[[HIGHLIGHT]]This is like transporting to a white wealthy suburb of NYC and ordering mexican food with people that you don't think have ever had mexican food before.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] This truly is the anithesis of Cosme, Corima, or El Fish Marisqueria. That's not to say it's bad and doesn't have its spot in NYC dining, it is busy and certainly draws a crowd. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The UWS is where this belongs, and it's good to bring a baby here.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The steak fajitas are better than half of the steak frites in NYC, but the sad guac, beans, salsa, and additional accoutrements do not add in any way. Nothing on the menu tastes mexican, all of it tastes as if a mom in Minnesota that was afraid of spice wanted to make mexican food. The steak was great, but tasted like steak with peppers and onions. The Chimichangas had great grilled chicken in there, but they tasted nothing like a flavorful, yummy chimichanga. The esquites were flavorful, but tasted nothing like any esquites I've had in Mexico, or even southern California. The real winner of the evening was the Mezcalita, which would be a great summer cocktail, and I will come have it again. [[HIGHLIGHT]]So while aspects of this restaurant are good, the overall restaurant is truly only fine.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

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We came here based off the recommendation of a friend. The chimichangas were okay (I got one steak and one chicken), the rice and beans were good, but what really stood out was the margaritas, the staff, and the atmosphere. I got the En Fuego margarita, which had Serrano infused tequila and cayenne washed agave nectar. It was nice and actually spicy! [[HIGHLIGHT]]The atmosphere was lovely - beautiful decor, spaced out tables, and we sat in the back area with a pretty atrium.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It was noticeably quiet too, creating a chill ambiance.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The staff was so friendly and thoughtful. When I asked for a straw, our waiter brought four so my family could try my margarita as well. Our food came out really fast too, within about 10 minutes of ordering. I look forward to trying other food from Santa Fe soon! read more

Santa Fe - Chimichangas and En Fuego margarita - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

We went here because the "trendier" spot across the street had a long line and we didn't want to wait -- our fave type of NYC dining experience. And we had a lovely time on Mother's Day! With every entree, they were giving a mimosa for free... and here we were planning on getting a pitcher to share before we found out about the deal! The mahi mahi tacos were excellent. The complimentary chips and salsa were great. The one thing I wish they'd make better is to include on their items whether stuff comes with cilantro because we had two non-cilantro eaters and unfortunately for them their dish had the most cilantro! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Two clean restrooms.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Outdoor dining is set up very nicely and the inside is really big![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Not only is there a bar area but the back dining area had tons of sunshine pouring in, and it just felt like a spot you wanted to hang out in.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

First time in NYC and I'm glad we Simpson this place! Great food and service! We were greeted promptly and taken good care of. Highly recommended! read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Calming ambiance.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Quick service. Tasty food. A great restaurant for a casual dinner date. Lovely! Looking forward to enjoying again. read more

Santa Fe - Chicken Sizzling Skillet Fajitas - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

I recommend this restaurant to my friends because the food is fantastic and [[HIGHLIGHT]]it is so quiet that you can actually have a conversation[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. Today's dinner was made even better by the wonderful service of Bren who waited on me hand and foot and made my dinner Something really special. read more

The burrito with skirt steak ($29) was huge but had very few shreds of skirt steak and consisted of about 50% white rice, all mixed in and wrapped. Even the black beans therein were minimal. What's so expensive about black beans that Santa Fe has to be so stingy? If staff had stopped by the table to ask how we liked the food, I could have mentioned these issues, but nobody bothered. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Staff rarely entered the pleasant back room with skylight.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Order all your drinks at the same time -- you might not get another chance. read more

Santa Fe is worth the trip! I went as a solo diner on clusterf Macy Balloon Inflation Day, and the staff got me in quickly to a great seat, watered and fed, and on my way when I was comfortably ready. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The capacity is much bigger than it looks and even saw a table for 5 seated right away.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] But just because I dined solo, I wasn't shoved to the bar or anything, I had an excellent experience. The nachitos were perfect to share, a sangarito (sp?) is their OG marg with sangria splashed on top. Prices absolutely comparable for the area, it's comfy, convenient, and chill. read more

