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Santa Fe’s oldest restaurant, welcomes you! This historic diner, in dowtown Santa Fe, offers locals and visitors authentic New Mexican cuisine and flavors that span the globe! We’re the home of fine food and the friendliest folks in the southwest! The Plaza Cafe, Santa Fe’s oldest restaurant, has been serving highly acclaimed, authentic traditional dishes since 1905. In 1947, Dan Razatos, a Greek immigrant with an American dream, took over the Plaza Cafe and his family has been feeding Santa Fe ever since. Dan married a local girl named Beneranda and together they ran the Plaza and raised six children. As their children grew they all worked at the Plaza and helped to create what the restaurant is today.
Retro spot for classic diner fare along with Southwestern comfort food in a family-friendly setting.
Address and Contact Information
Address: 54 Lincoln Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501
Phone: (505) 982-1664
Website: https://www.plazacafedowntown.com/
Menu Photos
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Related Web Results
Plaza Cafe Downtown | Mexican Cuisine Restaurant in Santa Fe, NM
This historic diner, in dowtown Santa Fe, offers locals and visitors authentic New Mexican cuisine and flavors that span the globe!
Plaza Cafe Santa Fe
Plaza Cafe — Restaurants located in New Mexico.
The Plaza Cafe – Downtown – TOURISM Santa Fe
201 W. Marcy St. Santa Fe, NM 87501 800-777-2489. Subscribe to Monthly eNews.
Reviews
Don Allen
Our first visit to downtown Santa Fe all from Google Maps found this spot to eat from the high ranking and positive reviews as the must request place to eat for its historic significance! It didn’t disappoint! Big highlight is being able to walk up on a Sunday morning around 11am and get the perfect seating area outside under some heated lamps with a bright sun overhead on the longest day of the summer The summer solstice 2025 December 21! Everything was great m! Now I must tell you I am a pancake lover and adventurous as well so I tried the blue corn pancakes and I gotta say I did not like it! It was less of pancakes and more like cornbread and I am a sweet cornbread only eater. It was not too sweet so I drowned it in syrup . Other than this, great place, good service, perfect central location, good food, warm, chill atmosphere, pet friendly!
… moreSteven Starr
We returned to Plaza Cafe after a 20 month absence, and it was our first stop on arrival to town, even before checking in to our hotel. Craving blue corn enchiladas and sangria, we headed straight there.
A wonderfully sunny and cool March late afternoon — no jacket required. Of course we sat outside. We started with perfect sangrias, and I already knew I wanted the blue corn enchiladas. The flavor is so understated and unique. Just delicious!
What caught us by surprise was the chicken Frito pie (rojo y verde salsas). Really fresh, quite spicy, and loaded with large chunks of juicy chicken. Seriously one of the best dishes I’ve ever tried (and I got to try more than a few bites of my wife’s very large Frito pie).
So glad we stopped in for our Plaza Cafe Santa Fe ice breaker. Besides, if you start at Plaza Cafe for a late lunch of day 1, there’s plenty of time to return another day for breakfast.
Update … Yep — stopped in for breakfast (which really is a must-try). Of course we had a blue corn pancake (one is enough), crispy thick bacon and delicious cappuccinos. The highlight was on the the specials menu — Huevos Divorciados. Each prepared-to-order egg is smothered in alternating tomatillo and chipotle salsas (in the Plaza Cafe red/green tradition), which are completely unique from the salsas on their menu, not spicy, and truly amazing. A truly perfect flavor combination. One of the best breakfasts I’ve ever had — spectacular.
… moreA wonderfully sunny and cool March late afternoon — no jacket required. Of course we sat outside. We started with perfect sangrias, and I already knew I wanted the blue corn enchiladas. The flavor is so understated and unique. Just delicious!
What caught us by surprise was the chicken Frito pie (rojo y verde salsas). Really fresh, quite spicy, and loaded with large chunks of juicy chicken. Seriously one of the best dishes I’ve ever tried (and I got to try more than a few bites of my wife’s very large Frito pie).
So glad we stopped in for our Plaza Cafe Santa Fe ice breaker. Besides, if you start at Plaza Cafe for a late lunch of day 1, there’s plenty of time to return another day for breakfast.
Update … Yep — stopped in for breakfast (which really is a must-try). Of course we had a blue corn pancake (one is enough), crispy thick bacon and delicious cappuccinos. The highlight was on the the specials menu — Huevos Divorciados. Each prepared-to-order egg is smothered in alternating tomatillo and chipotle salsas (in the Plaza Cafe red/green tradition), which are completely unique from the salsas on their menu, not spicy, and truly amazing. A truly perfect flavor combination. One of the best breakfasts I’ve ever had — spectacular.
Patrice Fontaine
Valentin was a great server…so knowledgeable and friendly. The food was delicious. The best French Toast ever! Chicken fried steak and eggs were very good and so was the Chile Relleno omelet! Sopas were fresh. I’ve never been there but will be back this month too!
