Site Meter Albuquerque, NM » Restaurants

Restaurants

Charles Garcia photographer and Harry’s Roadhouse

Wednesday, December 31st, 2008

Temperant volitile, life\'s drama full. Photo by Mary MacIntyre

Temperant volitile, life's drama full. Photo by Mary MacIntyre


Some of you may remember Ansel Adams the photographer and the awesome NM and Southwest Landscapes. Magnificant large format black and white photos. Art.

Well when yesterday was warm (40 degrees f), I decided to take Pat out for an early New Year’s celebration. We drove just outside of Santa Fe to Harry’s Roadhouse Restaurant. Harry’s Roadhouse is so famous that when they did major road construction awhile back, they created a turn lane for the Restaurant. This is significant since the road otherwise is primarily a country road. Harry’s Roadhouse often has an art show on the walls. Artists of all backgrounds may show there and it definitely is something to look forward to. Last night I admired these wonderful black and white prints by Charles Garcia.

I assumed that they were of New Mexico, and his card says he is from Albuquerque NM. I could not easily locate him through google, and he only had a phone number and address on his card. I did not copy his address. The photographer focused on rural NM and had dramatic compositions. So my default here, is if you are in New Mexico, go to Harry’s Roadhouse Restaurant to see this exquisite show and part of NM that often is fading fast.

Never been to Harry’s Roadhouse? First be prepared to wait unless you hit an off time. We were lucky yesterday afternoon just before 4PM. In Santa Fe this is significant, many restaurants close in the afternoon. It’s a bit funky with several rooms to dine in. The first is a diner style format, with an old fashioned diner counter. Many of the locals fill those seats fast. On the left of the entrance is a small crowded bar area. Expect to be seated there when it is busy and other guests may rub elbows if you are not careful. The primary dining room has a large community table, groups do tend to show up and garner that space. A good number of smaller tables as well. That’s also the gallery. Up a few steps is an enclosed “Portales”. Scenic and I was surprised that it was really warm yesterday. Out back, during the warmer seasons is a sprawling well landscaped outside restaurant. My favorite. More intimate, and very beautiful. Worth waiting for.

The menu is full of weekly specials. Southwest cuisine with many variations. Food here is not matched by other restaurants. The chefs’ usually produce excellent creations, large portions, at reasonable prices. If possible, leave room for dessert. They are famous for pies, and sometimes run out of favorites. Yesterday I had a cranberry crisp that I could not finish! It was presented in a medium sized bowl 16 oz or more. It wasn’t too sweet which was good for my diet. Included walnuts and a mixed grain crisp/”crust”. $4.25. I also added the homemade pistasico ice cream “ala mode” in a separate dish: heavenly.

My Salmon tacos (soft white flour thin taco), black beans, and salad were filling. We were impressed by the site of the salad and loved the mixed greens which added great colors. $9.95.

Staff were friendly and helpful. Marvelous! Dine leisurely, unless there are no tables left. Relax, feel at home, and know the creativity that abounds here in Santa Fe.

Unrelated video:)

Rain, Clouds, and Dancing go together!

Monday, October 20th, 2008
Dance fever happens a lot in Santa Fe. Photo by Mary MacIntyre

Dance fever happens a lot in Santa Fe. Photo by Mary MacIntyre

There was the Santa Fe Big Jazz band tonight at Santa Fe Brewing CO. I am sure they danced up a storm there!

After my d.o.m. appointment, I was very hungry, and the rain came pouring down. I laughed and grinned about our wonderful rain. After monsoons, it often is very dry. This year we are blessed. As thunder accompanied the rain, I decided to eat out since I wouldn’t be able to work online. I went to Maki Yaki just off St Francis Drive. Near Albertson’s and Zia Rd. I ordered the Calamari and Veggies Tempura. It came with a lettuce salad, steamed rice, and a cup of miso soup. All for $9.17. I enjoyed the mixed inter-generational crowd. SOme young men who looked like gang kids, took time to go over to a tired old man, and inquired about a basketball team. A tourist guy or a travelling biz dude with maps (30’s maybe)…swallowed fast a meal on the run. Some young women arrived for take out and chatted with the “gang” guys. Two folks in their 50’s chatted for a long while before the “rush” came in. See what a little sushi can do in Santa Fe. Great food, good service, and very fair prices keeps everyone stopping by. Remember the take out, the platters, and catering too!

Thursday October 23 7:30 PM $3

R and BEBOP
Classic R & B Bassist Dave Moir and Guitarist/Singer Scott Cadenasso have teamed-up to bring you R & BEBOP, Santa Fe’s newest arrival on the entertainment scene, playing casual, classic, and cool R & B!
Sunday October 26 6:30 PM $10

BILL HEARNE’S

ROADHOUSE REVUE

This is Bill Hearne’s side project, a four piece Honky Tonk band. The Roadhouse Revue is the Bill Hearne Trio plus Auge Hays on pedal steel, and with Bob playing lots of electric guitar. The music they play is the retro-honky tonk music that Bill spent many hours listening to as a youth in the late 50’s, early 60’s. www.billhearne.com

PUB & GRILL TICKETS ON SALE NOW

HEARTLESS BASTARDS MON NOV 3
VIC CHESNUTT & ELF POWER WED NOV 5

PICK UP YOUR TICKETS TODAY AT THE PUB & GRILL AT THE SFBC, THE LENSIC BOX OFFICE 505.988.1234, OR ORDER ONLINE AT www.ticketssantafe.com

UPCOMING at the PUB & GRILL at the SFBC

MONDAY OCTOBER 27 7:30 $10
PAULA NELSON

WEDNESDAY Yep. Next week will be full of talent. C’mon over to Santa Fe!

twirling Opera: Santa Fe Style.

Wednesday, September 24th, 2008


There’s always a lot of drama and a prelude to the story of an opera. Lately there’s been plenty of drama for all. Yesterday a terrific acupuncture session brought great relief and insight. My ailing knee moved into healing. A brief walk reinfroced my progress. Ah-h-h: life minus extreme pain? Spectacular. Woke up early: too early this morn. Went back to sleep. When I got up confirmed swim time and was reminded that this week was the week for a senior driving ed class by AARP. Swam. Grabbed a lunch.

Lunch wa at a relatively new restaurant, cafe called “the flip”. Small, located on Second St. Crepes in many forms are their speciality. Bathroom is not handicap accessible, but there is another restaurant next door that might be a little better. Food seemed “light” for what I ordered, however with the $0.50 grilled portabella mushroom side, it was very tastey. What I got, a spinach and feta crepe had no heavy sauce and was very good. More on this restaurant later.

4 hours of class. Tiring. Fortunately my friend brought extra munchies. I did not have time to get anything this morning. Rushed to class, and made good time, even in rush hour. My Feldenkrais class is just what I needed. A good workout which relieved various tension and tight spots. I was suppose to be at the Obama Headquarters, but needed sustanance. A friend and I went to Back Street Pizza. I thought a pizza would be fast, however they were very busy and had a birthday party with many young school age kids. Getting the pizza was VERY slow. Pizza was good. Also on Tuesday nights a group of ever changing musicians show up and jams. The music tonight included mandolin,violins, guitar, and various other instruments. Blue grass and country. Very good. Great company and conversation.

KSFR public Radio is in the third day of its fund drive. Contribute or change stations.

