E X PLORING SANTA FE , TAOS AND NOR THERN NEW MEXICO2 0 0 8
DISCOVERGEOLOGIC WONDERS
DISCOVERGEOLOGIC WONDERS
SOMERS: The art of sculpting
SANTA FE BUSINESS: Restaurateurs’
Perspectives
A hot mineral water spa celebrates 140 years
SOMERS: The art of sculpting
SANTA FE BUSINESS: Restaurateurs’
Perspectives
A hot mineral water spa celebrates 140 years
2008 ENCANTADAE2
4Santa FeWelcome to thepublication thatembraces Santa Fe,Taos and NorthernNew Mexico.
9BernadetteVadurroAn energetic tenth generationSanta Fean is one of the nation’s topHispanicEntrepreneurs.
11Somers RandolphWhether it isSomers jewelry orhis massive, yetintricate, marblesculpture, it is con-ceived and shapedby a sensitive anddedicated MasterSculptor.
19Kasha-KatuweTent RocksNationalMonumentHiking trailsthrough uniquegeologic forma-tions produce aneerie escape toa world of vistasand fantasies.
20The Business Sideof Santa Fe’s WorldClass CuisineKey Santa FeRestaurateurs sharetheir business per-spectives of SantaFe and its uniquedining experience.24
ChimayoA remote Spanishvillage continuesto build upon arich heritage ofreligion andweaving andoffers a popularrestaurant experi-ence in a historicsetting.
26Ojo CalienteOne of the nation’soldest health spasgave its uniquehot mineral springfacilities andaccommodations a face lift.
28TaosA haven for thearts and outdooractivities, Taosand theEnchanted Circleoffer an incrediblyscenic and culturalexperience.
4 11 16 20
CONTENTS
Encantada is published annually by Zia Publishing Corp. 116 McKinney Road, P.O. Box 1248, Silver City, NM 88062, 575-388-4444, [email protected], www.ziapublishing.com. President & ManagingDirector, Terri Menges. Vice President, Joseph Burgess. Staff Accountant, Arlyn Cooley. Designers, Debra Suttonand Terri Menges. Production Assistant, Melanie Zipin. Contributing Writers, Joseph Burgess and Brett Ferneau.Photography, Joseph Burgess, except where noted. Advertising Sales, Lynn Janes and LeAnne Knudsen.Encantada is a supplement to New Mexico Traveler and is manufactured and printed in the United States of America. ©Zia Publishing Corp. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or partwithout permission of the publisher is prohibited. All submissions of editorial or photography are only accepted without risk to the publisher for loss or damage. Every effort was made to ensureaccuracy in the information provided. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for errors, changes or omissions.
16Pathfinders in the Arts Santa Fe art dealerJoseph Sisneros, aChimayo native ofSpanish descent,focuses on therecognition ofNative Americanwork as world-class art.
ENCANTADASANTA FE, TAOS & NORTHERN NM
OUR COVERThe fascinating spires ofKasha-Katuwe Tent RocksNational Monument arelocated near Pueblo deCochiti, just a short distancefrom Santa Fe. Also knownas hoodoos, they are exam-ples of a type of geologicalformation found only a fewplaces in the world. Theywere photographed forEncantada by Wendy Young.
this page: VicPayne’s “Thunderat Little Bighorn”sculpture enticesSanta Fe visitorsto explore thearts. opposite:Estella Loretto’s“The MagicalEncounter”contributes tothe serenesurroundings ofher studio.
LOCATIONSanta Fe is located at the junction I-25and US84/285, the historic termination ofEl Camino Real and the Santa Fe Trail.
TOURFrom Santa Fe, travel 16 miles north onUS84/285 and turn northeast 11 mileson NM503 and NM520 to Chimayo.
MORE INFORMATIONSanta Fe Chamber of Commerce505.988.3279www.santafechamber.com
EVENTSMay 24-25 Native Treasures Indian
Arts Festival. 505-476-1250Jun 7-8 Spring Festival and
Animal Fair. 505-471-2261 Jun 18-21 Rodeo de Santa Fe
505-471-4300Jun 27 Santa Fe Opera Season
opens through Aug 23. 800-280-4654
Jul 5-6 Wine Festival at El Ran-cho de las Golondrinas 505-471-2261
Jul 12-13 Santa Fe International Folk Art Market at Milner Plaza. 505-476-1200
Jul 20 Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival begins through Aug 25. 888-221-9836. www.sfcmf.org
Jul 26-27 Spanish Market on the Plaza. 505-982-2226
Aug6-7 Summer Festival and Frontier Days at El Rancho de las Golondrinas 505-471-2261
Aug 23-24 Indian Market on the Plaza. 505-983-5220.
