Best of Taos 2019

Mary Domito

Readers Choice

ISN’T CALLED MATTRESS MARY FOR NOTHING

POLL RESULTS

best

FOOD & DRINK

Arroyo Seco Mercantile

best

REVIVES THE VINTAGE GENERAL STORE

ENTERTAINMENT & THINGS TO DO

best

Beyond t he Bones

SHOPPING

best

BEHIND THE PET STORE BUSINESS

SERVICES A COMPLIMENTARY PUBLICATION OF

THE TAOS NEWS

Congratulations to

Larry Torres Voted by Taos News Readers

Educator of the Year Despedida До свидания Au revoir Τα λέμε Salve Arrivederci Farewell to one of the most revered educators in northern New Mexico.

Enjoy your much deserved retirement.

Thank You Taos, for Voting Us # 1!

Kellie A. Harris, DDS • Kayci M. Harris, DMD

.

NORTHERN

NEW MEXICO CENTER FOR

EMBUDO D E N TA L C E N T E R

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

(505)579-4680

(575)751-9661

1102 St a te H w y 68, Em bud o M edic aid a cce pted

1337 Gu sd o r f Rd, Suite A M o st insur a nce a cce pted

kellieharrisdds.com TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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A secular bond between us all

THE PUEBLO’S CHRISTMAS EVE PROCESSION IS TAOS COUNTY TRUE

BY SCOTT GERDES

28

40

Walking through a time warp

FOR NOTHING

ARROYO SECO MERCANTILE REVIVES THE VINTAGE GENERAL STORE

Beyond the bones, behind the business

BY TAMRA TESTERMAN

BY VIRGINIA L. CLARK

BY DAWN FRANCO

Sweet dreams MARY DOMITO ISN’T CALLED MATTRESS MARY

WE ASKED, YOU ANSWERED 16. . . . . . . . . . . what’s the hot issue in taos?

26. . . . . . . . . . you know you’re in taos when…?

42. . . . . . . . . . what industry would you like to see in taos?

58. . . . . . . . . . what’s another word for taos?

BEST OF TAOS RESULTS 6. . . . . . . . . . . . best food & drink 20. . . . . . . . . . best entertainment/things to do 32. . . . . . . . . . best shopping 44. . . . . . . . . . best services 4

BEST OF TAOS 2019

54

BLUE SKY PET AND FEED, ONE OF ‘THE LITTLE PLACES’

taos news Staff: Robin Martin, owner Chris Baker, publisher Scott Gerdes, special sections editor Karin Eberhardt, creative director Staci Matlock, managing editor Chris Wood, advertising director Sean Ratliff, production manager Amy Boaz, chief copy editor Morgan Timms, photographer Contributing writers: Virginia L. Clark, Dawn Franco, Tamra Testerman Contributing photographer: Debbie Lujan Cover design: Sean Ratliff

MORGAN TIMMS

FEATURES

Thank you Taos.

Best Place to Buy a Mattress, First Place: Mattress Mary’s Taos Lifestyle Best Home Furnishings, First Place: Mattress Mary’s Mountain Lifestyle Best Home Furnishings, Second Place: Mattress Mary’s Taos Lifestyle

710 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR 575.758.5585

815 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR 575.758.7730

TAOSLIFESTYLE.COM

MATTRESSMARY.COM TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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BEST OF TAOS 2019

KATHARINE EGLI/THE TAOS NEWS

6

Order up at Mary Jane's Home Cooking, 15th time of winning first place for Best Roadside Food Stand.

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

7

Best Breakfast

Best Place to Eat Your Greens

Taos Diner

Cid's Food Market

NORTH SIDE: 908 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-2374 SOUTH SIDE: 216 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 751-1989 TAOSDINER.COM

623 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-1148 CIDSFOODMARKET.COM

Taos Diner consistently ranks high in this annual survey of the best place for breakfast. The Charles Breakfast Burrito, The Copper John, homemade corned beef hash, large, house-made biscuits and daily specials are just a few of the mouth-watering reasons the first-place vote is true. And good coffee brings it all together. The “Diner” is no secret to locals — or what many like to call “the Diner in-crowd” — when it comes to morning fare in this homey and casual favorite.

