plus Mexican favorites, breakfast plates, and house-roasted coffee. Add a shake or local beer, order online when you can’t slip away from the office, and consider their move toward employee ownership a bonus.”

“Relaxed American eatery offering organic, locally grown ingredients for breakfast & lunch.”

“Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.”

“Pho & other traditional Vietnamese eats are made at this calm, family-owned fixture in a strip mall.”

“Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.”

“Whether your week needs a legit juicy burger or a plant-based win, The Burger Stand - Santa Fe keeps it classic and creative with meat and veggie patties, draft beers, and a comfy patio scene. Treat yourself to an easy hang and a reliably great bite this week.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Trendy, bright spot for Vietnamese sandwiches, baked goods and drinks.”

“New Mexican style low and slow from S-A BBQ by Loco Local means hand-rubbed brisket, pulled pork, and smoked chicken, plus Hatch green chile links, Smoked Out Spuds, and Borracho Nachos, all sauced with Zia Gold or Burqueño BBQ. Order direct to keep more of your money local.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho & rice plates served in a colorful, unfussy space.”

“Santa Fe BBQ is all about New Mexican style smoke, the kind that makes you plot your week around their BBQ dates. Big, juicy turkey legs, other slow-smoked meats, and legit mac 'n' cheese with cornbread make it a reliable fix when dinner needs a little swagger.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Cowgirl nails that smoke-and-sauce craving, pours cheeky margaritas, and keeps a solid music calendar so dinner turns into a hang. Need an easy weeknight plan? Hit the pickup window or order bulk to-go, plus vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menus.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Petite eatery for standard Italian dishes and New Mexican takes on seafood, plus pizza.”

“Breakfast, lunch & dinner served at a casual American restaurant with a typical selection.”

“Family-run eatery specializing in NY-style pies as well as strombolis and calzones.”

“From breakfast to burgers, pizza, crisp salads and stacked sandwiches, Café Lush serves eclectic contemporary American cooking that’s fresh, local and natural, all from longtime local chef Thomas Docherty.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Fu Sushi leans into inventive specialty rolls like the fiery Dragon Roll and indulgent Godzilla Roll, plus pristine nigiri and sashimi when you want the straight-up ocean. Go all-you-can-eat or keep it classic, then outsource dinner with bento boxes or party trays.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Brisket, ribs & sides served up cafeteria-style in a no-frills setting with indoor picnic tables.”

“Laid-back cafe with eclectic decor known for toasted breads (sweet and savory).”

“Whether you're craving a low-drama roll situation or just a clean, tasty sushi fix between errands, Joy's Sushi Bar keeps it simple and satisfying. Easy online ordering means dinner lands on the table without a production, perfect for Santa Fe locals who want fresh, no-fuss Japanese flavors.”

“Laid-back restaurant providing heaping sandwiches & burritos, plus classic omelets.”

“Between hand-painted windows, a sunlit courtyard, and a fountain that hushes your inbox, La Plazuela At La Fonda nails refined New Mexican with twists. Think La Fonda’s Signature Tortilla Soup, pan fried rainbow trout, and a filet-and-enchiladas combo that hits the comfort-and-date-night sweet spot.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Upscale Brazilian chain for all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside plus an extensive salad bar.”

“When your group chat can’t pick a cuisine, Sushi Xuan | Asian Grill steps in with a sprawling mix of Japanese, Korean and Chinese plates plus beer and wine, alongside sushi staples like nigiri, hand rolls, and chef’s specials. Relaxed vibe, big flavors, easy weeknight win.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 14, 2026

“From green chile-studded classics to the Sunny Chicken Pesto and an unapologetically hearty Stromboli Calzone, Upper Crust Pizza Downtown nails the craveable stuff with that rustic Santa Fe comfort vibe. It’s the kind of spot you default to when you want award-winning pies, solid salads, and easygoing good times.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Modern, airy fast-food joint offering burgers & hot dogs, plus a full bar & patio with a fireplace.”

“Spanish small plates are paired with Mediterranean & South American wines at this refined venue.”

“Lively, laid-back eatery doling out traditional pizzas, pastas & salads, plus beer & wine.”

“Pranzo Italian Grill is that longtime Santa Fe spot where upscale Italian comfort lives in a converted warehouse warmed with Tuscan colors, with plates like Pig & Pear pizza, Lunedi Meatballs, and Linguini Vongole plus a cheeky Negroni Flight if your evening needs decisions outsourced.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Family-owned Sunnyside Up Breakfast and Lunch Cafe turns classic breakfast and lunch into comfort-food wins, from famous whole wheat pancakes to mouth-watering burgers and a few “EGGSclusive” drinks. Cozy vibe, friendly crew, and they give back to local schools and charities, which feels good to support.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Spanish small plates and beverages are served at this intimate spot featuring flamenco performances.”

