Coffee Apothecary: It’s easy to miss this craft roastery, as it’s attached to a bike shop with minimal signage - but make sure you don’t! It was hands down the best cup of coffee we had in Taos, and it’s hip, welcoming interior is a fun surprise. (@thecoffeeapothecarytaos)
World Cup: If you’re anything like us, you enjoy going where the locals go. And if that’s the case, come to World Cup for your morning coffee! Sit on a bench outside and you’re sure to make friends with the warm-hearted “usuals” - and the coffee is great too! (@worldcuptaosnewmexico)
Breakfast
Manzanita Market: This rustic and cozy, all-organic cafe is one of the best in the area. Whether you dine in or take your breakfast to go, their breakfasts (and lunch!) are delicious, healthy, high quality, and made with love. (@manzanitamarkettaos)
Bobby’s pick: Bacon Biscuit Sandwich
Alli’s pick: Fried Egg Sandwich
Michael’s Kitchen: Locals flock for their fresh and hearty breakfasts that are served all day… but the real winner here (in our opinion) is the pastries! Don’t leave without taking one of their mouth-watering cinnamon rolls to go. If you love breakfast and have a sweet tooth, this place is a must! (Michael’s Kitchen on Instagram)
Bobby’s pick: Huevos Rancheros (with green chile)
Alli’s pick: Veggie Omelette
The Bent Street Cafe: Located right in the heart of Taos, this quaint little cafe is a favorite of ours for breakfast and/or lunch. Grab a seat on their picturesque patio if the weather is nice! (Bent Street Cafe on Instagram)
Bobby’s pick: Eggs Benedict Taos Style
Alli’s pick: Breakfast Croissant Sandwich
Lunch/Dinner
Orlando’s New Mexican Cafe: You can’t go to Taos without tasting authentic New Mexican cuisine, and Orlando’s is one of the best! The decor is bright and cheerful, the portions are HUGE, and the green and red chile is deliciously flavorful (and spicy)! Order your meal “Christmas style” for a little of both! (Orlando’s on Instagram)
Bobby’s pick: Chile Rellenos
Alli’s pick: Yvette’s Smothered Vegetarian Burrito
The Love Apple: Our pick for the best date night spot in town, you’re sure to fall in love with this charming and intimate little restaurant. It’s fine dining meets local, organic home cooking, and the candlelit atmosphere is absolutely magical. The menu is seasonal, so our “picks” might not be current. (The Love Apple on Instagram)
Bobby’s pick: Pico de Gallo Stuffed Whole Branzino
Alli’s pick: Homemade Potato Gnocchi
Taos Cow: If there’s one reason to visit the neighboring town of Arroyo Seco, it’s the ice cream. Taos Cow has made a name for themselves with their fresh, artisanal homemade ice cream… And boy is it good! So good, we had it for lunch! (@taoscow)
Aceq: This farm-to-table, family owned restaurant is also in Arroyo Seco, and has an ever-changing seasonal menu that’s consistently delicious. It’s fresh, local comfort food that’s done right. Since the menu changes often, our “picks” might not be current. (@aceqrestaurant)
Bobby’s pick: Grass Fed Burger
Alli’s pick: Wild Caught King Salmon
Chokola Bean to Bar: Speaking of sweets, don’t leave Taos without stopping in this small-batch, organic chocolate shop. You can sample some of their most famous (and exotic) flavors, and learn how high quality chocolate is made. It’s a chocolate lovers dream! (@chokolabeantobar)
The Treehouse at Lambert’s Of Taos: Whether you’re sipping on a craft cocktail, wine, or beer, this is one of the best spots for happy hour in Taos. The bartenders are warm and friendly, the drinks are strong, and the bar food is really good. (@lambertsoftaos)
Parcht Bottleshop + Bites: We love a good wine bar - especially one that’s dog friendly! Parcht is conveniently located in Taos Plaza, and serves a wide selection of wines and charcuterie plates. It’s definitely a hidden gem! (@parchtnewmexico)
Taos Mesa Brewing: Definitely one of the most unusual breweries we’ve visited, Taos Mesa Brewing serves quality local brews inside a retro-fitted airplane hanger. The beer is reasonable, the staff is friendly, and they almost always have live entertainment at night! (@taosmesabrewing)
Casa Gallina: We can’t say enough about Casa Gallina. It’s one of those places that we’ll keep coming back to - and we tell EVERYONE to go. Please, if you come to Taos, make this top of your list. (Read all about our experience here!) (@casagallina)
Palacio de Marquesa: Chic, warm, and charming - this little B&B is secluded, yet walking distance to town (2 ½ blocks). We’re big fans of their luxurious amenities - including a gourmet breakfast that they’ll deliver to your room! (Palacio de Marquesa on Instagram)
Earthship Biotecture: If you’re looking for an off the grid, unusual (and Instagrammable) experience, stay in an Earthship rental! Earthships are solar earth shelters made of natural and upcycled materials - they generate their own power, generate their own water, and look like something from another planet! (@earthship)
Taos Pueblo: Considered to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the US, this ancient Native American site is a must-visit. It’s $16/person, and they do walking tours throughout the day, which we highly recommend. (@taospueblo)
The Millicent Rogers Museum: Fascinated by the arts and cultures of the Southwest? Us too! This spacious museum has over 20 galleries and exhibition spaces, with everything from prehistoric pottery to contemporary jewelry! (@millicent_rogers_museum)
Rio Grande Gorge Bridge: Locally known as the “Gorge Bridge” or the “High Bridge”, it’s the tenth highest bridge in the United States - and it’s nothing short of incredible! Walk across for stunning views of the Rio Grande Gorge, it’s well worth facing your fear of heights for.
Earthship Biotecture: You don’t have to stay at the Earthship Biotecture to see it! We suggest calling ahead and booking a Community Guided Tour, where you can explore several homes and buildings throughout the community. (@earthship)
Come for the holiday celebrations. From tree lighting ceremonies to shopping events, Taos is absolutely dreamy at Christmas - especially if there’s snowfall! It just might be our new holiday tradition. (Visit Taos.org for more info)
YES. Taos is about as dog friendly as it gets. Stay at Casa Gallina, where the innkeeper Richard will become your pup’s new BFF. Most restaurants allow dogs on their outside patios, and make sure to wine taste with your furry friend at Parcht Bottleshop + Bites!