Santa Fe - Nachitos / Sangarita - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

Had a TooGoodToGo bag that came with the $25 dinner dish Enchiladas. The food was still warm when I picked it up. The owner was friendly. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The place looks clean.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Will definitely come back as a regular customer. read more

Santa Fe - Enchiladas - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

This food was barely edible! I ordered fajitas. The Steak was overdone and rubbery with no flavor. The veggies were oily and just tasted burnt. The rice and beans were completely flavorless. I wish I could have given NO STARS. read more

Santa Fe is by far my favorite neighborhood restaurant. I am so glad it's still here because we almost lost it in the pandemic. From what I understand, the Italian place next door saved it I love that Italian place too... but I reviewed that a while back. Anyhow, do yourself a favor and try Santa Fe if you haven't. It is fantastic. read more

Food is very good - especially the tortilla soup. Service was prompt and attentive. Nice ambiance. read more

Service was great and food was good but why this got 2 stars is because [[HIGHLIGHT]]right where I was sitting I saw a mouse running around the table next to me[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

This is a nice spot for TexMex. My friend recommended this spot because he orders them often on TooGoodToGo, and he's never had a bad meal. I came here with a large group after Global Citizen Festival. They offered complementary chips and salsa. Half the table ordered the chipotle chicken, which came with a salad and rice and beans. The chicken was a bit dry, so the sauce complimented it well. It was a god dining experience and I'd be back again, should I end up in the area and need a familiar place to eat. read more

Santa Fe - Chipotle Chicken - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

Having visited actual Santa Fe, NM last year, I can safely say that this restaurant lives up to the high standards and value of authentic New Mexican cuisine. I ordered the Breakfast Tacos ($22), which had delicious cheesy scrambled eggs, crispy turkey chorizo, refreshing sliced avocado, and pico de gallo. I also tried the Breakfast Burrito ($21), which actually had similar ingredients to the tacos except obviously in burrito form (the burrito had potatoes instead of chorizo). While both of these dishes were fairly standard, they were done very well. On top of this, the restaurant offers a great brunch deal, where if you order a brunch entree such as these, you can get a free cocktail. I tried the mango and strawberry mimosas - they were pretty strong and could've used some more fruity flavor, but hey they were free so still great value! Other places in NYC might ask you to pay upwards of $15 for these drinks alone. They also gave us complimentary chips and salsa to start our meal. The restaurant itself is very nice - the interior has a classy intimate feel with slightly dimmed lighting. There is also a nice covered outdoor seating area with several tables, which is where we sat. There were still plenty of tables available for a weekend brunch when we got there. The staff are friendly and the service speed was quick. Overall, with this great brunch deal / value and delicious Southwestern food, I definitely think this is an underrated restaurant that deserves better ratings. Definitely give it a try when you're in the area! read more

Santa Fe - Breakfast Tacos, Breakfast Burrito, and Mango + Strawberry Mimosas - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

Visited this gem again today! Sad to hear Elizabeth (bartender) is no longer here but service did not disappoint! Miguel, the bartender, was fantastic, so nice and accommodating.And the food and drinks were once again amazing! Best frozen Mango Margarita around! Can't recommend this place enough! read more

