A Weekend (Gluten-Free) Guide to Taos, New Mexico
Taos is one of the most enchanting towns in the state of enchantment. At nearly 7,000 feet in elevation, this northern city sits on the edge of the Rio Grande in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the start of the Rocky Mountain range.
It has a rich indigenous culture and is home to a World Heritage Site (Taos Pueblo). It’s a renowned art colony, with a world-class ski resort, majestic landscape, distinctive cuisine, and so much more. It’s a place where national jurisdictions have changed hands three times (Spanish, Mexican, American), and encompasses the past, present, and future. Here is our guide to a perfect weekend in this perfect city…
Please find “***” next to any of the places I was hosted. As always, all opinions are expressed as my own.
Food and Drinks
*Although gluten-friendly, and aware, these establishments do not have dedicated gluten-free environments. Please use your best judgment, and ensure that the waiting staff is aware of the severity of your food restrictions before dining.
Coffee/Juice
World Cup Cafe 102 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571
This cute little corner spot downtown will meet all of your coffee and espresso needs. They also have quite a few gluten-free treats and bread, but unfortunately, it’s a shared area so preventing cross-contact is a challenge.
Breakfast
Manzanita Market 103 North Plaza, Taos, NM 87571
Located in the heart of downtown (right next to World Cup Cafe), Manzanita Market is an all-organic community-centric cafe, creamery, and marketplace. Everything in their marketplace is sourced from Taos locals, and much of their nutrient-dense ingredients are also sourced locally.
Their menu is mostly gluten-free, with a focus on whole foods, including local, organic, slow homestyle cooking. A signature dish is their medicinal chicken bone broth that’s cooked for 24-hours with turmeric, ginger, and carrots. It is sold on its own or used as a base for various other menu items.
They also offer gluten-free oats, blue cornbread for any of their sandwiches, and other delicious items such as their gluten-free blue corn pancakes, smoothies, and salads. A true taste of Taos.
Bearclaw Bakery & Cafe 228 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Ste A, Taos, New Mexico 87571
Bearclaw Bakery and Cafe is a great breakfast and lunch spot in downtown Taos that offers quality food in a homey atmosphere. Many of their daily menu items are gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, which are marked, including their blue corn pancakes, bison burger, omelets, salads, and more.
Their brunch menu is ever-changing, and often includes a gluten-free tamale plate, eggs benedict, a fruit and yogurt plate, and salad. Their bakery is full of gluten-free items, all individually wrapped to prevent cross-contact.
Farmhouse Cafe and Bakery 1405 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, El Prado, NM 87529
As mentioned on their website, “Farmhouse Cafe and bakery is committed to healthy, local, organic cuisine that sustains our bodies, our community, and Mother Earth.” They work with over 20 local farmers, ranchers, and producers to create an organic, non-GMO, and seasonally fresh menu and food network.
Also, their menu is very gluten-free and vegan-friendly. Items such as their gluten-free lasagna, gluten-free pancakes, mushroom shepherd's pie, enchiladas, or stir fry will have you feeling confident that you chose the best place to dine. While visiting, check out their store where you can find local produce, dry goods, and hand-made crafts.
Lunch
De La Tierra Restaurant and Anaconda Bar (located inside El Monte Sagrado) 317 Kit Carson Road, Taos, New Mexico 87571 ***
If you haven’t visited New Mexico’s most expensively built hotel, now is your excuse. Aside from the gorgeous property, the resort is home to De La Tierra Restaurant and Anaconda Bar. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you may just want to stay on the property forever.
Their restaurant and bar offer organic, farm-to-table meals, with plenty of gluten-free and vegan options such as their breakfast hash, fantastic poached salmon plate, and bison burger. I ended up eating here multiple times.
Sol Food Natural Market 591 Arroyo Hondo Arroyo Seco Rd., Arroyo Seco, NM 87514
Although not technically in Taos, Sol Food Natural Market is Taos County’s only completely organic espresso, and fresh vegetable and fruit juice bar. Also, they are an all-organic cafe that specializes in farm-to-table flavorful experiences. They strive to be an eco-conscious establishment by using biodegradable and local ingredients.
