You expect delicious food when you're dining out, but a memorable setting really enhances your overall experience. These New Mexico restaurants are surrounded by natural beauty, housed inside lovely buildings, or have gorgeous design schemes. The following establishments (not ranked in any order) are definitely among the most beautiful that our state has to offer.

1. Bella’s Mexican Grill (Taos)

Editor's Note: Unfortunately, Bella's Mexican Grill is permanently closed. The only thing here as beautiful as the lush courtyard and its soothing fountain, is the plating of the divine dishes at this Mexican restaurant. Bella’s Mexican Grill is located at 122 Dona Luz Street in Taos.

2. Double Eagle and Peppers Café (Mesilla)

There are two beautiful restaurants inside this one location. Double Eagle, a fine dining restaurant, is rumored to be haunted, but that's far from its only draw. Just look at this ornate interior and the elegant chandeliers.

The more casual Pepper’s Café occupies the patio and, in addition to offering what is billed as the largest green chile cheeseburger on the planet, the restaurant is draped in foliage and fairy lights. Double Eagle is located at 2355 Calle de Guadalupe in Mesilla.

3. Bien Shur (Albuquerque)

At Bien Shur, you’ll find panoramic views of the Sandia Mountains and a steakhouse that specializes not only in beef but also in delectable fish dishes. It is part of Sandia Resort and Casino, which is located at 30 Rainbow Road NE in Albuquerque.

4. Tomo Sushi and Steak (Farmington)

On the outside, this restaurant has a slightly Mediterranean feel but, inside, lies a dark yet soothing space, illuminated by colored lighting and "bubble" walls. The plating more than lives up to the expectations set by the unusual and enticing design scheme. This Japanese steakhouse is located at 3500 E Main Street in Farmington.

5. Blue Heron (Santa Fe)

Blue Heron is the restaurant attached to Sunrise Springs, a Santa Fe spa and resort. You just can’t beat the beauty of the grounds, from natural cold springs to tree-lined walkways, and sculptured gardens. However, the food crafted by Chef Rocky Durham holds its own against the incredible surroundings. Blue Heron is located at 242 Los Pinos Road in Santa Fe.

6. Adobe Rose (Artesia)

Adobe Rose is housed in a charming adobe building with lovely décor inside and a romantic courtyard outside. Come for the steak, stay for the ambience. The restaurant is located at 1614 N 13th Street in Artesia.

7. El Pinto Restaurant and Cantina (Albuquerque)

Sprawling El Pinto is easily one of our state’s most stunning eateries. As you approach, the restaurant is dripping with greenery, a design choice that carries through to the interior, where flower boxes sit high on the walls and an indoor water feature makes you feel like you’re in a grotto. (Pictured is one of the restaurant’s creative specials – fried corn on the cob with pork carnitas.) El Pinto is located at 10500 4th Street NW in Albuquerque. For more info.

8. Lorenzo’s Italian Restaurant (Las Cruces)

For scrumptious food in a cozy, date-night appropriate setting, this Italian restaurant is the place to go. Try the pasta or the sandwiches. Lorenzo’s is located at 1753 E University Avenue in Las Cruces.

9. Luna Mansion (Los Lunas)

Mansion dining never goes out of style! From the moment you arrive, this historic home makes an impression. Tuck into perfectly aged steak in Luna Mansion’s grand dining room. The restaurant is located at 110 W. Main Street in Los Lunas. For more info.

10. Casa de Benavidez (Albuquerque)

For a relaxing dining experience, head to Casa de Benavidez, where you’ll find a tranquil garden, complete with a waterfall trickling into a fish pond. You’ll appreciate the setting almost as much as this Mexican restaurant’s sopaipilla burger. This establishment is located at 8032 4th Street NW in Albuquerque.

11. La Plazuela Dining Room (Santa Fe)

The La Fonda Hotel epitomizes people’s expectations of New Mexican architecture and La Plazuela, the courtyard restaurant within, surpasses them. The courtyard now has a roof, along with ornately painted glass panes, potted trees, and a fountain. The hotel and restaurant are located at 100 E. San Francisco Street in Santa Fe.

12. Casa Blanca (Ruidoso)

Fireside margaritas! What more could you ask for in restaurant? Maybe great enchiladas and a beautiful setting. Well, if that’s the case, then Casa Blanca still has you covered. This restaurant is located at 501 Mechem Drive in Ruidoso.

Which of New Mexico's restaurants do find most beautiful? If your pick isn't featured here, it may well be because we've already sung its praises in this article about eateries with unbeatable views.