… moreLife Of A Nomad
Holiday Warmth and Authentic Flavors in the Heart of Santa Fe ✨
Every time we visit Santa Fe, we make sure to stop at Plaza Café Downtown, right by the historic Plaza. This legendary spot, established in 1905, never disappoints it’s one of those rare places where tradition, taste, and atmosphere all come together perfectly.
This time we decided to try something new: the Sopaipillas (fresh, warm, and perfectly puffed!) and the Posole soup hearty, flavorful, and full of that signature New Mexican comfort. The broth was rich and aromatic, with tender hominy and just the right amount of spice. The garnish plate with cabbage, cilantro, red onion, and lemon made it easy to customize every spoonful. Paired with the crisp sopaipillas and a bit of butter, it was simply outstanding.
The café was beautifully decorated for the holidays twinkling lights, a white Christmas tree with red ornaments, and festive desserts displayed like artwork in the glass case. The atmosphere felt joyful yet cozy, with friendly staff and the smell of authentic New Mexican cooking in the air.
To finish, I enjoyed a Santa Fe Sunset tea (chamomile, hibiscus, and Navajo cota), the perfect way to relax on a chilly evening. Plaza Café Downtown remains a must-visit for anyone exploring Santa Fe Plaza warm service, history in every corner, and flavors that truly represent New Mexico. ️❤️
… moreEvery time we visit Santa Fe, we make sure to stop at Plaza Café Downtown, right by the historic Plaza. This legendary spot, established in 1905, never disappoints it’s one of those rare places where tradition, taste, and atmosphere all come together perfectly.
This time we decided to try something new: the Sopaipillas (fresh, warm, and perfectly puffed!) and the Posole soup hearty, flavorful, and full of that signature New Mexican comfort. The broth was rich and aromatic, with tender hominy and just the right amount of spice. The garnish plate with cabbage, cilantro, red onion, and lemon made it easy to customize every spoonful. Paired with the crisp sopaipillas and a bit of butter, it was simply outstanding.
The café was beautifully decorated for the holidays twinkling lights, a white Christmas tree with red ornaments, and festive desserts displayed like artwork in the glass case. The atmosphere felt joyful yet cozy, with friendly staff and the smell of authentic New Mexican cooking in the air.
To finish, I enjoyed a Santa Fe Sunset tea (chamomile, hibiscus, and Navajo cota), the perfect way to relax on a chilly evening. Plaza Café Downtown remains a must-visit for anyone exploring Santa Fe Plaza warm service, history in every corner, and flavors that truly represent New Mexico. ️❤️
Rachael K
Charming and famous old-school diner type place with a fabulous staff and many options for food choices. We had a salmon salad and pumpkin posole. The salad had chunks of salmon seemingly fried to perfection im a hot skillet. The pumpkin posole was very tasty but I would have made it less creamy (pureed pumpkin not actual cream). Fresh brewed iced tea. The key lime pie was tasty but very dense and rich if that’s the kind of key lime pie you like then you would like it. They ended a delicious meal by giving us tasty little Christmas cookies that they make. I’ve never had anything like them. They were delicious
… moreTasha
The food was exceptional! I had the New Mexico steak and eggs, little spendy for breakfast but worth it! Hubby had Huevo Rancheros and he loved it! Highly recommend! Melvin our server was amazing!
… moreMarty McAuley
The salsa in this place is THE best I ever tasted, fabulous. Got Frito pie, see pic, was very very nice. My girlfriend got crispy avocado tacos and she absolutely loved it. Bought a couple of Salsa jars to take home
… moreJerry E.
One of the best meals we had during our visit to Santa Fe. If there is one place that captures the living heart of Santa Fe, it is the Plaza Cafe Downtown. Standing as the city’s oldest restaurant (serving hungry locals and travelers since 1905), this isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a historic landmark where the hospitality is as warm as the red chile.
The Soul of Santa Fe Since 1905
The magic of the Plaza Cafe lies in its unique heritage. Owned by the Razatos family since 1947, the menu is a beautiful, “only-in-New-Mexico” fusion of authentic Southwestern flavors, classic American diner comfort, and a surprising nod to the family’s Greek roots.
The Food: Flavor That Lives Up to the Legacy
Unlike many “historic” spots that rely on their location, the food here is consistently spectacular.
The Blue Corn Piñon Pancakes: A must-order for breakfast. Topped with orange butter and cinnamon syrup, they are nutty, fluffy, and arguably the best pancakes in the state.
Blue Corn Enchiladas: These are the real deal. Whether you choose the savory chicken or the ground beef, make sure to get them “Christmas style” (both red and green chile) to experience the full spectrum of New Mexican spice.
Hatch Green Chile Cheeseburger: Using New Mexico grass-fed beef, this burger is a masterclass in balance—juicy, cheesy, and packed with that signature Hatch kick.
The Greek Twist: Don’t sleep on the Gyros or the Greek Salad. It’s a refreshing, authentic change of pace that honors the family’s immigrant story.
