The Best Restaurants, in Taos, New Mexico

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Restaurant, American, Vegetarian, Vegan, $$
Specializing in local home-cooked cuisine, The Love Apple is run on the old site, indeed, in the former building, of the Placitas Chapel. This small building was previously a Catholic church, built in circa 1800. These days, talented chefs can be found turning out brilliant dishes. Local Medjool dates are brined in classic American bourbon, before being wrapped in bacon and fried, resulting in a delicious starter. For the main course, choose from a variety of game dishes and a fantastic lamb-sausage bolognaise served with polenta and fresh greens, all in the beautiful confines of this small chapel.

Bar, Restaurant, American, $$
Lambert’s restaurant and bar, one of Taos New Mexico’s best-kept secrets, promises guests a relaxed yet refined dining experience. With its low-level lighting, soft, yet simple, decoration and carefully designed menu, it certainly delivers. In one form or another, Lambert’s has existed in Taos since 1989 though it currently resides in the beautiful building at 123 Bent Street, which was built in 1903. While starters include such delights as lamb wellington and wild mushroom risotto, mains include roasted Vermont quail, beef stroganoff and pepper-crusted lamb loin.

Bakery, Restaurant, American, Vegetarian, Vegan, $

If fun and laid back is the vibe you are looking for, then Michael’s Kitchen is the place for you. Not just a restaurant, Michael’s kitchen is also a very popular bakery, dealing with cakes and treats that everyone can enjoy. These are made fresh, every day and are perfect to either eat in or take away. Bakery treats include bear claws, cookies, brownies and a variety of pies, including blueberry, apple, and raspberry flavours. As well as serving lunch and dinner, Michael’s kitchen is best known for its fantastic breakfast offerings. Diners can set themselves up for the day with any number of omelettes, French toasts and even that New Mexican staple, huevos rancheros.

Restaurant, French, $
Now, while many restaurants in Taos stick to their solely Hispanic and Latin roots, Gutiz is a brilliant example of combined French and Latin foods. Open for breakfast and lunch, the Gutiz team prepare some of the best food that can be found in this small New Mexico town. Lunch and breakfast options are plentiful with sandwiches, tapas and small plates available throughout most of the day. Gutiz strives to use locally sourced ingredients, with most of their menu made from scratch. Pastries, desserts and chocolate truffles are also made in house to satisfy even the sweetest tooth.

Restaurant, American, $$
Doc Martin’s in Taos is a celebrated award-winning restaurant run by chef Gregory Romo. As well as being famous for the excellent dining opportunity it affords its guests, Doc Martin’s is known for its fantastic wine collection. Food and Beverage Director, Adam Kerr is a certified Sommelier and takes much pride in choosing the finest wines for the list and by the glass. With 400 varieties stored in the restaurant’s cellars, it is perhaps unsurprising that Doc Martin’s has won Wine Spectator’s ‘Best Of’ award for the past 29 years. Doc Martin’s also provides excellent accommodation for guests, setting them in a sophisticated yet cosy environment that is perfect for relaxation

Cafe, Coffee Shop, Coffee
Open seven days a week, and winner of the 2013 Taos peoples’ choice award, Elevation Coffee serves specialty and premium coffees. Highly trained baristas use their skills to create exquisite lattes, mochas and cappuccinos, as well as other less technical drinks. As well as a great coffee shop, Elevation Coffee also features a selection of art works that guests can appreciate while taking in a little pick me up. Similarly, the venue also celebrates the creative side of coffee making, with incredible patterns and shapes being etched into the coffee froth of each cup, seeing is believing, so make sure you pay them a visit.

Restaurant, Mexican
Described as a colorful Mexican eatery, Orlando’s New Mexican Café serves fresh margaritas, craft beers, and authentic Mexican food. Orlando’s is especially famous for its deep filled fish tacos, with deep fried cod and green chilli mayo, wrapped in flour tortillas and topped with cheese. However, there are also a great many meat and vegetarian choices for those who like something a bit less fishy.