Best of Taos 2026

l Thank You!

First

El Monte Sagrado

317 KIT CARSON ROAD,TAOS 575-758-3502 • ELMONTESAGRADO.COM

BEST HAIR SALON

Salon Marjorie

El Monte Sagrado takes luxury to the next level of absolute bliss. The grounds bring an immediate sense of calm — rolling lawns, ponds, waterfalls and huge cottonwoods in the foreground, while the sacred mountain stands as a presence behind. The adobe hotel winds into fireplace-warmed atriums, the award-winning restaurant, De La Tierra, and the Anaconda Bar. All your wellness needs are covered in the state-of-the-art spa that includes hydrotherapy tubs and saltwater pools. This stay is the place to pamper: massages, facials and daily yoga. For big parties or events consider the 2,400 square foot Rio Grande Ballroom or either of their two wedding venues, perfect for indoor and outdoor ceremonies.

SECOND PLACE

The Blake at Taos Ski Valley

BEST LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENT

116 SUTTON PLACE, TAOS SKI VALLEY 575-776-5335 • SKITAOS.COM/STAY BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY

237 LEDOUX ST, TAOS

575-751-7246

SALONMARJORIE.COM

Marjorie Olsen has created a serene, art-filled space brimming with charm, calm and the excitement of getting a new ‘do, or treating oneself to an esthetician appointment. There’s a light and lively vibe in the small salon, tucked in a historic building on Ledoux. Shampoos include a relaxing scalp massage, and the goal is always to let each client’s inner radiance shine. Being an Aveda salon, you can rest assured that the products they use are pure, clean and ethical.

SECOND PLACE

Hitching Post Shave Co.

218 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS 575-779-3208 HPSHAVECO.COM

RyanTrujillo

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES

314 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE A, TAOS

575-770-8650

RYAN@HOMEINNM.COM

I recently called Ryan Trujillo inquiring about a home for sale in El Prado, and even though it was a weekend, and even though he was about to leave on a trip, he answered my questions with great kindness and lots of info, which I feel points to something in Trujillo’s character as a real estate agent. Born and raised in Northern New Mexico, Trujillo is known for his unlimited patience and positive attitude during the buying and selling process. Because he knows this region so well, his understanding is critical in helping you and your family to land where you want to be. Raw land or million-dollar estate, Trujillo covers it all. And he’s bilingual to boot.

SECOND PLACE

Jolie Jones

208 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR #601, TAOS 575-737-WEST (9378) JONESWESTTAOS.COM

Taos Real Estate

314 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE A, TAOS 575-758-1924 • 800-530-8899

BHHSTAOS.COM

Swooning with the pueblo-style architecture famous to New Mexico? Or maybe you want something more rugged, off-grid? Land. You want land. Raw and wondrous land. At Berkshire Hathaway, Taos’ premier real estate agency for almost 40 years, you will find a wide range of homes — in town or in the mountains, ranches and farmland, and commercial properties. They provide in-person and virtual tours for your new home or vacation rental. Whether buying or selling, the team at Berkshire Hathaway make this huge step in your life as seamless as possible.

SECOND PLACE

Jones West

208 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR #601, TAOS 575-737-WEST (9378) JONESWESTTAOS.COM

First Place

BEST PLACE TO PLAY TENNIS

TaosTennis at Quail Ridge

88 NM 150, EL PRADO 575-776-2585

TAOSTENNIS.COM

A nationally recognized tennis facility, Quail Ridge Taos offers an easy drop-in schedule of weekly matches across 10 tennis courts for local and visiting players. The club hosts competitions, leagues, camps and clinics for all ages on its 7.5-acre property, which also features pickleball courts, a swimming pool, hot tub and pro shop. Recognized by the U.S. Tennis Association for its facilities and programming, Quail Ridge welcomes players of every skill level. Need equipment or some instruction? It’s the perfect place to learn, practice and enjoy the game in a friendly atmosphere.

SECOND PLACE

Taos

Spa & Tennis Club

11 DOÑA ANA DRIVE, TAOS 575-758-1980

TAOSSPA.COM

BEST PLUMBER

Phoenix Mechanical

1217 GUSDORF ROAD, TAOS

575-758-3027

PHOENIXMECHANICAL.NET

You’ve likely seen the cherry-red Phoenix Mechanical trucks passing through town on their way to save another broken toilet’s day. Serving Taos since 1971, this company — built on high-quality work and excellent customer service — provides residential and commercial heating, plumbing, electrical and mechanical expertise. This includes septic tanks, water wells, sprinkler services, sheet metal, refrigeration and more. They’re quick to respond when surprise accidents occur.

