Santa Fe has no shortage of flavor, but there’s something about smoky barbecue that just fits the city’s bold landscape. Whether you’re a fan of sweet mesquite, tangy red chile, or classic slow-cooked brisket, the local BBQ scene covers every craving. After tasting my way through more than a few plates, dripping sauce on shirts and shoes alike, I’m convinced that exploring Santa Fe’s best BBQ spots is an adventure all its own.
This guide is built on real bites and genuine flavor. If you’re hungry for reliable tips, honest descriptions, and a few surprises, you’re in the right place. Don’t expect empty hype or a touristy checklist here—only the standouts where smoke, spice, and local style rule. Get ready to dig in to the best BBQ Santa Fe, NM, has to offer.
Where to find the best bbq in Santa Fe, NM
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Santa Fe, NM:
- The Ranch House
- Cowgirl BBQ
- Whole Hog Cafe
- Uncle Dt’s Smokehouse
- Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q
- Patinas
- The Bull Ring
- Thunderbird Restaurant
- Joe’s Dining
- Outback Steakhouse
1. The Ranch House
The Ranch House mixes down-home comfort with a smart sense of style, making it much more than your typical BBQ spot. You’ll feel it when you walk in—the wood smoke aroma, the chatter of locals, the relaxed energy. I remember my first visit: pulled pork sandwich in hand, genuinely surprised by the depth of smoky flavor and the tender bite.
The pecan-smoked ribs are a standout, skillfully balanced between sweet and savory, and the signature house-made sauces take every bite further. For a local twist, try their brisket enchiladas—Santa Fe meets Texas in every forkful. Barbecue here isn’t just about meat; vegetarians and gluten-free diners find smart choices too. At The Ranch House, you’ll find Santa Fe’s BBQ spirit with real care on every plate.
2. Cowgirl BBQ
Cowgirl BBQ offers a burst of character both in its food and its atmosphere. There’s always a lively crowd, live music drifting outside, and a sense that every visit will be a bit different from the last. My most memorable meal started with their spicy green chile stew, a perfect lead-in to Santa Fe’s BBQ rhythm.
The mesquite-smoked brisket is a must—slow-cooked until it melts at the touch of a fork. Their house-made sauces and sides, from tender baked beans to tangy coleslaw, round out the meal. Barbecue here isn’t just a menu item; it’s a backdrop to local art and nightly entertainment. Cowgirl BBQ is the spot for flavor, fun, and true Santa Fe character.
3. Whole Hog Cafe
Whole Hog Cafe keeps its focus squarely on the classics, and there’s a certain confidence you can taste in every bite. The moment you walk in, the aroma leaves no doubt you’re in true BBQ territory. My go-to is the pulled chicken platter, which manages to be juicy without being heavy—a tough trick to pull off.
Their ribs deserve honest praise; slow-cooked, with a bark that’s full of smoky depth and just the right amount of tenderness. With several house sauces to sample, every meal feels a little bit custom. Whether you come for brisket or smoked turkey, Whole Hog Cafe delivers bold flavor without distractions, making it a staple for Santa Fe BBQ fans.
4. Uncle Dt’s Smokehouse
Uncle Dt’s Smokehouse is one of those places that instantly feels like a local secret. The vibe is relaxed and unpretentious, but the flavors are anything but ordinary. On my last visit, I found myself savoring every bite of their mesquite-smoked chicken, which had a subtle heat and deep, earthy flavor throughout.
The burnt ends are a house favorite, thanks to their rich crust and melt-in-your-mouth finish. Try their smoked sausage as well—it’s got character, and it’s made in-house. If you’re looking for BBQ that pays attention to detail and doesn’t rush the process, Uncle Dt’s delivers real, honest-to-goodness smokehouse cooking right in Santa Fe.
5. Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q
Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q brings a slice of Texas tradition to the Santa Fe BBQ landscape. It’s casual and bustling, with a down-home feel that makes dining here easy for groups, families, and solo sauce chasers alike. I still think about my first taste of their moist brisket—juicy, tender, and loaded with smoky character.
The turkey is a sleeper hit, always moist and perfectly seasoned. Go for the creamed corn and smoked potato sides, which round out the meal in all the right ways. With a cafeteria-style setup, you get your pick of piping-hot classics served fresh. Rudy’s keeps BBQ simple and satisfying, giving each cut its own moment to shine.
