Santa Fe Unveiled

For a blend of relaxation and artistic inspiration, here are a few of my favorite haunts:

I always begin my Santa Fe itinerary with a visit to the Nedra Matteucci Galleries, situated just off Canyon Road. It is housed in an old home with a serene, landscaped garden adorned with sculptures. It showcases a stunning collection of traditional and contemporary works by renowned artists.

Canyon Road itself is a gallery in its own right, boasting over a hundred art spaces and studios. You will also find quaint boutiques, sculpture gardens and cultural tidbits. Take a bottle of water and stroll the length. Stop at Giacobbe-Fritz Fine Art and Zaplin Lampert Gallery, which are standout destinations along this historic, art-filled street. Zaplin Lampert Gallery offers a journey through works spanning genres from impressionism to abstract expressionism.

For a deeper dive into local talent, visit the Susan Eddings Perez Gallery, where you will see indigenous influences and modern interpretations of Southwest art.

At the Gerald Peters Gallery visitors can view masterpieces of Western and Native American art by renowned artists showcased in a serene setting. The gallery features evocative paintings, sculptures and Native American artifacts.

New Mexico Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of Santa Fe's artistic legacy. Located in an historic adobe building its diverse art collection spans centuries, housing traditional Native American pottery and contemporary installations including pieces by renowned artists such as Georgia O'Keeffe, Gustave Baumann, and Ernest L. Blumenschein. A few pieces by Sharp and Couse drew me in for long periods of reflection.

Georgia O'Keeffe Museum: Art enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to visit this museum dedicated to the iconic American artist Georgia O'Keeffe. Housing the largest collection of her works, the museum offers insight into her life and legacy.

Other places worth a visit:

Loretto Chapel: Known for its miraculous staircase, this Gothic-style chapel is a marvel of architecture and engineering. The spiral staircase, built with no visible means of support, is a testament to craftsmanship and mystery.

Santa Fe Plaza: At the heart of the city lies the historic plaza, a bustling hub surrounded by adobe buildings housing shops, galleries and restaurants. It's the perfect place to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and explore local artisans' creations, including silver and turquoise from the Native Americans selling their wares (be forewarned, some of them are indeed hand-crafted by the person or family selling them — many are not, if it matters to you).

Palace of the Governors: he Palace of the Governors is the oldest continuously occupied public building in the United States. This adobe structure has served as a seat of government since the early 17th century.

Santa Fe boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with restaurants offering a fusion of flavors influenced by Native American, Spanish, and Mexican traditions. Here are a few of I typically recommend:

For an exceptional dining experience, head to Santacafé, nestled in a historic adobe compound steps from the main square. The ambiance is as delightful as the cuisine, blending Southwestern and global flavors. There is an outdoor patio for summer months, that is cool and shady and delightful. Service is usually top notch here.

Don't miss The Compound, where Chef Mark Kiffin crafts exquisite dishes in a sophisticated setting. It is an iconic Santa Fe institution renowned for its innovative fusion of flavors and elegant ambiance. Its seasonal menus crafted from locally sourced ingredients might include lobster tacos or a decadent chocolate mousse; every dish pays homage to the rich culinary traditions of the Southwest.

La Casa Sena is an historic inn and restaurant located just steps from the bustling Plaza. Guest rooms are adorned with authentic Southwestern décor; the restaurant offers seasonal dishes paired with fine wines from around the world. Jazz and outside patio/garden area, to boot.

The Shed is a Santa Fe institution, renowned for its authentic New Mexican cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like green chile stew or carne adovada, enchiladas enchiladas, tacos, and tamales, and chile sauces, paired perfectly with a margarita or local craft beer. all served with a generous dollop of red or green chile sauce.

Coyote Cafe and Rooftop Cantina: A fixture for over 30 years, Coyote Café is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and creative Southwestern cuisine. This iconic restaurant offers a menu showcasing innovative dishes such as bison tenderloin and green chile mac 'n' cheese crafted from locally sourced ingredients. It is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, with a vibrant atmosphere, open kitchen and a menu that will not disappoint. As the sun begins to set over Santa Fe, head to the Coyote Cafe Rooftop Cantina for a magical cocktail hour experience. Perched atop the historic Coyote Cafe, this rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city's skyline and surrounding mountains. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails like the Santa Fe Sunset Margarita or the Spicy Cucumber Mojito, made with fresh local ingredients and artisanal spirits.

La Posada de Santa Fe: (see above) Retreat to this luxurious boutique hotel with authentic Southwestern ambiance and lush gardens, and one of my favorite bars. It is worth a visit for the art alone.

Cafés and Sweets:

Kakawa Chocolate: For a sweet treat, venture to Kakawa Chocolate, where the ancient art of chocolate-making is celebrated with artisanal creations inspired by indigenous recipes. From rich drinking chocolates to decadent truffles infused with local spices, each confection is a testament to Santa Fe's rich culinary heritage.

Tea House: On my last trip, I discovered this restaurant with a garden speckled with fruit trees. It is a lovely escape from the heat and a perfect setting for a lazy weekend brunch with friends or family.In addition to an extensive tea selection from around the world, they offer delectable pastries, quiches, salads, and sandwiches.