Best Restaurant in Taos County

Michael's Kitchen 304-C PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-4178 MICHAELSKITCHEN.COM

Again Cid’s runs away with this category. This organic, locally owned, full-service food market consistently gets rave reviews for its hot and cold prepared food offerings. Organic is the operative word at Cid’s, so if you’re looking for a tasty, healthy place to “eat your greens,” look no further than the tempting soup and salad bar. Cid’s also offers freshly made prepared salads. Indoor seating is available.

Farmhouse Cafe and Bakery 1405 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, EL PRADO • (575) 758-5683 FARMHOUSECAFEANDBAKERY.COM

Best New Mexican Food Best Weekend Brunch

Gutiz SCOTT GERDES

123 BENT STREET, TAOS • (575) 758-1009 LAMBERTSOFTAOS.COM

Lambert’s, on historic Bent Street, once again garnered the most votes in the Best Restaurant category. For about 30 years, Lambert’s has been a New York City-caliber restaurant minus the NYC attitude. Executive Chef James Crowther III has consistently pleased the palettes of visitors and locals in a relaxed and discriminating ambience known for perfected fresh fare, exemplary service and beautiful presentation.

6 ST. FRANCIS COURT, RANCHOS DE TAOS • (575) 758-5788 FIND ON FACEBOOK

Ranchos Plaza Grill 6 ST. FRANCIS COURT, RANCHOS DE TAOS • (575) 758-5788 FIND ON FACEBOOK

Best Breakfast Burrito

Mante's Chow Cart 402 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-3632 1541 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-4855 FIND ON FACEBOOK

Ahhh, the breakfast burrito — a much-loved New Mexico favorite traditionally made with scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, cheese, potatoes and red or green chile all rolled up in a big, warm tortilla.

Survey says no one makes a better breakfast burrito in these parts than the folks at Mante’s Chow Cart. Many moons ago, this humble Taos favorite for burritos and burgers started out as a food truck, hence its name. In the first Best of Taos issue in 1999, Mante’s won this category. The love continues.

Abe's Cantina y Cocina 489 STATE ROAD 150, ARROYO SECO • (575) 776-8516 FACEBOOK.COM/ABESCANTINAYCOCINA

Orlando's New Mexican Cafe 1114 DON JUAN VALDEZ LANE, EL PRADO • (575) 751-1450 FIND ON FACEBOOK

Want to know what true New Mexican food is? Then head to Orlando’s, which has been voted Best New Mexican Food in Taos County since 2005 due to the perfect infusion of New Mexican and Native American ingredients. Orlando’s serves up mouthwatering, authentic cuisine in a cozy, colorful space with an open kitchen.

The house-made sangria is a popular accompaniment to meals.

A small firepit makes for a perfect outdoor atmosphere. When visitors ask locals where to get authentic New Mexican food in Taos, more times than not they are directed to Orlando’s.

Ranchos Plaza Grill 6 ST. FRA • (575) 758-5788 FIND ON FACEBOOK p.10

8

BEST OF TAOS 2019

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

Ranchos Plaza Grill

Brunch at Gutiz has earned best brunch accolades for five years running having offered handmade chocolate truffles by Jennifer Loves Chocolate and a menu of fused Latin and French cuisines. The Gutiz pastry chefs show off their skills in the kitchen. Loyal patrons love the chocolate croissants to the eggs Benedict topped with homemade Hollandaise sauce and an impressive selection of sandwiches. Throughout the years, Gutiz has maintained its old flavorful charm. The atmosphere in this well-regarded café is often described as “serene” and “pleasant.”

MORGAN TIMMS

Lambert's of Taos

812-B PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-1226 GUTIZTAOS.COM

What a great time... to be a girl!

Friends and Family on the South Side...

BEST GYM FOR 15 YEARS Thank you again, Taos!

Clothing Boutique Arroyo Seco

ON THE SOUTH SIDE! TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

9

From left: Charley Galer and Scott Barady are the co-owners of Pizaños and thanks to their inventive pizza combinations, has been voted "Best Pizza" since opening in 2005.