Made it to the new southside Obama for America. Big push here to get the hispanic voters out. All but one volunteer tonight was anglo. I didn’t get much completed tonight because of odd computer difficulties. 9:25 PM MST, after 12 hours out, I said good night, and came home. Decided to tkae a walk to strenghten knee, and so glad to walk almost painfree. It’s been over a year where most of the time walking has been a challenge.Such a blessing, came in took care of cats and then to the computer. Normally days are mellower here. tomorrw AM, I have a meetingat 7:30 AM and a lot to do before my 5:30 PM shift at VC. Just a little drama from all I encountered.

On the way home I listened to an OPera on KSFR: Tuesday night at the opera…support public radio please.

Dreaming of adventures on Canyon Rd? Meet me at the Compound Restaurant

Friday, September 5th, 2008

Photo by Mary MacIntyre

Photo by Mary MacIntyre


Love to walk down Canyon Road and soak in Santa Fe Art scene?
This time of year the Canyon Road dazzles the senses, even before you pay attention to the galleries. A cool breeze may gently rustle your hair and brow. Crowds fluctuate, and you may find yourself practically alone to stroll slowly. Flowers abundantly call your name as an orchestra might invite you travel through the ages. Hark! Before you float away or meet your favorite artist, remind yourself to tend to your bodily hunger, and find a restaurant that will compliment the magic of the day. If fortune bestows favors, you may not even wait long to be seated.
The Compound Restaurant Canyon Road Santa Fe NM
Friends have bestowed upon me many treasures. This week I was invited to have lunch at the Compound Restaurant. I tried to rattle old memories: did I ever eat here before, and I think the closest I got was a “closed sign”. We drove down the shady drive and found convenient parking. I privately marveled at the trees, vines, and landscaping. As we were early, we sat on a bonco in a small courtyard. The plastered adobe was cool. Almost instantly numerous folks arrived. Folks from all over, most dressed finely, and each impatient that le restaurant was not open yet! It opens at noon and it was not noon yet, relax!
The minutes flew by and soon a line of voracious patrons forged ahead creating an eager line. Even the rich and well off seniors can act like schoolyard children when appetites flourish. We were brought to a small table under a niche of colorful saints and their friends. To the right was a large window framing a view of a brick courtyard with tree boughs hanging. TO our left was a much smaller window framing a small skyscape with fluffy white clouds over treetops, matching the all white indoor décor. Pristene.
The menu included many options rarely presented in Santa Fe. We each chose a lobster/crab salad. Small tufts of herb bread and a few crackers were served. At first I thought, hardly enough, how wrong I was. Yes there was plenty of lettuce, but the lobster and crab also created a bountiful portion. So sweet, fresh, and tender. We had a tangerine vingarette that was light and creamy. My peach shortcake on a most delicious herb biscuit completed a fine dining adventure. Ah Santa Fe offers excellent cuisine in so many locations. Of all my recent experiences, this restaurant resides in my top three. A meal ought to contain all the delicacies of fine art, and the chef succeeded magnificently.

Labor Day Weekend=fun in New Mexico

Friday, August 29th, 2008
Photo by Mary MacIntyre

Photo by Mary MacIntyre

Performing Arts
Theater, Dance, Lectures, Poetry and more …

New Mexico Wine Festival in Bernalillo
A favorite Labor Day event is the original wine festival. The New Mexico Wine Festival at Bernalillo wraps up the summer with the premier wine festival of the southwest! Just north of Albuquerque, the historic town of Bernalillo is host to the biggest wine festival in the state. Most of all the New Mexico wineries will be there, giving their customers a rare opportunity to taste and purchase New Mexico wines at their best. Lots of great music, arts and crafts, and those summer foods we all love make a perfect backdrop for wine, wine, wine! Our favorite band, Le Chat Lunatique performs Monday, 3:15pm. The rail runner will provide service to Bernalillo over the holiday weekend with shuttle service to the wine festival. Check out events and buy tickets on line.
Special event Sat-Mon, Aug. 20-31 & Sept. 1, 12- 7pm
New Mexico Fine Festival
Town of Bernalillo
newme xicowinefestival.com

8th Annual Labor Day Tango Festival
Events include tangow orkshops and milongas Thursday through Monday with a free tango party at National Hispanic Cultural Center on Sunday.
Special event Thursday-Sunday, August 28-Sept. 1
Albuquerque Hilton
1901 University NE
National Hispanic Cultural Center
1701 Fourth St. SW
(505) 884-2500
laeternamilon ga.com

Cultural Conference Kickoff Poetry Reading
Linda Hogan, Simon Ortiz, Demetria Martinez, Levi Romero, Margaret Randall and Luci Tapahonso kick off three-day cultural conference.
Reception & reading Friday, Aug. 29, 6- 10pm
South Broadway Cultural Center
1025 Broadway SE
(505) 217-3654

Thursday showcase of Albuquerque’s Diverse Cultures
This Cultural Sunset” series offers live entertainment showcasing our area’s diversity - singers, dancers and more entertain you in native costume and style. Learn about the many cultures that make NM a most interesting place to live. Thursday, Sept. 4 features Mana Tahiti Polynesian Dance Company who perform the aparima, the ote’a and the ote’a accomplanied by li’s. Each form represents a different part of the rich traditions of Tahiti.
Performance Thursday, Sept. 5, 6:30- 8:30pm
Old Town Plaza
cabq.gov

Thread of Life continues at Explora
The play examines the life of Rosalind Franklin and the discovery of the structure of DNA. James Watson, Francis Crick, and Maurice Wilkins later won the Nobel Prize for their double-helix model of DNA. Some believe that to say Watson, Crick and Wilkins were influenced by Franklin is an understatement. Continues through Sept. 1 with some daytime performances
Opening performance Friday, August 22, 7pm Explora Albuquerque
1701 Mountain Road NW
(505) 224-8323
explora.us

Music
musical performances, workshops and festivals

Thirsty Ear Festival this weekend
Labor Day weekend brings a huge music event to Eaves Movie Ranch near Santa Fe. Join Junior Brown, Shemekia Copeland, Richard Thompson, Patty Griffin and band, Buckwheat Zydeco and dozens more. For a daily breakdown, directions and everything else you need to know, go to their website. Friday is the annual food drive - admission is only $2 and 2 cans of food.
Special event, Fri-Sun, August 29-31
Tickets available at the Lensic Box Office or 988- 1234
ThirstyEarFe stival.com

Tim Finn comes to the Lobo Theater
It’s been 30 years since Tim Finn’s first bank took his native New Zealand and Australia by storm. Since then he has recorded several acclaimed solo albums including his most recent, Imaginary Kingdom, which has been called an atmospheric and joyous collection of beautifully written songs, collaborated with his brother Neil. Albuquerque’s own Kimo will also perform, providing a raw and energetic opening set.
Performance Saturday, Sept. 6, 8pm
Lobo Theater
3013 Central NE
Tickets available on line or through Brown Paper Tickets or by phone at 800-838-3006 abqmusic.com

Globalquerque is coming - Sept. 19-20
17 artists from 5 continents on 3 stages plus a FREE family fun day on Saturday, Sept. 20, workshops, dance classes, art, instrument making, and The Global Village of Craft, Culture and Cuisine. Tickets now on sale at the NHCC box office and Ticketmaster.
(505) 232-9868
globalquerque.c om

