Where History Meets Flavor By Elaine Ritchel Photos Linda Carfagno
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ucked away through a small passageway just steps from St. Francis Cathedral, La Casa Sena waits to be discovered. Ducking into Sena Plaza, the modern-day bustle disappears and you lose yourself in the tranquility of its old-world charm. One of the oldest houses in Santa Fe, Sena Plaza was once home to Major Jose Sena, his wife Dona Isabel Cabeza de Baca and their numerous children. Even then, La Casa Sena was known for its mouth-watering cuisine, fit for notable guests like famous frontiersman Kit Carson.
Today, La Casa Sena’s grandeur can still be felt in its elegant but inviting dining room, warmed by a central fireplace and the soft glow of a candelabra hanging from wooden vigas overhead. A contemporary cantina offers cabaretstyle entertainment seven nights a week, provided by none other than the waitstaff themselves — all professional singers. The heart of La Casa Sena is its outdoor courtyard, an oasis of lush foliage, twinkling lights, a bubbling fountain and a historic wishing well. “You could come in four days consecutively and have a different
experience every time, whether it’s lunch, dinner with entertainment, sitting outside on our patio or perusing our wine shop — we have a lot to offer under one roof,” says Matt Gonzalez, La Casa Sena’s general manager. This summer, a new full bar opens on the patio right in front of the wine shop. It’s the perfect spot to relax with friends and family, sample the full menu and sample the extensive wine list. “Our wine program features over 2,000 wines with something to suit everyone, from the aficionado to those who just
At La Casa Sena, everything from its delicious food, inspired wine program, great service and, of course, its ambiance and rich history create an unforgettable experience. want to have a good glass of wine,” says Jon Paul Leos, La Casa Sena’s wine director, who enjoys tracking down unique wines and encouraging guests to try something new. The wine shop hosts tastings once a month, and in the summer the shop partners with the cantina to offer entertainment along with tastings. Leos and Chef Patrick Gharrity, the culinary force behind La Casa Sena, are also working together to create wine pairings that complement the summer menu. What sort of pairing might you find on the menu this season? “Halibut with sundried tomato truffled risotto and a roasted red bell pepper sauce is just one possibility,” reveals Gharrity. Leos suggests sipping a rosé to complement the flavorful red pepper sauce. Originally from Ohio and trained in French-style cooking, Chef Gharrity draws on regional flavors to create what he calls new American west cuisine. “I like to think outside the box and experiment combining flavors. I’m not afraid to try anything,” he says. Traditional New Mexican dishes, like the very popular green chile cheeseburger and enchiladas, are on the menu too. At La Casa Sena, everything from its delicious food, inspired wine program, great service and, of course, its ambiance and rich history create an unforgettable experience. With a smile, Chef Gharrity sums it up best: “This place is magic.” La Casa Sena 125 E Palace Ave 505.988.9232 LaCasaSena.net Patrick Gharrity, chef