They offer two different gluten-free loaves of bread as options for their sandwiches and have various gluten-free salads to choose from. They also have a full espresso, juice, and smoothie bar. While visiting, check out their market, where you can purchase dairy products, local meats, dry goods, fresh produce, frozen foods, snacks, pet foods, household products, body care products, and boutique items.
Neem Karoli Baba Ashram 416 Geronimo Lane, Taos, New Mexico 87571
We would recommend visiting this Ashram in general, but they also kindly offer vegetarian public breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. Check out their schedule!
Dinner
The Love Apple 803 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571 ***
The Love Apple took over the former space of the Placitas Chapel that was built in the 1800s and operated for over 100 years. This adorable restaurant emphasizes regional, local, and organic home cooking with French accents. Their menu is constantly changing, as do the nightly specials to accommodate seasonal produce availability.
They also use local hormone-free, grass-fed, and finished meat, locally milled flour, and cheese. Everything is made from scratch, including their buttermilk yellow and wheat-free blue cornbread, bacon-wrapped dates, salads, and tacos.
Many of their other menu items are also gluten-free, and the restaurant is extremely accommodating to any dietary restrictions. Notify your server of gluten-avoidance so that they can ensure proper cross-contact avoidance wherever possible.
La Cueva Cafe 135 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
La Cueva Cafe is located in the Historic Casa Baca Plaza that dates back to 1850, near downtown. Their menu encompasses the best of both Mexican and New Mexican cuisine, with a delicious local flare.
Although they do not have a dedicated gluten-free fryer for their corn chips, and other items, their menu still offers many gluten-free options. This includes breakfast items like their Huevos Rancheros, Enchiladas con Huevos, and lunch and dinner items like their Sopa de Tortilla, enchiladas, tacos, and flan.
The Stakeout 101 Stakeout Dr, Ranchos de Taos, NM ***
The Stakeout offers private culinary experiences in their venue perched on top of Outlow Hill. At 7,200 ft, it basks in the stunning nature of Taos, including a view of the Rio Grande Gorge and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Aside from being one of the most gorgeous event venues in the state, they also host a curated dinner series that uses ingredients from local farmers and makers in the area, like Tea-o-Graphy, High Desert Honey Company, Dream Tree Project, and others.
Dinners are often entirely gluten-free, and if not, alternative options are always available. An experience like no other. One of the three owners has celiac disease and rarely uses any gluten in their kitchen. They take cross-contact very seriously. I may want to get married here someday. Stay tuned.
Dessert
Chokola Bean to Bar 106 Juan Largo Ln in Taos, NM 87571 ***
Located near the historic Taos Plaza in downtown, Chokola Bean to Bar is Taos’ award-winning, small-batch, and organically crafted bean-to-bar chocolate maker. Aside from their gluten-free chocolate bar, including single origin chocolate bars, their menu has pour-over coffees, various gluten-free pastries, and hot or cold sipping chocolate.
Aside from their various mousses, ice creams, bonbons, and milkshakes, they also have vegan-friendly options. The owners are career chocolatiers and are happy to walk you through the bean-to-bar process, including the importance of sustainable sourcing.
For those who want to truly immerse themselves in all things chocolate and education, then consider a private tasting. For those who can’t wait to visit, or can’t be without Chokola’s chocolate, they currently sell many of their bars online.
Drinks
The Lounge by Rolling Still Distillery 110 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571 ***
This vodka distillery and bar (tasting room) is stunning. They use artesian water from the local Sangre de Cristo mountains. The best part is their extensive list of mocktails, and how creative and accommodating the bartenders are. They also offer small bites to eat, some of which are gluten-free. This would be my fav nighttime hangout spot in the city.
Groceries
Taos Farmer’s Market 400 Camino de La Placita
The Taos Farmers Market is adorable, and located downtown on Saturday’s from 9 AM - 12 PM. Remember, when you support farmer’s markets, you are supporting local farmers and the local economy. Plus, local, in-season, and organic produce is the most ideal for your health.