Film Arts
art films, films about art, and news from the Film Industry

The Art in Film Series will present Agnes Martin: With My Back to the World in September. This groundbreaking documentary on internationally renowned painter, was shot over a period of four years from 1998 through 2002, Martin’s 90th year. Interviews are intercut with shots of her at work in her studio in Taos and with images of her work from over five decades. It is a venue for Martin to speak about her work, her methods, her life as an artist, and her views about the creative process. She also discusses her film, Gabriel, and reads from her poetry and lectures. In keeping with Martin’s chosen life of solitude, she alone appears in the documentary.
Screening Sat-Sun, Sept. 6-7, 2pm
The Guild Cinema
3405 Central NE
(505) 255-1848
guildcinema.com

Indigenous Filmmakers of the Americas
Women in Film International is accepting short film submissions for its upcoming event, A Night to Celebrate: Short Films by Indigenous People of the Americas, to be held at Barnsdall Gallery Theater in Los Angeles on Saturday, October 25th. For more information and an application please email NativeShortLA@yahoo.com or call 908-310-7141 attention Tessa Bell.
Deadline September 12,2008

Workshops, calls for entry, workshops and more opportunities
A complete listing of auditions and other calls as well as every type of arts event can be referenced at the Arts Alliance website where you can also subscribe to their all new Something to Do Online Newsletter.
www.abqarts.org

Blogsville: See lots of blogs at 451Press.com

Hope you get Labor Day weekend off! Mary

Santa Fe Brewing Co. Music Music and some beer!

Tuesday, August 12th, 2008

TUESDAY AUGUST 12 7:30 PM $10
T H E L A W S

The Laws are husband-and-wife award-winning singer/songwriters from Ontario, Canada. They have recently recorded their 5th CD of original music and have been touring non-stop throughout Canada, the U.S. and Australia since 2000. Their Americana style songs are an acoustic mix of roots country, bluegrass, folk and pop, delivered with The Laws trademark “tight-as-a-glove” harmony singing. John and Michele Law each sing lead and harmony vocals often switching within songs. John is an expert picker on guitar and mandolin and Michele is a solid bass and acoustic guitar rhythm player.

“ …. begins with this languid, swaying, romantic melody that recalls The Everly Brothers in their prime. Yes, the harmonies really are that good. The mandolin and accordion solos are utterly lovely. Michele adds a third vocal part on “Go Easy” and swings lightly in “Put Some Love In It.” John dazzles with his mandolin instrumental “Texacadia.” They both hypnotize you on “Whiskey and Gasoline” and delight you with finger-popping “Getting Over You.” Heartily recommended.”
Robert Oermann, Music Row Magazine

“John and Michele Law’s songs seem to be the lost essence of country music which has now become so commercial and formulaic sounding.” Randy Bachman

“If Gram Parsons married Alison Krauss their music would sound a lot like John and Michele.” Willie P Bennett
www.thelaws.ca

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 13 7:30 $32 ADVANCE / $36 DOOR
A THIRSTY EAR PRE-EVENT - FEATURING
THE
TAJ MAHAL
TRIO


Taj Mahal is a singer, multi-instrumentalist, composer, ethnomusicologist, Grammy-winner, world-class musical collaborator, musicians’ advocate, fisherman & cigar aficionado. Taj has been playing his own distinctive brand of music - variously described as Afro-Caribbean blues, folk-world-blues, hula blues & folk-funk. Caribbean, Hawaiian, African, Latin, and Cuban sounds mix with folk, jazz, zydeco, gospel, rock, pop, soul, and R&B, layered on top of a country blues foundation. www.tajblues

FRIDAY AUGUST 15 8 PM $10
GREEN MOUNTAIN GRASS

Live acoustic gonzograss from Austin, TX! Eclectic melodies, creative harmonies, explosive jams, and a thoroghly danceable experience. The four band members in GREEN MOUNTAIN GRASS are Dave Wilmoth (29, mandolin), Adam “Pickles” Moss (24, fiddle), Trevor Smith (18, banjo/guitar), and Jesse Dalton (25, upright bass). Together, they are exploring the sounds of traditional bluegrass, gypsy swing, folk, funk, reggae, and jazz to discover their own genre-bending sound. While some listeners haven taken to calling this sound “gonzograss,” the end result is described by the band as “melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic mastery with elements of sarcasm, quotes, humor, and exaggeration.”
Whether they are in front of an attentive listening-room audience, on a tall stage playing to a throng of sun-baked festival-goers, or in a local venue orchestrating a gonzograss dance party for their fans, something exciting and inspiring is always being created. www.myspce.com/greengrassplayers
Saturday August 16 8 PM $5
NO GO KNOW

Tropical concrete zouk space rock direct from Portland, Ore.!www.myspace.com/nogoknow

SUNDAY AUGUST 17 6 PM $30 ADVANCE / $35 DOOR
TOOTS & the MAYTALS

WITH SPECIAL GUESTS
I Y A H
Toots and the Maytals are legends of ska and reggae music. Their sound is an original combination of gospel, ska, soul, reggae and rock, led by Frederick “Toots” Hibbert. The band won the 2005 Grammy award for best reggae album True Love, an album consisting of re-recorded versions of their classics alongside musicians such as Bonnie Raitt, Willie Nelson, Eric Clapton, and Keith Richards, as well as popular artists today such as No Doubt, Ben Harper, The Roots, & Shaggy. www.tootasandthemaytals.com

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FOR THESE GREAT SHOWS AT THE PUB & GRILL!
The TAJ MAJAL TRIO WED AUG 13
TOOTS AND THE MAYTALS with Iyah SUN AUG 17
RECKLESS KELLY with SPECIAL GUEST tba THURS AUG 21
JJ GREY & MOFRO with the Hill Country Revue TUES SEPT 9
JOHN HIATT & the AGELESS BEAUTIES with the Sean Healen Duo WED SEPT 10
The SKATALITES TUES OCT 14
PICK UP YOUR TICKETS TODAY AT THE PUB & GRILL AT THE SFBC,
THE LENSIC BOX OFFICE 505.988.1234, OR ORDER ONLINE AT www.ticketssantafe.com

UPCOMING AT THE PUB AND GRILL
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 20 7:30 PM $10
The BELLEVILLE OUTFIT
THURSDAY AUGUST 21 6:30 PM $17 ADVANCE / $20 DOOR
R E C K L E S S K E L L Y
WITH SPECIAL GUEST TBA
FRIDAY AUGUST 22 7 PM $15 ADVANCE / $20 DOOR
THE MIGHTY DIAMONDS
WITH SPECIAL GUESTS
THE YELLOW DUB SQUAD
SATURDAY AUGUST 23 4 PM to MIDNIGHT JUST $10! KID U-12 FREE!
FROGFEST III
CELEBRATING 5 FROGTASTIC YEARS!
8 HOURS OF LOVE & MUSIC!
F E A T U R I N G
HUNDRED YEAR FLOOD GOSHEN
NATHAN MOORE TAARKA
BORIS &the SALTLICKS JOE WEST
XOE FITZGERALD TIME-TRAVELING TRANSVESTITE THE BILL HEARNE TRIO
SUNDAY

How many stories could you tell about these acts? Music plentiful here

Monday, June 23rd, 2008

img_5100.jpg

Photo by Mary MacIntyre
Horse has a can tell a tale or two….
Horse cared for by Cynthia Decosta, Santa Fe, NM

You won’t find this lovely horse by the Brewery, but he could share a few stories with you that may make you want to gallop over to the Santa Fe Brewing company for some local potent beverage. Stop by the tasting room to get relaxed and then have a dinner and listen to….the horse may still wi the race….

