Santa Fe's culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of indigenous traditions, Spanish colonial influences, and contemporary artistry. Within this rich scene, Chef Fernando Olea stands out as a true alchemist, transforming traditional Mexican cuisine into an experience that captivates the senses and warms the soul. Originally from Mexico City, Chef Olea brought his profound understanding of Old Mexico's culinary heritage to Santa Fe in 1991. He didn't just introduce new dishes; he brought a philosophy of hospitality and a passion for authentic, yet sophisticated, flavors that have since become deeply embedded in the city's gastronomic identity. His journey began not in a high-end kitchen, but with a Santa Fe institution, Bert's Burger Bowl. This humble start allowed him to connect with the local community and understand its palate before embarking on ventures that would showcase the depth of his culinary vision, eventually leading to his celebrated restaurant, Sazón.
Why Chef Olea's Sazón is a Must-Experience
A visit to Chef Olea's domain, Sazón, is more than just a meal; it's an immersion into a world where food is both art and heartfelt expression. Sazón, meaning "seasoning" or "flavor" in Spanish, perfectly encapsulates the chef's philosophy. Here, traditional Mexican dishes are reinterpreted with contemporary flair and a global palate, always emphasizing fresh, high-quality ingredients, often locally sourced. The star of the show is undoubtedly Chef Olea's array of exquisite moles, complex sauces that can involve over thirty ingredients and are steeped in history and regional specificity. Diners are often treated to a tasting of these moles, a unique introduction that sets the stage for the culinary journey ahead. The ambiance of Sazón, with its elegant decor, including a striking mural depicting the ingredients of his signature "New Mexican Mole," complements the sophisticated cuisine. Chef Olea himself is known to visit tables, sharing stories and making every guest feel like family. His dedication to his craft and his guests earned him the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest in 2022, a testament to his significant impact on the culinary world and Santa Fe's dining scene. For anyone seeking an authentic, refined, and deeply personal exploration of Mexican cuisine, Sazón is an unmissable Santa Fe destination.
5 Things Most People Don't Know About Chef Fernando Olea:
- From Burgers to Brilliance: Before captivating Santa Fe with his intricate moles and upscale Mexican cuisine, Chef Olea owned and operated Bert's Burger Bowl, a beloved local burger joint. He even opened Bert's La Taqueria before venturing into fine dining.
- A Man of Many Hats (Literally and Figuratively): Beyond his iconic chef's hat, Chef Olea has a diverse background, having worked in fields like cosmetology and furniture sales before fully embracing his passion for the culinary arts.
- Community Champion: He has been deeply involved in the Santa Fe community, serving as Past President of the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta and recognized by former First Lady Michelle Obama for his work with the "Cooking with Kids" organization.
- Mole for a Milestone: Chef Olea created a unique "New Mexican Mole" to commemorate Santa Fe's 400th anniversary in 2009. This mole features ingredients like apricots, piñons, pecans, Chimayó red chile, and white chocolate.
- Unexpected Culinary Confession: Despite his mastery of complex flavors, Chef Olea has admitted that as a young child, he thought food was "the most horrible punishment" until one day he woke up and simply loved it, often doing his homework amidst the enticing aromas of his family's kitchen in Mexico City.