This is my go-to for lunch or dinner when I'm on the Upper Westside. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Awesome, chill setting with delicious food.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Forgettable food, good service, great location. I've only been here three times but I think it's enough to go ahead and review it on three visits. Honestly it's hard to remember the next day what you had to eat here but that's ok. It was easy to get to and meet up with people and really that is this restaurants strength. Perhaps it's only strength. Also if you request a booth on your reservation don't actually expect to sit in one for your visit (which is what happened to us). Also the shallow ashtray like salsa saucers are really designed to lick the salsa out of if you're a cat but not really humanly to dip chips in. That's ok too since the salsa is pretty forgettable. The service is prompt and courteous till they decide you've spent enough time at your table and then they'd courteously inform you that it's time to seat others (happened to us as well). The flan and the crema that comes with the flan are really the best menu items. Smooth and not too sweet. The chipotle chicken is two torpedoes of somewhat dry grilled chicken wrapped in flour tortillas and drenched in chipotle sauce Not bad but it's hard to taste the chicken or anything else smothered in sauce. The chicken enchiladas are a good quick brain dead choice if you're pressed for time or confused by their many options read more

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I went here with friends for brunch after to celebrate our two friends eloping by the Hudson River. Inside the restaurant was not too crowded on a Sunday afternoon and they were able to accommodate our party of six in the back. For brunch, you get to have a boozy drink with your meal as long as you order an entree. For the drink I asked for a frozen margarita since it was a very humid day. The frozen margarita was super refreshing while we munched on chips and awaited for the main course. The staff also made sure we had full glasses of water during our time there. For the entree I got the breakfast tacos which was just enough not to make you feel too full. The crispy turkey chorizo in the breakfast taco went well with the fresh avocado, greens and chipotle crema. At the end we all decided to try and share the churros and chocolate cake. The sauces that came with the crispy warm churros were a chocolate sauce and a dulce de leche. I preferred the caramel sauce with the churros. Overall we all enjoyed our time here and had great service from the staff. We look forward to returning one day. read more

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Santa Fe is a totally acceptable Southwestern-Mexican restaurant on the Upper West Side. Named (presumably) for the capital of New Mexico (yes I know there are other cities with the same name), the menu covers a lot of familiar ground for anyone that has spent a good amount of time within a few hundred miles of the Mexican border. My friend and I stopped in on a whim. He had a chicken burrito, I went for the steak tacos. The food came out ridiculously fast; took maybe five minutes to hit the table. Oh, I forgot about the complimentary chips and salsa: nice touch! The tacos were decent. I laid them out flat, scooped on rice and beans, then ate with a fork, so as to make the least mess. Flavor was satisfying and the portion size sufficient to tackle my hunger. For the price, these are expensive tacos, but that's the status quo in this neighborhood. I didn't try the margaritas and I can't speak to the brunch experience. As far as food goes, not bad, perhaps not memorable either. read more

Santa Fe - Steak Tacos - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

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We have been here twice now hoping to experience what the other great reviewers have and no such luck. I will say the drinks are strong which might be their strategy. Food is mediocre at best given the UWS pricing. Service could be a bit more attentive. I get the whole 80's southwest vibe but its tired and needs some tending to. I just don't get the draw. read more

Santa Fe has been a long-time favorite. However, the prices have increased and the portions measly. I ordered my usual--chicken burrito. It was filled mostly with rice; I could barely find the chicken. My husband had steak enchiladas and there was so little filling, it almost looked like two pancakes. It's not a neighborhood restaurant for us; we travel to get there, but no reason to return. read more

I have loved everything about this great restaurant for decades. Outstanding food in generous portions and an expert staff!

Used to be one of my favorite restaurants (for the last 25 years - probably been 200+ times) but apparently the owners daughter took over recently and destroyed the menu. Really sad to see from one of the longest standing consistent upper west side restaurants. Would suggest they go back to their old ways at least if they want maintain their core clientele base. Tito (one of the key staff members) is still there and the best guy, at least new management kept him on board. read more

