Where the Locals Go

Boxcar-The Boxcar has quickly become a favorite spot for casual dining and drinking in a casual bar atmosphere. They have surprised locals by serving food that rises above what one would consider typical bar food. Pretty much everything on the menu is very good.

• Capitol Grill Santa Fe-A well loved spot on the southside where everything’s good. Happy Hour: Every Day 3 pm-6 pm.

• Cowgirl-If there ever was a place that felt like a local watering hole this would be it. The live music brunch every Sunday is legendary. Some group mentions are: Chile Cheese Fries (smothered with Xmas), Nachos, Chicken Fired Steak, Catfish, Chile Rellenos

• Dinner for Two-If you are a group of four, you can still go to Dinner for Two. Held daily from 4-6 pm, this is one of the best happy hours in town with plenty of appetizers which are priced at $6-$8. Their cocktail menu is also priced from $5-$8 and treat yourself to the Love Bubble Margarita which is a great showstopper.

• El Nido-Happy hour 4:30 pm to 6 pm. Luxurious, delicious and historic. El Nido has been making memories for almost 100 years. What began as a 1920s roadhouse and then became Tesuque’s lively dance hall continues to attract visitors from near and far. Housed in a historic building, this iconic fine-dining restaurant in Tesuque Village, 10 minutes from downtown Santa Fe, serves innovative cuisine in a handsome setting. The menu offers grilled steaks and seafood, handcrafted pasta and wood-fired pizza.

• El Farol-Dating back to 1835, El Farol is a piece of Santa Fe history. Situated along Canyon Road, stop in for a drink or dine in for the full experience. It has been named “one of the best bars on earth” by the New York Times.

• Paloma-You’ll want to order the restaurant’s eponymous cocktail, a Paloma. Trust us. And celebrate with appetizers as well. Their guacamole with homemade tortilla chips are a must.

• Pranzo Italian Grill-Another long time loved watering hole for Happy Hour is Pranzo. Rub shoulders with locals and catch up on the latest. Tuesday–Saturday 4-6. $2 off beers, wines, cocktails, antipasti and pizzas.