Spent some time in Santa Fe today with my daughter Lauren, and on her recommendation we visited Vinaigrette, a salad bistro serving salads, sandwiches, stews and soups in an adorable contemporary Santa Fe style space. It's small, but laid out well, with table and counter dining.
What's interesting and unique is that most of the organic produce used is from owner Eric Wade's farm in Nambe, New Mexico. Anything that they do not grow, they buy locally. That translates into some delightful flavors.
As it was cold and snowing, I wanted something warm, so I ordered a bowl of the Mushroom Stew ($7), with fresh sourdough bread on the side. There were a variety of mushrooms, carrots and onions in a miso broth. So many delicious flavors! I loved it.
Lauren ordered the Salacho ($12.25), one of ten Signature Salads. Others included "The Beet Goes On", "Apple Cheddar Chop", and "Eat Your Peas."
We enjoyed all of the little decorative touches like mason jars for the water, a bushel basket for the bread, and a small aluminum pail for the check.
Our ratings were as follows: Toni 5/3/5 and Lauren 4/4/5. While the decor was refreshing, the service was just OK. It also became a little loud as more customers arrived.
You can find this restaurant at 709 Don Cubero Alley in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Their hours are 11AM to 9PM Monday through Saturday. Phone is 505.820.9205. http://www.vinaigretteonline.com/
