Palacio Restaurant

"A visit to Palacio Café feels like an extension of chef-owner Damian Muñoz’s own dining room. The breakfast burritos smothered Christmas-style with red and green chile sauces are as soul-satisfying as they are famous. (Breakfast burritos are said to have been invented in Santa Fe.) Though you came for those lauded sauces, no one would blame you if you opted for one of the paninis, like the Cuban Reuben with corned beef, maple-cured ham, pickles, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing." - Willy Carleton, Justin De La Rosa, Karen Fischer

@davidcho

Santa Fe

Travel Girl

Google

Wow-this is exactly what we wanted to eat after a long day of walking around the city! The dinner menu is not big, but save yourself the trouble of deciding and order the enchiladas because they were delicious! My husband ordered the chicken enchiladas and they came with beans and a hominy and pork (?) side dish. I got the vegetarian enchiladas which had spinach and mushrooms and other veggies-they were excellent. It was so nice to have something other than just cheese as a vegetarian option. We both got Christmas chiles sauces and they were both excellent. Also, we ordered chips and salsa and they were house-made chips and the salsa wasn’t spicy but very tasty! Our margarita was excellent too and the servings were big. Everyone working was very nice, the bathrooms were clean and service was excellent. So glad we stopped here. Prices were reasonable. It was $54 for 2 entrees, chips and salsa and a margarita.

Mickey Rush

Google

Love this place! I have been here twice in the last eight hours. First round I had the beef nachos and a cup of Green Chile soup. Second round had the smothered chicken burrito. Everything was delicious! I don't know much about New Mexican food, but this place seems like the real deal. The staff were all super friendly.

Debarati Das

Google

What a lovely Santa Fe restaurant with New Mexico cuisine! Love the ambiance.. It's cozy and has lovely artwork on the walls. Sometimes there is live music and it's really nice. I love that the menu is focused on New Mexican food and everything is quite delicious! I got the Tamales and my partner got the chicken with Adobo sauce. Both were delicious but I especially like the chicken that my partner got because of the sauce. I really liked that the sauces and cheeses were a reasonable amount in their dishes. They don't use cheese and chile to hide the taste of the actual dish. The amount of cheese and sauces complement the actual taste of the tamales and the enchiladas. It was refreshing. We also got a hibiscus drink which was also super delicious and not overly sweet. We got guac and salsa as starters and will highly recommend the salsa as well. It tasted smoky and delicious. The service was fast, the servers were wonderful and the owner (I think) often comes around to make sure that everyone is looked after. Really like this place and am happy that it exists in downtown Santa Fe. Will definitely be coming back when I want some yummy New Mexican food!

Azzam Aziz

Google

Excellent restaurant. The service is high. They welcome you in, there are tables inside, in the back outside, and in the front outside where they don't serve alcahol. The menu is plentyful. They do give helpful recommendations. The food came out hot, fresh, good portions. I also ordered the green smoothie and loved every bit of it, fresh and refreshing. The chips and salsa were good, especially the chips. Highly recommend it.

Vinny Badolato

Google

Wow, what a great experience. First, my family of five arrived later than intended to Santa Fe and walked in 2 minutes before they closed with low hopes of being served. We were pleasantly surprised when we were greeted with a “what time is it anyway” and immediately shown a table. The employees were so warm and inviting. And the food was phenomenal. The chips were perfect and the salsa with with roasted chilis, divine. The tamale plate exceeded craving for yummy New Mexican food. And my oldest son said out loud to me and our server “I know this is sacrilege, but I’m a Coloradan and this is the best green chili I have ever had.” Case closed, I guess. Will be coming back here again one more time during our long weekend in Santa Fe.

A Wysong

Google

Outstanding experience! Warm and welcoming staff, legit New Mexican cuisine all homemade. I loved the chicken enchiladas smothered in green chili — to die for! Thank you for a wonderful experience in Santa Fe!

