Norther New Mexico is a treasure for lovers of live music
By Ellen Miller-Goins

Folks in the so-called “barbecue belt” spanning from Texas through Kansas City and Memphis to the Carolinas – know there is one hard-fast rule: True barbecue is meat cooked low and slow over indi-rect name (no, it’s not grilled). This may be the only point on which regional aficionados agree, but whether you love the messy joy of ribs slathered in sauce or brisket that is both crisp and tender, we found a few places around the Enchanted Circle to savor.
Inspired by the late, great “bad-boy chef ” Anthony Bourdain, who trav-eled the world in search of “culinary hotspots and out-of-the-way gems” we asked some of Taos’ esteemed chefs to share their favorite spots to dine in Northern New Mexico.
Consistency, simplicity, flavor. According to Adam Medina, chef and owner of Ranchos Plaza Grill, these are the intangible qualities that set his restaurant apart from other New Mexican eateries.
The local restaurant scene has seen some changes recently, with a few new eateries we wanted to highlight here — including a Texas BBQ joint, an elegant prix fixe in Ojo, the next best thing to the old Taos Diner, a colorful coffee and breakfast bar and a Native-owned real-deal New Mexican restaurant. Bon Appetit!
It’s summer 1969, and I’m high up on some serious scaffolding, painting a Muscha-inspired art nouveau mural on the front of an old building in Cape Town named The Market.
For a small town, Taos has plenty to offer. And who would know better about its great food, drinks, entertainment, shopping and services than the folks who live here…
Less than a block south of Taos Plaza, and up a set of stairs, lies Taos’ Corner Office, a new restaurant serving up award-winning food and natural wine. With a patio for lounging, counter service and a cozy indoor vibe, Corner Office at El Conejo offers something new to locals and visitors alike.
Winter may be a drag elsewhere, but its abundant sunshine, mild temperatures, and usually just the right amount of snow make Taos a great place to be between fall and spring. Taoseños, and those who want to get lost in the town’s enchanting ways, know these words by poet and artist William Blake to be true: “In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy.” Whether you’re a local seeking an in-town adventure or an out-of-towner in search of the best Taos has to offer, it’s easy to live one of your best days ever in this magical high desert mountain town.