El Farol, a Spanish tapas restaurant, was established in 1835, and is still going strong 183 years later!
As you enter this building you can feel its lengthy history, particularly in the bar area, which has some Old World flavor.
This restaurant works equally well for groups of friends and also romantic dinners for two.
While flamenco shows are held in the back of the restaurant, the small tables on the front portal overlook the art galleries of Canyon Road and provide a great spot for people watching.
Nelson H. Trujillo, the chef at El Farol, is a relatively new arrival. He continues the tradition of preparing small plates for diners. Full-sized plates are available.
Tapas, such as pork tenderloin topped with melted idiazabal cheese and swimming in a port fig sauce, are the dishes you’ll remember.
Other menu standouts include the parmesan crusted artichokes, the garlic shrimp, and the paella (a full-sized dish) that can serve either one or two people.
“El Farol” means “warmth” or “light.” So if you’re looking for some culinary history with a side of flamenco, head toward this beacon on Canyon Road and see for yourself why it won a “Best of Santa Fe” Award in 2015.
El Farol is open Monday to Sunday, from 11:30 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.
It’s located at 808 Canyon Road in Santa Fe.