Savoring Local Flavors: A Foodie's Guide to Bend, San Diego, and Santa Fe
As vacation enthusiasts, we know that traveling is not just about a change of scenery; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local flavors that make each destination unique. In this blog post, we'll take you on a culinary journey through three distinct destinations: Bend, OR, San Diego, CA, and Santa Fe, NM.
These cities are not only renowned for their stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures but also for their diverse and delicious food scenes. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a plethora of delectable dishes and unique culinary experiences.
Bend, Oregon: Where Nature Meets Flavor
Bend is a haven for food lovers who value sustainability and creativity. Its farm-to-table restaurants celebrate the region’s agricultural roots with fresh, locally sourced dishes.
Known as the craft beer capital of the Northwest, Bend offers countless breweries where visitors can sip and savor innovative brews. For a casual bite, the city’s bustling food truck scene brings global flavors to the heart of Oregon, ensuring every palate finds something to enjoy.
1. Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails
919 NW Bond St, Bend, OR 97701
Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails is a must-visit and true local favorite! This restaurant has dishes like blackened redfish, jambalaya, and creamy risotto that will keep you coming back for more. The menu at this restaurant is known for being gluten-free friendly as well, which means those with dietary restrictions can feel safe when visiting this establishment.
2. Spork
937 NW Newport Ave #130, Bend, OR 97703
Spork is another Bend favorite with Asian, Latin American, and African-Inspired eats. The menu pulls in flavors from around the world, offering dishes like spicy pork noodles, green curry, Korean-style ribs, and their well-known popcorn. Spork makes every visit feel fresh and exciting with its unique take on comfort food!
3. The Blacksmith Restaurant
211 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend, OR 97701
The Blacksmith Restaurant is built inside an old smithy, it brings a sense of history to every meal, with standout dishes like the surf & turf, Northwest ribeye, or a hearty Tomahawk steak—all paired with absolutely out-of-this-world sauces. There's also plenty of cocktails, wine, and even beer flights to match your meal or help you unwind during happy hour. Rounded out by attentive service and a setting that feels refined without being intimidating, The Blacksmith is a natural choice when you want a memorable yet relaxed night out.
Other notable favorites:
San Diego, California: A Coastal Culinary Oasis
San Diego’s coastal setting makes it a seafood lover’s dream, with fresh catches served daily in dishes like fish tacos and ceviche. The city is also famous for its taco culture—whether from food trucks or hidden taquerías, authentic Mexican flavors shine here.
Beyond the beachside fare, San Diego’s cultural enclaves like Little Italy and Old Town offer a world of international cuisine, from hearty pasta to traditional Mexican plates.
1. Lilo
2571 Roosevelt St, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Lilo opened in April 2025, and this 22-seat spot serves a multi-course tasting menu that showcases seasonal California ingredients with hints of Japanese and French influences. Standout dishes include dry-aged Japanese kinmedai with ragout of geoduck and bone marrow, and a caviar-topped orgeat ice cream! Talk about truly new and innovative flavoring. The experience earned Lilo a Michelin star just two months after opening, now making it the only Michelin-starred restaurant in San Diego!
2. Juniper and Ivy
2228 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Juniper and Ivy was founded by acclaimed chef Richard Blais, and this restaurant is known for its constantly changing menu. Diners rave about the “In-N-Haute” burger, house-made pastas, and imaginative small plates designed for sharing. With its sleek warehouse setting and a menu that always keeps you guessing, Juniper and Ivy has become a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking for a meal that feels both refined and fun.
3. Ironside Fish & Oyster
1654 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Ironside Fish & Oyster is the city’s go-to for fresh, trendy seafood. Located in Little Italy, this spot is known for its raw bar, buttery lobster rolls, and oysters that are as fresh as it gets. The menu ranges from creative crudo to hearty mains like whole roasted fish, making it a place where seafood shines in every form. Pair it with one of their craft cocktails, and you’ve got a dining experience that captures the best of San Diego’s dining scene in a single meal.
Other notable favorites:
Santa Fe, New Mexico: The Land of Enchanting Flavor
Santa Fe’s cuisine is a vibrant reflection of its Native American and Mexican influences, with signature dishes like green chile stew and enchiladas. Known as a true chile paradise, the city invites visitors to explore bold red and green chile sauces that define New Mexican cooking.
Adding to its charm, Santa Fe’s farmers markets and cozy cafes showcase fresh local produce and a warm southwestern coffee culture.
1. Geronimo
724 Canyon Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501
Geronimo is set inside a historic adobe home on Canyon Road. The menu blends global influences with regional ingredients, featuring standout plates like mesquite-grilled elk tenderloin, wasabi caesar salad, and decadent soufflés for dessert. Known for impeccable service and a warm, elegant setting, Geronimo consistently ranks among the best fine dining restaurants in New Mexico. It’s the kind of place perfect for a special night out, where every detail—from the plating to the wine list—feels carefully considered!
2. La Boca
72 W Marcy St, Santa Fe, NM 87501
La Boca brings a taste of Spain to the heart of Santa Fe. This award-winning tapas restaurant is known for its shareable plates like grilled octopus, jamón ibérico, and paella, all paired beautifully with an extensive Spanish wine list. Chef James Campbell Caruso creates a dining experience that feels vibrant and communal, encouraging guests to linger over multiple courses. Whether you’re sitting at the bar with a glass of Rioja or gathering with friends for a long table full of tapas, La Boca captures the joy of dining together.
3. La Plazuela At La Fonda
100 E San Francisco St, Santa Fe, NM 87501
La Plazuela at La Fonda is located inside the iconic La Fonda on the Plaza hotel, the restaurant sits in a charming courtyard filled with hand-painted windows and natural light. The menu features regional favorites like enchiladas smothered in red or green chile, tamales, and blue corn specialties, alongside hearty breakfasts and classic Southwestern desserts. With its blend of tradition, flavor, and warm service, La Plazuela is a place where visitors can experience both the heritage and the heart of Santa Fe dining.
Other notable favorites:
As you embark on your journey to Bend, San Diego, and Santa Fe, remember that these destinations offer a diverse range of culinary experiences, from farm-to-table dining to street food adventures and everything in between. So, make sure to pack your appetite when you visit these cities.
Explore the local flavors, savor the regional specialties, and create delicious memories that will last a lifetime. The 100 Collection is here to help you find the perfect vacation rental managers to make your stay in these foodie paradises even more memorable. Enjoy your culinary journey!
