When I first discovered Clafoutis Restaurant in Santa Fe, New Mexico, it was tucked away in a small adobe casita between a laundromat and Blake’s Lotaburger. I stumbled upon it while going for a walk, it was in a cute one room space that wasn’t particularly large, nevertheless it had a nice ambience and a great menu, and the food was inspiring. Although, parking was hell, and getting in and out of the location was worse.
Clafoutis has since moved. Clafoutis now shares parking with BODY of Santa Fe, I’m still not in love with the parking situation but the restaurant has more floor space to be what Clafoutis was meant to be, which has always been spectacular. Stepping into Clafoutis, you are greeted by the aromas of freshly baked pastries, freshly brewed coffees and teas, and the inviting sense of the rustic décor. The ambience, with its soft lighting and welcoming atmosphere sets the stage for the genuine Clafoutis experience. In the summers, I prefer to sit on the patio surrounded by a variety of potted flowers and plants.
At Clafoutis, the menu is a celebration of French culinary traditions with a modern twist. From classic croissants and quiches to their outstanding omelets and crepes, and if you’re there simply to peruse the pastry counter with a wide variety of pastries and desserts, including their signature clafoutis. A clafoutis is a French dish of fruit blanketed with a thick batter, and then backed into a crustless tart. It’s delicious. In the same way that when I visit New Orleans, I will always stop at Café Du Monde for traditional beignets, when I’m in Santa Fe—before my early afternoon stop at Kakawa Chocolate House—I’ll stop by Clafoutis for breakfast, and a clafoutis to go. The menu also features a selection of fine wines to complement your meal perfectly.
It’s more than the food and their pastries, but also the genuine hospitality extended by their staff. The chefs and servers take great pride in creating a welcoming environment where guests feel comfortable. Whether you're stopping by for a leisurely brunch, a romantic dinner, or a quick in-and-out for pastries to go, Clafoutis Restaurant promises a memorable culinary journey.