Kelly OBrien

Google

Being vegetarian the usual option for enchiladas is cheese. They had a yummy veggie option loaded with veggies and flavor. The whole beans were so delicious! Everyone else at the table got a sandwich. We all loved our meals. Reasonably priced and great service! Definitely would go back again!

Alienated Productions

Google

One of the best Places to eat in Santa Fe hands down, I had the best breakfast burritos I’ve ever eaten. A do not miss

blake p.

Yelp

The owner is absolutely the sweetest and the chef s style of New Mexican food is off the chart people! I ate here about 4 times while in Santa Fe!!

Wendilyn I.

Yelp

This place was delightful. I came on a weekday at about 8 am and it wasn't busy. It was my first time so the server recommended the breakfast tacos. They were so massive that I had to learn my way around them to be able to hold them up. I enjoyed the flavors and pairing them with the green and red sauces. The restaurant itself was quaint and the service was very personable. I would recommend a visit!

Christie B.

Yelp

Very tasty food! Pretty decor! Excellent caring service and staff! Delicious huge chocolate chip cookies! Easy parking.

Abby L.

Yelp

Delicious!! Our favorite place to take friends who are visiting Santa Fe for the first time! The place seems small on the outside but there is a hidden outdoor area. Service is friendly and helpful. I usually get their enchiladas (which they are known for!) Christmas style of course ;) (red & green Chile). And sometimes get their Aqua Fresca, their hibiscus is my personal favorite!

Joy S.

Yelp

Okay. When we came in, there was one other table used and that was just about 12pm. Within 30 minutes all tables were full. The music is perfect, the atmosphere is cute and works without being over stimulated. The noise of all the tables... you would think you couldn't hold a conversation because of how busy they were but it was surprisingly quiet. Now the food... i got the ham and cheese on toasted sourdough bread.This wasn't anything to have again. The fries though were good. My husband got the Cuban Ruben.. He liked every bite.

Ashley B.

Yelp

Came in on a Monday around 11am. Smaller place and a few tables were already there. I ordered the Chile Relleno Plate Lunch with both green and red sauce and holy hell, it was delicious. I preferred the green sauce, but the red was still excellent. I'm not a big pinto fan, but both chilis left in my belly. Waiter was prompt!

Blake H.

Yelp

Another great spot the my daughter and son-in-law like to go for breakfast. The gentleman who came to our table seemed to remember them. He was great! We had a variety of breakfast dishes, I ate my fair share since I was sampling off of my wife's plate too. Not that the breakfast burrito I ordered wasn't enough because it was plenty big. And the green chili was delicious. I considered doing half and half with the red. Maybe next time. My son-in-law had a great idea, he ordered the meat omelet and had it smothered, it looked great. My daughter ordered the Huevos, I think I will be getting that one next time...

Ashley P.

Yelp

My family and I came on a Wednesday morning early and were pleased to find the restaurant fairly empty still. The street was very pretty and the interior of the restaurant was also quaint. I ordered the Smothered Veggie Burrito and I was not disappointed. This thing is mighty but the taste is the best thing about it. 10/10 would come again!

Konrad J.

Yelp

Palacio is a delicious little restaurant just steps off the Plaza in Santa Fe. We went for breakfast and would absolutely recommend it. I had the pancakes, which were fluffy and a good texture, and then a side of hash browns. The latter were crispy but not overdone. Many restaurants either don't cook them enough or go too far; Palacio did them perfectly. My husband had the french toast with a side of bacon and he said they were a 5/5. The service was friendly and professional, and the entrees came quickly. Next time we're in Santa Fe we'll be returning!

Arminda D.

Yelp

Fantastic place to have breakfast lunch and dinner. It's often overlooked despite being a block from the Plaza. Always frequented by locals, always a good sign. The mothered breakfast burrito was amazing. The red chile sauce has a great kick. Portions are large, service is friendly and attentive and plenty of seating inside or outside with hand painted tables and local New Mexico fare.

Alex P.