TUESDAY JUNE 24 8 PM $12 ADVANCE / $15 DOOR
THE GRAND ARCHIVES
WITH SPECIAL GUEST
SERA CAHOONE

WARM ILLUMINATED POP
Seattle-based Grand Archives is an indie rock band featuring five male vocalists. Mat Brooke, co-founder of softcore cult-favorites Carissa’s Weird started Grand Archives with a trio of friends in September, 2006. Drummer Curtis Hall (The Jeunes), bassist Jeff Montano (The New Mexicans), and guitarist/keyboard player Ron Lewis (Ghost Stories). The band was picked to support Modest Mouse on west-coast tour dates, and Sub Pop had signed the band for a full-length album.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 25 7 PM No Cover
OPEN MIC. NIGHT-HOSTED BY JASON REED
Singers, songwriters, musicians all welcome!
www.myspace.com/sfbcopenmic

THURSDAY JUNE 26 7:30 PM $10
ELEPHANT REVIVAL

Neo acoustic glyptic revival! www.myspace.com/elephantrevival
MY TEA KIND

An obscure folk rock infusion that is new and fun!
www.myteakind.com

FRIDAY JUNE 27 8 PM $10
TAJ WEEKES & ADOWA

Taj Weekes & Adowa present a brand new experience in classic roots reggae.
With wry trenchant lyrics, a haunting dusky quiver in his voice and the knock-down sound of his band Adowa, Taj has managed to weave a rare social consciousness with an unforgettable reggae groove.
www.tajandadowa.com

SATURDAY JUNE 28 7:30 $10 / $15
GREG ABATE
With THE PETE AMAHL TRIO

Grammy-nominated global jazz sax player
and recording artist extraordinaire!
www.gregabate.com

SUNDAY JUNE 29 3-6 PM BY DONATION
WHITE BUFFALO PRESENTS
SUNDAY AFTERNOON JAM ON THE PATIO
BENEFITTING THE MUSICIANS EMERGENCY RELIEF FUND
ALL MUSICIANS WELCOME!

SUNDAY JUNE 29 7 PM $5
SYD MASTERS & the SWING RIDERS

VINTAGE COWBOY WESTERN SWING
www.gregabate.com

PLEASE HELP IF YOU CAN!

On June 1st of this year, 29 year old Tina Beltran sadly died in a river accident on the Colorado River. Tina was a “Super” mom, loving daughter, sister, granddaughter, amazing friend, and above all a lively soul that will never be forgotton.
A savings account has been established for Tina’s 12 year old daughter Diamar Beltran-Taylor to help her with college fund and her future. Donations can be made at any branch of the Bank of America to “Jane Beltran” (last 4 digits 8468), Tina’s mom, Diamar’s grandmother.
Thanks for anything you can do!

UPCOMING AT THE PUB AND GRILL
MONDAY JUNE 30 7-9 PM No Cover - Donations Appreciated
The SANTA FE
GREAT BIG JAZZ BAND
WEDNESDAY JULY 2 7 PM No Cover
OPEN MIC. NIGHT HOSTED BY JASON REED
THURSDAY JULY 3 $10 / $15
REVEREND PEYTON’S BIG DAMN BAND
FRIDAY JULY 4 7 PM $20 ADVANCE/$25 DOOR
LEON RUSSELL

WITH SPECIAL GUESTS
SHARON LITTLE
THE ALEX MARYOL BAND
FRIDAY JULY 5 6 PM $7
FEATHERICCI’S BIRTHDAY BASH
D-NUMBERS MISS GINGER
joshua 23 fire by ting
SUNDAY JULY 6 7 PM $10
BILL HEARNE’S
ROADHOUSE REVUE
TUESDAY JULY 8 7:30 PM $5
Blogsville:
about-seattlewa.com
about-sacramentoca.com
myitthings.com/photoqueen

ReRun: Los Mayas and Cuban Street music

Monday, May 26th, 2008

Lost part of a previous post so here goes again….Los Mayos Restaurant, www.losmayasrestaurante.com, Yum Serving Northern New Mexican & Traditional Mexican Yum
santa fe style cuisine

I had to double check the Los Mayas website, because the menu was significantly different than a few years ago. Originally the restaurant had more Caribean and Guatamalen food. We arrived at the Restaurant at about 7Pm with our 2 for 1 coupon. The coupon was great as it was useable 7 days a week. At first Pat was concerned about the menu being pricey, but I reminded her that we would have plenty of food, chips and salsa were included, and we had our coupon. It was one of the recent events where we actually stayed in our old dinner average. Simply put: we had 2 meals with plenty of leftovers for $9 each plus tip. Service was good, and the food excellent.

We also received great service, when we arrived. There was a long line, and we nearly walked away when I suggested we check how long the wait would be. A waitress looked around and saw a couple of tables for 2 available and we were seated in about 5 minutes. The restaurant and patio were packed and very busy: this is Memorial Day Weekend, Sunday evening. Since we were both hungry: excellente!

Everything changed when Victor Alvarez and his trio got up to play. We were on the “patio” which has a roof and is enclosed by a coyote fence. The cool evening air felt refreshing, yet there were no street distractions thanks to an adobe wall streetside. Pat’s face relaxed when she realized that we were going to have music. I said to her, so where can we get all thisand have a coupon. She agreed.

Victor Alvarez had a trio tonight. A bongo and other similar drums and the drummer set a rhytum and a handsome bassist outlined a most exquiste bass. Victor was the entertainer and plays a dlectable Mandolin. He did the singing, the talking and loved to make the ladies smile. “Thank you, Thank you, You have such good taste”, he’d say after a round of significant. Diners droped their forks nearly in unison to be able to applaud.

I particularly enjoyed the complex and quick fingering that produced multiple melodies and changes with fluid ease. I stopped eating and talking just to watch the fingers create webs fast than a master spider could. All this on a Mandolin: impressive. Very festive and light. Al this embellished by his suave Latin character.

Still lost a large part of that post. Perhaps tomorrow, I’ll reconstruct. My apologies… you can always go to www.savormusic.com or t he previous blog for additional information.

Savor Music: Victor Alvarez and his trio

Monday, May 26th, 2008

img_5012.jpg

Let’s dance and learn more about Savor Cuban Street MUsic ala Santa Fe NM. It must be a busy night as the computer is on slow crank. I am fading fast and have to get up early. I wanted to add more information from the Savor Music site as I was delightfully impressed by the famous Victor Alvarez. It’s good to actually hear someone before you learn that they are relatively famous. I got the notion that he was an exceptional musician from listening to him. (read previous post). So it was easy to go up to him during break and ask for his card. He responded graciously, and his site is full of information. Some is listed below. www.savormusic.com

Savor music includes several additional notable musicians too. Go the site for information. I included the three that I heard Sunday evening at Los Mayas. (See schedule information on previous blog or on their site.) These guys also are impressive by the schedule they keep. Many musicians complain about the difficulty of finding steady work in Santa Fe. Look at their schedule: they are busy!

VICTOR ALVAREZ:Cuban born award-winning mandolinist and guitarist, Victor has traveled the world with his salsa orchestra The LA Express. He has recorded under the labels of AAPA and North to South. Victor sings and plays mandolin as a Cuban laud and also plays guitar with Savor. (1)

Re: Cuban laud: [edit] Cuban laúd
There is also a Cuban laúd. Famously played by Barbarito Torres with the Buena Vista Social Club. It has the same appearance as the Spanish version only the tuning is different. The Cuban tuning is: D, A, E, B, F#, C# (or D).