Aug 30-Sept 7 Santa Fe Fiesta. 505-988-7575
Sep 24-28 Santa Fe Wine&Chile Fiesta. 505-438-8060
Oct 4-5 Harvest Festival at El Rancho de las Golo-ndrinas. 505-471-2261
Nov 27 Ski Santa Fe Opens505-982-4429
Dec 3-7 Santa Fe Film Festival505-988-5225
E4 2008 ENCANTADA
E5SANTA FE
A destination City that wields significant international clout, Santa Fe sits picture-perfect onthe gentle slopes below the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The longest continuously servingcapital in the United States has preserved and expanded its Spanish/Pueblo architecture, itis a world-renowned leader in the arts, has an impressive array of distinguished museums andsupports a strong multicultural cluster of markets, festivals and pageants. Santa Fe is the firstcity in the United States recognized by the UNESCO Creative Cities Global Network as a cen-ter for art and culture.
Established as a regional capital in 1610 by Spain’s third governor of New Mexico, the cityhas preserved some of the nation's oldest buildings, including the Palace of the Governors,which is the oldest public building in the country, and San Miguel Mission, rebuilt in 1710over the ruins of its predecessor church constructed in the early 1600s. Preparations havealready begun for an incredible 400th year celebration that officially kicks off in 2010.
Narrow, old-world streets wind romantically through hundreds of galleries, shops, muse-ums, theaters and restaurants accessible by foot from the town plaza. Despite a populationof only 70,000, the staggering concentration of the artistic and cultural venues compare withcities many times its size. Its renowned opera venue and newest museum cluster on“Museum Hill” are only ten minutes driving time from the Plaza.
SANTA FE
Dec 6-7 Winter Spanish Market505-982-2226
Dec 12 Christmas at the Palace505-476-5100
Dec 24 Farolitos on the Plaza. 800-777-2489
ATTRACTIONSCanyon Road. East of Paseo de Peralta.Originally a Native American trail into themountains; now lined with unique shops,art galleries, artists' studios, restaurantsand local hangouts. 800-777-2489 or 505-955-6200.
EI Rancho de las Golondrinas. South ofSanta Fe off I-25. This historical Spanishcolonial village, now a living history muse-um, was a stopping point on EI CaminoReal. Call for annual event schedule andtours, 505-471-2261.Hyde Memorial State Park. Eight milesnortheast of Santa Fe. Camping, hiking andpicnicking. 505-983-7175. www.nmparks.comLoretto Chapel. 207 Old Santa Fe Trail.Houses the miraculous staircase built by amysterious carpenter believed to havebeen St. Joseph by the Loretto nuns. 505-982-0092. www.lorettochapel.com
Museum Hill. On Camino Lejo off OldSanta Fe Trail. Home of the Laboratory ofAnthropology, Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, Museum of InternationalFolk Art, Museum of Spanish Colonial Art,and the Wheelwright Museum of theAmerican Indian. www.museumhill.org
Museum of Fine Arts. 107 W. Palace Ave.Southwest, historical and contemporaryart. 505-476-5072. www.mfasantafe.org
Palace of the Governors. 105 W. PalaceAve. 17th century building on the oldSanta Fe Plaza housing historical exhibits.
The oldest continuously used publicbuilding in the US. 505-476-5100.www.palaceofthegovernors.org
San Miguel Mission Church.401 Old Santa Fe Trail. Dates back to first Spanish colonization. Rebuilt following Pueblo Revolt of 1680. 505-983-3974 or 988-9504.Santuario de Guadalupe.100 S. Guadalupe. Mission museumexhibiting Spanish colonial art.18th century shrine to Our Lady ofGuadalupe. 505-988-2027
E7SANTA FE
A city of markets and festivals, thousands of visitors travel to Santa Fefor Indian Market and Spanish Market.The colorful Santa Fe Fiesta has beencelebrated annually since 1692. Othermajor events include the Santa Fe Wineand Chile Fiesta and the new Santa FeInternational Folk Art Market.
This cultural Mecca is located at theculmination of El Camino Real, theSpanish supply line from Mexico Cityand the Santa Fe National Historic Trailthat brought settlers from Kansas City.Santa Fe also serves as a hub for theSanta Fe Ski Basin, hiking and fishing inthe Pecos Wilderness, rafting the RioGrande, gaming at Indian Casinos andbrowsing local pueblo markets.
Flights from several major cities havenow been established for Santa Fe andthe commuter train from Albuquerquewill soon reach the capital. The 50-acreRailyard project is completing its firstphases as a remarkable new center forculture and recreation, while preservingthe essence of both the historic and cur-rent railroad operations. The new con-vention center is scheduled for comple-tion in 2008 as is the new wing of thePalace of the Governors Museum.
top: A bronze sculpture of St. Francis welcomesvisitors to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis ofAssisi near the plaza in Santa Fe.
E9
BERNADETTEVADURRO
ONE OF AMERICA’S TOP 10HISPANIC ENTREPRENEURS
BY JOSEPH BURGESS
Santa Fe is a com-munity that bubblesover with extremetalent. One of thosegifted people isBernadette Trujillo-Vadurro, a nativeSanta Fean who maywell be the mostenthusiastic individ-
ual you will ever meet.Bernadette is a tenth generation New
Mexican who was married and began work-ing full time right out of high school. Shestarted her family and college classes simul-taneously, managing to graduate MagnaCum Laude from College of Santa Fe.Bernadette launched her own consultingfirm, evolved into a highly sought motiva-tional speaker (in 49 states) and has nowwritten the award-winning book, America’sConscience: Facing Threats to Democracy,the Middle Class and Our World.