Yelp

This wasn't my first choice for dinner but the reviews are good so I came here because my original 2 plans fell through. It's a cute place with seats inside and outside patio. My server was very nice but service was relaxed. I went with his recommendation of steak tacos. They were tasty. The rise on the side was delicious and I liked the salsa, it was different than other salsas I have had. I enjoyed the meal. But then I ruined it with the flan. Maybe im being too picky but the texture was not right. Flavor was definitely on point, not too sweet and wonderful caramel but I think it was over baked. It's almost rubbery in texture. Maybe this was an off day for them? Wish I could give 4.5 stars for slow service and the flan.

Manyun C.

Yelp

This is the worst restaurant I've ever been to! The service is so slow that we have to wait twenty minutes for our food.

Jim N.

Yelp

Palacio is a solid stop for any meal in Santa Fe! It delivers traditional NM cuisine, in a very laid back atmosphere. For our lunch today, service was a bit slow (it wasn't really busy, we arrived at 2PM). That sentiment is expressed by other Yelpers. That said, the food was worth the wait. We started with chips and salsa/guacamole, both were good. The avocado in the guacamole was puréed, we prefer chunky avocado, but the flavor was good. The salsa was very fresh, but we prefer a little heat... the chips were thin and crispy... on point. We shared the chicken enchilada platter, "Christmas Style," which came with beans and pozole. The enchiladas were very good, chicken super tender and tasty. Both chili sauces very good, we preferred the red, just a personal taste thing... Good food, good price, funky cool setting (the art on the walls inside is fun), and the small patio out back is very relaxing. Recommend this place!

Valerie S.

Yelp

Food here is something you are looking for when coming to Santa Fe! Yummy red & green chile dishes available. I enjoyed the huevos rancheros and cup of coffee. Made perfectly and very flavorful. Not hot that it burned, but spicy flavor that was rich & delicious. Service was friendly & helpful. It's a small, but cute little place right in the heart of Santa Fe. I would return

Monique B.

Yelp

Whether you are visiting the area or just passing through, this place is a great lunch stop! A shady quiet back patio is the perfect place to stretch your legs (pet friendly too!). The TKY was amazing and if you love caramelized onions - this is your sandwich. We also had the steak tacos and margaritas. Everything was great and the wait staff was very friendly! Would definitely come back.

Josie

Yelp

Totally, and absolutely, underrated. The place is pretty humble looking, a cute atmosphere with colorful walls and decor. In the sunshine, it probably looks twice as good. However, my family and I were staying during a storm. The food made up for the lack of atmosphere. I got the fish tacos and a flan for desert! I was not disappointed whatsoever with my meal. The fish and pineapple pico were plenty, and the flan was delicious and definitely homemade. This place has a super cute homemade charm that someone may look for when visiting but wanting to get away from the plaza. 10/10!

Sebastian S.

Yelp

Great food and service. We had a party of 7 and everyone found a dish for their liking, including our vegetarian friends . The atmosphere is great as well matching the Santa Fe vibe.

Taylor J.

Yelp

The breakfast tacos are literally the best I've ever had. Been coming to Santa Fe multiple times a year for almost 10 years now & I can't believe I just found out about this gem! Staff was lovely too-- super friendly!

Brian S.

Yelp

I have to say, this was one of my favorite meals in Santa Fe. The service was a bit off but the restaurant manager was kind enough to come out and apologize for the delay in food preparation timing... but beyond this I solidly stand by 5 stars. The green chili (which is how I judge restaurants in New Mexico!) was outstanding. A surprise for me was how good their red chile was too! Also, don't miss their homemade chips, salsa and guacamole... also winners!

Karene C.

Yelp

We were looking for new places to try while in town. This place was close to our stay so we walked over to give it a try. My husband had the chicken enchiladas and I had cheese chili relleno. We split the chips, salsa, and guacamole. I had a Hornitos margarita. They have a hidden back patio that is dog friendly, which I knew about from other reviews. Everything is on the pricier side but everything was tasty. Service was quick. The food came out super fast.

Mark B.

Yelp

All of the food here tastes very fresh and made from scratch. Even the chips and salsa were incredible! The staff is very friendly and the restaurant has a cozy vibe with a nice back patio.

