“ OMG one of the greatest Places I have ever been! The atmosphere is incredible! We showed up 10 minutes before they opened and there was a line out the door. Didn’t take long to get to us once they opened though! We were in the middle of nowhere and all of a sudden we were somewhere! Somewhere very special.! We had the French toast special and should have shared. It was so much food. I was torn, so I took the mushroom soup to go and let me tell you, that was one of the greatest things I have eaten In my life! The chef truly leaves it all on the plate! I don’t know how you find a chef like this and get him to come out to the middle of nowhere like this But let me just say WOOOOOOW WE ARE BLOWN AWAY! I would drive five hours for this ”

“ This was an unexpected pleasure. I was talking to the owner of a small cafe on Canyon Rd in Santa Fe. She said this was #2 on their list of favorite restaurants. It is about 20 minutes north of Santa Fe in Lamy, NM. The pink trout was great, the drinks were reasonable, and the atmosphere was really cool. This was a Victorian Era general store across from the railroad station. It's just really neat with an "old town" style saloon and bar. I spoke with the GM, and they hold events here regularly. They have an extra larger room and outdoor seating. ”

“ Stumbling upon this restaurant was like finding a treasure chest in the desert. Nestled in a remote town where you wouldn’t expect much beyond the basics, this place blew me away with its charm, quality, and atmosphere. Housed in a beautifully restored historical building reminiscent of a Wild West saloon, the restaurant feels like stepping back in time. The wooden interiors, intricate details, and vintage decor add so much character, making it a memorable dining experience from the moment you walk in. The menu is surprisingly extensive, offering a variety of dishes that cater to all tastes. I was genuinely impressed by grilled pink trout, chicken liver pate, and cream of mushroom soup. Sunday brunch comes with live music as well! ”

“ I’m voting The Legal Tender the best bar and afternoon hang out spot in the SF area. Service, food, drinks and the old west ambiance made for a perfect experience! In this day and age that’s a rare find. The reboot of a SF institution that’s struggled to gain traction in the past, has finally found its hay day. Richard and Thomas are a dynamic duo behind the bar who made us feel like VIPs. ”

“ Fantastic atmosphere, GREAT food, excellent service, reasonable prices for sure. Our waitress Victoria was simply excellent, contributing mightily to the positive experience with her sunny attitude. Walter/Wallie, the business manager, came to the table and told us mesmerizing stories of the saloon, with a picture book to prove it. Our party had members who came to the saloon with their parents - and Wallie's stories and the pictures brought back very happy memories. We'll be back for the dance- and music performances! You bet ya! Very warmly recommended! ”

“ I haven't been to Legal Tender in decades. New owner and chef, it was on my bucket list to try. My wife and I went with eight others for the Santa Fe Foodies group, and we were all very impressed. I decided to try their Green Chile Cheeseburger after our waitress informed me it was different from the 'sister' restaurant Cafe Fina (that burger is solid, but I was looking for something new). Indeed, it is different, better, and quite good, up there at the top of my list with Santa Fe Bite, Jambo Bite, and The Mine Shaft (where I always get the Wagyu burger). The meat was cooked perfectly (Med rare), very tasty, and had a great char. The bun, as were the condiments (Tomatoes, red onions, and lettuce), was excellent. Very lovely green chile and Tillamook cheddar. This is one to try if you're looking for a great GCCB. My wife had the Pan Seared Ruby Trout, which was very good. Some at the table were worried it would be 'too fishy', but no, it was excellent, and several others ordered it with approval. The broccoli that came with the dish was delicious. We also had the Creamy Mushroom Soup, which was rich, thick, and filled with mushroom flavors. Service was very good; thank you, Zayra A, for your burger recommendation. Table of 10: all the food arrived at the same time, and the kitchen knows what it is doing. I hope to return often, the food is very good, the ambience is a hoot. DO NOTE that the days they are open are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This place is pretty big; we sat in a room outside the bar, which was hopping. If you're into bars, you'll like it, but if not, ask to sit in another room. ”

“ A hidden gem with soul, history, and hospitality! The Legal Tender in Lamy is a true New Mexico treasure — off the beaten path and absolutely worth the drive. Housed in an old saloon brimming with Old West charm and rich history, the atmosphere alone is enough to make you fall in love. But what really makes this place shine is the people. Murphy, the owner, is an incredible host who makes you feel like a longtime friend the moment you arrive. Wally adds warmth and character that gives the place its heart, and our regular server Sarah always takes exceptional care of us — attentive, kind, and genuine every time. The food? Consistently excellent. Every dish is thoughtfully prepared and full of flavor, whether you're stopping in for a casual bite or celebrating something special. We keep coming back, and every visit feels like coming home. Can’t recommend The Legal Tender enough! ”

“ This place is so cool! We go for a a hike at nearby Galisteo Reserve and then head here on a weekend day. The quesadillas & the wings are incredible. Friendly staff. ”