Bernadette earned Latina Style Maga-zine’s 2007 Anna Maria Arias Business FundAward as one of the nation’s top ten HispanicEntrepreneurs. www.speakerslive.com
inset: Five generations of Bernadette’s family include,in the top row, daughter Christy Brown and motherEva Parker. In the bottom row are Bernadette withgranddaughter Summer Brown and grandmother LucyOrtiz at 101 years old.
E11
SOMERSRANDOLPH
WHEN CREATIVITY COMBINESWITH TECHNICAL ABILITIES
THE RESULT IS A SUPERB MASTERY OF MATERIAL
“My gift is one of form,” states
Santa Fe sculptor Somers Randolph,
“whether it’s a delicate soapstone
carving in the palm of your hand or a
five-foot marble sculpture that anchors
the far end of your rose garden.”
"Alabama Marble, 64".
WRITTEN BY JOSEPH BURGESS
2008 ENCANTADAE12
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opposite page and top, right: SomersRandolph whittles Montana soapstone,creating tiny intricate sculpture as modelsfor his exquisite line of gold and silverjewelry. above, left: Somers Randolph,Master Stone Sculptor. above, middle andbottom: An 80-lb fine art sculpture mayhave begun the lengthy and unforgivingprocess as an 800-lb block of marble.
Somers’ friends joke that the Princeton graduate, a student of art history and
philosophy, has pounded rock for 30 years and never held a real job. “I’ll stand by
that statement,” he quips, “I’m proud of my work, and it may well be more diffi-
cult to graduate from Princeton and succeed as an artist than it is to become a
CEO.” Both the dedicated collector who has researched his story and the casual
acquaintance can immediately recognize the absolute passion he pours into every
piece he produces, large or small. When creativity combines with technical abili-
ties the result is a superb mastery of material. A burly six-foot-seven stone carver
who might very well have posed for the Hildebrandt illustration of a sword-wield-
ing J.R.R. Tolkien character has instead molded his own life-long adventure. With
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2008 ENCANTADAE14
gigantic hands, he carves tiny intricate soapstone
shapes and graceful tall stone sculptures weighing
hundreds of pounds. His magnificent stature
seems essential for grappling a massive block of
marble destined to become a focal point of some
corporate rotunda.
Somers studied sculpture at Corcoran School of
Art in Washington D.C. and in 1975 apprenticed
in Pietrasanta, Italy. “I worked side-by-side with
experienced marble carvers and the knowledge
gained was invaluable. A stone carver develops a
relationship between his material and his tools
over years of trial and error. It’s easy to teach
someone how to safely use a tool, but not when
to stop using that tool. Stone is unforgiving and
the knowledge that transforms it into a collectable
work of art is acquired, quite frankly, from going
too far. I've broken many, many pieces. My ability
to create curves and loops from a chunk of
alabaster or fine translucent edges on a blade of
marble has evolved over three decades of fine-
tuning the techniques of carving, sanding and
polishing rock.”
Twenty-five years is the industry standard for
earning the title of master craftsman. Sculpture
from the hands of the world’s master craftsmen is
perceived by collectors and investors to be the art
that will continue to grow in value. That has cer-
tainly been the case for Somers Randolph, whose
years of sculpting have forged a steady rise in
value for those investing in his work. While many
artists make molds and bronze editions of their
stone sculpture, Randolph holds true to the
unique spirit of carving. He finishes one piece and
then begins sculpting the next from a block of
stone, no copies, no editions.
Slabs and pillars of domestic materials, often
handpicked by Somers from quarries in California,
Wyoming and Utah, and those originating from
locations worldwide stand like Roman sentinels
surrounding Somers’ Santa Fe workspace. Italian
marble shipped from the Carrara quarries used by
Michelangelo, Portoro black and gold marble also
from Italy, Persian Travertine, Turkish red and
Mojave green marbles, and stone from Belgium
this page, clockwise from top,left: Portoro Marble on Travertine,58"; Black Belgian Marble onPersian Travertine, 52"; ItalianAlabaster on Antique Verde, 24";Black Belgian Marble on VaticanMarble, 60". opposite, clockwise, from topright: North Carolina Imperial BlueMarble on Black Belgian Marble,70"; Turkish Rosa Laguna Marble,32"; Green Mojave Marble on NewMexico Travertine, 36"; ItalianAlabaster on Black Belgian marble,18"; Italian Alabaster on PersianTravertine, 24". Photos includingAlabama Marble photo on page 11by Wendy McEahwern.
E15
SOMERS JEWELRYSOMERS JEWELRYA Somers? Of course it’s a Somers. That fascinating and delicate gold pendant
draped lightly from your neck is actually a SomersRandolph sculpture, designed and meticulouslyshaped by a master carver. A three-foot, hundred-pound Somers Randolph carving may already anchoryour art collection and a graceful thousand poundone-of-a-kind Somers Randolph sculpture could bethe centerpiece of your courtyard. Sculpture and jew-elry originating from the same genius is a conversa-tion catalyst for soirees from Minneapolis to Dubai. Infact, the brand was suggested by customers greetingeach other just that way, “Is that a Somers?” It was
Somers’ wife Hillary who turned the sculptor’s pas-time of whittling into gold. When she discoveredhundreds of intriguing soapstone shapes piled hap-hazardly in a trunk, she convinced Somers that a lineof gold and silver jewelry held a place in his future.
