From Farm to Fork: Discovering the Best Farm-to-Table Restaurants in New Mexico for a True Taste of Local Cuisine

Farm-to-table restaurants have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. These restaurants prioritize using local, seasonal ingredients to create delicious and sustainable dishes. New Mexico cuisine is particularly well-suited to this approach, with its rich history of farming and ranching. Here are some of the best farm-to-table restaurants in New Mexico for a true taste of local cuisine.

1. Farm & Table

Farm & Table is a true farm-to-table restaurant, with its own farm located just outside of Albuquerque. The restaurant’s menu changes frequently to reflect the seasons and the availability of local ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the green chile mac and cheese, made with local goat cheese and Hatch green chiles, and the bison short ribs, sourced from a nearby ranch.

2. The Compound Restaurant

The Compound Restaurant in Santa Fe has been a fixture of the local dining scene for over 50 years. The restaurant’s commitment to using local ingredients has only grown stronger over time. The menu features classic New Mexican dishes like green chile stew and enchiladas, as well as more modern creations like the seared duck breast with sweet potato puree and cranberry gastrique.

3. Radish & Rye

Radish & Rye in Santa Fe is known for its creative cocktails and its commitment to sustainable dining. The restaurant sources its ingredients from local farms and ranches, and the menu changes frequently to reflect what’s in season. Some of the standout dishes include the roasted beet salad with goat cheese and pistachios, and the pork chop with apple chutney and roasted root vegetables.

4. Los Poblanos

Los Poblanos in Albuquerque is a historic inn and farm that also happens to have a fantastic restaurant. The menu features ingredients grown on the property, as well as other local farms and ranches. Some of the standout dishes include the lavender honey glazed duck breast and the roasted cauliflower with green chile and queso fresco.

5. La Merienda at Los Poblanos

La Merienda is another restaurant located at Los Poblanos, but with a focus on small plates and tapas-style dining. The menu changes frequently to reflect what’s in season, but some of the standout dishes include the grilled lamb chops with mint pesto and the roasted carrots with harissa and yogurt.

6. Arroyo Vino

Arroyo Vino in Santa Fe is both a restaurant and a wine shop, with an extensive selection of wines from around the world. The menu features local ingredients and changes frequently to reflect what’s in season. Some of the standout dishes include the seared scallops with cauliflower puree and the grilled hanger steak with chimichurri sauce.

7. Root 66

Root 66 in Albuquerque is a casual restaurant that focuses on using local, sustainable ingredients. The menu features classic American dishes with a New Mexican twist, like the green chile cheeseburger and the red chile pork tacos. The restaurant also has a rooftop garden where they grow some of their own produce.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the many farm-to-table restaurants in New Mexico that are worth checking out. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, dining at one of these restaurants is a great way to experience the flavors of New Mexico while supporting local farmers and ranchers.