I’ve been in Los Angeles for 5 years but Santa fe is my hometown. I love the rich culture and the art, especially chili season. When we aren’t in a pandemic, these are some everyday places I go to.
1. Clafoutis
The quintessential french brunch experience with the same staff. I have loyally visited this place as a regular since it’s opening. The patisserie selection is divine and the vibe is a busy french cafe. Because that’s exactly what it is. Before I went vegan, my go-to was the salade du chevre. In French culture, it is custom to greet the shop owner with a hello or bonjour when you enter and a goodbye when you leave.
2. Downtown Subscriptions + Garcia Street Books
A quiet morning coffee with a huge inventory of drinks, snacks, magazines with a small book store right next door. If you want to avoid crowds, go early in the morning. They have a nice dog friendly patio. I use to live down the street and would walk every morning to get coffee and browse the books.
3. Meow Wolf
Hands down the most fun activity to do with a group of friends. Meow Wolf is an alternate world that you can explore. It is fun to go into this structure and let your mind convince itself that this is its reality. The art is phenomenal.
4. Vanessie’s
The only bar I go to. If I could be here every night, I would. Vanessie’s is a piano bar and cabaret where locals listen to the music of Doug Montgomery. He is a Julliard trained musician who is a human jukebox. With the sounds that come out of the piano, you would think he has four hands. On top of being an amazing pianist and singer, he is an all-around standup gentleman. Some favorite songs I’ve heard him play is Rhapsody in Blue and a Somewhere in Time Medley.
6. Farmers Market at the Railyard
I love the railyard. It has an industrial vibe and the quality of the vendors at this market is fabulous. If you like avoiding the crowds, show up early.
7. Margarita’s at Maria’s
Maria’s makes great Mexican food but what’s truly impressive is their margarita menu.
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