Now the important lady in anyone’s life can jointhe list of discriminating women who appreciate ele-gant creativity and the rare alchemy of sculptedstone turned into gold and silver. Just seven yearslater, Somers jewelry is available internationally underthe Somers name, honoring the sculptor whobreathes new life into stone. Contact Somers Jewelryat www.somersjewelry.com.
and India generate an international kaleidoscope of nature’s
designs. The heartbeat of the master craftsman pounds and
creative juices flow as colors, swirls and grain are considered and
then painstakingly and deliberately cut, chiseled and polished
into the timeless piece of art that could only have resulted from
that particular piece of stone.
Cradled by Santa Fe’s Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the airy
and eclectic studio where these exquisite works are made is in
itself a tribute to the sculptor. Somers is at home in the shop that
he built with beams from an old warehouse in Nashville. Even his
workbench is made of heavy hand-hewn poplar logs pulled from
an 1800s brick building, beams that were recycled from a
settler's earlier structure.
New Mexico is a logical choice for this time in Randolph's life.
"Driving across the country has been one of my greatest pleas-
ures since my first college road trip. Even after I gave up on the
interstates, I would always pause in Santa Fe, visit the old flea
market or stay for the weekend. Something wonderful always
happened here. Santa Fe is a spiritual experience that still makes
my hair tingle. What hair I have left, that is.”
Contact Somers Randolph at www. somersrandolph.com.
SCULPTURE FROM THE WORLD’S
MASTER CRAFTSMEN IS PERCEIVED
BY COLLECTORS AND INVESTORS TO
BE THE PIECES THAT WILL CONTINUE
TO GROW IN VALUE.
2008 ENCANTADAE16
“I may spend hours with a customer or group,” says SantaFe art dealer Joseph Sisneros, “readily sharing my knowl-edge of Native American work.” Owner of The Rancho deChimayo Collection in Santa Fe’s Sena Plaza, Sisneros andhis staff create an experience that may turn a first-time buyerinto a collector. Joseph’s mentor, Don Ortiz, and his God-father, Arturo Jaramillo, taught him that a sale is an educa-tional process, customers must be treated like family andyou have to be able to speak with passion about a piece inthe language of the buyer. “It is, after all, collectors whokeep the arts and culture alive,” states Sisneros.
“I deal only with the work of top Native American artisanswhose art pieces can compete in an international market. Mycustomers purchase pottery or jewelry that falls within theirbudget with the option to trade upward at any time…it’s alifetime trade.”
PATHFINDERS IN THE ARTS
THERANCHO DE CHIMAYO COLLECTIONBY JOSEPH BURGESS
E17
“Native American pottery is very diffi-cult to produce,” Joseph points out.“The indigenous clays have to be highquality and they are fired outside, mak-ing them susceptible to the elements.The intricate artwork may take weeks ormonths to complete and the sandingand polishing require an experiencedtouch. Even the fuel used for the fireaffects the outcome of the pot.”
“I am very concerned that there arefewer Native American families continu-ing to produce the traditional art forms.San Ildefonso Pueblo, for example, isfamous for its fine black on black pottery.Potter Carmelita Dunlop taught herdaughter Linda, who in turn is passingher skills to daughter Shauna, but prob-
above: A collection of Native American pottery byfamed San Ildefonso Pueblo potter CarmelitaDunlop and family members Linda, Shanna andCarlos can be found at The Rancho de ChimayoCollection in Santa Fe.
2008 ENCANTADAE18
ably only 18 full-time potters remain inthe pueblo.”
Tracing his own lineage to Spaniardsarriving in Mexico with FranciscoCoronado, Joseph’s paternal ancestrysettled in Chimayo in the 1600s. Hismother’s family settled on San IldefonsoPueblo in the 1700s, thus establishinghis ties to both cultures. The 1890 fami-ly home that became Rancho deChimayo restaurant serves as a secondoutlet for his Native American arts.
Joseph’s parents traveled toEuropean art capitals and his motherEsmelda raised him around music andboth portrait and architectural art. Afterattending College of Santa Fe, he stud-ied two years at the Angelicum, theDominican headquarters in Rome.
Joseph’s personal objective is to “livethe beauty of Native American people”and to represent them as deserving arti-sans. “For too long, Native Americanwork was treated as a commodity ratherthan a piece of exquisite art.”
Furnishing an 1860s family home indowntown Santa Fe, Joseph will pro-vide a period venue for art openingsand accommodations for patrons andguests of the galleries.
top: The Rancho de Chimayo Collection in SantaFe’s Sena Plaza is an outlet for collectable NativeAmerican pottery, jewelry and art.
