The Matador is a funky and unpretentious bar that is popular with locals and distinctly atypical for Santa Fe. It is as close as a downtown establishment gets to a dive bar, although it is clean and safe. Enter the tiny, underground space via a sheer blink-and-you'll-miss-it staircase. The walls are adorned with framed cult movie posters and band fliers, and the large flat screen TV shows movies. Service is friendly and the tiny space is intimate and fun. This place gets packed on the weekends and seating is hard to come by, so prepare for the crowds.

Located on the historic Canyon Road, El Faro is one of the oldest restaurants in the neighborhood, this dining mainstay was here long before the area became the artists' haven. The food, atmosphere, and service all combine to make this one of the most attractive restaurants for people in the know. The menu is highly influenced by Spanish cuisine and specializes in tapas, paellas, seafood, and fine Spanish wines. After dinner, enjoy the nightly live entertainment and take a spin on the dance floor.