SECOND PLACE

Kat’s Plumbing and Heating

PO BOX 1889, TAOS 575-779-1611

BEST INTERNET PROVIDER

Kit Carson Internet

116 CRUZ ALTA ROAD, TAOS

575-758-4838

As many of us out here in the high country know, there are many pockets without cell service. Reliable internet access is all the more important in our semi-rural area. Kit Carson Internet — a division of Kit Carson Electric Cooperative — offers a variety of ways to simplify and upgrade your internet services, whether speeding up existing connections or building new ones. Internet services range from dial-up to advanced broadband services like DSL. They offer coverage in Taos, Eagle Nest, Angel Fire, Ojo Caliente, El Rito and part of Rio Arriba County.

SECOND PLACE

Taos Net

201 CAMINO DE LA MERCED, TAOS 575-758-7598

TAOSNET.COM

BEST PLACE TO PAMPER PETS

Unleashed Pet Groomer

98 NM 150 UNIT 5, EL PRADO 575-613-7344

FIND ON FACEBOOK (IT’S HIGHLY ENTERTAINING) Can’t find a dog sitter for those days when you have to be at the office? Unleashed Pet Groomers has you covered. In addition to being one of Taos’ premier grooming shops, Unleashed offers dog daycare where pups can spend the day playing, socializing and getting plenty of attention from staff. With fenced outdoor play areas, toys and furry friends for company, your dog will be too busy having fun to miss you. Just need a fresh new look for your four-legged friend? Be sure to call well in advance for grooming appointments — spots fill up quickly and are often booked out.

SECOND PLACE

10,000 Wags

24822 US 64 WEST, EL PRADO 575-751-9247 10000WAGS.COM

First Place

First Place

First Place

BUILDING CONTRACTOR

Aaron Magee

MAGEE BUILD

122 DOÑA LUZ ST, SUITE A,TAOS 575-741-0456 • MAGEEBUILD.COM

“Growing up here has allowed me to build lifelong relationships with the building community and the community at large,” says Aaron Magee, who’s been working on homes since he was 15, and who maintains a deep understanding of the land and resource pool here in Taos, including craftsmen, subcontractors, realtors, etc. He’s also well versed in the local natural materials — wood, stone, adobe — which he loves working with for their timeless feel. He also focuses on green building systems. Magee Build incorporates local styles, such as Pueblo and territorial, on projects ranging from small remodels to million-dollar, luxury estates.

SECOND PLACE

Jed Magee

MAGEE DESIGN WORKS

122 DOÑA LUZ ST, SUITE A, TAOS

575-770-3002

MAGEEDESIGNWORKS.COM

BEST BANK

Centinel Bank

MAIN BRANCH:

512 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS 575-758-6700

CENTINELBANK.COM

Founded in 1969, Centinel Bank of Taos remains the county’s only locally owned and operated community bank, built on a mission to serve all the people, cultures and languages of Taos County. With personalized service, local decision-making and deep community roots, Centinel offers everything from checking accounts and debit cards to mortgage and small-business loans. Known for investing back into the community through scholarships, mentoring and local partnerships, Centinel continues to live by its longtime commitment: “Founded here. Focused here.”

SECOND PLACE

Nusenda Federal Credit Union

640 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS 575-776-2703

NUSENDA.ORG

BEST LANDSCAPING

Taos Landscaping

NM-240, TAOS 575-776-8497

TAOSLANDSCAPING.COM

Beautify your lawn and patio areas with the trusted services of Taos Landscaping, building custom designs in Taos for over 40 years. Need stone work? They can do it. Irrigation? You betcha. Their high-desert xeriscaping is low water and low maintenance. Taos Landscaping knows all the right plants that can thrive in our enchanting-yet-tough high-desert environment.

SECOND PLACE

Gecko Landscaping

575-770-1177

GECKOLANDSCAPINGINC.COM

First Place

First Place

First Place

First Place

Food Market

623 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE,TAOS 575-758-1148

Cid’s is the go-to place to find organic, local and natural foods. Opened in 1986, Cid’s features weekly specials, in-housemade meals and a whole case of fresh pastries. They’ve got you taken care of with all your beauty and wellness needs, too. Their second location, Cid’s Mountain Market, is located at Taos Ski Valley. The Cellar, located just behind downtown Cid’s, sells a variety of beer, wine and liquors. With a helpful staff — and with the chance of making a new friend (or seeing an old one) down every aisle — shop Cid’s for your pantry’s sake.

