Carved into the mountainside beneath the Sangre de Cristo peaks, Izanami Restaurant Santa Fe transforms traditional Japanese izakaya dining into an extraordinary high-desert sanctuary. This upscale destination within Ten Thousand Waves spa resort offers Santa Fe fine dining that seamlessly blends authentic Japanese culinary artistry with New Mexico's pristine mountain environment, creating an experience unlike any other in the Southwest.

Executive Chef Kiko Rodriguez, a Veracruz native with over two decades in Santa Fe's culinary scene, has spent nine years perfecting Izanami's distinctive approach to Japanese cuisine. His philosophy centers on seasonal small plates crafted from 90% organic and sustainably sourced ingredients, honoring both traditional izakaya techniques and local terroir. The restaurant's architectural marvel, designed by Buddhist priest and master craftsman Jon Driscoll, features pagoda-style roofs, twisted wooden beams, and rice-paper lanterns that transport diners to an ancient Japanese mountain village.

The cuisine celebrates the izakaya tradition of shared plates arriving fresh from the kitchen in artful succession. Signature offerings include the interactive Wagyu Ishiyaki, where premium beef sizzles on hot stones tableside, and the delicate Yaki Onigiri, grilled rice balls that showcase Chef Kiko's mastery of fundamental Japanese flavors. The Tempura Moriawase presents seasonal vegetables and seafood in impossibly light, crispy batters, while the Hamachi Kama delivers succulent yellowtail collar with house-made ponzu. Beyond the robata grill specialties, guests discover lotus root-chicken croquettes, black sesame noodles, and innovative salads featuring local ingredients like watermelon-feta with shiso.

The beverage program elevates Izanami among the best restaurants Santa Fe offers, featuring North America's finest collection of artisanal cold sake curated by master sake sommelier Deborah Fleig—one of fewer than 40 women worldwide to hold this distinction. The extensive selection includes rare Japanese whiskies, Shizuoka green teas, and craft beers that perfectly complement the cuisine's delicate flavors.

Dining unfolds across multiple intimate spaces: traditional tatami floor seating, mountain-view booths, a dedicated sake bar, and year-round outdoor pavilions where the sound of cascading waterfalls enhances the meditative atmosphere. The unhurried service philosophy encourages guests to slow down and savor each carefully composed plate, often following rejuvenating spa treatments.

For discerning diners seeking the best fine dining in Santa Fe, Izanami offers an unparalleled fusion of Japanese culinary excellence and Southwestern serenity. Reservations are essential for this intimate mountain retreat, where every meal becomes a contemplative journey through Japan's most beloved dining tradition.