E19TENT ROCKS NATIONAL MONUMENT
KASHA-KATUWE TENT ROCKS NATIONAL MONUMENT
This easy, fun and fascinating day trip takes hikers through a series of tentrocks, examples of a distinct type of volcanic rock formation found in only afew places around the world.
Also known as hoodoos, the conical spires had their beginnings in a hugevolcanic eruption millions of years ago. Thick layers of volcanic ash fusedtogether to form a rock substance that geologists call tuff. Lava flows andother events deposited a layer of harder rock on top of that. As the forces orerosion went to work through the eons, the harder rock above protected thesofter rock below, resulting in the teepee-like formations we see today. Someof the spires retain their protective ‘cap rocks,’ which eventually topple andexpose the tips of the cones. While Kasha-Katuwe means ‘white cliffs’ in thenative language of nearby Pueblo de Cochiti, the formations are banded withpink, beige and gray.
The national monument has two trails for foot traffic only. The Cave LoopTrail is 1.2 miles in length and rated as easy. The Canyon Trail is 1.5 miles longand more difficult. It includes a 630-foot climb to the top of the mesa, wherethe views are spectacular.
The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM)manages Kasha-Katuwe, which it considers to be an “Area of CriticalEnvironmental Concern.” In other words, it is geologically fragile. Please stayon the trails, and note that climbing on the hoodoos is forbidden. The nation-al monument is a day-use area only, and charges a nominal fee.
To get there, head south from Santa Fe on Interstate 25. Take the CochitiPueblo Exit 264 off I-25 onto NM16. Turn right off NM16 onto NM22 and fol-low the signs. For more information contact the BLM Rio Puerco Field Officeat 505-761-8700.
BY BRETT FERNEAU
Your host, Lino Pertusini, from Lake
Como, and staff, invite you to experience
authentic regional Italian cuisine,
and extensive wine list, great cocktails,
world class service in an elegant
charming and historical setting.
Enjoy our fireplace, two bars,
private rooms and outdoor dining.
Located two blocks from Santa Fe Plaza.
Osteria D’ Assisi
505.986.5858
SOUTH FEDERAL PLACESANTA FE, NM
FAX: 505.986.3938
W W W . O S T E R I A D A S S I S I . N E T
I N F O @ O S T E R I A D A S S I S I . N E T
2008 ENCANTADAE20
Santa Fe is undeniably the jewel of the Land of Enchantment,
but its tourism draw peaked in the 1990’s. As the community
entered the third millennium, restaurateurs faced business chal-
lenges that required a recommitment to the fundamentals that
made Santa Fe a national treasure. Despite diverse perspec-
tives, key restaurateurs are unanimous in their commitment to
work together for a stronger community.
“We have to distinguish Santa Fe as a welcoming city,”
states Vanessie owner Fran Mullen. “Restaurants in par-
ticular can take nothing for granted with regard to
THE BUSINESS SIDE OF SANTA FE’S WORLD CLASS CUISINE
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOSEPH BURGESS
New Mexico Tourism Commission Chairman, 2004New Mexico Restaurateur of the Year and Santa FeNative Al Lucero anticipates an exciting decade ofgrowth for the city. “The 400th anniversary celebra-tion, the Railyard development, new Palace of theGovernors wing and new civic center will enticeadditional year-round business. The new Folk ArtFestival is already attracting thousands of visitors.”He also points to increasing holiday traffic bolsteredby European visitors taking advantage of the weakdollar. Maria’s is recognized for its Northern NewMexico cuisine and over 100 variations of its“premium” margaritas.
Al Lucero, owner Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen
DINING “different” in the
CITY different“different”
E21
either our local patrons or our out-of-
town guests. We became complacent in
the ‘90s and today Santa Fe must quick-
ly overcome any sense of entitlement.”
Restaurateurs agree that Santa Fe is in
competition with other destination cities,
that service is critical and, with the high-
est minimum wage in the country, the city
must continue to improve marketing
capabilities. “Santa Fe is a romantic city,”
says Pranzo owner Michael O’Reilly. “It
has the amenities of much larger interna-
tional cities, but differs in that hundreds
of shops, galleries, museums, theater
productions and restaurants can be
accessed on foot from downtown
hotels.” Completion of the new civic cen-
ter, direct air service from several major
U.S. cities and extended commuter train
service from Albuquerque represent
major opportunities.
Seasonality is a challenge that every
restaurateur is forced to grapple. With
one of the shortest peak seasons of any
destination city, developing local clien-
tele is critical. O’Reilly and Mullen are
strong supporters of local non-profits
and keep patrons informed about din-
ing and entertainment opportunities.
Maria’s owner Al Lucero says a strong
local following also influences visitor
dining decisions.
Annette Lujan, GMFusion
Santa Fe native Annette Lujanhas been a chef for 15 years, stud-ied Italian in Milan, attended culi-nary school in Albuquerque andnow manages the eclectic Fusion.“The fiestas help the bar, but therestaurant is very dependent on ourrelationship with the hotels.”Annette also commented on thechallenges a woman faces in thefood and beverage industry. Thesingle mother of seven is veryappreciative of Fusion’s commit-ment to family priorities.
