Savor Santa Fe: Wine Pairing Dinner

Planning a trip to Santa Fe and looking for a way to really get a taste of the city beyond the usual tourist spots? If so, the Savor Santa Fe: Wine Pairing Dinner might catch your eye. This tour promises an elegant, multi-course dinner at three locally-loved restaurants, paired with carefully selected wines, all led by a knowledgeable guide who shares stories about the city’s food culture and landmarks.

What immediately appeals to us is the combination of gourmet dining and cultural insight, making it more than just a meal – it’s a curated experience. We especially love that it hits the highlights of Santa Fe’s downtown, offering a glimpse of architecture and history while indulging your palate.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the price point—at over $230 per person, it’s not exactly budget-friendly, especially if you’re traveling solo or with a tight budget. Also, the tour involves a good amount of walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity.

This experience is best suited for food lovers who want to sample Santa Fe’s upscale dining scene, enjoy wine pairings, and learn about local landmarks in a relaxed, social setting. If you enjoy guided food tours and are looking for a memorable dinner that combines culinary delights with cultural stories, this one might be right up your alley.

Key Points

• High-quality food and wine pairing at three Santa Fe restaurants
• Insightful guide with knowledge of local history and food culture
• Opportunity to explore Santa Fe landmarks while dining
• Moderate walking required, about 1.5-2 miles total
• Tour size limited to 16 guests for a personalized experience
• Price reflects a comprehensive experience with multiple restaurants and drinks included

What the Tour Entails

An Introduction at Santa Fe Plaza

Your evening begins right in the heart of Santa Fe at the Plaza, where you’ll get a quick overview of its history. It’s a lively spot, full of local energy—a perfect place to set the scene for the evening ahead. This isn’t just about food; it’s about feeling the vibe of Santa Fe’s roots.

Visiting Iconic Landmarks

As you stroll to your first restaurant, you’ll pass some of Santa Fe’s notable sights, like the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and the Palace of the Governors. These landmarks are more than just background—they’re part of what makes Santa Fe so visually compelling, and your guide will fill you in on their stories.

The Restaurants and Food

The dinner takes place at three highly-rated, locally-frequented restaurants. Each stop is carefully chosen to highlight Santa Fe’s distinctive New Mexican dishes. Expect beautifully presented plates that showcase regional flavors, like chile-infused dishes, hearty stews, or contemporary takes on traditional fare.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

What sets this apart is the wine pairing with each course—chefs and sommeliers work together to match wines that enhance the flavors of your food. Several reviewers rave about the quality of the wines, noting that they perfectly complement the dishes. One reviewer said, “The wine pairings were excellent,” emphasizing how much this added to their dining experience.

The Guide and Stories

You’ll be in capable hands with guides like Jose or Peter, who are praised for their knowledgeability and personable nature. They share stories about Santa Fe, its history, and its culinary scene, adding a layer of depth and context. One traveler shared, “Jose did a wonderful job, you can tell he is passionate about the culture and food,” which makes the experience feel authentic and engaging.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, enough time to enjoy each course without feeling rushed. It’s a small-group experience, capped at 16 guests, which helps create a more intimate and personalized atmosphere.

Value for Money

Considering that all food, alcohol pairings, non-alcoholic beverages, and dessert are included, many reviews feel this is good value, especially given the high quality and the unique experience of sampling three restaurants in one night. However, some might find the price a bit steep—this isn’t a casual dinner, but a curated, gourmet experience.

What We Liked Most

• The quality of food and wine, with many reviewers praising the thoughtful pairings
• The opportunity to see Santa Fe landmarks while walking between restaurants
• The friendly, knowledgeable guides who share stories and context that enrich the experience
• The small group size making it feel more special and personalized

Potential Downsides

While the experience is largely positive, it’s important to note that:
– The price might be prohibitive for some travelers
– You’ll need to be comfortable with moderate walking, covering about 1.5-2 miles
– The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor weather might occur, though refunds are offered
– It is non-refundable—so plan accordingly

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

Most reviewers (96%) recommend the experience, and with a 5.0 rating based on 28 reviews, it’s clear that many found it memorable. One reviewer called it “a wonderful experience,” highlighting how each dish was excellent and the wine pairings were “truly complimented” the food. Another said, “Very good guide with great service,” emphasizing the professionalism and knowledge of the staff.

A few reviews mention issues—like a cancellation just before the event—but overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, especially highlighting the expert guides, stunning views, and excellent pairings.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This dinner tour is a great pick for foodies eager to enjoy Santa Fe’s culinary scene in a relaxed, social setting. It’s particularly suited for those interested in pairing gourmet food with wine and who want a guided walk through the city’s landmarks. It’s less ideal for travelers on a tight schedule or on a strict budget, given the cost—but if you value a curated, high-end experience, it’s well worth considering.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience is more adult-oriented given the wine pairings and the moderate walking involved. It’s not specifically designed as a family-friendly tour, but service animals are allowed if needed.

How long does the tour last?
The dinner lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours, with some walking in between. The initial meeting point is at 4:00 pm, and you’ll end back at the same spot.

Is tipping included?
Gratuity for servers is included, but not for your guide. If you feel your guide provided exceptional service, consider tipping separately.

What’s the price range?
At $233.50 per person, it’s a premium experience reflecting the quality of food, wine, and personalized service.

What is the minimum number of guests?
A minimum of 4 guests is required for the tour to run. If the group doesn’t meet this number, it might be canceled or rescheduled.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If canceled due to weather or low bookings, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Savor Santa Fe: Wine Pairing Dinner offers a thoughtfully curated evening that combines culinary excellence with cultural storytelling. If you’re a traveler who appreciates good food, enjoys learning about local history, and doesn’t mind spending a bit more for a high-quality guided experience, you’ll likely find this a highlight of your trip.

The small group size, expert guides, and attention to detail make it a memorable way to experience Santa Fe’s vibrant food scene and stunning landmarks all in one evening. While it might not be suitable for budget travelers or those seeking a casual night out, for those looking to indulge in a refined, immersive experience, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable night out, this dinner tour combines the best of Santa Fe’s culinary culture with its captivating sights. Just pack your appetite and a love for good stories—you’re in for a treat.