SECOND PLACE First Place

224 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS 575-758-3711

SMITHSFOODANDDRUG.COM

623 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS 575-758-7445 THECELLARTAOS.COM

You can taste the care behind The Cellar’s hand-selected offerings, curated by the drink experts who run the family-owned shop. With a focus on local and regional spirits, the team has developed a keen eye for microbrews, organic wines, nonalcoholic beverages and unique selections from around the world. Looking for the perfect bottle or planning a party? A knowledgeable staff member can point you in the right direction. The Cellar also can assist with large orders for special events.

SECOND PLACE

Del Norte Liquors

1574 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS 575-758-8904 FIND ON FACEBOOK

BEST PLACE TO BUY/READ A BOOK

Taos Library

402 CAMINO DE LA PLACITA, TAOS 575-758-3063

With a wide selection of all-things-literature, the Taos Public Library is a go-to to snag that book on gardening you’ve been wanting to pick up, or the collection of feminine myths your girlfriend has just told you about. They’ve got biographies and New York Times bestsellers and Teen tastes and rare art books. Nestled close to the plaza, the Taos Public Library is more than just a library — it’s an art gallery, a children’s imaginarium and a Spanish club. Filled with regular weekly and specialized programming — such as story time and yoga — there’s always something to learn at the library.

SECOND PLACE

Op Cit. Books

124-A BENT ST, TAOS 575-751-1999 OPCIT.COM

BEST CANNABIS DISPENSARY

Bighorn Weed Co.

536 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS 575-GOOD-BUD (466-3283) BIGHORNWEED.COM

Bighorn Weed Co. is happy to elevate your vibe with their high-quality selection of locally sourced weed, hash and edibles. They source organically grown ganja from small farms in Taos and surrounding counties. Whether you need to chill out or want a deeper sense of communion with the woods, or simply need a little pick-me-up, this weed shop (in a restored blacksmith shop built in the ’30s) will have something for you.

SECOND

PLACE

Taos Canyon Cannabis

216 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, SUITE A, TAOS 575-224-2715 TAOSCANYONCANNABIS.CO

Place

ART GALLERY

127 BENT ST,TAOS 575-758-7965

JONESWALKEROFTAOS.COM

The Jones Walker Gallery does it again. Repeatedly voted Best of Taos, the gallery, opened by Max Jones and Tony Walker in 2018, immerses visitors in everything that Northern New Mexico art has to offer — whether it’s a Pueblo artist’s watercolors, or award-winning pottery in the old style, oil-painted mountain landscapes. One minute it’s modern and the next, abstract. In all ways, it’s distinctively Taos. Shoppers will also come across art-savvy gift items, like glass art, woven pillows and rare books.

SECOND PLACE First

Wilder Nightingale Fine Art

119 KIT CARSON RD, TAOS 575-758-3255

WNIGHTINGALE.COM

SECOND PLACE

Talpa Farmers Market

BEST PLACE TO BUY FLOWERS

The Enchanted Florist

622-A PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS

The highly-trained staff at the Enchanted Florist is here for any event — your kid’s graduation or your very own wedding — listening to all your requests and making the process flawless. With their wide variety of flowers (classics like roses, lilies and sunflowers) and sometimes surprising (like green button mums), the team can make a colorful arrangement for any need, or even just a good thought. The artistry level here is top notch and creative; they even make arrangements to bring to bloom the essence of each zodiac sign, which is so Taos. Same-day flower delivery at

BEST PET SUPPLY

Blue Sky Pet & Feed Supply

214 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS 575-758-1841

BLUESKYPETANDFEED.COM

A longtime winner of Best of Taos, Blue Sky Pet & Feed Supply is the locally owned pet supply and grooming shop we frequent for their vast selection of pet food, pet bowls, grooming supplies and wearable goods for doggos. Blue Sky has products for chickens, horses, cattle and other livestock, including crates, carriers, tack, medical supplies and hay. They carry the best of the best so you can ensure your furry friend is well taken care of.

