Drinking in Santa Fe: Bars, Breweries, Wine, and Spirits
Santa Fe has a drinking culture that reflects the city itself — eclectic, creative, and deeply rooted in local tradition. From world-class margaritas to a growing craft beer scene, New Mexico wines that surprise even skeptics, and mezcal bars that rival anything in Mexico City, there's plenty to explore. Just remember: alcohol hits harder at 7,000 feet. Pace yourself.
Craft Breweries
New Mexico's craft beer scene has exploded, and Santa Fe is right at the center of it.
| Brewery | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Santa Fe Brewing Co. | The state's oldest craft brewery, operating since 1988. Their taproom south of town off Highway 14 has a large patio with live music. Flagship beers include Happy Camper IPA and Java Stout. |
| Second Street Brewery | Three locations around town — the Railyard District taproom is the most central. Good food menu alongside well-made beers. A reliable neighborhood spot. |
| Rowley Farmhouse Ales | Specializes in farmhouse and wild ales. Located near the Railyard. If you appreciate Belgian-style and sour beers, this is your spot. |
| Beer Creek Brewing | A newer addition with a focus on creative seasonal brews. Solid IPAs and stouts in a relaxed setting. |
Cocktail Bars and Lounges
- Agave Lounge at Eldorado Hotel — Sophisticated cocktail program with an emphasis on agave spirits. Great happy hour and a fireplace-side patio.
- La Fiesta Lounge at La Fonda — Historic bar in the landmark La Fonda hotel on the Plaza. Live music, strong margaritas, and decades of history.
- Secreto Lounge — Behind the Hotel St. Francis. A hidden gem with a curated cocktail menu and intimate atmosphere.
- Bar Alto at the Drury Plaza Hotel — Rooftop bar with sunset views over the city. Craft cocktails and a wine list focused on the Southwest.
Wine in New Mexico
New Mexico is the oldest wine-producing region in the United States — Spanish missionaries planted the first vineyards here in the early 1600s. The modern wine industry has come a long way, and several producers are turning heads nationally.
- Gruet Winery — Based in Albuquerque with a tasting room in Santa Fe. Their méthode champenoise sparkling wines consistently earn national praise and rival Champagne at a fraction of the price.
- Vivác Winery — In Dixon, about an hour north. Beautiful setting along the Rio Embudo. Their reds made from New Mexico-grown grapes are well-crafted.
- Santa Fe Vineyards — On Highway 285 north of town. Casual tasting room with pleasant wines and views of the Sangre de Cristos.
The Margarita Tradition
Margaritas are practically the official drink of Santa Fe. Some spots you shouldn't miss:
- Maria's New Mexican Kitchen — Over 100 margarita varieties using top-shelf tequilas. They literally wrote the book: The Great Margarita Book.
- The Shed — Their frozen margaritas are a classic pairing with enchiladas.
- Coyote Cafe Rooftop Cantina — Seasonal rooftop bar above the Coyote Cafe. Margaritas and sunset views over downtown.