The Shed: our favorite traditional New Mexican, and how to actually get a table.

Of every traditional New Mexican restaurant in Santa Fe, The Shed is the one we keep coming back to. It's right on the Plaza, and it's been on our family list for as long as we can remember.

Order the chicken enchilada plate Christmas-style — that's New Mexican shorthand for both red and green chile, and fair warning: it's spicy. The green chili stew is the other thing we always end up ordering. And the gold coin margarita is the version we measure other margaritas against.

The reservation strategy is non-negotiable. Call at least a week in advance. Same-week walk-ups don't really happen here.

If you can't get The Shed, our second-favorite move is Pink Adobe — same family of traditional New Mexican food, easier to book, with a charming patio and cozy indoor fireplaces. Try the Clams Lucifer, the Plato Mexicano, the seafood enchiladas, or the Pink Dragon margaritas. Different room, same satisfaction.

The Shed has been doing the same plate of food beautifully for a long time. That's exactly why it's on this list.