Todos Santos, a picturesque small town in the Baja California Sur region of Mexico, is known for its beautiful beaches, art galleries, and pleasant climate. With a rich history dating back to the early 18th century, this quaint but lively Pueblo Mágico (Magical Village) provides a perfect setting for a gastronomic adventure that transcends borders. In the heart of historic downtown Todos Santos lies Café Santa Fe – an exquisite culinary gem that offers an authentic taste of Italy with their mouth-watering dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
A Bit of History:
Established in 1989 by Italian chef Ezio Colombo and his wife Paula Geise, Café Santa Fe has since become a beloved institution within Todos Santos. Hailing from Turin, Italy, Chef Ezio’s passion for exquisite Italian cuisine shines through in every dish they serve. The restaurant occupies a beautiful historic building that dates back to the 1850s and provides an atmospheric setting for an unforgettable dining experience.
Ambiance and Atmosphere:
Stepping into Café Santa Fe is like taking a delightful trip to Italy without ever leaving historic downtown Todos Santos. With its warm ochre walls, rustic wooden beams, and charming décor featuring beautiful Italian pottery and art, the ambiance is cozy and inviting. Alfresco dining under the elegant pergola is also available, allowing diners to enjoy their meal surrounded by lush gardens and exotic plants.
The Menu:
Café Santa Fe offers an extensive menu featuring traditional Italian dishes made from recipes passed down through generations. Their food is prepared using only fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from local farms and vendors. Start your dining experience with one of their delizioso antipasti options like Bruschetta al Pomodoro e Mozzarella or Carpaccio di Manzo con Rucola e Parmigiano.
For a main course, you can’t miss out on their scrumptious pasta dishes – all homemade on-site daily. Choose from classics like Fettuccine Alfredo or Lasagna al Forno or opt for unique plates such as Gnocchi di Spinaci al Gorgonzola. If you’re more inclined towards seafood dishes, try their fresh Pesce Spada alla Griglia con Salsa Vierge (grilled swordfish with virgin sauce) or Cappon Magro alla Ligure (a delicious Ligurian seafood salad).
Round off your meal with one of their heavenly desserts like Tiramisu or Panna Cotta alla Vaniglia con Frutti di Bosco – both bursting with authentic Italian flavors.
Wine & Spirits:
No Italian dining experience would be complete without fine wine – and Café Santa Fe boasts an impressive selection to suit every palate. Their extensive wine list features regional Mexican varieties as well as celebrated wines from Italy and other renowned wine-producing countries. For those who prefer other spirits, they also offer a variety of cocktails and specialty drinks.
Why Visit Café Santa Fe?
Visiting Café Santa Fe not only means indulging in sumptuous Italian cuisine but also experiencing exceptional hospitality within an enchanting setting in historic downtown Todos Santos. So whether you’re visiting this magical town for the first time or are a local looking to explore more culinary delights, make it a point to visit Café Santa Fe for a truly unforgettable gastronomic experience that transports you straight to Italy’s finest kitchens!
Next time you find yourself wandering the charming cobblestone streets of historic downtown Todos Santos, make sure to pay a visit to Café Santa Fe for an authentic taste of Italy served in a warm atmosphere reflective of both Mexican and Italian hospitality. Buon appetito!