KATHARINE EGLI/TAOS NEWS FILE PHOTO

Best Red Chile

Orlando's New Mexican Cafe 1114 DON JUAN VALDEZ LANE, EL PRADO • (575) 751-1450 FIND ON FACEBOOK

Best Traditional Mexican Food

Guadalajara Grill NORTH SIDE: 822 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 737-0816 SOUTH SIDE: 1384 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 751-0063

GUADALAJARAGRILLTAOS.COM

Orlando's New Mexican Cafe 1114 DON JUAN VALDEZ LANE, EL PRADO • (575) 751-1450

FIND ON FACEBOOK

Ranchos Plaza Grill 6 ST. FRANCIS COURT, RANCHOS DE TAOS • (575) 758-5788 FIND ON FACEBOOK

Best Fast Food

Mante's Chow Cart 402 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-3632 1541 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-4855 FIND ON FACEBOOK

Besides its vaulted breakfast burrito, Mante’s menu includes local, affordable lunch favorites such as the Trujillo burrito and green chile cheeseburger. Taos has come a long way from voting McDonald’s Best Fast Food in the first Best of Taos in 1999. Mante’s fast and fresh fare puts national Mexican food chains to shame. (Sorry Taco Bell — it’s no contest.)

SECOND PLACE TIE

Best Green Chile

Orlando's New Mexican Cafe 1114 DON JUAN VALDEZ LANE, EL PRADO • (575) 751-1450 FIND ON FACEBOOK

See Best Red Chile — ditto here.

Guadalajara Grill NORTH SIDE: 822 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 737-0816 SOUTH SIDE: 1384 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 751-0063 GUADALAJARAGRILLTAOS.COM

Blake's Lotaburger NORTH SIDE: 809 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-4987 SOUTH SIDE: 1136 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-4771

LOTABURGER.COM p.12

10

BEST OF TAOS 2019

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

A true taste of Mexico right here in Taos is the Guadalajara Grill. The Mexican roots in their fare isn’t limited to just succulent shrimp, meaty fish and fried ice cream. The extensive menu includes American-, Latinand other Mexican-style creations made with steak and chicken. There are tasty options for vegetarians as well. The “Guad” can get crowded due to popularity. The order line, however, is a well-oiled machine and the service is quick. The casual Guadalajara Grill has consistently been a favorite of locals for many years.

A question often asked by waitstaff at local eateries is do you want red or green or Christmas (combination of both) chile? At Orlando’s, with either choice you can’t go wrong. Orlando’s only uses Hatch chile that they prepare in their own special way, which becomes united with enchiladas, burritos and rellenos. Chile is a powerful ingredient, and the folks at Orlando’s know how to unleash it.

Ranchos Plaza Grill 6 ST. FRANCIS COURT, RANCHOS DE TAOS • (575) 758-5788 FIND ON FACEBOOK

Thank You Taos!

The Best Place To Say “I Do”

Thank You Taos

Thank you for voting me Best elected official.

Youworking Taos with all of you As your Mayor,Thank I have enjoyed I Would Like To Thank The Voters of The Town of Taos, My Supporters, I Would Like ToMonetary Thank The Voters of The My Supporters, to honor our heritage and invest inTown the offuture ofTime our Those Who Made Donations, Donations ofTaos, Their &home.

Energies Those Who Made Monetary Donations, Donations of Their Time & Energies and Especially My Family and Friends.

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A Very ThankAll You My Wife Della, Without Whom, Couldn’tAnd Have Done It. Without of To You, Wife Della, Without Whom, I Couldn’t Have Done It. Without All of You, continue with your The Outcome of to Thecome Taos forth Mayoral Race Mayideas Have and Beenhelp.

Different.

The Outcome of The Taos Mayoral Race May Have Been Different.

The Race Is Over Now The Work Continues.

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It is amazing The whatRace canIsbe accomplished when we work together.

“Working “WorkingTogether Together

WeMade MadeAADifference” Difference” We

DAN BARRONE BARRONE DAN INTEGRITY- -HONESTY HONESTY -- HARDWORKING HARDWORKING INTEGRITY Paid Political Advertisement • Paid for by Dan Barrone

Paid Political Advertisement By The Committee Working Together To Elect Dan Barrone Taos Mayor - Della Barrone, Treasurer

Paid Political Advertisement By The Committee Working Together To Elect Dan Barrone Taos Mayor - Della Barrone, Treasurer

Emily Joanne Wedding Films & Photography

Thank You, Taos!