DIEGO MAESTAS: Originally from New Mexico but having lived in other parts of the United States, Diego has dedicated his life to music. Mainly a player of the traditional drum set, Diego also delved into learning Latin percussion as well. Having spent many years perfecting his skills and knowledge of the basic Son Bolero and Batáconga patterns, he also shines on timbales. Diego was a “drop-in” of Habana State U’ he actually droped in now and then.( 5)

MARCO TOPO: This Italian born bass player is a graduate of Habana State U’. His many years of study and his many years of experience playing in a variety of jazz and blues bands have forged his solid musical personality. Upon meeting Victor and learning more about Cuban music, Marco has made it his new musical mission to master Cuban rhythm on the bass. (6)

Their story also opens our eyes and brings us the enjoyment from a nearby country that few of us can go see. We are truly blessed in Santa Fe. Here’s more info from their website.

SAVOR was started by Cuban born Victor Alavarez about seven years ago. He and his wife Nanette were both seasoned musicians long before moving to New Mexico having paid their musical dues while living in Houston, Texas for many years.

From his days as a soloist, combo mando-man, music minstrel and Latin big band leader back in Houston, Victor had always wanted to get back to his Cuban roots by playing the songs that he had grown up hearing in his native Havana. After leaving the big band scene in the big city, he and Nanette moved to New Mexico. It was not long before Victor realized that his heart yearned to express his Cuban roots through his talent as a mandolin player of thirty years.

The group started off as a quartet playing a variety of Latin tunes. The quartet included Victor on Mandolin and guitar and Nanette on ‘Lola’, the acoustic bass. After a few years of gigging, they recorded an album entitled “Muévete con Savor” in 2002.

Over the next few years, members came and went, but Victor and Nanette kept the group together. Though the group did play some Cuban songs, Victor was determined to follow his dream of playing more of a Cuban repertoire for audiences to learn about and enjoy Cuba’s often forgotten and underestimated contribution to Latin music.

In late summer of 2005, our Havana native began to find musicians that shared in his musical vision. The addition of New Mexico native drummer and percussionist J.J. Oviedo marked a turning point with the group. In early 2006, Victor, Nanette, and J.J. recorded a live album called “Savor: a taste of Cuba.” Soon, other friends and musicians came to Victor’s aide. With the addition of such musicians as Venezuelan born bassist and guitarist Ivan Castillo and later Cuban native and seasoned percussionist René Navaro, Victor found himself the desired and potent recipe for his music. Currently, the group performs as a trio or quartet that includes, but is not limited to: Mandolin, guitar, requinto guitar, acoustic/electric bass and various percussion instruments mostly comprised of bongos, congas, cowbell, and maracas. The music that the group performs includes Cuban and Afro-Cuban songs and rhythms based on the original Cuban ‘Son’; which is the grandfather of modern ‘Salsa’ rhythms. The music is performed in an informal street-like manner, making it raw and infectiously dance-able. In addition, SAVOR’s repertoire includes many other Latin American and Spanish songs for the eclectic and Latin hungry taste. The group that fans and music lovers now see performing in many venues in Santa Fe and Española is the product of several years of hard work and dedication to a personal quest of homage to Cuban music. We invite all who find themselves curious about Cuban rhythms and Cuba’s music to come out and hear us and party with us like on the streets of Habana Vieja!

Have some fun and party often around the town.

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(ala Mary MacIntyre) Please come and read my column and vote your opinion.

Savor: Cuban Street Music

Monday, May 26th, 2008

Los Mayos Restaurant, www.losmayasrestaurante.com, Yum Serving Northern New Mexican & Traditional Mexican Yum
santa fe style cuisine

I had to double check the Los Mayas website, because the menu was significantly different than a few years ago. Originally the restaurant had more Caribean and Guatamalen food. We arrived at the Restaurant at about 7Pm with our 2 for 1 coupon. The coupon was great as it was useable 7 days a week. At first Pat was concerned about the menu being pricey, but I reminded her that we would have plenty of food, chips and salsa were included, and we had our coupon. It was one of the recent events where we actually stayed in our old dinner average. Simply put: we had 2 meals with plenty of leftovers for $9 each plus tip. Service was good, and the food excellent.

We also received great service, when we arrived. There was a long line, and we nearly walked away when I suggested we check how long the wait would be. A waitress looked around and saw a couple of tables for 2 available and we were seated in about 5 minutes. The restaurant and patio were packed and very busy: this is Memorial Day Weekend, Sunday evening. Since we were both hungry: excelente!

Everything changed when Victor Alvarez and his trio got up to play. We were on the “patio” which has a roof and is enclosed by a coyote fence. The cool evening air felt refreshing, yet there were no street distractions thanks to an adobe wall streetside. Pat’s face relaxed when she realized that we were going to have music. I said to her, so where can we get all thisand have a coupon. She agreed.

Victor Alvarez had a trio tonight. A bongo and other similar drums and the drummer set a rhytum and a handsome bassist outlined a most exquiste bass. Victor was the entertainer and plays a dlectable Mandolin. He did the singing, the talking and loved to make the ladies smile. “Thank you, Thank you, You have such good taste”, he’d say after a round of significant. Diners droped their forks nearly in unison to be able to applaud.

I particularly

Sunday night reflections brought to by Monday morning.

Monday, April 14th, 2008

Me on youtube:

Strange day and I already have so much to do tomorrow, including an early appointment. I hate getting going too early, but it’ll help set the pace for the day.

Quick restaurant review: Joe’s Diner. I wanted to go to Harry’s for dinner. Pat, poor soul is still suffering from a cold and thus is easily irritated, and probably didn’t even see the landscape full of spring ride. No parking at Harry’s and a long line, I said let’s go elsewhere. Drove up to the Steakhouse: ditto. She wouldn’t be up for a long wait, the crowds or noise. A woman from te spa, probably 50 or older, blond hair shoulder length, bright red lipstick, skinny 5′7″, wearing rubber foam flips and a wihite medium length terry cloth robe crossed the parking lot. Was she smoking a cigeratee too? Meanwhile everyone and all the cars were dressed to high style fashion suits and dresses: a la de da those who can will spend a lot for the best were there. The scene amplified grays and then the white white bathrobe blond hilarious! A movie set for…???? We left.

Taking a deep breath I said,”Joe’s Diner?” Pat said, “Yes”. Got to Joe’s and was seated immediately. Waiter initially was attentive. We relaxed a little. Of course first I had to ask for another booth, and Pat grouchily and somewhat loudly said,”WHY?!” I told her I would explain in a moment. We sat down, and i told her about the three generation family with little kids next to where they wanted to seat us. I wasn’t up to the noise. She said,”Oh good, I’m not either.”

Joe’s Diner, is a small restaurant in a residential area. Tonight they were not busy. Last time they were not busy. I hope sometime they ARE busy. Roland has done a great job blending a 50’s style cafe with and elegant artsy menu and decor. He buys local food and wine when possible. He is very particular when he is there, he wasn’t there. Pat said the service was good when I kept the guy in order. Hey, he was busy and I could see Pat’s order getting cold waiting. Last time we had cold food, I asked a blond hair mid 40’s lady if she would get it for us. The chef and she argued, but she did bring Pat her order. I explained why we were concerned. The waiter returned, apologized and brought my meal soon after.

