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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Santa Fe

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10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Joseph's Culinary Pub restaurant
1. Joseph's Culinary Pub
4.9
Exceptional(2402)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Fe
Booked 23 times today
Joseph's Culinary Pub in Santa Fe is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, where Chef Joseph Wrede, a Food & Wine Best New Chef, shines with his culinary creations. Celebrated for its blend of traditional and contemporary dishes, the restaurant offers an innovative menu that consistently receives high praise for its unique flavors and artistic presentation. Diners rave about the "exceptional food and atmosphere," emphasizing how dishes like the lamb and beef are "especially delicious" and "creatively prepared." The ambiance is described as "comfortably rustic," providing a cozy yet refined dining experience. Joseph's commitment to high-quality, nutritious meals leaves guests enchanted, with many proclaiming it the "best restaurant in Santa Fe." Whether it's the gluten-free options or the stunning duck confit pad Thai, Joseph's Culinary Pub is a must-visit for an authentic taste of high art in food.
A photo of La Plazuela at La Fonda on the Plaza restaurant
2. La Plazuela at La Fonda on the Plaza
4.7
Exceptional(3582)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Fe
Booked 32 times today
La Plazuela at La Fonda on the Plaza in Santa Fe is a sanctuary of Contemporary Mexican cuisine, blending traditional flavors with a modern twist. Nestled in the heart of Santa Fe, this restaurant is celebrated for its authentic dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Patrons rave about their tableside guacamole, calling it a "must" and praising its freshness. The chile rellenos and enchiladas come highly recommended, with one visitor noting the chile in the sauces as "amazing." The setting, a gorgeous courtyard with Old World charm, enhances the dining experience, making every meal memorable. Reviewers consistently extol the "excellent service" and the "superb service," underscoring La Plazuela's commitment to exceptional dining. Whether it's the lobster mac and cheese or the locally influenced sea bass, each dish is crafted to perfection, promising a delightful culinary journey in the heart of New Mexico.
A photo of Radish & Rye restaurant
3. Radish & Rye
4.8
Exceptional(2953)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Fe
Booked 17 times today
Experience the heart of Southern cooking with a refined touch at Radish & Rye in Santa Fe. Celebrated for its "farm inspired cuisine with southern sensibilities," this award-winning restaurant is a local treasure, boasting accolades from Edible Magazine including Best Restaurant, Best Cocktail Program, and Best Chef. Guests rave about the authenticity and quality of dishes like the "perfectly cooked" snapper and the "delicious" chicken and waffles, complemented by an impressive selection of over 175 bourbons. As one diner put it, "It's our favorite place...The food is amazing the flavors of the pairings are incredible." Radish & Rye offers not just a meal, but a captivating Southern dining experience right in the heart of Santa Fe.
A photo of Restaurant Martin restaurant
4. Restaurant Martin
4.7
Exceptional(4072)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Fe
Booked 8 times today
Restaurant Martin in Santa Fe is a culinary gem, renowned for its exceptional Contemporary American cuisine. Chef Martin Rios, a multiple James Beard Award nominee, crafts dishes that are a symphony of flavors, masterfully blending Southwestern, Asian influences with classic French techniques. Utilizing fresh, local produce and organic meats, each dish is not only a treat for the palate but also a visual delight. Glowing reviews consistently praise the restaurant for its inventive combinations and impeccable service. As one diner put it, "The food was perfect. The chef, like an orchestra conductor, harmoniously pairs ingredients and is a master of subtle flavors." Restaurant Martin is a must-visit for anyone seeking top-tier Contemporary American dining in Santa Fe.
A photo of El Rincón Café restaurant
5. El Rincón Café
4.5
Awesome(1181)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Fe
Booked 5 times today
Nestled in the heart of Santa Fe, Estevan Restauranté offers a quintessential American dining experience with a unique New Mexican twist. Esteemed for its dedication to freshness, every dish boasts ingredients sourced daily from the Santa Fe Farmer's Market, complemented by free roaming, grass-fed meats and wild-caught fish. The menu, crafted by the late Executive Chef Estevan Garcia, skillfully blends traditional Northern New Mexican flavors with subtle French nuances. Diners rave about the "delicious almond cake with chocolate" and hail the rainbow trout as "excellent." As one reviewer puts it, Estevan provides "fabulous food in a lovely atmosphere with awesome service," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic and high-quality American meal in Santa Fe.
A photo of Geronimo restaurant
6. Geronimo
4.9
Exceptional(12615)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Fe
Booked 53 times today
Geronimo in Santa Fe is a beacon of French culinary excellence, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation. Celebrated as New Mexico's only Mobil 4-star and AAA 4 Diamond rated restaurant, Geronimo stands out for its authentic French flavors and exceptional dining experience. Patrons consistently praise its offerings, noting the "exceptional service" and "memorable" French cuisine that elevate every visit into a special occasion. As one of TripAdvisor's Top 10 Restaurants in the United States, Geronimo is lauded for dishes that exceed expectations with their exquisite taste and artful presentation, making every meal a testament to the finest French culinary traditions right in the heart of Santa Fe.
A photo of Julia – A Spirited Restaurant & Bar restaurant
7. Julia – A Spirited Restaurant & Bar
4.2
Awesome(410)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Santa Fe
Booked 4 times today
SPIRITED DINING AND DRINKS IN SANTA FEIn 1882, Abraham Staab, a European immigrant who became one of Santa Fe’s most prosperous merchants, built a Victorian mansion on property that now belongs to La Posada. Abraham’s elegant wife, Julia, entertained local society and visiting dignitaries in incomparable style. Legend has it that Julia so loved her home that she has never left it. Today, we celebrate Julia Staab as our muse and honor her name and legendary hospitality with the opening of Julia, A Spirited Restaurant & Bar. The restaurant features innovative, locally sourced dishes as well as an extensive selection of fine wines and spirits.