Ed Sandoval Gallery 102-B Paseo del Pueblo (entering Historic Taos Plaza) edsandovalart@gmail.com · (575) 770-6360

Thank you for voting us THE BEST PLACE TO SAY “I DO” & BEST LODGING FOR VISITORS 317 Kit Carson Rd. | 575.758.3502 | ElMonteSagrado.com

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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TINA LARKIN/TAOS NEWS FILE PHOTO

Best Pizza

Pizan os STATE ROAD 150, EL PRADO • (575) 776-1050 • TAOSPIZZA.COM

Pizza is a passionate food. And the thin crust, hand-tossed, New York-style pizza at Pizaños (pie-zon-yos) is a longstanding favorite among Taoseños and visitors alike. Pizaños, presented by Scott Barady and Charley Galer, (“Two guys from Utica, New York”) puts a twist on traditional pies. Of course they have the tried-and-true combinations everyone is familiar with and you can create your own. But their imagination created specialties such as the Taoseño (pepperoni or Italian sausage, mushrooms and green chile), Up-Stream (garlic oil instead of marinara, smoked salmon, spinach, capers, fresh tomato, onion, mozzarella and smoked gouda) and the Fire Twirler (pepperoni, Canadian bacon, green chile, jalapeño and pineapple). Pizza by the slice is also available, along with much-loved salads and spectacular mountain views.

Taos Pizza Outback 712 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-3112 TAOSPIZZAOUTBACK.COM

A section of the brew room at Taos Mesa Brewing, winner of Best Brewery. From pale ales to stouts, TMB has a lauded selection of 12 draughts on tap at all times and that includes the sister location downtown, the Taos Tap Room. having been a Best of Taos winner for years running. The simple exterior belies terrific fare. And with $5 burritos and combination plates for $7.50, you just can’t go wrong. Outdoor seating is available.

A la Carte World Street Food

and under $3 appetizers such as Crispy Green Chile Strips and Frickles.

Good stuff. No wonder it keeps winning this category.

Treehouse at Lambert's of Taos 123 BENT STREET, TAOS • (575) 758-1009 • LAMBERTSOFTAOS.COM

625 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-7503 ALACARTETTAOS.COM

Best Burger

Best Beer Selection

5 Star Burgers 1032 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-8484 5STARBURGERS.COM

Five Star Burgers doesn’t make a typical burger with typical ingredients.

Their Black Angus beef is all natural and antibiotic free, and comes from ethically treated animals. The meat is ground daily. If you’re craving a burger and want a relaxed, yet more upscale atmosphere than a fast-food joint then head to 5 Star. An example of choices includes the popular Taos Burger with crispy green chile, BBQ sauce and cheddar cheese, and 5 Star Burger topped with gorgonzola cheese and applewood-smoked bacon. Their patio is dog-friendly with free, organic non-GMO bones made in-house.

The Burger Stand at Taos Ale House 401 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-5522 TAOSBURGERSANDBEER.COM

Best Roadside Food Stand

616 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 770-1171

Adobe Bar at the Historic Taos Inn

12

BEST OF TAOS 2019

201 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-1900 TAOSMESABREWING.COM

The Adobe Bar isn’t referred to as “The living room of Taos” by chance or default. Some seating is cradled in the lobby of the popular, historic inn known for free, nightly local music. The bar area was once a family home built in the 1800s. The Adobe Bar is known for its margaritas; the Cowboy Buddha is one of the best in town. It should come as no surprise that the Adobe Bar started racking up first-place votes beginning with the first Best of Taos poll in 1999.

Since opening seven years ago, the beer geeks at Taos Mesa Brewing have delivered on a promise of offering excellent locally handcrafted brews at their two locations. Taos Tap Room has gotten the first-place nod for the second year in a row, most likely due to their convenient downtown Taos location and cool atmosphere. The brews are made at its sister and original location, the Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership (second-place winner), which is located off U.S. Highway 64 east on the way to the Río Grande Gorge Bridge. Taos Tap Room offers a dozen distinct, high-quality house beers on tap at all times from a light choice such as Kolsch .45 to darker brews like the Black Widow Porter, and every taste/style in between.