This place is hands down one of my top choices in the city when I'm craving New Mexican cuisine. I've explored almost everything on the menu, and I've never had a bad experience. For appetizers, you absolutely must try the black bean dip, guacamole, quesadillas, and the arugula salad--these are my personal favorites. When it comes to main dishes, the chimichangas, chipotle shrimp, salmon filet, and carne asada are all fantastic and never disappoint. If you're coming in for brunch and have a sweet tooth, the churro French toast is a must-try--seriously, it's amazing. I also recommend the breakfast burrito. And for dessert, the churros are so good, and the horchata and Mexican chocolate ice cream offer some truly unique and delightful flavors. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The restaurant itself has a cozy vibe and a great location.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Likewise, the staff is incredibly friendly, attentive, and always makes me feel welcome. read more

Yum yum YUM! Seriously. I've been to this establishment numerous times and never felt disrespected or dismissed. Both the outpost and the inside eating, very pleasant lighting, Ivan S, VERY satisfied customer read more

Omg so good!!! Stopped here for brunch. First impression was excellent since the staff was really friendly and attentive. Ate outside - it was a gorgeous day and they had plenty of outdoor table options. Really cute set up outdoors. Had the brunch special which includes one drink or coffee. Mimosa was great! Ordered the chipotle Benedict - polished it off so quickly. So good, flavorful and had just the right amount of kick. They also gave chips and salsa for the table. Perfect brunch spot - absolutely recommend! read more

Santa Fe - Chipotle Benedict - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

Despite costing almost $30, I'll admit that the enchilada was good. However, the rice seemed too soft and the portion size was rather small at this price. read more

Santa Fe - Steak Enchilada - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

Southwestern style food in New York City. My brother and his family had lovely things to say about their margarita's so after church on Sunday; of course we walked right on over to Santa Fe's.. Two blessings to start the Sunday off right.. :) Walking in felt very homestyle friendly. In my own mind I think of Southwestern style as a modge podge of Mexican/American flavors. I ordered Huevos Rancheros. The plate included 4 pieces of chorizo sausage. A fried tortilla layered with refried beans, 2 over medium fried eggs, garnished with a 1/4 of avocado slices sitting on top of enchilada red sauce. Overall the meal was satisfying. The beans tasted as though from a can. The rice tasted bland. The sauce was light. I did not taste the rest of the meals but everyone seemed satisfied. I would have marked 2 stars if I could say I've tasted better but I may have a bias against Southwestern food in general because authentic Mexican food is just so much better. That being said, I gave it 3 starts because it actually tasted like most Southwestern food. So if this is what you're looking to eat; I'd say come here. The atmosphere was casual and comfortable. The wait-staff was pleasant and the food was hot. The prices are fair. Oh and the margaritas were very nice! read more

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We were hungry for Mexican and it was right near Central Park. The outdoor area was quite charming. The food was great. Chicken was point. Steak cooked to perfection. Salsa flavorful. Staff was super hospitable and all my order preferences were followed. They put a lot of tequila in my drink read more

Santa Fe - Diet Coke, tequila, lime - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

Tasty margaritas and fish tacos at [[HIGHLIGHT]]this pleasant restaurant which has an intimate feel and is dependably good.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

So happy that Santa Fe has reopened again! I never had the chance to make it before Covid hit and then they were closed for several months, but we were lucky enough to go for lunch today on their second day of reopening. We started with complimentary chips and salsa which is always a treat. And we had always wanted to try the frozen margs - touted as NY Mag's best. They were good, definitely tasted fresh and not like it came from a mix, but I'm not sure I'd rank them as my favorite. Then we shared the chipotle chicken and the chimichangas, which gave you one steak and one chicken. The chipotle chicken was better - the tangy sauce on top and the fact it was not fried made it our preference. The chimichangas were also good, but the steak one was waaaaay better than the chicken one (too dry). Overall we were impressed by the food and would definitely come back to try other entrees. One thing we both noticed is how many locals stopped by to chat with the owner and staff to say how happy they were the restaurant had returned. We always knew it was locally popular, but we're still impressed they have such a loyal following. While the food is good, we think the friendly owner and staff definitely contributed to that. Note - they are charging a 5% covid surcharge. We are very happy to pay it, but it wasn't flagged to us in advance and might be a turn off for some patrons. read more

