My husband and I are leaving for Santa Fe and Taos on Oct. 9th. How far in advance do you guys suggest making dinner reservations? We like to "wing" it depending on how long it takes us to do whatever we do that particular day, however, we prefer not to have to eat too late.

when we went to Santa Fe, in early July '06, we made our dinner reservations when we got there (most day of or a day in advance). We didn't have any problems. I don't know if October is busier. If there is a place you have your heart set on, perhaps you can make that reservation. I would think a week in advance is enough.

You'll be here during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, so restaurants in Santa Fe and Taos will also be busy. As MFNYC said, if there is a place where you really want to eat, you might as well go ahead and make a reservation.

Lee Ann

If you can't get in somewhere it is likely that your B & B or concierge CAN get you in. It usually owrks to your advantage to have them make your reservation anyway, when possible.

It is always good to have a reservation. I make reservations for the time I hope to eat and, if I'm unable to arrive at the reserved time I call and cancel the reservation.

Apparently, it is unusual to cancel reservations because I always get a big "thank you" when I do.

Thanks all! We are celebrating our anniversary one of the days we will be in Santa Fe. Any restaurants we should try for special occassion? Something that we don't have to get dressed in suit and tie. Don't mind getting dressed up a bit but my hubby wouldn't want to lug a suit with him on travel. Nice cozy southwestern atmosphere with awesome food would be great if you can suggest some!

You should be fine making same day reservations in Taos; it really doesn't get throngs of people up from Balloon Fiesta [they would be day trippers most likely as well - heading back to ABQ for evening events].

I would make reservations for your anniversary dinner in advance to be sure you get where you want and WHEN you want. There are lots of threads on here for Santa Fe restaurants.

La Choza is a nice choice for New Mexican food. Most of the upscale places are more "continenal/ contemporary" menus: The Compound, Inn of the Anasazi, Cafe Pasqual's, Geronimo, Santacafe,315. Any of these require reservations.

Also read this thread:

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...1&tid=35004567

As far as dress is concerned, the southwest is casual. A suit for your husband is not required anywhere. You can wear nice slacks and a sweater or a long skirt and top and you will be set. Of course, you can get dressier but it is just not how we do things here

It is starting to get cool here. Nights are becoming chilly [expect 40's in Taos and maybe even in SF.]

Dress in layers because days will be sunny and warm. Remember to drink lots of water, don't overdue activites first few days to acclimate to altitude and wear SUNSCREEN as the sun is still strong here.


Taos restaurants - except for the high end places, reservations not needed.

good food at reasonable prices --
In town [no reservations needed]:
Michaels, Apple Tree, Bent Street Deli, DragonFly

On the mountain:
Tim's Stray Dog Cantina

In Between:
Orlando's for new mexican, a bit north of town
Old Blinking Light,
Sheva Cafe

a bit more upscale, in town RESERVATIONS needed :

Doc Martin's is excellent; as is Joseph's Table

Villa Fontana, continental just north of town.
I've eaten at all of the above and give them a thumbs up!!

For more ideas and info:

taoslink.com - Taos restaurants

Hope this helps..
Debi

We were in Taos last month and loved Grahams -- close to the Plaza--the food was delicous. http://www.grahamstaos.com/