It is no secret that New Mexico has some of the best sunsets in the world, and what better way to see them than with a cool drink in hand and authentic local cuisine in front of you? Inn of the Turquoise Bear is conveniently close to some of the very best outdoor and patio dining in Santa Fe. Fall in love with the porches and patios under the Santa Fe sun of old-town New Mexico with this list of our all-time favorites. Enjoy!
Everyday Santa Fe Cuisine
- The Pink Adobe — A true Santa Fe icon, you have likely seen the famous pictures of the traditional rose-colored adobe building of The Pink Adobe restaurant. This beautiful, intimate patio for lunch and dinner is nestled right in one of the oldest neighborhoods in the US. Plus, it’s just a five-minute walk from the Inn!
- La Casa Sena — After a day walking around the Plaza in the heart of downtown Santa Fe, don’t miss this hidden gem. Tucked away in one of the Plaza’s historic buildings, this dinner location features an enchanted courtyard patio, transporting you into an intimate dinner setting right in the heart of everything!
- The Pantry Rio — The Pantry Rio offers traditional New Mexican cuisine in the heart of Santa Fe. This authentic dining experience is just a 10-minute walk from the Inn and conveniently located close to the Plaza.
- If you go for breakfast, make sure to try one of their delicious mimosas and enjoy the vibrant colors of the outdoor patio.
- The Teahouse — Green, black, oolong, and more! The Teahouse is a perfect place for premium tea discovery and a rich culinary journey on Historic Canyon Road.
- More than just tea—check out their brunch menu! The purple Ube waffle is a must-try.
Rooftop Dining
- The Coyote Cantina — The Coyote Cantina is considered one of the best rooftop venues in the City Different. Situated atop the Coyote Cafe in the Plaza, the Cantina offers Southwestern dining…plus all the mixology!
- The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, and it is open all year round. This is a picture-perfect spot to watch the sunset bounce off the historic adobe walls of downtown Santa Fe.
- Thunderbird Bar & Grill — Thunderbird is Santa Fe’s only restaurant with a spacious, year-round deck overlooking the Plaza. This local favorite has an authentic New Mexican ambiance that draws you in, plus some fun and unique southwestern dishes!
Fine Dining
- Restaurant Martin — Take a short stroll from the Inn and discover one of the best fine dining locations in New Mexico. This restaurant has a ten-time James Beard Award-nominated chef and an absolutely stunning patio setting. Treat yourself to this luxurious dining experience.
- The Compound — Another James Beard Award-nominated restaurant, The Compound on Canyon Road, is an excellent stop for discovering more world-class eats.
- This renowned restaurant is also incredibly philanthropic, giving back to the Santa Fe community in numerous ways each year!
- Luminaria — This beautiful, quiet setting is just a 5-minute walk from the Inn. Tranquil and rustic, the Luminaria’s wood patio is a breathtaking place to dine under the stars and enjoy views of the famed Loretto Chapel.
- Rio Chama — One of our personal favorites, the Rio Chama is a prime steakhouse loved by locals and visitors alike. Its beautiful, quiet patio captures all the charms of Santa Fe, and it’s just a short walk from the Inn—even better.
- SantaCafé — Simply one of the best fine-dining restaurant patios in Santa Fe, the Santacafé is where all the locals celebrate. Old-world elegance at the Plaza—we cannot recommend it enough.
Brews & Views
- Second Street Brewery — The best brewery patios in Santa Fe…yes, patios! You can experience Second Street Brewery at two separate locations. Visit the patio at the Railyard or the Rufina Street by Meow Wolf location.
- Explore a great menu and some of the best locally-crafted bears in Santa Fe. Psst! Innkeeper Dan and David visit once a week (at least)!
- Nuckolls Brewing Company — The Nuckolls may be the newest brewery in Santa Fe, but they are certainly one of the best! Located at the Railyard, this spunky patio has a fun vibe, often hosting live music performers on the weekends.
- Plus, they are one of the most sustainable breweries in New Mexico—it’s a win-win!
- Rowley’s Farmhouse Ales — If you are out and about and looking to pop in for a quick brew, Rowley’s is a fun little brewery with eclectic food and great beers. The little patio is the perfect place for a midday stop.
We’ve Got One More on Our List…
Inn of the Turquoise Bear — We may be biased, but the Inn truly has the best patio in Santa Fe. There is no better place to have a glass of wine with other guests before dinner than at our Twilight Wine Reception. Think old-world elegance, fresh flowers, turquoise paints, traditional adobe architecture, bubbling water in the fountain, and more.
End your day under the Santa Fe sun with a tasteful stay at Inn of the Turquoise Bear, where arts, culture, and an outdoor oasis await you. Explore our photo gallery for pictures of the patio and Inn—can’t you imagine yourself there now?
Do you only have time for a day trip to Santa Fe? Check out our recommendations.
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