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Was seated immediately indoors on a busy Friday at 7pm. Their margs looked really tasty and my friend ordered the one with extra booze in it! They came out with some fresh corn tortillas and some salsa. No refills were offered. I ordered the chefs salad with salmon (approx 5 oz) and it was cooked perfectly (lightly uncooked in the middle). I thought I would be hungry after it but it was incredibly filling! The salad and salmon was nothing to write home about and neither was the fajita. Both dishes tasted good, no stand out flavors, wonderful service, wonderful ambiance, good overall time. read more

Santa Fe - Santa Fe Fajitas (mushroom and spinach) - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

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Santa Fe is a beautifully decorated restaurant. The walls display artwork and artifacts from another part of the country. It has a western flavor. The artistic decor of the restaurant is tasteful and genuine. My friend and I were greeted so warmly by Shaun who I think is the owner of the restaurant. We felt comfortable immediately. We were asked where we would like to sit and we decided to be seated in the back of the restaurant which was as lovely as the front of the restaurant. The vibe was nice. My friend and I ordered our drinks and then we were served water and the most delicious basket of taco chips were placed on the table. They were so crispy with the right amount of salt. Very delicious. I ordered a the shrimp roll and I highly recommend it. We enjoyed the food we ordered because it fresh and full of flavor. The margarita was good too. I enjoyed my dinner at Santa Fe and look forward to going again. I think what stood out the most to me at Santa Fe is that all people were warmly welcomed. I think everyone is welcome there. I highly recommend it. read more

I live in the neighborhood and have been meaning to try this place for a while now. The atmosphere is alive although the vibe/decor is a little underwhelming. Is sat at the bar and got the Mezcalita a watermelon mezcal margarita and it was spectacular! The watermelon juice was fresh with small chunks of it in my drink and the flavor was well balanced. I asked for food recommendations and the bartender was very knowledgeable and she suggested the Chipotle chicken. To be honest the food was a bit bland. It's seemed that the chicken wasn't freshly cooked. It kinda had a weird rubbery texture and the rice and beans side were nothing to write home about. However I do think this place is great if you want some great drinks and a quick meal because the food came out really fast! I will be back to try the tacos and the burger. The drink was too good not to revisit! read more

Not sure how this place doesn't have a better rating. The food is fantastic, I have never had a bad dish. I usually get the chipotle chicken! And the margaritas are beyond good! read more

Sooo pissed. At them, at myself. Stopped in for coupla quick afternoon drinks at the bar. Mistake, as I discovered when I saw the tab.. Sure, $7.50 for a Corona, fine; great, even. But $17.00 for a glass of William Hill Chardonnay...wot??? Price of a BOTTLE in a store: $13. I fully understand how markup works, but this place has some nerve, I tell ya. Just be careful. I know nothing of the food, ambience, cleanliness. And I NEVER will. read more

(This review applies to two orders via Too Good to Go.) Very pleased with my two orders. Each included a quarter chicken, beans, and rice, plus a generous container of pumpkin-seed mole. Leg/thigh the first time; white meat the second. All delicious, and sufficient for two meals. The regular prices might deter me, but it's a nice deal at closing time - ideal for after a show, or to heat the next day. The staff is great too: prompt pickup, with no condescension toward late-night bargain-hunters. read more

Such an excellent time, I am a local, who is taking some time away from the city, and this place was a stop before I left. I'm glad I made the trip, the food was absolutely excellent and the service was incredible! All of the staff were incredibly kind and let me even sit on the patio and "people watch" until 4 o'clock rolled around and I was able to order off of the extended dinner menu. While I was waiting, I was treated like a princess! Definitely would recommend. read more

Santa Fe - Outside - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

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Service was great and efficient. I had chicken enchiladas with mole which where quite good. Wife had the salmon which was also good