You’d be surprised how often you can get a spot near the fireplace at Hotel St. Francis.
Skiing and ice skating and snow stuff—fine. That's great. Way to go. However, winter for many of us is more like a bleak and barren wasteland. Our friends disappear, our feet are cold, skiing is not always affordable. Worry not, though, intrepid cold-haters: Santa Fe is a haven of glorious fireplaces just itching to be sat near; probably with a nice drink and bar snack.
Del Charro
Inn of the Governors,
101 W Alameda St.,
954-0320
This list comes in no particular order, but the comfy leather chairs beside Del Charro's indoor fireplace are a hot toddy fan's dream. Too busy inside? No problem—they've got a giant kiva on the enclosed porch as well, plus affordable bar food (we like the burger and the chile relleno).
The Staab House
La Posada de Santa Fe,
330 E Palace Ave.,
986-0000
They've made our list before as a great place to visit when one is trying to ignore people they know, but the Staab House strikes again with its warm exterior and classy fireplace. Perhaps a stiff whiskey would go well in their British-esque parlor, especially if you're planning on staring into the fire and thinking about life.
Hotel St. Francis
210 Don Gaspar Ave.,
983-5700
Many a traveler and local alike has sojourned to this hotel's bar, Secreto, for their signature (and super-fancy) cocktails, but don't sleep on the overstuffed fireside couches in the lobby. It's about as comfortable as it gets, and a wonderful way to while away some evening hours.
The Shed
113 1/2 E Palace Ave.,
982-9030
Technically the traditional New Mexican fireplace at the most traditional of New Mexican eateries is more about waiting for a table than anything, but there are worse ways to kill time than with one of The Shed's famous margaritas and the flickering, popping heat of their front room fireplace.
Rio Chama Steakhouse
414 Old Santa Fe Trail,
955-0765
Not just for legislators and the well-to-do, Rio Chama's lounge area is not only well-appointed, but comes with access to a gorgeous fireplace and an affordable bar menu. Sure, we long for the days of the cigar-smoking area, but as long as we're ducking out from the cold for some of that sweet, sweet fire, this seems as nice a place as any.