“El Rincon Café is dialing up northern New Mexican comfort with finesse, sourcing from the Santa Fe Farmers Market and farms, turning Chimay chile, produce, and carefully chosen meats into plates shaped by Spanish and Indigenous traditions and guided by the late Chef Estevan Garcia’s standards, which is your cue to…”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Joe's Pasta House channels Nonna-level comfort with recipes passed down through generations, their famous carbonara, and Parmigiana that hits just right, plus a New Mexico flare that actually complements the classics.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Hidden in plain sight near UNM, SushiBucks nails the Albuquerque mix of fresh sashimi, creative rolls with subtle Southwestern twists, slurpable ramen, and hefty bento boxes. Friendly, fast, and consistent, it’s the spot for weeknight cravings or a low-key date when you still want quality.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Whether you need a calm spot after work in ABQ or a takeout upgrade, Basil Leaf Vietnamese Restaurant nails the essentials: steaming noodle soups, crisp salads, and satisfying rice plates with all the fresh herbs. It’s the kind of simple, soothing Vietnamese fare you can put in regular rotation.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Since 1948, The Pantry has been Santa Fe’s meeting place for from-scratch plates, all-day breakfast, and what they proudly call the best chile in Santa Fe. Family-run, fast, and friendly, it’s the kind of spot that turns a regular Tuesday into a hug for your taste buds.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Upscale, regionally inspired cuisine made from local & seasonal ingredients amid Southwestern decor.”

“African homestyle fare includes jerk chicken, goat stew, plus wraps & pies in casual, colorful digs.”

“When you want a no-fuss spot that nails the basics and keeps the rolls coming, Sushi Gen delivers with fresh ingredients, friendly vibes, and a legit all-you-can-eat lineup. Regulars rave about the Sushi Gen roll and the Crunchy Roll, and yes... saying "one more" happens a lot.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 18, 2026

“BBQ mains, New American fare & creative cocktails are presented in an adobe-style space.”

“Phở Linh Vietnamese Grill is an easy win this week, dishing deeply savory beef-based noodle soups that fix everything from brain fog to over-air-conditioning. Mix in a fresh vermicelli bowl or a comforting rice plate, then cool off with a juice.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Whimsical, colorful cafe serving regional eats & weekend brunch with optional patio seating.”

“Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.”

“Santa Fe classic Dinner For Two is all about prime steaks with that perfect char, a legit craft cocktail program, and show-stopping tableside moments like a Caesar tossed to order and flaming Bananas Foster. File under date-night saver or treat-yourself Tuesday.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Pizza and gaming joint serving pan and thin-crust pies as well as sandwiches, salads and breadsticks.”

“Sweetwater Harvest Kitchen keeps things bright and nourishing with a fully gluten-free kitchen and a menu that actually travels, from a Paleo Burrito to Salmon Donburi and a Vegan Chile Relleno. Perfect for a midweek reset or when you want flavor without the food coma.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 12, 2026

“New American cuisine served in an enclosed, light-filled patio with a warm, sophisticated feel.”

“Locally owned Restoration Pizza makes pizza with a purpose, backing inclusive hiring while turning weeknights into easy wins with gourmet pies, shareables like wings and bread bites, and those sneaky-craveable doughwiches. The tap list leans New Mexico with 20+ beers, plus craft cocktails and refreshers.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Lively, laid-back eatery doling out traditional pizzas, pastas & salads, plus beer & wine.”

“Pizza, pasta & sandwiches served in a homespun cafe setting with European-themed murals.”

“Chill sports bar boasting 28 draft beers, plus cocktails, comfort food, and a dog-friendly patio.”

“Whether you’re craving a quick miso-and-bento situation or plotting a full-on roll parade, Sushi8 delivers fresh, affordable Japanese comfort with playful specials like Hello Kitty, Black Dragon and Crazy Tuna, plus hibachi, teriyaki and udon. Treat yourself this week, takeout or chill dine-in.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Modern & classic Italian fare, house-cured meats, beer & wine offered in a warm, refined atmosphere.”

“Piazza Caffè leans Italian to the core, with house-made pasta, Roman-style thin-crust pizza, and focaccia baked daily.”

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 20, 2026

“When the green chile cravings take a night off, Naruto has steaming bowls of Japanese ramen that hit all the cozy notes. Rich broth, springy noodles, and a modern vibe make it an easy go-to this week... whether you want classic comfort or something with a kick.”

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Eclectic New American fare served amid elegant, minimalist decor in a circa-1756 adobe home.”

“Casual BBQ restaurant offering brisket and other smoked meats served with Southern sides, beer and whiskey cocktails.”