Izanami – A Tranquil Japanese Retreat in the Mountains of Santa Fe

Perched within the serene Ten Thousand Waves Japanese Spa & Resort, Izanami offers a unique dining experience that blends traditional Japanese izakaya-style cuisine with the rustic charm of the New Mexican mountains. Just a short drive from downtown Santa Fe, this upscale yet unpretentious spot invites guests to unwind and savor meticulously crafted small plates in a peaceful setting.

🍽️ What to Savor

Izanami’s menu features a variety of shareable dishes that highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Many items are gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan, catering to diverse dietary preferences. Here are some standout options:

• Wagyu Beef Ishiyaki: Cook premium Miyazaki A5 or Nebraska Morgan Ranch wagyu slices on a hot stone at your table, accompanied by smoked shoyu and sesame miso sauces.

• Grilled Miso Bass: Wild Chilean sea bass glazed with miso, served alongside bok choy and pickled ginger.

• Miso Mole Gyoza: Kurobuta pork belly dumplings infused with a unique blend of miso and mole negro, topped with pickled onions.

• Black Sesame Noodles: A cold dish featuring burdock root, carrots, edamame, and scallions tossed in a house-made black sesame dressing.

• Nasu Dengaku: Grilled Japanese eggplant glazed with miso and sprinkled with sesame seeds

For dessert, consider the house-made black sesame panna cotta or yuzu-infused cheesecake, both offering a delightful finish to your meal.

🍶 Sake and Beverages

Izanami boasts one of the most extensive selections of premium Japanese sake in the region, curated by Deborah Fleig, a master sake sommelier. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the offerings, ensuring a perfect pairing for your meal. Additionally, the restaurant offers a variety of wines, cocktails, and other beverages to complement the dining experience.

🌿 Atmosphere and Dining Options

The restaurant’s design reflects a harmonious blend of Japanese aesthetics and natural elements. Guests can choose from various seating options, including traditional tatami rooms, indoor tables, and a heated outdoor pavilion with views of the surrounding forest. The ambiance is serene and inviting, making it an ideal spot for both intimate dinners and gatherings with friends.

💡 Tips for Visiting

• Reservations: Highly recommended, especially during weekends and peak seasons.

• Spa Dining: Combine your visit with a relaxing spa treatment at Ten Thousand Waves for a holistic experience.

• Dietary Needs: Inform your server of any dietary restrictions; the menu offers numerous gluten-free and vegetarian options.

• Parking: Available on-site, with accessible options near the restaurant entrance.

Whether you’re seeking a culinary adventure or a peaceful retreat, Izanami provides a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Japanese hospitality in the heart of New Mexico.