CID’S Food Market 623 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571
CID’s Food Market is located right outside of downtown and is a great spot for local and organic gluten-free grocery shopping, as well as on-the-go food options. They have an extensive gluten-free selection of just about everything in their large grocery store. Also, they have a hot bar and salad bar with plenty of gluten-free options. Keep in mind, cross-contact can be a concern in any buffet-style setting.
Things to Do
Rio Grande Bridge
The fifth-highest bridge in the country (650 ft. over the Rio Grande)… Don’t look down. But do it. It’s cool. Locals say this is a well-known energy vortex. Whether you’re into it or not, it’s just beautiful to experience.
San Francisco de Asís Mission Church
I was inspired to visit this church after seeing Georgia O’Keeffe’s painting of it inside the @okeeffemuseum. You might also recognize it from Ansel Adams’ photography work. Each year, the church’s community volunteers to re-plaster the church in adobe (made up of clay, sand, straw, and plaster), making the structure essentially resilient to the elements.
The parish hall is also home to the famous 18th Century oil painting called “The Shadow of the Cross” by Henri Ault, aka “The Mystery Painting.” Apparently, it glows in the dark (and they still don’t know why). You can see it glow for $3 ✨
Angelisa’s tours are my absolute favorite. She is so full of passion and knowledge about the state of New Mexico, and being Tao-based, knows all things about the area. We had the pleasure of attending a half-day horno baking cultural tour in Taos Pueblo, including participating in a traditional bread baking in the horno.
I, of course, lived vicariously through my non-celiac counterparts. I don’t think I’ve ever smelled anything better. But anyway, getting to really know Taos Pueblo was a wonderful experience. Be sure to check out their other tours, like their artisan walking tour and glamping tours. They have quite a bit to offer.
Taos Pueblo
If you aren’t going on Angelisa’s tour, I still recommend visiting Taos Pueblo. This was a bucket-list item fulfilled for me. It’s home to the oldest multi-story residential complexes in the USA and is a designated @unesco World Heritage Site. Although the homes themselves do not have running water or electricity, they are still lived in by some members of the Taos Pueblo community and are nearly full come the holidays.
Native American Flute Music Meditation and Soul Ceremonies with Patrick Shendo (Hotel Sagrado/Private)***
This was one of the highlights of my entire trip to Taos. Never have I been able to see aura color, until attending one of Patrick’s meditation ceremonies. I’m not saying this will also happen for you, but you will experience something special. If you’re at the Hotel Sagrado, his classes are free, otherwise, it’s $20 for drop-ins (worth it). He also offers private and group healing sessions at his home in Taos. He can be reached at psmirabal@hotmail.com
Black Rock Hot Springs
Just in case you’re craving some water in the high desert, check out these hot springs located alongside the Rio Grande river. They are relatively easy to access and warm. Perfect for a cold day, or night.
Earthship Visitor Center ***
If you’re visiting the Rio Grande bridge in Taos, NM, you might as well stop @earthshipbiotecture . This was my first time visiting a sustainable Earthship community. I don’t think I’ve aesthetically seen anything quite like it before.🛸I felt like I was on #Tatooine (Star Wars). But aside from the aesthetics, these homes are so cool bc they are entirely self-sufficient/sustainable. I seriously thought about building one out here, in Joshua Tree. They have both self-guided and community tours. You will want to absorb as much as possible, and take photos of course.
P.S. They have @airbnb’s you can rent! I’ll def be doing that next time.
Hike
There are a ton of hikes in the area. If you’re up for it (literally… the altitude, woof), then you can hike the tallest peak in NM (Wheeler Peak) while you’re in town. Or, you can simply complete the 4.3 mile Williams Lake Trail or other hikes in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. You are golden!
Taos Ski Valley
Whether there’s snow on the ground, or not, you are bound to have a good team. Ski, snowboard, or ride the ski lift. They’ve got other cool activities going on too.
