New Mexico Food News: Local Closures, New Restaurants, Holiday Events and More

New Mexico’s food and hospitality scene is experiencing plenty of changes this November. From longtime restaurants closing their doors to new dining concepts and seasonal celebrations, here’s a look at what’s happening around the state.

Yarrow, Ancient Remedies and New Mexico’s Native Plants

Santa Fe author and forager Ellen Zachos explores the fascinating history of plants in her latest book, Mythic Plants: Potions and Poisons from the Garden of the Gods.

Among the plants featured is yarrow, scientifically known as Achillea millefolium, whose name is connected to the legendary Greek warrior Achilles. According to ancient mythology, Achilles learned about medicinal herbs from a centaur and passed that knowledge along to Patroclus.

Yarrow has a long history of traditional medicinal use, particularly for wounds, inflammation and fevers. It also has culinary applications, although it should be used cautiously and in moderation. Historical use does not necessarily establish that an herbal remedy is safe or effective for treating a medical condition.

Zachos also incorporates the plant into creative recipes, including Double Yarrow Bitters, using both its roots and foliage.

For those interested in New Mexico’s native plants and traditional botanical knowledge, Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument is offering an Ethnobotany Nature Walk on November 28.

Gardeners can also explore native seeds, drought-tolerant trees and regional plants through Plants of the Southwest.

Several New Mexico Restaurants and Breweries Announce Closures

It’s been a difficult stretch for several businesses across New Mexico, with multiple restaurants, breweries and gathering places announcing permanent or temporary closures.

Vinaigrette Closes Albuquerque Location After 14 Years

After fourteen years serving the Albuquerque community, Vinaigrette has closed its doors.

Owner Erin Wade shared an extended explanation of the decision, discussing how downtown Albuquerque has changed over the past decade and the challenges those changes created for the restaurant.

Marble Brewery Closes Heights Location

Another familiar Albuquerque business has closed. Marble Brewery ended operations at its Heights location in late October after ten years.

The closure adds to growing concerns about the challenges facing New Mexico’s local brewery industry.

Additional Closures Across the State

Several other businesses have also announced closures:

• Sunday Service Motors: The Albuquerque near North Valley business is shutting down.
• Pecan Grill & Brewery: The Las Cruces establishment closed after seventeen years in business.
• Fancie’s and Forty Nine Forty: Both Corrales establishments have closed.

Santa Fe’s Historic Palace Steakhouse Temporarily Closes

In Santa Fe, Palace has announced a temporary closure because of concerns about the building’s roof following heavy rainfall.

Management cited the safety of employees and guests as the reason for closing while the structural concerns are addressed, particularly with winter weather approaching.

No reopening date was provided in the announcement.

New Italian Restaurant Planned for Downtown Albuquerque

There is also encouraging news for Albuquerque diners.

Shawn Medlock, owner of Rumor Pizza, has taken over the former Amore location in West Downtown Albuquerque.

The new restaurant, called The Velvet Panther, is expected to feature casual Italian dining, including handmade pasta, soft-serve ice cream and beverages.

The concept promises another dining option for Albuquerque’s downtown restaurant scene.

Upcoming Food, Wine and Community Events

November 10 — Author Conversation at Bookworks

Santa Fe naturalist and author Priyanka Kumar will join Laura Paskus at Bookworks in Albuquerque for a conversation celebrating Kumar’s new book, The Grassland Queen: An Avian Love Story in the American Plains.

The discussion will explore the natural world and the importance of birds and grassland ecosystems.

November 18 — French Wine Tasting at Wolf ‘n’ Swallow

Albuquerque restaurant Wolf ‘n’ Swallow will host French natural winemaker Terres Blanches for a complimentary wine tasting from 6 to 8 p.m.

Four wines will be featured, with Chef Houla preparing four accompanying small plates.

No reservations are required for the event.

November 21 — Fall Maker’s Market at El Pan Bakery & Farm

El Pan Bakery & Farm in Albuquerque’s Nob Hill neighborhood will host a Fall Maker’s Market on its front patio.

The market runs from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and will feature local vendors, handcrafted products and opportunities to enjoy the bakery’s rustic sourdough offerings.

Vendor applications were also being accepted at the time of the announcement.

November 28 — Ethnobotany Nature Walk

Explore New Mexico’s botanical history at Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument during an Ethnobotany Nature Walk.

The program offers an opportunity to learn about native plants and their traditional uses, along with the relationship between local ecosystems and regional history.

December 5 and 19 — Afternoon Tea at Nosa

Nosa in Ojo Caliente will offer afternoon tea on December 5 and December 19, beginning at 2 p.m.

Past tea services have included finger sandwiches, seasonal soups and pastries, although the menu for these dates had not yet been announced.

December 24 — Feast of the Seven Fishes in Taos

Suchness in Taos will celebrate Christmas Eve with a traditional Italian Feast of the Seven Fishes.

The evening will include seven seafood courses, dessert and curated beverage pairings, including nonalcoholic options.

Dinner begins at 6 p.m. Reservations are required, and seating is limited.

Thanksgiving Dining and Seasonal Offerings

For those hoping to simplify Thanksgiving preparations, Tender Fire Kitchen in Santa Fe is offering holiday menu options that include savory dishes and sweets.

Customers interested in placing holiday orders should note the November 13 ordering deadline.

Meanwhile, Los Poblanos is offering seasonal afternoon tea experiences at La Quinta, featuring tea.o.graphy teas, creations from the kitchen and access to the property’s Library Bar.

Advance reservations are recommended for these popular gatherings.

Supporting New Mexico’s Local Businesses

With several longtime businesses closing and new ventures preparing to open, November offers a reminder of how important local support is to New Mexico’s restaurant and hospitality communities.

Whether it’s visiting a neighborhood bakery, enjoying a meal at a locally owned restaurant, shopping at a seasonal market or attending a community event, small decisions can make a meaningful difference.

Event schedules, business operations and availability are subject to change. Readers are encouraged to confirm details directly with organizers before attending.