The Alley Cantina

Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership

1 TERESINA LANE, TAOS • (575) 758-2121 • ALLEYCANTINA.COM

20 ABC MESA ROAD • (575) 758-1900 TAOSMESABREWING.COM

125 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-2233 TAOSINN.COM

Best Happy Hour

5 Star Burgers 1032 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-8484 5STARBURGERS.COM

MARYJANES-HOMECOOKING.COM

The food stand/“taco truck” ... modest, but oh so good. Mary Jane’s stands as a Taos Icon for breakfast and/or lunch. And Mary Jane’s Northern New Mexico cooking consistently sits at the top of the heap

Taos Tap Room

In addition to 5 Star’s award-winning burgers is its popular happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. daily, which features their own take on the “slider” starting at $1.65 each. Also offered are $3 tap beers, $3.50 house wines

Best Brewery

Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership 20 ABC MESA ROAD, EL PRADO • (575) 758-1900 TAOSMESABREWING.COM

In this case, having the best beer selection goes hand in hand with

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

Mary Jane's Home Cooking

Best Bar

crafting the best local brews. “TMB” hasn’t drifted far from its award-winning recipes since its inception in 201, the barrel, all-grain infusion mash brewhouse was installed in early 20 and

by April of that year, 100 percent of their taps were pouring nothing but TMB-made beers. The improved brewing system allows the master brewers more time to experiment with new recipes — music to the ears of beer lovers. TMB features distinct house beers on draught at all times. The brews can be enjoyed at two locations: the Mothership and Taos Tap Room (see previous entry).

Red River Brewing Company 217 W. MAIN STREET, RED RIVER • (575) 754-4422 REDRIVERBREWING.COM

BEST NEW MEXICAN FOOD / BEST RED / BEST GREEN

Best Patio

The Gorge Bar & Grill 103 E. PLAZA, TAOS • (575) 758-8866 • THEGORGEBARANDGRILL.COM

Location. Location. Location. The spacious, upper-level patio is a favorite spot for a wide view of Taos Plaza, yonder vistas and people watching. It’s also a great seat for witnessing any one of Taos’ fun and unique events held on the Plaza during the summer. The Gorge has a comfortable, casual atmosphere and is known for their salads and sandwiches.

Lambert's of Taos 123 BENT STREET • (575) 758-1009 • LAMBERTSOFTAOS.COM

Best Margarita

Adobe Bar at the Historic Taos Inn 125 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-2233 • TAOSINN.COM

Year after year “the living room of Taos” is the place to get a fiesta in a glass. Soaking up the free, live music and intimate, eclectic vibe of this Taos landmark just wouldn’t be complete without trying one of the bar’s famous margaritas. Of the bar’s 10-plus options, the most popular on the margarita menu is the Cowboy Buddha. This timeless cocktail combines top-shelf Herradura Silver Tequila, cointreau and fresh-squeezed lime juice, and is a great option for those who prefer a less sweet margarita.

The Gorge Bar & Grill 103 E. PLAZA, TAOS • (575) 758-8866 • THEGORGEBARANDGRILL.COM

Best Cuppa Joe

The Coffee Apothecary 616 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 779-8706 COFFEEAPOTHECARYTAOS.COM

An apothecary is a person who prepares and sells medicines. Coffee is one of humanity’s favorite remedies because it both stimulates and relaxes the body and mind. And since opening in 2017, this coffee spot has created quite a buzz, although this is its first Best of Taos blue ribbon. The Coffee Apothecary roasts in small batches on-site from sustainable and ethically sourced beans.

They work with local suppliers to source the freshest, highest quality milk and teas, and provide multiple non-dairy alternatives. They also make their own syrups from simple ingredients and offer a rotating menu of house-roasted, single-origin espresso, pour overs and cold brews.

World Cup Cafe

1114 Don Juan Valdez Ln

751-1450

102A PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 737-5299 • FIND ON FACEBOOK p.14

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

13

Best Bartender Mark Gerry in his natural habitat at The Alley Cantina.

KATHARINE EGLI/THE TAOS NEWS

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory 112 S. PLAZA, TAOS • (575) 758-8855 • RMCF.COM

To be a highly acclaimed restaurant, the service must match the caliber of the cuisine and refinement of the atmosphere. The waitstaff at Lambert’s of Taos consistently lives up to that challenge. “Flawless” is a common review of the service at Lambert’s.

medley.

