On the side
SANTA FE BAR & GRILL ★★★
187 Paseo de Peralta, Santa Fe, 505-982-3033, santafebargrill.com
The food at the Santa Fe Bar & Grill is homemade, the price points are equitable and the menu is expansive. With a second menu of solid and tempting daily specials that includes several steak and seafood options, there are plenty of reasons to eat here a few times a week.
The Pacific salmon is grilled to perfection, topped with a big dollop of saffron-jalapeño aioli and served with two, whole roasted Yukon gold potatoes and a medley of sautéed vegetables. This is my kind of wholesome meal and at $16.95, I’m not sure I can make it at home for this price.
The meatloaf ($12.95) is made with ground beef and pork with a bit of green chile and asadero cheese to make an often boring meatloaf a standout. The chipotle-mushroom cream gravy takes this plate over the top as it skillfully combines with garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed vegetables. The seasoned, half-rotisserie chicken plate comes with sautéed green beans, french fries and chipotle aioli ($13.95) and is another winning dish.
The Grilled Gulf Prawn and Avocado Salad ($14.95) is a feast for the eyes and belly. Grilled shrimp, avocado slices and ripe slices of mango are served over a bed of spring greens and romaine, topped with candied pecans and tomatoes and a side of tasty red pepper vinaigrette. The Peppercorn Crusted Steak Salad ($14.95) is another viable option that is a hearty and healthy meal. This salad features a 6-ounce cut over romaine lettuce, avocado, asparagus, tomatoes, hearts of palm and grapefruit segments.
Maybe you want bar food, and the Santa Fe Bar & Grill offers that as well. Choose from classic, halfpound ground chuck burger ($11.95) or a vegetarian burger ($12.95), a Reuben ($12.95), Chimayo Chicken Sandwich ($11.95) or a Galisteo Grilled Cheese ($9.95).
Though the menu is not filled with New Mexican food, there are select dishes that are customer favorites including Chicken Enchiladas ($12.95), Blue Corn Vegetable Enchiladas ($12.95) and two kinds of tacos.