The Vibe: Retro Charm Meets Modern Energy
Stepping inside feels like a joyful trip back in time. With its vibrant neon accents, swiveling counter stools, and walls adorned with vintage photos, it maintains a classic mid-century diner energy. In recent years, they’ve added a gorgeous outdoor terrace right on the Plaza, perfect for soaking in the Santa Fe sun and the sounds of local musicians while you eat.
Why It’s a “Must-Visit”
Why should you go:
History, You’re dining in a building that has seen over 120 years of Santa Fe history.
Service, “Despite being one of the busiest spots in town, the staff (some of whom have been there for 40+ years) are incredibly efficient and treat you like family.”
The Dessert Case, Do not leave without a slice of the Apple Cajeta Pie or a signature Biscochito. They are well known for a reason.
Value, “For a prime Plaza location, the portions are generous and the prices remain very reasonable.”
The Verdict
The Plaza Cafe is the rare “tourist destination” that locals actually love. It is bright, cheery, and unpretentious. Whether you’re starting your morning with a Mexican Shakshuka or ending your day with a margarita and a stuffed sopapilla, you are guaranteed a meal that tastes like home.
Pro Tip: It doesn’t take reservations and the line can get long at noon, but it moves fast—and the people-watching from the sidewalk can be top notch. If you need to use the facilities while you’re there, notice the windows to the past on the way. There are, what look to be, very old (original?) adobe walls encased in glass to show the history of the place. I thought that was a cool aesthetic/contrast to the general motif of the place. Something to look at while you wait in the bathroom line. very cool. =)
… moreThe Soul of Santa Fe Since 1905
The magic of the Plaza Cafe lies in its unique heritage. Owned by the Razatos family since 1947, the menu is a beautiful, “only-in-New-Mexico” fusion of authentic Southwestern flavors, classic American diner comfort, and a surprising nod to the family’s Greek roots.
The Food: Flavor That Lives Up to the Legacy
Unlike many “historic” spots that rely on their location, the food here is consistently spectacular.
The Blue Corn Piñon Pancakes: A must-order for breakfast. Topped with orange butter and cinnamon syrup, they are nutty, fluffy, and arguably the best pancakes in the state.
Blue Corn Enchiladas: These are the real deal. Whether you choose the savory chicken or the ground beef, make sure to get them “Christmas style” (both red and green chile) to experience the full spectrum of New Mexican spice.
Hatch Green Chile Cheeseburger: Using New Mexico grass-fed beef, this burger is a masterclass in balance—juicy, cheesy, and packed with that signature Hatch kick.
The Greek Twist: Don’t sleep on the Gyros or the Greek Salad. It’s a refreshing, authentic change of pace that honors the family’s immigrant story.
The Vibe: Retro Charm Meets Modern Energy
Stepping inside feels like a joyful trip back in time. With its vibrant neon accents, swiveling counter stools, and walls adorned with vintage photos, it maintains a classic mid-century diner energy. In recent years, they’ve added a gorgeous outdoor terrace right on the Plaza, perfect for soaking in the Santa Fe sun and the sounds of local musicians while you eat.
Why It’s a “Must-Visit”
Why should you go:
History, You’re dining in a building that has seen over 120 years of Santa Fe history.
Service, “Despite being one of the busiest spots in town, the staff (some of whom have been there for 40+ years) are incredibly efficient and treat you like family.”
The Dessert Case, Do not leave without a slice of the Apple Cajeta Pie or a signature Biscochito. They are well known for a reason.
Value, “For a prime Plaza location, the portions are generous and the prices remain very reasonable.”
The Verdict
The Plaza Cafe is the rare “tourist destination” that locals actually love. It is bright, cheery, and unpretentious. Whether you’re starting your morning with a Mexican Shakshuka or ending your day with a margarita and a stuffed sopapilla, you are guaranteed a meal that tastes like home.
Pro Tip: It doesn’t take reservations and the line can get long at noon, but it moves fast—and the people-watching from the sidewalk can be top notch. If you need to use the facilities while you’re there, notice the windows to the past on the way. There are, what look to be, very old (original?) adobe walls encased in glass to show the history of the place. I thought that was a cool aesthetic/contrast to the general motif of the place. Something to look at while you wait in the bathroom line. very cool. =)
Kim HE
Found one of the best + most expansive breakfast menus in all of Sante Fe!!
It’s on the square and they have outdoor seating, which is absolutely adorable + and I just love how diverse the menu is and incredibly affordable considering it’s right on the square + in central Santa Fe!!
… moreIt’s on the square and they have outdoor seating, which is absolutely adorable + and I just love how diverse the menu is and incredibly affordable considering it’s right on the square + in central Santa Fe!!
Tierney Kilgariff
There was a line when we arrived, but we were seated pretty soon after that. Everybody enjoyed their food. I love supporting local, family-owned restaurants, and the Plaza Cafe is no different. It’s right on the town square and it felt authentically Santa Fe. The service and the other guests were nice. Everybody was in a good mood. Would love to come back some day.
… more