6. Patinas
Patinas, tucked inside the DoubleTree, surprises with thoughtful barbecue that goes beyond expectations for hotel dining. The atmosphere is calm and well-suited for both casual lunches and laid-back dinners. My visit started with the smoked chicken plate, which arrived tender with a subtle layer of hickory flavor.
Their brisket tacos show off a Southwestern twist—juicy meat tucked in soft tortillas, topped with fresh salsa. The house-made sides and attentive service add an upscale touch. Patinas proves that barbecue can be refined without losing its down-to-earth appeal, making it a lesser-known but worthy stop for Santa Fe BBQ fans.
7. The Bull Ring
The Bull Ring is known for steak, but its barbecue dishes hold their own in Santa Fe’s smoky lineup. The dining room has an old-school club feel, with cozy booths and the low buzz of conversation. My last meal included the smoked prime rib—deeply flavorful, fork-tender, with just enough char at the edges.
The grilled chicken comes out juicy, kissed with a mild smoke that never overpowers. If you enjoy barbecue with a refined edge and like to pair bold meats with classic sides, this spot won’t disappoint. The Bull Ring gives you barbecue in an elegant setting, where the slow-cooked flavors get the attention they deserve.
8. Thunderbird Restaurant
Thunderbird Restaurant is one of those rare places where you get both a view and a meal worth savoring. Right on the Plaza, the open-air balcony sets the perfect mood for barbecue with a local twist. My pick here is the smoked chicken fajitas, served sizzling, loaded with sweet peppers, and bursting with oak-kissed flavor.
The barbecue brisket tacos are another standout, bringing together soft tortillas, smoky shredded meat, and classic Santa Fe seasonings. You’ll find plenty of sides—think roasted corn, black beans, and zesty slaw—that make every plate colorful and complete. Thunderbird Restaurant offers both scenery and substance, making it easy to linger long past your last bite.
9. Joe’s Dining
Joe’s Dining is where classic barbecue meets fresh, local ingredients. The menu is huge, but the BBQ plates hold their own, thanks to careful sourcing and thoughtful preparation. My last stop here featured a smoked turkey sandwich—tender, never dry, and layered with house-made sauce.
The brisket plate is another favorite, served with your choice of sides like grilled veggies or crisp slaw. What sets Joe’s apart is its commitment to quality—every bite feels crafted to order. If you want barbecue with a gourmet touch and a neighborhood feel, Joe’s Dining stands out from the crowd in Santa Fe.
10. Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse is more than just steak—its smoke-infused BBQ offerings are a quiet surprise on Cerrillos. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, perfect for a meal with friends or family. On my visit, the wood-fired grilled chicken stood out for its juicy texture and hint of charred flavor.
The baby back ribs are also worth a look, tender and seasoned with a smoky-sweet rub that keeps you reaching for more. Their classic BBQ sauces add a little Aussie personality to each plate. Outback delivers reliable barbecue in a laid-back, welcoming environment, making it a solid choice for anyone craving smoky flavors in Santa Fe.
More Things to Try in Santa Fe, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
What style of BBQ is most popular in Santa Fe?
Santa Fe’s BBQ scene blends Texas-style smoked meats with local New Mexican flavors. Expect slow-cooked brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, plus sides accented by roasted chile or Southwestern spices.
Are there vegetarian or vegan BBQ options in Santa Fe?
Yes. Many spots offer vegetarian and vegan choices, like smoked mushroom plates, BBQ tofu, and plant-based sides. Look for these options at places like The Ranch House and Cowgirl BBQ.
Is BBQ in Santa Fe spicy?
Some dishes carry a kick, especially those with green or red chile. Most menus let you choose the spice level, so you can find both mild and fiery options.
Can I find gluten-free BBQ in Santa Fe?
Absolutely. Restaurants such as The Ranch House and Cowgirl BBQ offer gluten-free meats and sides, so you won’t have to skip out on the classics.
Do Santa Fe BBQ restaurants offer takeout or delivery?
Most BBQ spots in Santa Fe provide takeout, and several partner with local delivery services for added convenience. Online ordering is common, making it easy to enjoy barbecue at home.
What sides are unique to Santa Fe BBQ?
Southwestern touches shine here—look for sides like calabacitas, green chile cornbread, and smoky beans, each with a local spin.
Where can I get the best brisket in Santa Fe?
Favorites include The Ranch House, Cowgirl BBQ, and Whole Hog Cafe—each known for tender, flavorful brisket prepared with plenty of smoky care.