Steak, Seafood. An intimate New Mexico speakeasy, Vernon’s Hidden Valley Steakhouse recalls the Prohibition-Era days with a cozy style, fantastic live music, a hidden and unassuming curbside presence coyly lit by one red light, and even the need for a password to get in (say “Joe sent me” and you’ll be granted entry). Offering some of the best steaks in Albuquerque, this restaurant consistently earns critical acclaim.

American, Southwestern. Everything from bartender and the cocktails to the chef and the farm-to-table cuisine have received awards at Casa Vieja, an impressive restaurant just outside of Albuquerque. Located in an historic, 300-year-old adobe, this restaurant welcomes guests to enjoy live local entertainment and dining on the garden patio during the summer, followed by intimate dining next to one of seven kiva fireplaces in the winter.

American. About 25 miles north of Albuquerque in the quaint historic village of Corrales, fusion food restaurant, Indigo Crow, is an awesome little place to visit when craving incredible food and a warm, inviting ambiance that isn’t surrounded by big-city vibes. This casually elegant restaurant offers creative starters like grilled hearts of romaine topped with melted gorgonzola, oven roasted tomatoes and vodka vinaigrette, and mouthwatering entrees like lime and oregano marinated rack of lamb and pan seared ahi with a honey citrus sesame glaze.

International, Contemporary European. A warm and stylish Placitas restaurant, Blades’ Bistro offers contemporary European cuisine in a classically beautiful setting. The menu—which highlights locally sourced ingredients—includes specialties like grilled lamb chops, paella, London steak, roasted beets topped with goat cheese, and a positively addictive French onion soup. Be sure to look out for the restaurant’s exciting Wine Dinners.

Contemporary American, Global, International. Located in an old adobe mansion complete with kiva fireplaces, latilla ceilings and spectacular Sandia Mountain views, the stunning Prairie Star Restaurant at Santa Ana Golf Club offers a warm and unforgettable dining experience. Masterfully crafted contemporary American cuisine comes to life with global influences, and the award-winning wine list offers over 2000 selections.

Steakhouse, Wild Game, Contemporary American. A critically acclaimed restaurant in Angel Fire, the Roasted Clove has been praised as one of the top restaurants in New Mexico. Chef Top Bowles—considered one of the hottest chefs in New Mexico—offers an expertly crafted menu of cuisine showcasing locally and globally influenced dishes prepared using European techniques.

Contemporary American, Southwestern. One of the most highly acclaimed restaurants in Taos, De La Tierra Restaurant is a beautiful destination at the El Monte Sagrado Resort. This innovative restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients, fresh fish, farm-raised meats and locally sourced produce all prepared with southwest and European influences.

Contemporary American, Mexican. Located in a registered historic landmark, Doc Martin’s is a widely praised Taos restaurant that has been welcoming gatherings since the 1920s. Executive Chef Gary “Zippy” White presents New American and Northern New Mexican cuisine crafted from organic locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss the award-winning wine list, which boasts an approachable selection of Old and New World wines.

Contemporary American, Southwestern. Graham’s Grille in Taos is yet another acclaimed Taos restaurant offering great prices, an unfussy approach and a hip, fun atmosphere that makes it a neighborhood favorite. The menu offers a diverse selection of innovative local cuisine prepared with locally grown ingredients and gourmet twists. An award-winning wine list complements the cuisine beautifully.

Contemporary American, Mediterranean. Expertly crafted American and global cuisine is a specialty at Sabroso. Located in the rural village of Arroy Seco (a few miles north of Taos), Sabroso offers fireside, plum grove or patio dining, as well as an intimate bar featuring live entertainment, an award-winning wine list, twenty beers by the bottle and more than 100 different liquor selections.