As patio season approaches, it’s time to evaluate Santa Fe’s finest out of doors eating institutions. The distinctive climate is likely one of the causes we dwell in – or go to – The Metropolis Completely different. And since out of doors eating grew exponentially throughout COVID to accommodate eating places, we now have much more patios to select from.
Although a “nice patio” will generally suffice for joyful hour with buddies, I sometimes need distinctive meals to go along with the distinctive climate and out of doors expertise. And that’s when The Teahouse jumps to the highest of the checklist.
Situated close to the top of Canyon Street, simply past the town’s prime eating institution, Geronimo, and throughout the road from the oldest bar on the town, El Farol, The Teahouse opened in 2003. What started as a tribute to the founder’s love of tea was bought in 2012 by Wealthy Freeman, who additionally owns El Farol. Fortunately, Wealthy has, over time, solely made The Teahouse higher.
Beloved by locals for apparent causes, that is the place vacationers recharge after a Canyon Street journey. With a 10-page menu of greater than 150 international teas and sensational scones (in addition they have a gluten-free scone of the day and different gluten-free choices), I’m not sure why they don’t supply a excessive tea hour.
The ambiance and employees are largely heat and welcoming. If you happen to get Michel as your server, he’s a captivating French duplicate of Santa Claus and is aware of The Teahouse nicely. The menu is considerate and crafted to enchantment to a large viewers. However again to the patio.
The expansive out of doors space is roofed with gravel which seems like an grownup playground. Whereas there aren’t any swings or slides, they make up for it with teas you’ll be able to solely discover right here and distinctive meals.
Breakfast is obtainable from 9 a.m. till 1 p.m., lunch begins at 11 a.m. and continues till 3 p.m. and, beginning Might 2, they launch dinner service till 6 p.m.
The out of doors space is informal and comfy. Inside, tables are spaced all through the three rooms of the previous dwelling and that is the place to be within the winter. However The Teahouse is all concerning the expansive patio that seats greater than 60 and gives a glimpse of the motion alongside Canyon Street.
Whereas massive timber supply pure shade for some tables, strategically-placed umbrellas shield diners from the solar. The steel chairs are far more comfy than they appear, so sit again and luxuriate in a bit of vitamin D.
It doesn’t matter what time of day you go to, you have to begin with tea. Alluring names like Oriental Magnificence and Freak of Nature Oolong, even tea connoisseurs are challenged by the choices. Tea neophytes can get a style of the chances together with inexperienced, black, lattes, chai, matcha, flowering, white, Chinese language inexperienced, Japanese inexperienced, flavored inexperienced, oolong, pu-erh, mate, rooibos, iced tea of the day and occasional. Costs vary from $4 to $20 for the extra extravagant varieties.
If you happen to go for breakfast, an array of six eggs Benedict ($16) dishes will doubtless get your consideration. Or dive into the Wild Smoked Salmon Platter ($19), a toasted bagel, cream cheese and the entire fixings, a bowl of oatmeal ($13) or quiche with combined greens ($14).
At lunch, the out of doors tables are coated with a sea of salads. 9 completely different salads are served on spherical plates, although I would like a bowl. Heaping natural greens and your selection of toppings are barely dressed with balsamic French dressing. I say barely dressed as a result of it would seem as if the salad is dry, nevertheless it’s not. Slightly than a salad dripping with dressing, these uber-fresh greens are scarcely dressed so the components can shine. They usually do, however don’t be afraid to ask for a aspect of dressing.
Inventive salad toppings embody a mix of roasted greens, fruit, a thick triangle of cheese and plenty of crunchy nuts. Assume Brussels sprouts, pear, pecorino cheese and pistachios – my private favourite. Apples, roasted pears, Irish cheddar and pecans. Beets, goat cheese and pine nuts. Apples, bacon, avocado and Irish cheddar. At $16 for a big salad, this can be a meal. Add salmon ($8), rooster ($6), marinated artichokes ($6) and/or avocado ($3) for a lift of protein and wholesome fat.
Not into salads? Don’t fear, the entrees are ready for you and most embody soup or salad. The Eggplant Parmesan ($16) is gluten-free, Lasagna Bolognese ($17.50) stands tall, Italian-Fashion Meatloaf ($14) is a favourite and rooster pot pie ($16.50) can be gluten-free.
Or select from 9 frightening Panini ($16) combos like Brie, Apple, Black Forest Ham and Mostarda, or Mushroom, Fontina and Balsamic Onion Marmalade, or Rooster, Brie, Fig Jam and Arugula. Sandwiches ($16) include soup or salad and embody a BLT or Home-Roasted Turkey or a Vegan Wrap.
If you’re extra of a nibbler, order a couple of appetizers, Artichokes and Goat Cheese ($13.50), Burrata Caprese ($13) or Salame ($17). The Antipasto Misto for Two ($30) will activate the palate of the entire desk with the chef’s collection of cheeses, chilly cuts, olives, fig jam, truffle honey, mostarda and grilled bread.
As a result of the whole lot is do-it-yourself and under no circumstances heavy, you’ll be able to take pleasure in dessert with out the guilt. The signature scones ($5) are served heat with a aspect of tangy lemon curd and gentle whipped cream, this pairs nicely with a flowering tea.
The gluten-free Key Lime Pie ($8) can be a stand-out because the graham cracker crust provides a crunchy distinction with the creamy, citrusy inside. We lately splurged and ordered the Strawberry Shortcake ($9). This show-stopping dessert brings the desk to silence as if EF Hutton is speaking. The trick is solely whipped cream with none sugar and we proclaimed this considered one of Santa Fe’s finest desserts.
So, is The Teahouse a favourite spot due to the unbelievable collection of teas, the eclectic menu, the delicious scones and desserts or the out of doors space? I’ll allow you to resolve.
