Santa Fe Convention and Visitors Bureau

Opened in 2006 by Chef/Owner James Campbell Caruso, La Boca is an intimate Spanish tapas restaurant in the heart of downtown Santa Fe. Influenced by his travels in Spain, Chef James cultivates synergies of authentic Spanish ingredients to create dishes both traditional and modern. Dishes such as smoky grilled eggplant topped with rich manchego, sweet saffron honey, and briny capers or thinly sliced tuna drizzled with blood orange aioli and topped with kalamata olives and smoked sea salt create a constellation of different flavors in every bite. "We're influenced by the exuberance of Spanish cooking," says Chef James. "La Boca is our interpretation of the great excitement created in Spain about food." One of the keys to La Boca's culinary success is its commitment to the highest quality ingredients. Chef James explains, "We strive to get the best, most authentic ingredients. This means staying true to the Spanish tradition to sourcing products regionally, which we do through our participation in the Santa Fe Farm to Restaurant Delivers program, and through the direct relationships we have with local producers of meats, dairy, and produce. What we can't find locally, we source directly from Spain--chorizo, pimenton, olives, etc. Sometimes we do both; for example we have both a local and a Spanish goat cheese and we take advantage of each unique flavor.

With the feel of a lively European wine bar, La Boca also features an extensive selection of carefully chosen mediterranean and South American wines. Knowledgeable and animated staff graciously guide customers to the perfect wine to complement their meals. La Boca also prides itself on being an ambassador of Spanish sherry culture, transporting its guests to Cadiz in the crisp cool flavors of Fino, or the deep fig-essence of a Pedro Ximenez.

La Boca shares its passion for Spanish food wine and culture through special events. La Boca hosts Flamenco guitar legend, "Chuscales" every Monday (no cover), and Nacha Mendez, guitarist and songstress who sings music from around the Spanish-speaking world. Additionally, La Boca hosts a monthly seminar with various topics ranging from cooking demonstrations, sherry tastings, wine tastings, and more!

Chef James is the author of El Farol: Tapas and Spanish Cuising, and will release his new book, Espana: Exploring the Flavors of Spain in May. This beautifully photographed book includes a primer on Spanish ingredients, as well as over 50 recipes for tapas, stews, meats, seafood and vegetables; scrumptious soups; hearty main dishes; and delectable desserts, all using fresh produce, the finest cheeses and meats, and traditional spices.