Soak up Santa Fe's Global Vibe

Five multicultural experiences in Santa Fe.

VIBE: Sultry Madrid Noche, with a Buenos Aires Flair

Swing open the door of the low-slung adobe El Mesón restaurant, just two blocks off the Plaza, and step into Old Spain. Here, you can sample the Madrid-born owner-chef's specialties. Then saunter over to its candlelit Chispa Tapas Bar. On Tuesday, the mood is South American sizzle at weekly tango night; on the first Saturday of every month, professionals take to the floor for flamenco. Settle in and sip sangria. El Mesón $$$; Chispa $$$, $10 cover on flamenco night; both closed Sun–Mon; 213 Washington Ave; 505-983-6756.

Worldly Touch: Santa Fe is the second-oldest US city, established by the Spanish 400 years ago. Native Americans have lived here even longer.

VIBE: Continental Shopping Spree

Shop for vintage furnishings from France and Italy and clothes from Parisian and US labels at Block Mercantile (closed Sun–Mon; 418 Montezuma Ave; 505-982-7477), in the artsy Railyard District. Owned by a former fashion stylist and interior designer, the store has a modern rustic feel; a barn door opens into an airy room with a velvet couch that encourages lingering. Another good stop is Poem (125 E Palace Ave, Ste 30; 505-820-7884), a boutique straight out of a Parisian neighborhood. The owner has a soft spot for eclectic international treasures.

Worldly Touch: Santa Fe is a walking city, with cobblestone streets near the Plaza and plenty of courtyards to pause in.