Soul of the Southwest: A Santa Fe Journey

The Canyon Road Art Walk in Santa Fe

This scenic half-mile road full of galleries, studios, and sculpture gardens showcases a diverse mix of traditional and contemporary art. At every turn, you see adobe charm and feel the creative energy. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and culture seekers alike. One of the simple joys that makes my heart happy is a Friday evening stroll down Canyon Road in the summer. There’s something magical about wandering from one gallery to the next, wine glass in hand, chatting with the artists and soaking in their energy and creativity. And then come winter, it transforms into this glowing, festive wonderland—carolers filling the air with music, farolitos lighting the path, and the scent of hot chocolate drawing me in every time. It’s not just a walk—it’s a feeling I carry with me long after the night ends.

Wandering through the Santa Fe Downtown Plaza

This feels like stepping into a living canvas of culture and history. The warm tones of adobe buildings glow under the sun, each corner echoing with stories from generations past. I found myself lingering by local shops filled with handcrafted treasures and soaking in the soulful rhythms of street musicians. With its blend of museums, mouthwatering cuisine, and vivid art, the plaza truly captures the essence of the Southwest.

Summer markets

I remember the first time I stepped onto the Santa Fe Plaza in midsummer—it was like the past and present had decided to throw a block party. In July, during the Traditional Spanish Market, the hum of live guitar music drifted through the stalls. I stopped to admire a santero’s hand-carved bulto, and he told me about how his grandfather had taught him the craft. It wasn’t just art; it felt like holding a piece of someone’s soul. Fast-forward to August, and I was back, swept into the electric energy of the Santa Fe Indian Market. Over 1,000 Native artists transformed the city into a gallery under the open sky. I got chills watching a runway show where tradition met modern flair—think ribbon skirts and bold beadwork mixed with high fashion. Santa Fe in summer doesn’t just host events—it holds space for history, identity, and beauty to merge together. Do you have a memory like that tied to a place or event? If not, you will surely make one here.

Rio Chama Prime Steakhouse

Step into the soul of Santa Fe at this hidden gem tucked within the historic Barrio de Analco. Just a short stroll from the capitol, it’s where the city’s old-world charm meets modern culinary artistry. Known far and wide for its succulent prime rib, hand-cut steaks, and fresh-caught seafood, every dish is crafted with care and character. But it’s not just about what’s on the plate—it’s also the setting. Picture cozy dining rooms glowing with warmth, patios shaded by cottonwoods, and a bar buzzing with laughter and local legends.

Start with the house salad and be sure to try the blue cheese vinaigrette dressing. It's sensory overload! My favorite entrées are the Chilean sea bass and filet mignon. For a melt-in-your-mouth dessert, be sure to have the chocolate pot, which is a flourless chocolate delight. Rio Chama’s menu is as diverse as the guests it welcomes.

Wolf and Roadrunner

Tucked inside the Hotel St Francis, Wolf and Roadrunner invites you to slow down, settle in, and savor. This isn’t just another upscale steakhouse—it’s a sensory journey steeped in fire and flavor. Perfect for gathering with friends or enjoying a quiet evening for two, the warm glow of the dining room and its shared-plate spirit make this place feel like a celebration of the Southwest.

There are three menus to choose from. The Hunters Menu is a communal celebration of wild earthy local mushrooms, tender trout, and rich bison. From the Provisions Menu, I never miss the half dozen clams swimming in smoky chili Morita broth (yes, I rave about it!) and that wild boar sausage with green tomato pico and toast. Other delightful options are wagyu beef, smoked lamb ribs, and wood-roasted Cornish hens. To finish strong, the Sweets Menu hits every dessert craving imaginable, but for me, it's the Basque cheesecake that steals the show. Made of saffron lemon curd, almond biscochito, and those juicy blackberries, it’s the perfect, golden finale.

Palace Prime

If you're strolling through Santa Fe’s historic plaza and craving something truly special, Palace Prime is your next stop. Just a block away, this reimagined local treasure blends old-world charm with a bold, modern twist. Think prime steaks seared to perfection, handmade pastas that feel like a warm embrace, and seafood so fresh it practically whispers ocean tales. This is one of my favorite places for craft cocktails. From the Butcher's Martini to the Queen's Cup, everything is unique and tasty.

My personal preference is the Pozo Profundo, made with tequila, cucumber serrano juice, elderflower, lime, and five-chili spice. Try not to have more than one! Slide into a leather banquette in the artfully lit dining room or unwind beneath the canopy of trees on the back patio, where DJ nights and wine-paired luncheons add a splash of Santa Fe flair.

The Shed

Since opening its doors in 1953, this family-run adobe hacienda has become synonymous with authentic New Mexican cuisine. With its cozy, color-splashed walls and the aroma of roasted chilies wafting through the air, The Shed offers more than a meal—it offers a slice of Santa Fe’s soul. Famous for its blue corn creations and its iconic Christmas-style red and green chili, The Shed earned a coveted James Beard Award, and for good reason. Every plate is a bold celebration of regional flavors. I highly recommend the green chili buffalo burger for lunch and the carne adovada plate for dinner. This is a place that keeps locals and travelers alike coming back for more.