New Mexico is a rural state that requires no small number of its residents to trek into a nearby town or city even for the most mundane matters. Combine that with the region’s crisp, intense winters, especially up north, and a bar visit transforms into more than a drink—it becomes a retreat. In some of my favorite spaces, this quality is crystallized by classic elements of northern New Mexico design: hand-plastered walls glowing in soft amber light, the gentle crackle of a kiva fireplace, comfortable seating in a dimly lit adobe cavern. In others, modern designs betray elements of the retreat-like vibe that is so enticing in the winter months. For me, whether the style is modern pueblo or industrial chic, cozy is about warmth, relaxed charm, and spaces that invite you to linger.
With that in mind, I’ve curated a list of bars where comfort and ambience take center stage. Whether you’re seeking a new favorite haunt or simply passing through, these spots are perfect for a wintertime escape. Cheers to keeping warm in true New Mexico style!
Joseph’s Culinary Pub
📍 428 Agua Fria, Santa Fe, 505-982-1272
The Dragon Room
Nested within The Pink Adobe in Santa Fe’s historic Barrio de Analco, The Dragon Room holds a special place in the city’s history as one of its oldest dining establishments. Originally opened in 1944 by chef, artist, and socialite Rosalea Murphy, the Pink Adobe began as a humble spot serving burgers, French onion soup, and apple pies. Over time, the restaurant gained nationwide acclaim, attracting attention from public figures and cementing its place as one of Santa Fe’s must-eats, while the bar long held on to a bit of insider’s cachet. Now part of The Inn of the Five Graces, the recently renovated Dragon Room retains its original character while embracing the hotel’s signature opulence. Guests are greeted by old oak beams, thick adobe walls, and the warmth of a kiva fireplace during the winter. The setting is further elevated by the distinctive Afghan tapestry–upholstered chairs from Seret & Sons, a hallmark of the Seret family’s craftsmanship. And while the founder’s onion soup is no longer on the bar menu, nostalgic visitors can still order a version of the original “dobe” burger. Notably, a selection of zero-proof cocktails have joined the craft margaritas on offer at this storied bar.
📍 406 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, 505-983-2979
As Above, So Below Distillery
Blending industrial elegance with comfort at the Santa Fe Railyard, As Above, So Below offers a lofty warehouse-style atmosphere adorned with velvet couches and an abundance of plush seating. The distillery is the brainchild of master distiller Caley Shoemaker and sales guru Jeff Gust, whose shared creative vision brings an innovative edge to Santa Fe’s cocktail scene. At the heart of Shoemaker’s craft is a dedication to local and foraged botanicals, infusing the distillery’s spirits with a uniquely New Mexican character. Inventiveness is also central to her artistry: In her prior role as master distiller at Hangar 1, Shoemaker created Fog Point—a vodka distilled from wine and infused with water collected from San Francisco fog—and her unique creations at As Above, So Below range from an absinthe verte to a rye bourbon finished in French oak casks that previously held cabernet sauvignon. Whether you’re sipping one of their striking house cocktails or simply soaking in the stylish environs while you pick up a few bottles for your friends, it’s a destination that’s as inspiring as it is inviting.
📍 545 Camino de la Familia, Santa Fe
Rolling Still
Although a relative newcomer to the Taos scene, Rolling Still is a longtime favorite of mine. Since opening their first tasting room, The Lounge, in 2018, this woman-run distillery has become a beloved spot, one that embodies the very essence of cozy. The space is adorned with elegant velvet couches, minimalist design elements, and views of Taos’s iconic farolito-lined adobe buildings, which are on full display during the holiday season, making Rolling Still a particularly enchanting bar to visit in the winter months. The distillery produces four signature botanically infused vodkas—lavender, green chile, red chile, and pecan—that showcase the region’s flavors, and, in partnership with Taos Land Trust, they’ve crafted a rye whiskey aged with ponderosa bark and pecan wood. At The Lounge, these unique alpine spirits are served alongside a well-curated selection of other local spirits and fermented beverages, literally bringing the flavor of community into this distinctive gathering place.
Anaconda Bar
Located inside the venerable El Monte Sagrado hotel, just a short walk from Taos Plaza, Anaconda Bar is a cavernous hideaway with unmistakable architectural flair. Designed by John Szerdi and Sargert Design Associates, the bar takes its name from the striking gold-tiled anaconda that coils around its central structure, serving as a captivating focal point. The space beautifully blends artistry with comfort, featuring diamond-finished plaster, sconce lighting, and a giant fish tank, all set within a jungle-inspired theme complete with living trees growing indoors. With cozy corner booth–style seating and plenty of space for intimate conversation, it’s the perfect place to settle in and unwind. In addition to the classic cocktails you’d expect in such an atmosphere, the Anaconda Bar offers playful seasonal drinks and mocktails and a selection of regionally inspired dishes. Valet parking is available, ensuring a warm, hassle-free arrival.
Mia Stallard
Mia Stallard is a travel writer and content creator documenting unique stays and experiences. She's based wherever there’s Wi-Fi and a good view but currently resides in the magical mountains of northern New Mexico. Her hobbies include drinking overpriced lattes in swanky cafés, road trips through the desert, and skinny-dipping in naturally occurring bodies of water across the globe.
