A Restaurant for Every Month: 12 Bucket-List Worthy Spots in New Mexico

It's a new year, and what better way to celebrate than by trying a new restaurant every month? Sounds like a great idea, right? Here are 12 of the best restaurants in New Mexico – one unforgettable spot to try each month of the year.

January: El Farolito in El Rito

Some places are worth driving to, and this small establishment is certainly one of them. Kick your year off right with El Farolito way out in El Rito, New Mexico. Whether you want enchiladas, chile relleno, or tacos, El Farolito has it all! This is one of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Mexico.

February: Jambo Cafe in Santa Fe

Looking for award-winning restaurants in New Mexico? February is for trying something new and delicious, and Jambo Cafe in Santa Fe is just the place! Serving African and Caribbean cuisines, Jambo Cafe is consistently named one of the best international restaurants in New Mexico. You won't be disappointed.

March: The Love Apple in Taos

The Love Apple is a Northern New Mexican restaurant among the best in Taos. It prepares organic food made from local ingredients. Housed in what was once the Placitas Chapel, this charming restaurant will make your March! Menus change seasonally, so no two visits are ever quite the same.

April: El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina in Albuquerque

El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina is located on 12 acres of property, where it has its very own salsa factory! This is one of the best restaurants in Albuquerque, and you must try the carne adovada and stuffed sopapillas while you're here. Dining outdoors here is especially enjoyable during warmer spring evenings.

May: The Artichoke Café in Albuquerque

Don't let the unassuming exterior of this next place fool you. Walk inside, and you'll be surprised at the linen-clad tables and air of elegance at The Artichoke Café. This restaurant is a great choice for small plates and excellent main dishes, such as lamb ragout. And, of course, you must try the fried artichoke hearts!

June: The Range Cafe in Bernalillo

The Range Café in Bernalillo, New Mexico, serves up crowd favorites. Come hungry because the portions are large ... just make sure you save room for one of the delicious desserts, especially the green chile apple pie. The pie alone will make The Range Cafe one of your favorite restaurants in New Mexico.

If you don't live near Bernalillo but want to try The Range Cafe, there are locations in Albuquerque, Los Lunas, Wyoming, and Rio Grande.

July: Sazón in Santa Fe

Sazón is one of Santa Fe's best restaurants, serving incredible mole for you to sample before ordering your main course. There are two seating times at Sazón – 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

August: Three Rivers Eatery & Brewhouse in Farmington

Three Rivers Brewery is in a 100-year-old building and opened as a tap house in 2003, serving beer and excellent pizza. And if you love burgers, you'll have to try the brewery's burger of the week! It’s an easygoing spot that’s perfect after a day of exploring the Four Corners region.

September: Passion Pie Cafe in Truth or Consequences

With its wall of hearts, Passion Pie Café has passion for making all the fresh-baked goods your own heart could desire. From sweets, pies, breads, and sandwiches, including waffle sandwiches, this should be your fall go-to. Gluten-free options are also available here.

October: Izanami Restaurant in Santa Fe

Izanami Restaurant at Ten Thousand Waves offers upscale Japanese small plates that are simply incredible. As the year winds down, treat yourself to a spa day and an unforgettable meal at Izanami. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

November: The Bavarian Restaurant in Taos

Head on up to the mountains for the first snow at Taos Ski Mountain and delicious eats. The Bavarian Restaurant is available for beer and treats during your ski day. And while you're here for a ski trip, book a stay at the Historic Taos Inn.

December: The Shed Restaurant in Santa Fe

Round out your year the right way, with a delicious meal at The Shed, where you can enjoy food from this local institution that has become a downtown Santa Fe staple over the past 70+ years. Expect a wait during the holidays – it’s popular for a reason.

We hope you have a wonderful year eating your way through some of the best restaurants in New Mexico. Be sure to let us know which were your favorites!

Ready for a year of exploring? The Only In Your State itinerary planner lets you chart your route, keep your favorite destinations, and plan every meal along the way.