Heather & David Sellers,owners Amavi
David and Heather Sellers latchedonto a good restaurant with anexcellent location and breathed aromantic old-world ambiance into it.“We are confident about our restau-rant venture because people inSanta Fe appreciate good food. Wealso work very hard to attract visitorsfrom the city’s hotels. We are, infact, supportive of all fine-diningestablishments in the area becausewe certainly want our visitors toenjoy a great dining experienceevery night they spend in Santa Fe.”
Lino Pertusini, ownerOsteria d'Assisi
Drawn to Santa Fe by its arts andbeauty, Italian “Cavalier dellaRepubblica” Lino Pertusini discovered aninter-national town with many peoplewho have lived and traveled abroad.“Santa Fe supports a large variety ofaggressive and competitive restaurants.The town attracts great chefs and quali-fied staffs, many of whom have worked inEuropean and major U.S. restaurants andhotels.” Osteria offers specific regionalItalian cuisine, wine and cocktails and fre-quently features guest chefs from Italy tofulfill Santa Fe’s sophisticated palate.
2008 ENCANTADAE22
Mark Kiffin, ownerThe Compound
Mark Kiffin states that his cuisine,influenced by the introduction ofSpanish products from theMediterranean region, is truly theregional food of Santa Fe. He pur-chases food from the suppliers whobest serve the needs of the restau-rant and changes his menu totallywith each of Santa Fe’s four seasons.Mark is a board member of SantaFe’s Wine and Chile Festival andrecipient of the coveted JamesBeard Foundation award as BestChef for the Southwest Division.
The James BeardFoundation
The culinary industry’s most prestigiousrecognition program is undoubtedly theawards presented by the James BeardFoundation. Restaurants, restaurateurs,chefs and beverage personnel from vari-ous regions of the United States annuallyreceive awards in recognition of theirachievements.
The late James Beard was a journalist,food consultant and teacher whoseGreenwich Village home serves as thevenue for showcasing the nation’s finestprofessional culinary presentations. Since1986, the foundation has also supportededucational opportunities and scholar-ships, workshops, food-related artexhibits, lectures and tastings.www.jamesbeard.org
osaka steakhouse & seafood grillSteakhouse:
Lunch: Tues.-Sat. 11:30am-2:30pmDinner: Mon-Sat. 5pm-10pm, Sun 1pm-9pm
Bistro:Lunch: Tues-Sat. 11:30am-2:30pm
Dinner: Mon-Sat. 5pm-10pm, Sun 1pm-9pm
Live Jazz Friday Evenings8:30pm-11:30pm
3501 Zafarano Drive, Santa Fe, NM 87505 (505)471-6698
osaka bistroSushi • Full Bar
Eric LaMalle, ownerRistra
Eric LaMalle came to New Mexicofrom France initially to teach skiingin Taos and later opened a restau-rant there before coming to SantaFe. “With a growing retirementpopulation, we are building astrong local clientele base, but mustmaintain our appeal to hotelguests.” Eric captures the simple,but powerful spirit of New Mexicoin both his French-inspired menuand his contemporary décor. He hastwice been invited to cook by theJames Beard Foundation.
Santa Fe is a city of markets and
festivals. Lucero notes that the new
International Folk Art Festival is
already drawing thousands to
Museum Hill. Mark Kiffin, owner of
The Compound is a board member
of the Wine and Chile Festival. “I
want Santa Fe to be busy,” Mark
states, “and the festivals are huge
attractions.”
Mark also targets people who will
fly to Santa Fe for dinner. “I want
Denver, Dallas and Phoenix dining in
Santa Fe, but we compete with
Aspen and Sedona for that privilege.
I challenge local businesses to get
creative, to help Santa Fe grow.”
Commenting on the 15 or so local
restaurants he considers destination
restaurants, O’Reilly concludes, “We
try to be personal, we hire real chefs
and we serve real food. Santa Fe din-
ing is an exceptional experience.”
E23
Fran Mullen, ownerVanessie Continental Grill
and Piano BarFran Mullen, former CEO of Canada
Dry, relates that the merging of cul-tures over hundreds of years createdunique diversity for Santa Fe’s mar-kets, museums and the arts – a drawfor people from around the world.“Santa Fe must, however, promoteitself as a welcoming destination andenthusiastically support its markets.”Vanessie’s offers a full menu of “GreatAmerican Cuisine” as well as a specialbar menu. It serves unique hot drinks,“only the best martinis” and featuresnightly live entertainment.
Michael O’Reilly, ownerPranzo Italian Grill and O’Keeffe Cafe
Michael O’Reilly, formerly a marketerfor Robert Mondavi wines states thatdespite a population of only 70,000,Santa Fe competes with much larger UScities regarding the arts and of courseits restaurants. “Santa Fe is a romanticcity where a car is not required.” Pranzooffers steak and Italian favorites, nightlylive entertainment and family specials,while the historic and award-winningO’Keeffe Café leans toward classicalFrench techniques and offers wineschosen from the world’s top 2%.
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Traditions run deep in the Spanish mountain village of Chimayó. For centuries, religious pilgrims havejourneyed on foot from near and far to El Santuario de Chimayó during Holy Week. Originally utilized byarea Native Americans, it is still believed that the soil possesses restorative powers. The walls of the sac-risty are covered with discarded crutches and other mementoes of healing.