Enchanted Circle Driving Tour
This is a great way to get a lay of the land and to see the 84-miles of majestic beauty Taos has to offer. If hiking Wheeler Peak wasn’t for you, this tour will at least allow you to circle it, while seeing some of the oldest rocks in the southwest.
Art Hop!
There are a bunchhhh of galleries in Taos. Here are just a few worth checking out:
Where to Shop
People of the Valley Mercantile
Everything you want from a local store; sustainable and beautiful vintage clothing, and high desert lifestyle products and accessories.
Boxie Tees
This was an accidental find, and I’m so happy it happened. Sustainable and beautiful basics of all sorts, all made in the USA. I’m happy you can also purchase online.
Six Hand Hat Co.
A hand-made hat shop (say that six times). I don’t think I’ve ever seen such beautiful hats before! I was privileged to be able to meet the hat maker. They use rabbit or beaver felt, and custom dyes. What an art!
Op Cit Books
How can you not stop by a local bookstore while traveling somewhere? This one is very cute.
Starr Interiors Fine Weavings
Stop by to see some of the most beautiful Zapotec Indian 100% wool, and hand-loomed rugs. They also have gorgeous wall hangings, pillows, and tribal and southwest rugs.
Taos Mountain Outfitters
Did you forget any gear? Then this is your spot. They have all of the recreational gear you’ll need for your adventure.
Where to Stay
El Monte Sagrado ***
Bohemian luxury at its finest. I fell in love with this hotel at first sight. Perhaps it was the giant 90-pound Brazilian citrine quartz that hangs in the above the moment you walk in or the beautiful black-billed magpies that fill the air.
Or, their amazing restaurant, spa, salt-water pools with an indoor rainforest. Too lazy to walk to the pools? Enjoy the soaking tub in your room instead. Regardless of who you are, this hotel will delight your senses.
Every corner has a story to tell and it is no wonder why it’s the most expensive hotel built in New Mexico and a Four Diamond AAA-rated Heritage Hotel. Did I also mention that some of the world’s most prominent spiritual leaders blessed the hotel when it first opened? Including the Dalai Lama, who still stays there when he visits.
I didn’t want to leave its premises while visiting Taos. I loved bird watching and walking the beautiful Sacred Circle, made up of several hundred-year-old cottonwood trees. I had the pleasure of staying in two of the one-of-a-kind global suites, first Egypt and then China, with true decor and amenities that reflect and are from the countries being represented.
I also got to stay in the Mountain View room, with an amazing soaking tub, and a balcony that looks over the property. They host classes throughout the classes that are free for guests to attend, or for a small price to the public. I got to experience Patrick Shendo’s sound meditation, a highlight of my visit (I was able to see chakra colors). There’s also a library filled with activities and a fireplace, and a pool table built in the early 20th century, once owned by the Minnesota fats pool shark.
Spa treatments are everything from your quintessential massage and facial, to a Sacred Staurolite treatment using sacred stones that are indigenous to Taos, a personalized sound bath, reiki, and much more. You can also grab a drink, and or meal at the Anaconda Bar, which is encircled by a snake with no start or end, made from gold plated tiles from Italy. Their restaurants offer organic, farm-to-table meals, with plenty of gluten-free and vegan options. I enjoyed the breakfast hash, poached salmon plate, and the bison burger. Ending the night around the bonfire was also special.
Aside from the hotel being gorgeous, the customer service is out of this world. The manager, Dawn who is a member of the Taos Pueblo gave us a beautiful tour and ensured our stay was as perfect as possible. Hunter, also at the front desk, was extremely helpful in planning our stay, and just lovely. Lynn was also a gem. They offer free shuttle services within three miles of the property, and each of the drivers was great. Marcos, who is also a member of the Taos Pueblo, was able to make great recommendations of sacred sites to visit. Kent offered wonderful conversations, and went above and beyond on a night I was symptomatic (#spoonietravel). Shout out to Marcos, Cameron, and Kent!
Thank you to the wonderful team for such a fantastic stay! We look forward to visiting again, perhaps during a different season, and experiencing more.