Brian B.

Yelp

Small and out-of-the-way, this place has a cozy ambience and great food! Went here for breakfast, had the huevos rancheros and it was excellent. The green chile sauce was not overpowering but more nuanced than some other places, which I appreciated (I didn't need to get it on the side). The service was friendly and efficient, well worth a visit.

Mo L.

Yelp

With so many choices for food in Santa Fe can't go wrong and can repeat this one. The food is perfect and the staff fabulous Went for dinner and breakfast and was superb. Will return

Christina M.

Yelp

I feel like this is our go-to when we're in Santa Fe. Cute and intimate place with sweet people. Their lattes and mocha are to die for! I got the breakfast tacos and my husband got the Huevos rancheros. The salsa alone is spectacular! Eggs were cooked and seasoned well. Veggies were fresh and crisp. Tortillas were light and fluffy. This place nails authentic New Mexican cuisine! One of our favorite places to dine!

Kathryn B.

Yelp

We were looking for a place to have dinner & The Palacio was highly rated & just a short walk from our hotel. After we called to confirm they were dog friendly, we headed over. It is a small & welcoming restaurant. Our waiter was very friendly & helpful. I knew that I wanted Chile Rellenos, but the menu showed that it came with parole, which the waiter confirmed had pork in it. I told him I was vegetarian so he offered to swap in rice instead. The food was amazing! The guacamole was good, with little chunks of avocado. The Chile Rellenos were delicious! After we got back to the hotel, we were talking about what we wanted to do for breakfast & we both wanted Huevos Rancheros. I looked up best Huevos Rancheros in Santa Fe & The Palacio was at the top of that list!! So we went back the next morning. The Huevos Rancheros were spectacular, eggs cooked perfectly to order, fruit cup was fresh, and the flour tortilla was so good that I got a dozen to-go. Our waiter for breakfast was also very friendly. Highly recommend The Palacio!!!!!

Bonnie G.

Yelp

Such a respite, hanging out at this restaurant! After strolling Canyon Road on a hot day, their homemade chips, salsa, guacamole, and lemonade was just what we needed. While the guacamole was just okay and the lemonade a little too sweet, the chips and salsa more than made up for it and the whole experience as un-rushed and relaxing. Got one of the two tables outside on the street. Played cards for hours.

Andrea K.

Yelp

Loved the Huevos Rancheros! Their red and green chilis were delicious. Perhaps a bit too much cheese and wish it would have been melted more, but otherwise fantastic. Everyone was super nice. The margarita, though I felt like we were somewhat cheated on the pour, was absolutely divine and packed a punch. So- no complaints! Our little had the pancake and loved it. We would definitely return here on our next visit.

Amy R.

Yelp

We were at The plaza looking for a good, reasonable restaurant. Day of the Dead, 5:30, the traffic guy recommended the Shed. it was a 3.5 hour wait for a table. We kept walking and lucked into Palacio Cafe.OMG everything was amazing. We began with chips, salsa and guac. I said I didn't want it- didn't want to overeat, but hubby ordered a margarita (YUM!! PS I love them in Mexico , but haven't had a domestic one I cared for) and wanted chips. The salsa was made with roasted peppers. I could have eaten it with a spoon! Same with the guac, which very much reminded me of Mexico - creamy with lots of tomatoes and the right touch of salt and spices. We shared the Chile Relleno plate (beans, pazole and maybe the best CR I've ever tasted! It was like a pie, with delicious tender chilled, cream inside, a light batter and a somewhat crispy tender cheese over it. We also split the chicken fajitas and everything was perfect. The onions and red peppers were sweet, grilled perfectly, a little crispy parts, and not at all oily. I must say the refried beans with whole beans were incredibly creamy, tender, perfectly cooked. The little flour tortillas were homemade. So then... yup, we had to try the homemade flan. Highly recommended but only if you've got someone willing to share. Love this place!!!

Michael O.