Pat, diabetic was hungry and enjoyed that her food was hot, cooked as she ordered, and fresh. I enjoyed mine also, it was a unique vegetable lasangna. Very little pasta, lots of veggies, a mozeralla (fresh) and another cheese mix lots of it, OK sauce, good size portion. We had to ask for refills. We had to ask for more bread, and he brought one breadstick.

So, this ain’t the greatest review. We spent $30. Used to be able to eat there for less. Hey, at least Joe’s Diner is back on our OK list. Go when Roalnd is there: the place sings then. So the waiter was preoccupied with our departure. He barely could handle the few diners he had!

Our food was fine and hot. We got to first base. Joe’s Diner in on Rodeo Rd.

Got home and it was still warm. I looked out at the stars and the half moon. Aprreciated the porch while Gray Cat got a chance to play outside. Sat on the hammock and used it as a slow swing. Earlier in the day ate strawberries and enjoyed the sun as a break from the computer.
Life is good. Gotta go.

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www.about-seattlewa.com


Not the band I expected but this is ok.

Alfanoose Middle Eastern Cafe Santa Fe NM

Wednesday, March 12th, 2008

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I was enjoying spa Tuesday where I get to go swimming, have a sauna and then go to Feldenkras class. At class my teacher mentioned a new Greek restaurant and suggested that we go. One comment was about the “reasonable prices”. After visiting 2 thrift stores, I circled back to the restaurant. It’s on second street off Cerrillos Rd, near the Rambling Cafe.

It is not a Greek Restaurant. In fact it is owned by Sammy who is of Arabic descent. I met a friend there, he came in after I ordered, and we talked awhile. Sammy used to work near a studio he had and now Sammy and his family have started the restaurant. It’s a simple cafe with photos on the wall. The menu includes many Middle Eastern dishes at reasonable prices.

A teenage girl took my order and was astounded with my minimalist order. Are you sure she said! I tried the small Fatayer (Spiced spinach pie) 2 pieces were $2.99. Each piece was fairly small and improved when I used hot sauce and olive oil to dip them in. I also purchased Baklava with pinon nuts for $1.75 (very small). I told her it was a snack.

My friend Bobby said the Lamb sandwich is very good and the spices they use are delicate and make all the difference. Perhaps he was referring to the Shwarma that has 80% Beef and 20% lamb for $8.78.

My teacher said that she and her husband ate dinner for $20 for the two of them. I could have easily spent $15.00 on various items that were inviting. Still, knowing that you could eat for under $5.00 for a light lunch is great. There’s just so many options.

Service was good and the family is friendly. It’s another great neighborhood find. Tourists stop by. They use fresh ingredients, provide healthy food, and it’s all homemade. They are open 10AM to 10 PM. 505 989 3444. They also do catering. Closed on Sundays.

Unrelated music:

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AMAVI Restaurant New in Santa Fe NM

Tuesday, March 11th, 2008

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AMAVI Restaurant www.amavirestaurant.com

I couldn’t copy much from the Amavi restaurant site. So go visit. I don’t know much about the history, Julian’s a famous northern Italian restaurant has disappeared, and been replaced by AMAVI (loose translation: the love of life).

In July, Heather and David Sellers bought the 18-year-old Julian’s Restaurant just southeast of Santa Fe’s main plaza and converted it into Amavi, a 110-seat restaurant that serves chef David Sellers’ Mediterranean cuisine. (Same Chef Sellers who is doing the TV clips on Alburquerque TV, see older blog)

The Sellerses remodeled the bar area and added 28 seats.

“There is an upcoming scene for people wanting more classy, sophisticated bars where they can get appetizers and hang out,” Heather Sellers said. “We also do full dinners in there as well.
Check averages range from $60 to $70 per person.

“It’s unique in that there are not many fine-dining Mediterranean cuisine restaurants here,” she said. (Heather Sellers)

The Sellerses had worked at the city’s Santacafe restaurant.

Santa Fe, which relies on state government and tourism as its major industries, can pose challenges, Heather Sellers said.

“The business can be seasonal, but your goal is to try to attract local diners so they keep coming all year-round,” she said. “I see dining in Santa Fe only going up.” Heather Sellers.

So there’s some of the scoop. Sellers bought Julian’s. I was a bit apprehensive about who had replaced one of my favorite restaurants. I had a back up plan in case it was too expensive. Once Pat saw the menu, she was determined to stay. She told me cost was not an issue. She had informed me earlier that my birthday dinner needed to be “fancy”. The remodel was bright and cheery. I enjoyed the art on the walls. We were early, but ready to be relaxed, which surprized our waitress. We had waited and reviewed the menu before being seated, and an elegant young man Andrew described the menu with enchanted finesse, We floated away on savory fantasies. It turns out he is the bartender.

We were escorted to our table near what used to be a fireplace (it was having problems and had candles in it instead). A Sultry but pleasant tall blond was our waitress. Pat enjoyed the service but I was less impressed. There was no pizazz, or extra service, we ordered, food was delivered, no recommendations were made, nor followup. She ignored my first request for extra bread, but heard the second request. Pat mistakenly undertipped her, but I told her it was OK.

However, the food: from bread to our cheese plate appetizer was incredible. Read about the cheese below. They were so rich. We had a rhubarb jam and apricot jam neither were too sweet (good) more like a thick fruit puree. I was most delighted and impressed.

Pat had Chicken under a brick. I missed the brick connection, but the half chicken was goregous and sumpteous in look. Pat was captured in estacy, and being a fussy gourmet cook, she really relished a fine meal. I asked for a quote, but it did not make grammatcial sense. “The food surpassed the ambiance and…” This was a very exquisite slice of life might be one translation.

I missed the part where my Scallops and Linguine had “Italian Bacon” and had to send it back. The waitress was confounded that I didn’t know, and when the meal returned it was lukewarm,less pasta, and still exceptional. This may sound like a misnomer. Yes there were contradictions, one less scallop, but the seasoning and preparation were still astonishing. I come from back east and am not easily pleased when it comes to scallops. These melted in my mouth.

Perhaps I should have ordered the sea bass, see below. I asked 2 gentlemen who were from California how their meals were. Rave reviews. One fellow commented it was the best sea bass he ever had. The other gentleman had scallops as I had, and his pasta was a perfect adente. Their wine also fit their meal exquisitely. Martin Codax Albarino 2006 (reasonably priced).

We both had dessert, my mocha brulet wasn’t a hit with me, yet Pat loved hers, however the dessert she chose (we split ours to share) was the most delicious not over done layered dessert I think I ever had. Light, creamy, multi-textured, a light cracker crumb crust, rich but not heavy chocolate, peanuts crumbled on top. Coffee, tea and dessert, made the bill soar.

The bar seemed to have a classy fine feel.

This is a great restaurant but several steps down from it’s predcessor. Service does not compare. Food has it’s elegance but does not surpass what Julian’s did. Alas. I definitely had a wonderful time. A few years back, with appetizers, 1 or 2 bottles of wine, salads, 2 main course meals, maybe soup, 2 desserts, a friend and I had a $120 meal. Now, Less for more, with less service.

However it is unfair to compare a new restaurant to the old. There are 2 Italian restaurants in town that I would rate higher. One much less expensive. However Mr Sellers brings some Spanish and French cuisine to his dining experience…which will be good. If we were giving stars, I’d say a 3.5. Pat and the gentlemen would probably say “5″!!! Fair is fair. He also is committed to bringing seasonal and local food to the restaurant. I missed the impact of that (what was seasonal? Did the wine come from one of many NM wineries?)

