Jerry E.
Google
While Santa Fe is known for high-end "fine dining" prices, Del Charro (located at the Inn of the Governors) is a beloved exception. Known as the city’s favorite "watering hole," it offers a rare combination of authentic Southwest charm, award-winning food, and some of the best value you’ll find in the downtown area.
The Food: Award-Winning Comfort
Del Charro consistently wins local polls for "Best Burger" and "Best Cheap Eats," and for good reason. The menu focuses on hearty, unpretentious New Mexican and American fare.
The Stuffed Green Chile Cheeseburger: This is their claim to fame. Unlike most places that just top the burger with chile, Del Charro offers a version where the patty is stuffed with roasted green chile and cheese. It’s smoky, spicy, and widely considered a "must-eat" in Santa Fe.
Green Chile Chicken Chowder: A former "Souper Bowl" winner, this is creamy, comforting, and has just enough kick to keep it interesting.
Daily $10 Lunch Specials: One of the best deals in the city. Depending on the day, you can get massive plates like a Stuffed Beef Sopapilla or a Stuffed Poblano for just $10.
Late Night Bites: In a city where many kitchens close early, Del Charro stays open until midnight (Monday–Saturday), making it the go-to spot for a post-event meal.
The Atmosphere: Rustic Saloon Vibes
The vibe is "Western Saloon" without being cheesy. It’s warm, lived-in, and welcoming to both muddy hikers and Plaza tourists.
The Fireplace: There are four coveted leather chairs right in front of a roaring kiva fireplace. If you can snag one on a snowy Santa Fe evening, you’ve won the night.
The Patio: Their outdoor patio is covered and heated, allowing you to enjoy the fresh New Mexico air almost year-round.
The "Beehive" Shakers: When you order their house margarita, it’s served in a signature beehive-shaped cocktail shaker, which gives you about a drink and a half for a very reasonable price.
Why It’s Favorable
Accessibility: It’s just two blocks from the Plaza, making it an easy walk from any downtown hotel.
Price Point: You can easily have a full meal and a drink for under $25, which is increasingly rare in Santa Fe’s historic district.
The Verdict
Go if: You want a casual, lively atmosphere where the food is consistently good and the margaritas are strong. It is the perfect place to decompress after a day of gallery-hopping.
Skip if: You are looking for a white-tablecloth experience or a quiet place for a business meeting. It gets loud, crowded, and energetic.