Yelp

This place was a wonderful find! Great New Mexico style cuisine and ambience. Probably the best Chile Relleno I have ever eaten. Portion sizes are just right. The flavor of everything was impeccable, and the staff was very friendly, particularly Coley, our server. The chef came to the table to ask how we liked the food. What a wonderful experience this was. Next time I am in Santa Fe, I will be back!!!

Jana O.

Yelp

The food is great, if they get it to you. My husband got his food but mine never came, even though I kept asking for it. When I asked for it to be removed from the ticket, since I never got it, he main waiter was very rude and accused me of trying not to pay. The ambiance was upsetting as the wait staff were all fighting with each other, so they all shut down. I think the main waiter needs some people management skills.

Michelle C.

Yelp

Very good food! I had the best flan I can remember in a long time. Also the Christmas chicken enchiladas were on point! Came back for round two also! Very nice staff and cute little spot.

Karen N.

Yelp

What a cute patio restaurant. From the outside it does not look very special, but the outdoor seating was so nice. We started with chips and salsa. The chips were homemade and crispy. We tried the enchilada with Christmas style sauce. It was served with beans and pozole.. The enchilada was excellent and the portion was large enough for us to split. All the servers were so attentive, and we had several. They were committed to ensuring we were taken care of. We ended with an order of flan. It was so good. The custard was creamy and smooth , with just a hint of caramel. Their Hibiscus iced tea was perfect on a warm day. One of the chefs came out to check on us. He was so proud of what he created and beamed with pride when we shared with him how much we enjoyed our lunch. We had a wonderful lunch.

Christina T.

Yelp

This was the perfect restaurant for us to try New Mexican cuisine in Santa Fe ., it was right down the street from another popular place that told us it was more than an hour wait so we walked away and thankfully found palacio ., they gave us a warm smiling welcome in. It had a relaxed homey atmosphere and the menu was simple and easy to make choices. I had the pork tamale platter and it was so good ., I'm sorry that I live so far and won't be able to have it again any time soon ! My son isn't that adventurous so he got a cheeseburger and fries .. it was really a nice big size burger and generous portion . I also enjoyed the ipa that is brewed at Santa Fe brewery.. I can't wait to go back

Neal N.

Yelp

It is absolutely delicious and a delightful, family run atmosphere. Prices are reasonable. We had enchiladas which the owner is rightfully proud of, along with equally good fajitas and chicken quesadilla. Homemade flan and Tres Leche cake were wonderful. We will definitely return.

Helene J.

Yelp

Our breakfast of pancakes and REAL maple syrup was delicious, the servers were very friendly and the owner, Damian is an absolutely sweetheart. He is such a thoughtful guy; he went out of his way to help a person with their meter on the street. Very kind and thoughtful person Damian is. Highly recommend this restaurant.

Kurt W.

Yelp

Stopped in on a super busy Sunday afternoon for a quick lunch when everybody and their brother was in town. Had to wait a bit. You could tell that it was an all-hands-on-deck kind of day for the staff. Everyone was doing double-duty and the kitchen was in high gear. Even the bartender was serving tables. Yes we had to wait for the table, drinks, and initial attention. And yes there was one small mistake. But for me it's not the setbacks, it's the recovery. The meal was amazing (Chile Relleno w/ green salsa and special order tuna sandwich). Service was on-point. The folks were genuine and a true pleasure to interact with. And, the "Best Margaritas" claim is a fact. Hands down, absolutely supreme. Strongly recommended.

Ali M.

Yelp

Palacio is an absolute must if you're in Santa Fe! We stopped for a late lunch. The service was excellent as was the food. Try their green chile stew (the best I've had) and the roast beef panini - OMG - absolutely incredible! The inside is rustic and charming. We can't wait to go back! Damian, keep up the great work. We adore your place!

Laura W.

Yelp

Absolutely the best place to have breakfast in Santa Fe. The customer service is over the top. Food is so delicious. We have been there before and consider our visit complete only after eating here.

Shanelle D.

Yelp

The food was amazing and the service was amazing. The owner of the restaurant came out and talked to us and sugar hand and was very grateful we really enjoyed ourselves.

Nora L.

