Fodor's Expert Review Inn at Vanessie

This sumptuously furnished boutique inn set inside restored adobe buildings and formerly known as the Water Street Inn has a terrific location just a few blocks from the Plaza. Both guest and common rooms are beautifully furnished with Southwest pieces, and the adjoining Vanessie restaurant and bar is a handy and charming spot for steaks, wine, and live music. The inn strikes a pleasing balance between the sophisticated and in-room amenities of a sophisticated hotel and the intimacy and personal service of a B&B.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Although the interior is lovely, the Inn at Vanessie lacks much in the way of grounds, as it adjoins a small parking lot. Some rooms open onto private outdoor courtyards, however, and the inn is a short walk from the Plaza as well as the greenery of Santa Fe River Park.

room

The inn's large rooms at set among a few adjacent buildings and are decorated with handcrafted wood beds, viga-beam ceilings, hand-stenciled artwork, and a blend of cowboy, Hispanic, and Native American art, artifacts, and textiles. Most have fireplaces, and all have such modern touches as flat-screen TVs, dimmer-control track lighting, individual climate control, and refrigerators. Opt for a king suite, with a separate sitting area (many have daybeds) for a bit more room to spread out and relax.

bathroom

It's easy to feel pampered in the smartly appointed bathrooms, which feature Gilchrist & Soames bath products, plush Italian linens (along with robes and slippers), magnifying mirrors, and attractive modern tilework. The top-of-the-line rooms roomy walk-in showers.

lobby

The lobby, which is set inside the adjacent Vanessie Restaurant, is tiny and really just an area to check-in, pick up brochures, and help yourself to coffee. However, an adjoining sunroom with plenty of tables and chairs is set up for breakfast each morning and is an additional common space to relax in during the day.

gym

A small exercise room is well-equipped with modern cardio machines and free weights.

dining

The adjacent Vanessie Restaurant exudes old-world charm with its high beamed ceilings, soft lighting, and Southwestern artwork. It's open nightly for dinner, and is especially regarded for creatively prepared chops and grills, from New Zealand elk tenderloin to braised short ribs. Lighter dishes, including pizzas and tacos, are also served, and there's an extensive wine list.

drinking

The lounge at Vanessie Restaurant has long been renowned in Santa Fe for live music, including locally beloved pianist Doug Montgomery, who performs four nights a week. Other evening you can expect jazz, blues, and other first-rate entertainment. You can order drinks and food from the full menu in the bar.