The Compound
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Down the hill a bit from Geronimo is Santa Fe’s other bastion of culinary prowess, The Compound. Reservations are a must, even at the bar, and there’s a reason. The seasonal menu is expertly executed, and the vibe is pure, low-key culinary bliss. On a late summer night, a crisp Caesar salad perfectly complemented a serving of pappardelle pasta with freshly foraged chanterelle mushrooms. Whatever you order, pair it with one of the city’s ubiquitous chili-infused cocktails and conversation with your dining companions (on this visit, the chamber music festival was the topic du jour). You can’t go wrong here. Entrees start at $26, compoundrestaurant.com