Yelp

Great portions for brunch! Came with a group and got a hearty tamale plate. Very filling and delicious. Ask for the red chili sauce to be safe but definitely get the green chili if you're feeling adventurous!

2028 Giulia M.

Yelp

Such a great place with amazing food, cute decor and ambience, and super helpful staff! Go here if you are in Santa Fe! We actually weren't going to go here but when another place nearby was too busy to accommodate us, they came to the rescue! No reservation, and no wait. The food was delicious, flavorful, and authentic. The most delicious and memorable dishes were the pozole and tamale plate. I ordered a cup of pozole and the portion was generous for the price ($6) and came with a warm fluffy flour tortilla. The stew was flavorful and vibrant with a tang of spice from the chile and a nice bite with hominy and bits of tender pork. I enjoyed dipping the soft tortilla into the stew to help with the spice because 1. i'm a wimp and 2. YUM! The tamale plate is also a good value and the spice level is perfect. I was very pleased with my experience here and happy that my first time having authentic New Mexican cuisine was so pleasing! p.s.- the owner was soo sweet! Not sure if he was the owner but seemed to be so and he came around to each persons table to interact with them. Even gave us hugs when we walked out as if we were a part of the family!!!

Ashley P.

Yelp

Loved this food & service. The staff is very friendly and welcoming. This is a definite "hole in the wall" Mexican place. The smothered burritos are amazing, the fish tacos are to die for. The owner recommended the chicken enchiladas and I think that's what they are known for. Definitely wish we could come back!!! A must eat place!! (Also not just a lunch place, the specials and "lunch options" are good for dinner to)

C B.

Yelp

This is such a warm and welcoming place to dine. The service is excellent here! The food is quality and absolutely delicious. We were looking for something special in Santa Fe--This is the place! The chicken enchiladas and pork tamales were fantastic! Damien was our server and made us feel like like family. We would highly recommend this restaurant!

Cathy M.

Yelp

This place is the best! We were told it's the best in Santa Fe and we both agreed! Go here!! exceptional dishes, especially the Chili Relleno!!! Exceptional!! Go to Shed for the name but come here for the food!!!!

Hal M.

Yelp

Best tamales ever! Their green chili soup was awesome. Nice atmosphere and service was excellent.

Dayna M.

Yelp

The food was amazing and the staff was great, it is on the smaller size, so you may have to wait for a table during peak times. We had 9 people and barely waited but we went early.

Molly H.

Yelp

Palacio cafe has great reviews and it's not far off of the square in Santa Fe so we stopped in for lunch. It was busy but we were able to grab the last table and avoided a wait. It's definitely a popular spot and I wasn't sure what to get so I went with the chicken enchiladas. Unfortunately it wasn't that good. My plate was drowning in way too much cheese and sauce and it made everything kind of blend together making the tortilla really soggy. I think a lot less cheese or sauce on the side and definitely a bigger plate would help. My friend ordered the tamales and let me try a bite - they were much better! In hindsight I think I ordered wrong which was my mistake, but I definitely recommend not getting the enchiladas.

Ashley E.

Yelp

Very friendly service and great decor and ambience. The restaurant was basically empty when we arrived at 8am today. My friend had breakfast tacos and I had huevos rancheros. Both were ready quickly, fairly priced, and delicious! I would absolutely come back and try other dishes.

Ann S.

Yelp

We went to Palacio for lunch yesterday. We were seated as we came in, there were no places at their patio, which is very nice, shaded and tropical. They also allow dogs on the patio. My husband ordered a BLT with a Mexican coke, and I had of all things a Ruben. I'm regretting not taking pictures because these sandwich's are huge and beautiful! My Ruben had just the right amount of sauerkraut and meat proportions. The sauce was slightly sweet but it complimented the tart mustard. My husband's BLT was large and had actual thick heirloom tomatoes and thick smoky bacon. The waitress was prompt and very sweet. They are supposed to have a fantastic Tres Leches cake that is made in house. It is apparent that this restaurant prides itself in good food and a relaxing experience.