Blue Heron (242 Los Pinos Rd., 505/471-6500, 7:30–10 a.m. Mon. and Tues., 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. and 5:30–9 p.m. Wed.–Sun., $23), at the Sunrise Springs resort southwest of the city, makes an excellent romantic retreat, especially in the summer, when you can sit on the terrace overlooking shimmering ponds. The Portland, Oregon–trained chef works with local organic produce and meats and throws in Cuban and Asian flavors, and the result—in dishes such as wild mushrooms in a rich broth, topped with the lightest touch of ancho cream—is light and spa-friendly without being insubstantial.
Another beautiful dining destination is La Mancha (9 La Vega Rd., Galisteo, 505/466-8200, 6–9 p.m. Wed.–Sat., $24), at the old adobe Galisteo Inn, a half-hour drive southeast of Santa Fe [1]. The small dining room, with only eight tables, is warmed by a fireplace in winter and opens onto a cottonwood-shaded courtyard in summer. The menu adds Spanish accents—mushrooms sautéed in sherry, Cabrales blue cheese—to straightforward grilled meats such as locally raised lamb chops. There’s a more casual cantina menu (burgers are $9) if you don’t want a megameal, and a lavish brunch is served on Sundays, but you must make reservations.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/santa-fe-taos-albuquerque/santa-fe