A photo of Arroyo Vino restaurant
8. Arroyo Vino
4.8
Exceptional(1809)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Fe
Booked 10 times today
Arroyo Vino serves an ever changing seasonal menu of Contemporary American fare. We source the best seafood, meat and produce from local purveyors and farmers. In addition we have a full bar serving Santa Fe's best craft cocktails.
A photo of Cafecito restaurant
9. Cafecito
4.6
Exceptional(148)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Santa Fe
Cafecito, nestled in the heart of Santa Fe, offers a culinary journey that garners consistent praise for its Middle Eastern offerings. Guests adore the "remarkable feat to be both traditional and innovative" in dishes that capture the essence of Middle Eastern flavors. The standout empanadas, praised for their "perfect pastry" and "delicious" chimichurri sauce, exemplify the authenticity and quality of the cuisine. The lush, garden-like setting of Cafecito enhances the dining experience, making each visit memorable. Reviews often highlight the exceptional service and enchanting ambiance, with one guest noting, "Everything on the menu sounded so good," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to excellence and authenticity in its Middle Eastern culinary delights.
A photo of Terra @ Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado restaurant
10. Terra @ Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado
4.4
Awesome(970)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Fe
Booked 4 times today
At Terra @ Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado in Santa Fe, the essence of Southwest cuisine is brilliantly encapsulated through its innovative and refined dishes. This celebrated establishment not only provides breathtaking mountain views but also a culinary journey that honors the rich flavors of northern New Mexico. The menu features a creative blend of local ingredients and traditional Southwest elements, making each dish a delightful surprise. Patrons rave about the unique offerings, such as the blue corn crusted softshell crab and the green chile mashed potatoes, described as "delicious" and a testament to the restaurant's commitment to authenticity. Coupled with impeccable service and a sumptuous setting, Terra provides an unparalleled dining experience that is both deeply rooted in the local culture and impressively innovative.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Hollyvip
    New Orleans / Louisiana •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Any staff we spoke to was kind, helpful, and friendly. Food was unique and wonderful. Vibe was moody, artistic, and cozy. 10/10 all around. Will definitely be back next time we’re in SF! 💛🧡🩵❤️
    More info
    Joseph's Culinary PubPrice: Expensive• Continental• Santa Fe
    •
    4.9
  • Brucevip
    New Mexico •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Our favorite restaurant in town! I can't imaging any other chef who is better. The courses were creative, unique, and DELICIOUS.
    More info
    Restaurant MartinPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Fe
    •
    4.7
  • Andrea
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We have been to Santa Fe several times but had never been to Geronimo. We sat at the bar which was awesome with fantastic ambiance. The bar tenders were attentive but not overbearing. The food was spectacular. The stuffed quail as well as the wasabi Ceasar salad were outstanding. They had a strip steak special that was very good. Finally the Mexican white prawn dish was so good. Cannot recommend this restaurant enough. If you go to Santa Fe and want a world class meal visit Geronimo.
    More info
    GeronimoPrice: Very Expensive• Fusion / Eclectic• Santa Fe
    •
    4.9
  • Sarahvip
    Dallas - Fort Worth •40 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    El Rincón Café (previously Estevans) might have a new name but retains the authentic charm and flavors we know and love. The calamari is the best we've ever had. Also, don't miss out on the Carne Adobada Ravioli. The Shepherd's Lamb Shank Stew is not only great for this cold weather but the flavors are unmatched. So decadent and the lamb was cooked beautifully. Don't skip dessert. The flan and almond cake were absolute perfection. Our server Zach and the support staff were top notch. He was very knowledgable, accommodating and attentive. If you are looking for a bona-fide and elevated new Mexican culinary experience with above and beyond service, El Rincón Café is a no-brainer.
    More info
    El Rincón CaféPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Fe
    •
    4.5
  • Nikki
    New Mexico •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    We arrived late because of an accident on the road but the staff was very nice and still accommodated us. Food was excellent. We shared a flight of chefs selection whiskeys which were excellent. Amazing pork chop and vegetarian plate. Great cocktails, food, and service!
    More info
    Radish & RyePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Fe
    •
    4.8

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Santa Fe

Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Santa Fe, New Mexico, where contemporary American cuisine takes center stage amidst the scenic backdrop of the Santa Fe Mountains. Renowned for its innovative approach, the region's dining landscape offers a diverse array of restaurants that masterfully blend traditional techniques with modern flair. Each establishment in Santa Fe prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring every dish not only supports local farmers but bursts with freshness and flavor. Patrons can expect a variety of dining experiences, from intimate, chef-driven eateries to bustling, sophisticated spots perfect for any occasion. The commitment to quality and creativity is evident in the rave reviews about the attentive service, the artful presentation of dishes, and the thoughtful ambiance that characterizes these dining havens. Santa Fe's restaurant scene truly offers a rich and memorable gastronomic journey, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking exceptional contemporary American fare.

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