SECOND PLACE

Tractor Supply

Taos Farmers Market

105 ALBRIGHT ST, TAOS TAOSFARMERSMARKET.ORG

121 PASEO PLAZA DRIVE, TAOS 575-758-4685

TRACTORSUPPLY.COM

First Place

First Place

First Place

First Place

BEST LOCAL JAZZ PERFORMER

Christine Autumn

BEST LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY

Paddy Mac,KTAO

KTAOS.COM

BEST SPANISH LANGUAGE GROUP

El Grupo Mezcal

MEZCALMUSIC.COM

BEST LOCAL RADIO STATION

KTAOS: 101.9

9 NM 150, EL PRADO 575-758-5826

too. Inspired by her ancestors, the Sunday nights at the Alley are a piano-backed treat that roll through her originals and jazz classics.

SECOND PLACE

Jimmy Stadler

JIMMYSTADLER.COM

During Paddy Mac’s morning dailies, you’ll get the rundown of local and international news reports, plus the weather. You’ll also get that silly flare that keeps Paddy Mac winning this award again and again. As it says in his bio: “His favorite color is Feldgrau [and] his favorite food is whatever’s on YOUR plate…” Paddy Mac makes sure to bring the good tunes — as the program director for KTAO, he keeps an all-acrossthe-board mix rotating on the Weekday Mornings..

SECOND PLACE

Howie Roemer, KNCE

TRUETAOSRADIO.COM

There’s no truer soulful New Mexican sound than Taos’s own, El Grupo Mezcal. Together for over 20 years — and frequently winning this category — this Spanish rock group knows how to keep crowds moving and grooving. Featuring brothers Ernie Marquez, Antonio Marquez (bass/voice), Adonais Marquez (keys/voice) and brother from another, Rex Martinez (drums), these musicians are also activists, raising awareness about and supporting youth and migrant workers. Grab a partner and come have a spin con El Grupo.

KTAO.COM

The first radio station in the world to be powered by solar energy, this local hub has been bumping tunes and broadcasts since 1976, and taking this “Best Of” award year after year. The line-up features the ever-fave Morning Show with Paddy Mac, Moccasin Wire featuring Leslie Trujillo playing contemporary and traditional powwow music, and a Sunday morning full of jazz and poetry. There’s also a Pink Floyd radio hour, reggae, and a whole host of other weekly selections.

SECOND PLACE

KNCE: 93.5

23 ABC MESA ROAD, EL PRADO 575-737-8326

TRUETAOSRADIO.COM

First Place

First Place

First Place

Mantes Chow Cart

CENTRAL: 402 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR 575-758-3632

SOUTH SIDE: 1541 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR,TAOS • 575-758-4855

MANTESCHOWCART.COM

Born in an old bread truck back in 1973, the Chacón family’s Mantes Chow Cart is forever a solid staple in Taos with its two brick-and-mortar locations along Paseo del Pueblo Sur. The breakfast burrito is famous and filled with two eggs, a choice of meat, onions, cheese, hash browns and a choice of red or green chile.

SECOND PLACE

Golden Piñon

88 NM-150 (EL PRADO) 575-776-3202

GOLDENPINON.COM

BEST BREAKFAST

Golden Piñon

88A NM 150, EL PRADO 575-776-3202

INSTAGRAM.COM/GOLDENPINON

There aren’t many spots in Taos that serve up biscuits and gravy, French toast, filled-up omelets or tofu scrambles — but Golden Piñon covers all these breakfast bases, plus many more. Corned beef hash, anyone? Chicken fried steak? What doesn’t this restaurant serve? Whether it’s the food offerings (the menu is huge), the quick service or the great views, you can’t beat this breakfast joint that serves breakfast all day. (Open 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.)

SECOND PLACE

Michael’s Kitchen

304-C PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS 575-758-4178

MICHAELSKITCHEN.COM

BEST COFFEE SHOP

World Cup

102 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE 575-737-5299

WORLDCUPTAOS.COM

As our beloved World Cup boasts, it is a “small espresso bar with a big heart in the center of planet Taos.” And it’s true — located right at the entrance to the plaza proper, World Cup is more than an Italian-style coffee bar — it’s a community hub. See regulars posted up on the outside benches of the tiny locale, taking in the first warmth of the morning sun when the shop opens at 7 a.m., while others swing in and out until closing time at 6 p.m. They’ve been pouring their organic coffee and beverages for over 30 years.

