Few People Know One Of The Nicest Restaurants In America Is Hiding In Small-Town New Mexico
Taos is a tiny town in northern New Mexico that’s home to fewer than 7,000 people, many of them artists and creative souls inspired by the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains. If you find yourself in this historic town, be sure to swing by Doc Martin’s, one of our favorite small-town restaurants in New Mexico that’s serving up some of the best Southwestern meals in the state.
And just when you thought this restaurant couldn’t get any better, what if we told you there’s also a historic hotel here, too! That’s right, you can rent a room and make this an epic weekend trip where you can go from bed to the bar in just a few steps. Visit the Doc Martin’s website for more information. What are some of your favorite small-town restaurants in New Mexico?
While you’re in the area, why not make it a day trip and explore some of the town? Here are some of our favorite things to do in Taos.
Taos, New Mexico Was Named A Top 10 Best Mountain Town In The U.S. And We Aren’t Surprised
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Best New Mexico Restaurants
What are some of the nicest restaurants in New Mexico?
New Mexico is a wonderful place to enjoy a meal. Sitting out on a patio as the sun sets and the outside lights come alive, can be a romantic evening for even the hardest of hearts. If you are looking for a memorable place to eat, here are some of the nicest restaurants in New Mexico:
- El Farol, Sante Fe: As one of the oldest restaurants in New Mexico, there is a lot of history and tradition within these walls. Whether you sit out under the New Mexican stars on the patio, or enjoy a live Flamenco performance inside, your waning at El Farol will be memorable. The beautiful cuisine is as nursing and hearty as it is delightful to look at. From handcrafted tacos to traditional Mexican paella, or wood-fired pizzas loaded with fresh toppings, everything on the menu will transport you to a culinary wonderland.
- La Posta de Mesilla, Mesilla, NM: This charming historic restaurant has a lovely New Mexican vibe. It is filled with life and love which is apparent in the food as well. Don't be surprised to have your dinner serenaded with the calls of a macaw, parrot, toucan, cockatoo, or African Grey. Or, if you are lucky, you'll see the piranha named Pepe dance a jig in the aquarium next to you. All of this unique ambiance only makes your dinner more spectacular as you enjoy a lovely colorful cocktail with your taco platter.
- El Pinto Restaurant, Albuquerque, NM: What started as a one-room restaurant in 1962 has blossomed like a desert cacti into what it is today. El Pinto is now owned by the original owner's grandsons and it has become an icon for the state. With five patios, three dining rooms, and an exquisite cantina, there is plenty of room for your next event or family dinner. A wonderful menu of traditional New Mexican fare and vibrant cocktails await your visit.
If you want to sample the best of Santa Fe's foodie scene, try this "sip & savor" food tour in downtown Santa Fe. It is both a historical learning experience as well as a culinary delight.