Labor Day Weekend brings a feast of fanfare and fun to Santa Fe, kicking off on Friday with the annual demise of the city’s favorite combustible puppet, Zozobra. The festivities continue over the weekend with the celebration and ceremony of the weeklong Fiesta de Santa Fe.
Throughout it all, food is pivotal in celebrating these events properly!
About Zozobra
If you’re new to Santa Fe or just passing through, you might not know about Zozobra, affectionately nicknamed “Old Man Gloom.” Zozobra is a 50-foot-tall marionette built and burned every year on the Friday before Labor Day in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
People stuff him with notes detailing the troubles they’ve faced over the past year and unsavory paperwork like divorce decrees and bills.
After a battle between Zozobra, his minion Gloomies, and brave Torchbearers, Zozobra finally succumbs to the The Fire Spirit. As he goes up in flames, the community symbolically releases their negativity and embraces renewal for the new year ahead. Santa Fe’s unique, 100-plus year tradition blends artistic expression, cathartic release, and communal new year celebration.
About Fiesta de Santa Fe
Fiesta de Santa Fe is an annual weeklong festival initially commemorating the Spanish reconquest of the city in 1692. The festival continues to evolve, with the community striving to create a celebration that reflects a shared history and a unified future. The Santa Fe Fiesta is considered the oldest continuous community celebration in the country.
The festival features a mix of cultural events, including historical reenactments, a children’s pet parade, the Hysterical/Historical Parade, lively music and dancing, and of course, delicious food.
Best Places to Eat Zozobra Weekend & During Fiesta de Santa Fe
Food is central to the festivities, whether you’re enjoying street food like roasted corn and chicharrón burritos on the Santa Fe Plaza, savoring traditional New Mexican cuisine at a local restaurant, or leveling up with Santa Fe’s fine dining. However you choose to celebrate, ¡Que viva la fiesta!
Here are some of the best restaurants to try over Zozobra weekend and during the Santa Fe Fiesta (or, anytime, really!).
Anasazi Restaurant, Bar & Lounge
Immerse yourself in the refined flavors of the Southwest at Anasazi Restaurant. This acclaimed establishment celebrates regional ingredients with creative dishes and an extensive wine list.
Bell Tower Rooftop Bar
Escape the fiesta crowds and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the Bell Tower Rooftop Bar, located atop La Fonda. This elevated oasis offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can savor a variety of quesadillas, salads, and chips with salsa and guacamole while taking in the sights and sounds of Santa Fe.
Del Charro Saloon
Fuel your fiesta fun at Del Charro Saloon, a Santa Fe favorite known for its lively atmosphere and classic Southwestern fare. Enjoy an unbeatable deal that can satisfy any budget with their famous $10 lunch special.
Escondido
Enjoy incredible cocktails and exquisite fine-dining from the world-renowned Chef Fernado Ruiz in a tucked-away location. Escondido features innovative small plates to share with friends.
Joe’s Dining
Experience a classic Santa Fe diner with a modern twist at Joe’s Dining. They serve up comfort food favorites, including breakfast all day, and delicious New Mexican specialties.
La Plazuela at La Fonda
Step back in time at the historic La Fonda on the Plaza, a beautifully restored former Harvey House. Within its elegant La Plazuela dining room, indulge in authentic New Mexican dishes like Carne Asada and Enchiladas del Norte, or savor their signature green chile cheeseburger with roasted Hatch green chile.
La Casa Sena
La Casa Sena, housed within a historic 1860s hacienda, offers a taste of Santa Fe’s illustrious past and gourmet cuisine. Once home to Major Jose Sena and his family, known for their lavish feasts, the restaurant continues this tradition.
Luminaria
Dine under the stars on Luminaria‘s beautiful patio. Offering a menu with the freshest ingredients, Luminaria allows you to indulge in both the delicious food and the romantic setting.
Market Steer Steakhouse
Savor premium cuts of meat and expertly crafted cocktails at Market Steer Steakhouse. This upscale establishment offers a classic steakhouse experience with a New Mexican flair.
Best Bars for Cocktails, Wine, Spirits, and Beer
The burning of Zozobra and the revelry of Fiestas de Santa Fe call for celebration! Quench your thirst and raise a glass to tradition at Santa Fe’s lowkey bar scene.
Explore the city’s diverse offerings, from expertly crafted margaritas to locally brewed beers and fine wines during happy hour or whenever! Check out the many margarita spots around town following the Margarita Trail and beyond.
Here are our top picks for cocktails, wine, spirits, and beer:
Agave Lounge at The Eldorado Hotel & Spa
Relax in the sophisticated ambiance of the Agave Lounge, known for its extensive tequila selection. It’s the perfect place to savor a premium margarita or explore other agave-based spirits in a stylish setting.
Atrisco Cafe & Bar
Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Atrisco Cafe & Bar, a perfect spot to unwind. Sample their classic New Mexican favorites, crafted to satisfy any palate.
Cava at the Eldorado Hotel & Spa
Enjoy a cocktail in this intimate lounge, set in the Eldorado Hotel & Spa. Offering premium spirits and delicious bites, the Cava is a great meeting spot.
Crafted Tasting Room
Specializing in New Mexican produced beer, wine, and spirits, at Crafted you can create your own tasting flight. Located in Midtown, Crafted also offers tasty snacks.
Social Kitchen + Bar at the Sage
Discover a modern and stylish setting at Social Kitchen + Bar, featuring innovative cocktails and a curated wine list. This vibrant spot is perfect for sharing delicious small plates during the festivities.
La Fiesta Lounge at La Fonda on the Plaza
Experience the heart of the celebration at La Fiesta Lounge, nestled within the historic La Fonda. This iconic bar offers a classic Santa Fe ambiance with signature margaritas and live music.
Maria’s
This classic Santa Fe Restaurant is definitely worth a visit. Maria’s boasts a menu with over 200 margaritas and classic New Mexican dishes.
Rio Chama Prime Steakhouse
Rio Chama Prime Steakhouse is a hotspot for both locals and tourists. Find it located steps away from the historic Santa Fe Plaza.
Santa Fe Brewing
Savor the flavors of locally brewed craft beer at Santa Fe Brewing’s various locations like the Eldorado Taphouse, Downtown Brakeroom, The Bridge, and Beer Hall at HQ. Enjoy a wide selection of award-winning beers in a casual and friendly atmosphere.
The Living Room
Sip on the signature cocktail, a smoked sage margarita, and gather in the cozy and warm Living Room lounge. Located at the Inn and Spa at Lorretto, it provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
Tomasita’s
Serving classic Northern New Mexican cuisine and delicious beverages. Tomasita’s is a popular spot and there is always a wait, so be sure to reserve your table early.
Tumbleroot Brewery & Distillery
Experience Santa Fe’s craft beverage scene at Tumbleroot Brewery & Distillery.
Enjoy their wide selection of handcrafted beers and spirits, all made on-site with a focus on quality and local ingredients.
Raise a Glass to Santa Fe’s Fiesta Flavors!
As Zozobra burns and Fiesta de Santa Fe fill the streets with music and joy, take the time to savor Santa Fe. Take your pick from the City Different’s numerous historic dining rooms serving traditional New Mexican cuisine, chic rooftop bars with stunning views, and lively saloons with unbeatable specials.
The Zozobra and Fiesta de Santa Fe celebrations invite you to parktake in Santa Fe flavors and immerse yourself in the city’s history that spans more than 300 years. Gather your friends and family, explore the city’s diverse culinary offerings, and celebrate Labor Day Weekend in Santa Fe!
This article was posted by Jesse Williams