SECOND PLACE

Coffee Apothecary

616 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR 575-779-8706

COFFEEAPOTHECARYTAOS.COM

Food & Drink

BEST BAKED GOODS

Michael’s Kitchen

304-C NORTH PUEBLO ROAD, TAOS 575-758-4178

MICHAELSKITCHEN.COM

Sweet. Savory. Sweet. Savory. That’s me, standing at the pastry case at Michael’s, my stomach indecisive on which way to go. The apple fritters or bear claws? The red chile baked bread? Perhaps an empanada? Muffin? Macaroon? There’s no way I can really go wrong, given that Michael’s has been a Taos landmark since 1974 offering nearly 50 breads and pastries baked fresh daily. Open Wednesday through Sunday starting at 7 a.m. Early bird gets the donut!

SECOND PLACE

KOKO Coffee/Deli/Carry-Out

1033 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR #H, TAOS 575-758-9448

KOKOTAOS.COM

First Place

Orlando’s

New Mexican Café

1114 DON JUAN VALDEZ LANE, EL PRADO 575-751-1450

ORLANDOSNEWMEXICANCAFE.COM

That’s it! It’s official! Orlando’s has taken the whole enchilada! It’s not the first year Orlando’s has won this category, either. Thanks to their culinary classics — those enchiladas, plus rellenos, fish tacos and chimichangas — and their feel-good vibes (it’s so colorful and festive in the restaurant itself, and there’s a spacious patio), it’s clear why Orlando’s is a continual winner.

SECOND PLACE

Ranchos Plaza Grill

8 RANCHOS PLAZA, RANCHOS DE TAOS

575-758-5788

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

BEST GREEN CHILE

Orlando’s

New Mexican Café

1114 DON JUAN VALDEZ LANE, EL PRADO

575-751-1450

ORLANDOSNEWMEXICANCAFE.COM

You know there’s something very special about a restaurant that holds to grandma’s recipes, and Orlando’s is just that place. The green chile sauce? Yup, that’s all abuela, and don’t you dare ask for the top-secret mezcla of ingredients! Using Hatch, NM chiles, the slathered-on sauce provides a subtle heat and full flavor to meals such as the enchiladas, rellenos or tamales.

SECOND PLACE

Ranchos Plaza Grill

8 RANCHOS PLAZA, RANCHOS DE TAOS

575-758-5788

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

BEST RED CHILE

Orlando’s

New Mexican Café

1114 DON JUAN VALDEZ LANE, EL PRADO 575-751-1450

ORLANDOSNEWMEXICANCAFE.COM

Welp, Orlando’s took one of the enchiladas on the green chile front, and now they’re back for the next as they snag the title of best red! The pun was too easy, but gaining this prize isn’t always, as Orlando’s and Ranchos Plaza Grill have been doing a salsa for this sauce slot for a long time. Looks like abuela came through again this year, though. Try the red on La Reina — two grilled pork medallions topped with chile caribe and your choice of chile, plus beans and posole — or the combination plate to get a little taste of a lot.

SECOND PLACE

Ranchos Plaza Grill

8 RANCHOS PLAZA, RANCHOS DE TAOS 575-758-5788

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

Food & Drink

Orlando’s

New Mexican Café

1114 DON JUAN VALDEZ LANE, EL PRADO 575-751-1450

ORLANDOSNEWMEXICANCAFE.COM

OK, now you’re just showing off, Orlando’s! I mean, what don’t you do right? You’ve definitely got a handle on the Frito Pie, a traditional comfort food in New Mexico. Order it with either chicken or beef, then prepare for the perfect mix of beans, cheese and your choice of chile, all topped with the crunchy crunch of the Fritos.

SECOND PLACE

Mante’s Chow Cart

CENTRAL — 402 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • 575-758-3632

SOUTH SIDE — 1541 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • 575-758-4855 MANTESCHOWCART.COM

Food & Drink

Guadalajara Grill

SOUTH SIDE — 1384 PASEO DEL PUEBLO

SUR,TAOS • 575-751-0063

NORTH SIDE — 822 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE,TAOS • 575-737-0816

GUADALAJARAGRILLTAOS.COM

“North side Guad or south side Guad?” You may hear literally anyone in Taos ask this question on any given day, so popular is this family-owned-and-operat ed restaurant that brings New Mexico Old Mexico staples such as ceviche, menudo and campechana. Opened by the Solis brothers in 1995 as a love song to Jalisco, the Guad offers quick service in spacious locations and a million menu options. We love the bigger-than-your-head Azteca quesadilla (filled with chicken, beef, pork or shrimp and loaded with lots of veggies, including scallions and mushrooms) paired with a homemade horchata or icecold jamaica (hibiscus tea).