CHIMAYO
EVENTSMar 20-22 Annual
pilgrimage to Santuario de Chimayo. 505-351-4889
ATTRACTIONSChimayo HistoryMuseum. Area Exhibits.505-351-0945Santuario de Chimayo.Legendary shrine built in1813-1816. 505-351-4889
LOCATIONChimayo is located at the junction of NM520 and NM76, on the old SpanishHigh Road to Taos.
TOURTravel west about 10 miles on NM76, joggingsouth on NM60 a mile through Espanola andturning northwest 6 miles on US84/285. Turn north across the Chama River staying with US285 18 miles to the mineral springs of Ojo Caliente.
MORE INFORMATIONRancho de Chimayo Restaurante 505-984-2100or 505-351-4444. www.ranchodechimayo.comSantuario de Chimayo Gift Shop 505-351-4889. www.holychimayo.us
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opposite: The quaint Santuario de Chimayó wasbuilt on a site believed for centuries to have healingdirt. inset: Rancho de Chimayo Restaurante atdusk in the winter. above: Seven rock sculpturesparallel the creek behind Santuario de Chimayo.
European weaving techniques arrivedwith the original Spanish settlers in the17th century and developed into theclassic Chimayó/Rio Grande weavingstyles. Today local weavers continue thetradition, including award-winning mas-ter weavers Irvin and Lisa Trujillo. Theirgallery features the work of weavers whoutilize natural dyes and handspun yarnto create custom yarn and handwovenitems in the time-honored style of thearea. Products include rugs, blankets,vests, jackets, coats and purses.
In the 1800s, two brothers namedHermenegildo and Epifiano Jaramillohelped each other build houses acrossthe lane from each other along theSpanish Colonial “High Road to Taos.”Hermenegildo’s grandson ArturoJaramillo and his wife Florence remod-eled the historic house, opening Ranchode Chimayó Restaurant in 1965. Therestaurant, with spacious indoor andpatio dining is world-renowned for itsNew Mexican cuisine.
Hacienda Rancho de Chimayó locatedacross the highway from the restaurant,was renovated in 1984. It is a quietseven-room bed and breakfast withenclosed courtyard, antique furniture,sitting rooms and fireplaces throughout.
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With a multi-million dollar renovation in its final stages of completion, the 1100-acre Ojo CalienteMineral Springs and Spa is one of the nation’s oldest and certainly popular centers for natural health andrejuvenation. It is the world’s only known natural hot springs with a combination of four geothermal min-eral waters.
Celebrating 140 years of operation since New Mexico’s first congressional territorial representative,Antonio Joseph, opened the first health spa at Ojo Caliente, the health resort has become more accom-modating with the addition of Pueblo and Cliffside suites and the renovation of cottages, the AdobeHouse hotel and the Adobe Round Barn. All new construction has emphasized the latest in “green” tech-nology and conservation.
OJO CALIENTE
AttractionsOjo Caliente Mineral Springs50 Los Baños Drive off US285.Seven Mineral pools, private mineral baths. Lodging, spa treatments, gift shop. 800-222-9162 or 505-583-2233www.ojocalientespa.com
MORE INFORMATIONojocaliente.com
LOCATIONOjo Caliente is located on US285, featuring ahealth spa utilizing warm spring water flowingfrom four distinct mineral sources.
TOURRetrace the route south to the junction ofUS84/285 and southeast to Espanola. Turnnortheast on NM 68, traveling 46 miles toTaos. An alternate route from Ojo Caliente isto travel north 30 miles on US 285 and east27 miles on US64, crossing the Rio GrandeGorge to Taos.
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opposite: The dining room in the renovated AdobeHouse hotel. inset: Ten pools are fed by natural hotsprings supplying four distinct mineral contents.top: A cliffside pool supplied with water containinghigh iron mineralization. above: The historic AdobeRound Barn with its award-winning restorationproduced a spiritual setting for a variety ofgatherings. Photos courtesy Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs.
Ten meticulously maintained mineralpools, including three outdoor privatepools and a mud pool, are consideredto be beneficial for a number of physicalconditions. The four distinctly differentnatural hot water sources combinedwith physical therapy options providean amazing opportunity to enhancehealthful living and relax in an uncom-plicated setting.
Ancient pueblo ruins on the groundsindicate use of the waters for centuriesby native populations. It was named bySpanish explorers in the 1500s, notingthat the local Indian inhabitantsbelieved the waters “were given tothem by their gods.” Ojo Caliente wasre-discovered by Zebulon Pike in 1807as he was being marched to Santa Feunder arrest for exploring New Spainwithout permission.
Ojo Caliente is easily accessed fromSanta Fe and Taos.