Yet, all in all, we had a festive time, a very special treat, great ambiance, and I wish them well. read on:

Tonight’s menu was slightly different.
First Courses
Roasted Tomato and Fennel Soup
with Olive Tapenade Crostini
8
Xato de Tarragona:
Marinated White Anchovy and Tuna Confit
with Frisee, Hazelnuts, Olives, and Sherry Vinaigrette
12
Caesar Salad: Romaine Lettuce with Garlic Croutons, Anchovy
and Reggiano Cheese
11
Mussel, Sea Bass, and Spinach Gratin
with Bechamel, Bread Crumbs and Toasted Baguette
13
Artisanal Cheese Plate Featuring Featuring Mediterranean Cheeses:
El Porfiao Sheep’s Milk Camembert, Manchego and Gorgonzola Dolce
12
Dungeness Crab and Alaskan Cod Napoleon
with Puff Pastry and Bearnaise
13
Galisteo Talus Wind Ranch Lamb and Feta Cheese Turnovers
with Mint, Oregano and Roasted Beet-Fennel Salad
12
Friuli, Italy
Gorgonzola Dolce Arancini with Arugula, Balsamic
Vinaigrette and Green Apples
11
Giovanni Puiatti “Zuccole” Pinot Grigio 2005
12
Bourgogne, France
Pan Roasted Breast of Squab with Lentils,
Roast Garlic and Morel Mushrooms
12
Vincent Giradin Cuvee St. Vincent 2005
14

We offer the following regional specialties featuring the cuisines
of Italy, Spain and France along with our suggested wine pairing
representative of the designated locale.
Entrees
Ricotta Gnocchi with Morel Mushrooms, Spinach
And Black Truffle
20
Pan Roasted Prime Beef Filet
with Celeriac-Potato Gratin, Bacon,
and Sauteed Brussels Sprouts
34
Grilled Yellowfin Tuna with Escarole,
Anchovy and Remoulade Sauce
28
Linguine Carbonara
Housemade Linguine with Pancetta, Garlic and Parmigiano Reggiano
20
Cerdo al Caramelo:
Pan Seared Karrabuta Pork Chop with Catalonian Spinach,
Olive Oil Mashed Potatoes, and Savory Caramel
29
Tuscany, Italy
Pollo al Mattone
½ Roasted Chicken Under a Brick
with Pancetta, Capers and Lemon
25
Spezieri Col D’Orca Toscana 2004
10
Rioja, Spain
California White Sea Bass with Chorizo, Razor Clams,
Piquillo Peppers and Spanish rice
28
Lorinon Blanco 2005
10
*Available as an appetizer or entrée portion
Please allow a 20% gratuity to be to added to parties of six or more
$4.50 Split plate charge
Cell phone use is not permitted in the restaurant
Executive Chef/Owner: David Sellers
Sous Chef: Megan Tucker (Is Megan still there? I hope so!)

Chef’s Galore, TV clips in the AM, Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival

Monday, March 3rd, 2008

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If you love southwestern food as I do, and want to learn about great chefs from Santa Fe, then you’ll want to watch or record the 13 weeks featuring clips of these chefs. 13 weeks of lessons!

KRQE-TV/CBS Channel 13 offers preview of the incredible
culinary talent participating in the Santa Fe Chamber
Music Festival’s 36th Season Opening Gala

The Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival doesn’t officially open its 36th season until July 17, 2008 with the 2nd Annual Chefs’ Gala benefit at the Scottish Rite Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico, but audiences around the state can catch a sneak peak of part of the opening festivities between now and the Festival’s gala. KRQE-TV’s morning news program on CBS Channel 13 is presenting 17 weeks of cooking segments featuring chefs from Northern New Mexico who are creating unique, four-course menus for this exceptional event.

Airing Mondays between 5:00 and 7:00 am (check local listings for time), the program will spotlight one chef/restaurant per week. Although the actual menus for the gala are a secret until they are unveiled that night, audiences will have the chance to see these culinary stars at work as they give a brief cooking lesson and prepare a delicious dish served at their restaurant that audiences can prepare at home. The mouth-watering creations include Seared Tuna and Sesame Seed; Sautéed Tiger Shrimp with Caramelized Garlic, Shallots, Smoked Pimenton and Manzanilla Sherry; Seasonal Mushroom Mixiote; Julia Child’s version of a Caesar Salad; Dungeness Crab Cakes with Celery Root, Apple Remoulade and Meyer Lemon Aioli, and Apricot Chipotle Glazed Colorado Lamb with Goat Cheese, Potato Puree and Thyme Lamb Jus, to name just a few. All of the recipes are also available at the station’s website www.krqe.com.

Culinary stars of the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival’s 2nd Annual Chefs’ Gala that can be seen on KRQE-TV include (in alphabetical order):

Chef James Campbell Caruso of La Boca
Chef Patrick Kline of Amaya

Chef Joel Coleman of Mauka
Chef Kim Müller of La Mancha at Galisteo Inn

Chef Brian Cooper of Baleen
Chef Martin Rios of Inn of the Anasazi

Chef Eric DeStefano of Coyote Café
Chef Patrick Gharrity of La Casa Sena

Chef Luis Rivera of Fusion/32 Steps
Chef David Sellers of Amavi

Chef Xavier Grenet of Ristra
Chef Enrique Guerrero of O Eating House

Chef Eugene Staples of The Old House
Chef Charles Thompson of Geronimo

Chef Jennifer James of Chef du Jour
Chef Dave Charles The Terra Restaurant at Encantado

Chef Mark Kiffin of The Compound

Chaired this year by Nancy Jacobs, Festival board member, and Toni Zavistovski, board president, the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival’s season opening 2nd Annual Chefs’ Gala will be coordinated once again by Corey Fidler, food and beverage director at the Hotel Santa Fe. The festive evening begins at 6:00 pm on Thursday, July 17, 2008 with an intimate performance by two of the Festival’s renowned artists, cellist Lynn Harrell and pianist Yuja Wang. Following the concert, guests will enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the courtyard, catered by Adobo, Las Campanas, Peas ‘n’ Pod, and Torino’s. They will then proceed to the dining hall for a tantalizing culinary composition featuring uniquely decorated tables of 10, each with its own individual four- course dinner menu created and prepared by the some of the top chefs/restaurants in Northern New Mexico.
The 2nd Annual Chefs’ Gala is held at the Scottish Rite Center. Built in the early 1900’s and on the Historical Buildings register, the famous “pink” structure boasts a beautiful theater with 69 hand-painted theater sets, where the concert is held, a spacious and airy ballroom where the dinner is held and a lovely outside courtyard, where guests will enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres following the evening’s performance.