SECOND PLACE First Place

Azteca Mexican Grill

122 DONA LUZ ST, TAOS 575-758-3251

100 NM 150, EL PRADO

BEST GREEN CHILE CHEESEBURGER

5 Star Burgers

broth (did you read that right — roasted!), white miso and nutritional yeast, this gluten-free option is delectable for anyone looking for a good vegetarian option. Pair this with one of the packed salads (the super greens salad has kale, arugula, chard, quinoa, grapes AND pepitas + a spicy/tart dressing), and you’ll forget that pigs ever even existed.

SECOND PLACE

Farmhouse Cafe and Bakery

1405 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, EL PRADO

575-758-5683

MEDLEYTAOS.COM BEST VEGETARIAN

FARMHOUSETAOS.COM

1032 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS 575-758-8484

5STARBURGERS.COM

I think it’s the green chile mayo that really sells this 5 Star Burgers green chile cheeseburger as our five-star burger. The all-natural, hormone and antibiotic-free beef patty is layered with pepper jack cheese, green chiles and that green chile mayo that really sends it for a well-rounded, spicy-meets-creamy flavor. Pair this award winner with the mixed cart of fries (regular and sweet potato) and you’ll be satisfied for days.

SECOND PLACE medley.

100 NM 150, EL PRADO 575-776-8787

Food & Drink

First Place

100 NM 150, EL PRADO

575-776-8787

MEDLEYTAOS.COM

Did we even need to ask? I mean, really. I’ve lost track at how many times medley. has run off with this title. It’s clear that the high-end restaurant continuously offers up a “medley” of culinary goodness thanks to the vision and expertise of owner and executive chef, Wilks Medley, and co-owner and pastry chef, Colleen Medley. With lite bites (ahi tuna tartare tostadas, for example) and heartier mains (Basque-braised chicken leg, y’all?), medley. is a sure stop on every locals’ and visitors’ nom list. There’s a wine shop next door for all your tannin needs, too. (We suggest making reservations for the restaurant.)

SECOND PLACE

Lambert’s of Taos

123 BENT STREET

575-758-7200

LAMBERTSOFTAOS.COM

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

Guadalajara Grill

SOUTH SIDE — 1384 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • 575-751-0063

NORTH SIDE — 822 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • 575-737-0816

GUADALAJARAGRILLTAOS.COM

With huge — and I mean huge — dining rooms to eat in, the “Guad,” as locals call it, is the place to bring the whole dang squad, whether post-graduation, for a birthday/ quinceañera or just a casual family gathering. Both locations offer a wide menu to help satisfy everybody’s needs. They also provide half orders and a kid’s menu.

SECOND PLACE

Daleee

9 NM-150 575-425-0010

DALEEEKTAOS.COM

BEST PATIO

Daleee

9 NM-150

575-425-0010

DALEEEKTAOS.COM

Maybe it’s the epic vista of Taos Mountain turning pink at sunset that keeps us coming back to Daleee’s expansive outdoor space with a happy hour margarita and crispy fish taco in our hands. Or is it the fun and fierce rounds of volleyball? The corn hole? The weekly drum circle? The fenced-in, string-lit back patio is the best to chill and/or take a momentary breather from whatever wild event is happening inside the venue. (They’ve got a stacked weekly rotation of music.) You can even rent out the open-air space to celebrate your wedding or any other special occasion.

SECOND PLACE

Martyrs Steakhouse

146 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS 575-751-3020

MARTYRSSTEAKHOUSE.COM

First Place

Taos Mesa Brewing

MOTHERSHIP: 20 ABC MESA RD, EL PRADO

575-758-1900 EXT. 1

TAPROOM: 201 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • 575-758-1900 EXT. 2

TAOSMESABREWING.COM

Why take flight when you can take flight?

Go to the Taos Mesa Brewery’s downtown Taproom for four pours of our favorites: the Kolsch 45, the Kachina Peak (an American Pale Ale) and the Amarillo Rojo (a red IPA), for starts. Pair this with one of TMB’s wood-fired pizzas (the Smoky Quartz, omgahhh) or those saucy wings served in a tiny cast iron, and you really will be flying. Looking to get down while you drink? Head to the Taos Mesa Brewing “Mothership” located on the Hondo Mesa for a hearty selection of IPAs, and one of their epic outdoor summer shows. Crowlers and growlers are available to go.