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ATTRACTIONSGov. Bent House & Museum. l17A BentSt. Home of first territorial governor. Oldfamily furnishings and frontier artifacts ondisplay. 505-758-2376.Millicent Rogers Museum.1504 Millicent Rogers Rd. New Mexico art, history and culturalexhibits. 505-758-2462. www.millicentrogers.org
Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. 11 milesnorthwest of Taos. 650 feet above theRio Grande River.Taos Pueblo. Designated as a WorldHeritage Site. 505-758-1028.www.taospueblo.comTaos Ski Valley. Ski school rated No.1.Vast system of trails for beginning, inter-mediate and expert skiers. 505-776-229l.www.skitaos.org
LOCATIONTaos is located at the junction of US64,NM68 and NM522 between New Mexico’shighest peaks and deepest gorge.
TOURTravel 42 miles southeast on NM 518 fromRanchos de Taos to Mora and another11 miles south on NM 94 and NM105 toRociada, or return to Santa Fe via NM68and US84/285.
MORE INFORMATIONTaos Chamber of Commerce 800-732-8267 or 505-758-3873.www.taoschamber.com.
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TAOS
The shear mysticism of Taos, a centuries-old melding pot of cultur-al development, natural beauty and an endless supply of brilliant sun-shine, has captured the hearts of America’s artists, writers, historiansand anyone else who simply want to experience the essence of NewMexico’s enchanted spirit. The multistoried structures of Taos Pueblo,occupied for nearly a millennium below New Mexico’s tallest peaks,the bold adobe walls of San Francisco de Asis church in Ranchos deTaos and the stark contrasts created by the river and its gorge fill port-folios and manuscripts with the jewels of this high desert destination.
The area was first recognized for its incredible sunlight and rich cul-ture by east coast artists Bert G. Phillips and Ernest L. Blumenscheinin the late 1800s whose decision to make Taos their home led to theformation of the Taos Society of Artists in 1915. Mabel Dodge andMillicent Rogers began enticing their creative friends to visit Taos inthose early years, establishing the region’s bond with familiar nameslike DH Lawrence, Georgia O'Keeffe and Ansel Adams.
Today, fanning out from the town plaza, streets lined with galleries,museums, shops, quaint coffee houses and hotels touch the creativespirit within each of us. Huge cottonwood trees, seasonal flowers andcrackling fireplaces warm the atmosphere of this high altitude plateauyear round and keep the doors open to thousands of visitors.
An impressive collection of museums maintains the historic per-spectives of Taos. From ancient pottery makers and Spanish andNative American weavers to a host of twentieth century artisans, Taosmuseums showcase the region’s diverse cultures and multifacetedpool of talent.
EVENTSMay 1-31 25th annual Spring Arts Celebration
505-785-3911May 3 Santa Cruz Feast Day at Taos Pueblo.
505-758-1028. www.taospueblo.comMar 9-11 Spring Arts & Crafts Fair. 800-732-8267
www.taoschamber.comJun 13 San Antonio Feast Day Corn Dance at
Taos Pueblo. 505-758-1028www.taospueblo.com
Jun 24 San Juan Day Corn Dance. 505-758-1028www.taospueblo.com
left: The multistoried structure of Taos Pueblo, occupied continuously for hundreds ofyears is the only Native American community designated both as a National Historiclandmark and a World Heritage Site.
Jun 27-29 10th annual Solar Music Festivalat Taos Pueblo. 505-758-9191www.solarmusicfest.com
Jul 11-13 Annual Taos Pow Wow.505-758-1028
Apr 9 San Lorenzo Sunset Danceat Picuris Pueblo. 505-587-2519
Apr 22-24 Taos Autumn Run Classic Car Show. 505-758-1405
Sep 27-Oct 17 Taos Fall Arts Festival505-758-5015 or 800-732-8267www.taosfallarts.com
Oct 25-26 9th Annual Taos Storytelling Festival. 505-758-0081www.somostaos.org
Nov 20 Yuletide in Taos begins. through Dec. 31. 505-758-3873www.taoschamber.com
Dec 25 Taos Pueblo Deer or Matachina Dance 505-758-1028. pueblo.com
Dec 25 Matachina Dance at Picuris Pueblo. 505-587-2519www.picurispueblo.net
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There is no end to the outdooropportunities hosted by this scenicwonderland. The question becomes inwhich season should the adventurebegin. If winter sports are your passion,the Enchanted Circle includes theadrenaline-charged slopes of Taos SkiValley, Red River, Sipapu and Angel Fireand a mellow ice-fishing hole at EagleNest Lake. The region’s dry climate andthat prevailing New Mexico sunshineproduce the lightest, driest, fluffiestpowder possible for outstanding skiand snowboard conditions. High speedlifts, snowmobiles, hot air balloons andgreat dining and entertainment com-plete this plein air sketch of a perfectwinter getaway.
Summer activities are no less chal-lenging. White water rafting, fly fishing,hiking, biking, horseback and llamatreks, and yes, lifts are still running andthe nightlife steaming. For those of ususing the excuse of an old skiing injury,driving and shopping the EnchantedCircle can be equally exhilarating. Theevening may consist of listening,instead of dancing to the live music, butexcellent food, wine, a round of LasVegas style gambling and a hot rockmassage provide an incredible diver-sion to sore muscles.
top: New Mexico’s highest mountains peak throughthe huge cottonwood trees in the Taos Plaza.