Best Ambience

Best Place to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Chokola Bean to Bar 106B JUAN LARGO LANE, TAOS • DEBI: (575) 779-6163, JAVI: (575) 779-6174

Lambert's of Taos 123 BENT STREET, TAOS • (575) 758-1009 LAMBERTSOFTAOS.COM

Dining out should be about eating unique dishes that you don’t usually make at home. That’s what Executive Chef James Crowther III and the staff strive to do at Lambert’s – offer patrons one-of-a-kind fine dining at its best with an intimate, refined atmosphere to match.

CHOKOLABEANTOBAR.COM

14

BEST OF TAOS 2019

Historic Taos Inn 125 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-2233 • TAOSINN.COM

Best Bartender

Mark Geery

The Alley Cantina 121 TERESINA LANE, TAOS • (575) 758-2121 • ALLEYCANTINA.COM

For years, Mark Geery has been a familiar and welcomed fixture behind the bar at Taos’ oldest watering hole. His shift typically begins with a story or a joke for patrons. When Geery leans on the bar and begins speaking with a reserved grin on his face, everybody listens.

Best Waitstaff

Lambert's of Taos

Rushan Perera Adobe Bar at The Historic Taos Inn

123 BENT STREET, TAOS • (575) 758-1009 • LAMBERTSOFTAOS.COM

125 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-2233 • TAOSINN.COM

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

Oh, for the love of chocolate. The master chocolatiers at Chokolá focus on small, handmade batches of perfected sweetness using only organic ingredients. Here, they do the cleaning, roasting, cracking and grinding of the beans. Besides creating many varieties of yum, Chokolá offers specialty chocolate drinking elixirs, bonbons, bars, chocolate mousse, pour-over coffee, milkshakes, gelato and sorbet. As expressed in the Santa Fe New Mexican, “To really say you love chocolate, you have to understand its beating heart — specifically, the nature, flavor and personality of the heart-shaped cacao pod that is chocolate in its purest state. For this, you should turn to husband-and-wife team Javi Abad and Debi Vincent of Taos-based chocolatier Chokolá.”

100 STATE ROAD 150, EL PRADO • (575) 776-8787 • MEDLEYTAOS.COM

1st - Best Grocery Store 1st - Best Place to Eat Your Greens 1st - Best Place to Buy Fruits & Veggies 2nd - Best Customer Service

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

15

WE ASKED, YOU ANSWERED

by Staci Matlock

What’s the hot issue in Taos?

The number one issue Taoseños are talking about based on responses to our questionnaire is mental health. Like many rural areas, Taos is

grappling with a need for mental health services, especially long-term treatment to address addictions.

Taos Air came in as the second hottest issue, based on responses and a

word cloud that looks for the most popular terms submitted by voters.

Taos Air is the charter flight service launched by Taos Ski Valley, the

town of Taos and other local entities to provide roundtrip flights between Taos, Austin and Houston. It’s been a popular addition to the local scene for locals and tourists.

Coming in at the third spot for the hot button issue?

You guessed it: Potholes.

16

BEST OF TAOS 2019

ThankYou Voters!

FIRST PLACE

Best Annual Event in Taos County: Christmas Eve at Taos Pueblo FIRST PLACE

Most Interesting Place to Take Visitors

Monday-Saturday 8am – 4:30pm, Sunday 8:30am – 4:30pm · 120 Veterans Hwy · 575-758-1028 · taospueblo.com

THANK YOU

to all our Patrons and a special thanks to all who voted for us!

AFFORDABLE ADOBE

We believe living in a traditional adobe home should be available to everyone.

Call us at 575-741-6040.

affordableadobe.com

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

17

A ‘secular bond between us all’ The Pueblo’s Christmas Eve procession is Taos County true

By Scott Gerdes, Photo by Debbie Lujan

18

BEST OF TAOS 2019

THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN TAOS IS FILLED WITH COLOR, SONG, TRADITION, FAITH AND TOGETHERNESS. No gathering exemplifies that more than the Taos Pueblo Procession of the Virgin Mary on Christmas Eve — voted Best Annual Event in Taos County.

As darkness begins to fall, the Vespers Mass in the San Geronimo Church are concluded and the Christmas Eve procession begins.

Not only do many locals make it a point to attend this hallowed tradition, but visitors flock to our small town to bear witness to this truly memorable occasion.