SECOND PLACE

Red River Brewing Company

217 W. MAIN ST, RED RIVER

575-754-4422

REDRIVERBREWING.COM

Adobe Bar at the HistoricTaos Inn

125 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS 575-758-1977

TAOSINN.COM/RESTAURANT/ADOBEBAR

Hot mama, Hot mama! No, I’m not talking to you, lady. I’m talking about this drink. The Adobe Bar’s Hot Mama margarita is made with green chile-infused tequila, and rimmed with brown sugar and red chile powder. Sweet and spice and everything nice. Known as the “Living Room of Taos,” the Adobe Bar at the Historic Taos Inn has long been celebrated for its margaritas, whether the “Cowboy Buddha” or prickly pear. All ingredients are freshly squeezed. Enjoy your drink among the nightly-rotating live music.

SECOND PLACE medley.

100 NM 150, EL PRADO 575-776-8787

MEDLEYTAOS.COM

BEST LOCAL WINERY

Vivác Winery

2075 NM-68 (DIXON)

505-579-4441

VIVACWINERY.COM

Driving up the canyon to Taos, you’ll spot sparkling grape fields on your right as you pass the turn for Dixon. Is that a — could it be? — a vineyard? Since 1998, Vivác (pronounced “vee-vok,” meaning “high altitude refuge”) has been producing New Mexico True wines in North America’s oldest grape-growing region. The 6,000-foot elevation adds character to the award-winning Tempranillo and Diavolo Red, a popular blend of Cabernet, Syrah and Tempranillo. The bustling tasting room, with a flagstone bar and expansive views, is open daily and hosts events like Friday karaoke and Saturday happy hour. Standard tastings are $16 per person for four pours, and vineyard tours are available.

SECOND PLACE

Black Mesa Winery and Cider

1502 NM-68 (VELARDE)

505-852-2820

BLACKMESAWINERY.COM

BEST BAR medley.

100 NM 150, EL PRADO 575-776-8787

MEDLEYTAOS.COM

It’s in the base liquors that medley. uses for their signature cocktails. The Chile Connection uses a red chile vodka as its star, and the London Fog gets its name from the Earl Grey-infused gin. With other special ingredients flavoring or garnishing the drinks (coffee-infused Campari, butterfly pea flowers, cinnamon simple syrup), each is well-rounded and packs a punch. More of a vino drinker? Choose from a cosmopolitan list of whites, reds and rosés. Most of the draughts are NM true.

SECOND PLACE

The Alley Cantina

121 TERESINA LANE, TAOS 575-758-2121

ALLEYCANTINA.COM

First Place

First Place

First Place

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa

50 LOS BANOS DRIVE, OJO CALIENTE

877-977-8212

BEST SPOT TO PEOPLE WATCH

BEST WAITSTAFF

OJOSPARESORTS.COM

Taos Plaza

N PLAZA, TAOS 575-758-8234

FIND ON FACEBOOK

SECOND PLACE

Originally called Posi — or “the place of the green bubbling hot springs” — by Pueblo people, the pools include many healing minerals including soda, lithia, iron and arsenic. There’s even a mud bath. Soak in the public or private pools while piñon smoke wafts through the air and flute music calms the senses. Dress up for dinner at the Artesian Restaurant and eat a salad grown at the Ojo Farms. Stay in one of the stylish rooms or set up a tent or RV in their campground, which is a great base for the many hikes along the rio and across the badlands. Santa

Fe

Although there’s been some heavy construction in the Don Fernando de Taos Plaza, it’s still as good of a spot as any to watch the tourists roam in and out of the galleries dotted throughout the plaza’s main loop. (Once a Spanish fortified walled plaza, it is now a collection of wonderful businesses.) Sometimes musicians strum a little tune in our town’s center while others may bring a full-on loom to practice weaving. Enjoy a coffee or ice cream, and get lost in the faces of passersby.

SECOND PLACE

Taos Inn/Adobe Bar

PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS 575-758-2233

medley.

100 NM 150, EL PRADO 575-776-8787

MEDLEYTAOS.COM

As if the food wasn’t enough. The strong drinks. The views. The cozy atmosphere. All this — served up with a casual and professional air that prides itself on connection. You’ll feel like an honored guest. This heart matches the love put into every other detail of the restaurant. “Quirky,” “fun,” “helpful” and

First Place