Restaurant Locations

Amavi 221 Shelby Street, Santa Fe, NM
Amaya 1501 Paseo de Paralta Santa Fe, NM
Baleen at Hotel Santa Fe 211 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM
Chef du Jour 1720 Ridgecrest Drive, SE, Albuquerque, NM
Coyote Café 132 Water, Santa Fe, NM
Fusion/32 Steps 135 Palace Avenue, Santa Fe, NM
Geronimo 724 Canyon Road, Santa Fe, NM
Inn of the Anasazi 113 Washington Avenue, Santa Fe, NM
La Boca 72 West Marcy, Santa Fe, NM
La Casa Sena 125 E. Palace #20, Santa Fe, NM
La Mancha 9 La Vega, Galisteo, NM
Mauka Restaurant 54B Aqua Fria, Santa Fe, NM
O Eating House 78 Cities of Gold Road, Santa Fe, NM
Rancho de San Juan U.S. Highway 285, Espanola, NM
Ristra 548 Auqa Fria, Santa Fe, NM
The Compound 653 Canyon Road, Santa Fe, NM
The Old House, Eldorado Hotel & Spa 309 W. San Francisco, Santa Fe, NM
The Terra Restaurant at Encantado 198 State Road 592, Santa Fe, NM

For additional information on the on the Gala or the Festival, please visit www.santafechambermusic.com

Nice to have the Restaurant list too. This gives you the chance to do some of your own research as as well or just be lazy and dine out a few times!

Also beware, KSFR radio springtime fundraiser is just around the corner. Nothing stopping you from donating early at KSFR.org.

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Weekend update #1 Santa Fe Brewing Co

Saturday, February 2nd, 2008

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Last spring people went to hear John Kerry talk about environment, tonight they gathered at Santa Fe Community College to listen to Obama. I had a chance to go, but I decided to work my shift…there’s excitement in the air…I’ll cast my vote on Tuesday. (for Clinton this round)

Also there is an Italian Film Festival coming to town Feb 7th to 12. www.italianfilmfestival.org

Here comes the weekend, and it’s going to be a hot one! No, I’m not talkin’ about the weather; we have some hot live music at the Pub & Grill, we hope to see you there! Get off the dang couch!

TONIGHT!
Friday February 1, 2008
The JIMMY STADLER BAND

Fans of this Taos/Santa Fe, NM band know this group does not limit themselves to any one genre, playing a wide variety of musical styles, including country, jazz, rock, swing, reggae, zydeco, and more! Led by multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter Jimmy Stadler, with the able backing of Craig Neil on drums, percussion and background vocals, and consummate pro Dave Toland on bass guitar, the band takes fans through a range of styles, and always gets the crowd up on the dance floor!
7:30 PM-ALL AGES-$5
www.jimmystadler.com

Saturday, February 2, 2008
HAPPY GROUNDHOG DAY!
HUNDRED YEAR FLOOD

with opening performance by G O S H E N
Somewhere in the midwest, a furry over-sized rodent will emerge from his hole in the ground on this day, and if we see his shadow we get 6 more weeks of winter; if not we will have an early spring. Sounds pretty damn scientific….

The good news is, there’s no need to travel all the way to Gobbler’s Knob! The local forecast is great, at least as far as the music scene goes. We hope the snow keeps coming, but could do without the arctic weather on a daily basis…..At any rate, you can warm up at the SFBC Pub & Grill as we welcome one of our favorite bands back home, one of the hottest bands in the Southwest, HUNDRED YEAR FLOOD! Felicia, Bill, Kendra, and Jim have been busy with their new CD project, and we can’t wait to hear the new stuff live!

A powerhouse quartet, HUNDRED YEAR FLOOD splits the seams of Rock n Roll with their high octane vocals, balls to the wall rhythm and bleeding heart melodies. They deliver their original tunes with gut-wrenching honesty and energetic passion. If you haven’t seen this amazing band live, you must! From the minute Hundred Year Flood hits the stage, you know you are in the presence of a un-bridled force of nature that you won’t ever forget.
They spent this summer recording their upcoming album with Multi Grammy/ Multi-Platinum/Gold record producer, ANDY KRAVITZ, who brought in legendary music man, TAJ MAHAL to add his magic touch to the title track, “Hell or High Water”. Soulful songstress, Shannon McNally, also joins the band for the stirring and unforgettable, “Neck of the Woods”. This album will prove to be their most rockin’ album yet. Hell or Highwater will be released in 2008.

During an interview on Austin radio station, KGSR, Charlie Sexton said Hundred Year Flood was one of his favorite bands. They have shared stages with Charlie Sexton, Son Volt, Joe Ely, Dave Alvin, Nanci Griffith, Mary Gauthier, James McMurtry, George Clinton, Ozomotli, Patrice Pike, Blue Mountain and many more. Go see them live! HYF will be your next favorite band!
G O S H E N PHOTO:ANNE HAYUNGA
“…an American blues-rock act whose voluble frontman, Grant Hayunga, sings as if in search of Robert Johnson’s missing soul.” -Q music magazine, United Kingdom - Celebrated Santa Fe Blues-rockabilly band GOSHEN (Grant Hayunga, lead guitar & vocals; Jim Palmer, drums; and Bill Palmer, keyboard). “Goshen’s Grant Hayunga and his pitch dark Americana will leave you bewitched,” -LA Times.
Goshen recently toured Oxford and Jackson, Mississippi. Their most recent performance at The North Mississippi Hill Country Picnic in Potts Camp, Mississippi. This celebrated hard-core blues festival celebrates the legacy of departed north Mississippi legends including R.L. Burnside, Junior Kimbrough and Other Turner, many of whose children and grandchildren are now featured festival artists. Goshen was the only non-regional band invited to perform. Lioness is Goshen’s seventh CD on Frogville Planet (frogvilleplanet.com), and is available online through CD baby (cdbaby.com), MySpace and iTunes.
8 PM-ALL AGES-$10 Cover.
www.myspace.com/hundredyearflood
CHECK OUT HYF’S WEBSITE FOR A SPECIAL COVER DEAL!
www.goshen-music.com

Sunday, February 3, 2008
Michael Hearne
& SXSW

Over the past several years, Michael Hearne and South by Southwest have created a new and unique kind of music. “Southwestern Americana” as Michael calls it “Songs about the southwest with an acoustic feel”. Michael Hearne’s incredibly smooth voice and amazing acoustic guitar style combined with Carmen Acciaioli’s musical mastery of the steel guitar, fiddle, mandolin, dobro, and hammered dulcimer, with the extremely talented Zeke Severenson on stand up and electric bass and you have what people all over the Southwest and beyond call their favorite band. Michael Hearne and South by Southwest always play to a packed house of faithful dancers when playing on their home turf in Taos or Santa Fe. Their Sunday night performances at the prestigious Paramount in Santa Fe, NM , have immortalized them as the best “Southwestern Swing dance” band to ever hit the stage. “When people hear our music they are transported to another place and time,” says Hearne. “We can play a house concert, corporate party, wedding, or a full fledged dance, and everyone has a smile on their face at the end of the night. We love what we do.” 6:30 PM-ALL AGES-$10 Cover. www.michaelhearne.com

Enough for now. Review a few earlier blogs and get more ideas.

Blogsville: www.earthlygardens.com
www.alibi.com
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About Albuquerque, NM

Albuquerque, NM: One of the most exciting cities in the Southwest. A fast growing city that promotes innovative environmentally friendly technology provides opportunity and a Great place to live in. Albuquerque has lots of diversity, fine neighborhoods, entertainment, and opportunities. The Duke City also is a terrific launch location for visitors. Enjoy the fine hotels, restaurants, and other attractions before you venture out to the rest of beautiful and exciting New Mexico. Albuquerque also hosts conventions, retreats and workshops that people attend every year. It truly is a hotspot for the southwest! Don't forget to try some of our chile: red or green? In this site I will show you some of the "wonders" of Albuquerque and New Mexico. Occasionally I will take a few diversions about other topics or events that seem to be rattling in my mind. Come and enjoy and participate in this blog.

Albuquerque, NM Author(s)