SERVING NEW MEXICAN FAVORITES WITH A SMILE FOR

28 YEARS!

TEMPO EDITOR RICK ROMANCITO of The Taos News articulates the purpose and magic of the procession: “It’s an expression of hope that connects our collective past and the present, a visual cue that all is still vital and well in the world, and a spiritual jolt to the senses that makes real the sacred, pagan, native and secular bond between us all.”

On the heels of Romancito’s insightful and eloquent words, a couple of Taos Pueblo residents shared why they feel the procession is consistently voted Best Annual Event in Taos County.

VOTED BEST ROADSIDE FOOD STAND 15 YEARS IN A ROW 575-770-1171 || Monday-Friday 7am-3pm || Closed Weekends

PAINTER, ILLUSTRATOR AND AUTHOR JONATHAN WARM DAY COMING: “The holiday festivities are beginning; bonfires are lit, and soon after ‘Mass’ villagers and visitors will appear from the St. Jerome church where some will be carrying the statues of the Catholic saints. Awaiting them are blanketed men balancing long torches lighting the way for the procession. Leading them are other blanketed men firing rifles into the evening sky, thick with dark billowing smoke. Accompanying them will be the village children, dancing to the chanting of ancient tribal songs.

By now the village has filled with people who are witness to the coming together of beliefs from two different worlds.”

PHOTOGRAPHER DEBBIE LUJAN: “Christmas Eve at Taos Pueblo feels like a spectacle when you first encounter the bonfires scattered about the plaza. The scene instantly becomes a place of veneration with the procession of the Virgin Mary moving haltingly through the crowds. A beautiful setting for a beautiful celebration.”

AND FROM THE PAST, AUTHOR D.H. LAWRENCE CONVEYED: “Never shall I forget the Christmas dances at Taos, twilight, snow, the darkness coming over the great wintry mountains and the lonely pueblo, then suddenly, again, like dark calling dark, the deep Indian cluster — singing around the drum, wild and awful, suddenly rousing on the lost dusk as the procession starts.

And then the bonfires leaping suddenly in spurts of high flame, columns of sudden flame forming an alley for the procession.” (Quote from “New Mexico” typescript, D.H. Lawrence Papers, AC 131-p, Angélico Chávez History Library, Museum of New Mexico, Santa Fe.)

20% OFF W/ COUPON CODE TAOS2019 Please note that the public is not allowed to take pictures or videos of the procession.

expires 7/31/19 some restrictions may apply.

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs is one of the oldest natural health resorts in the country. It's the only hot springs in the world with four different types of mineral water including lithia, iron (pictured), soda and arsenic. No need to question why it was once again voted Best Weekend Getaway and Best Place to Soak Your Bones.

COURTESY OJO CALIENTE/RYAN HEFFERNAN

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BEST OF TAOS 2019

live . love . indulge

Best Annual Event in Taos County*

DEBBIE LUJAN

Christmas Eve at Taos Pueblo 1 VETERANS HIGHWAY, TAOS • (575) 758-1028 * TAOSPUEBLO.COM

See story on P. 18

Santa Ana y Santiago Fiestas de Taos HELD AT TAOS PLAZA (JULY 19-21) • FIESTAS@NEWMEX.COM • FIESTASDETAOS.COM

Best Weekend Getaway

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs & Resort Spa 50 LOS BANOS DRIVE, OJO CALIENTE • (505) 583-2233 • OJOSPA.COM

A unique resort destination in Northern New Mexico that honors and shares the land’s sacred springs while providing genuinely gracious hospitality. Ojo offers different yet complementary and authentic guest experiences healing, mind, body and spirit naturally for centuries. It’s the best place to soak your bones, your soul and anything else the pains of life have agitated. Ojo also offers a casual bar, restaurant, nicely appointed cabins and hiking trails if one day there isn’t enough.

Taos Ski Valley STATE ROAD 150 • VILLAGE OF TAOS SKI VALLEY • 800-517-9816 • TAOSSKIVALLEY.COM OR CONTACT THE RESORT • 800-776-1111 • SKITAOS.COM

Most Interesting Place to Take Visitors

Taos Pueblo *WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

1 VETERANS HIGHWAY, TAOS • (575) 758-1028 • TAOSPUEBLO.COM

Hands down, Taos Pueblo is always ranked No. 1. The multistoried adobe buildings have been continuously inhabited for approximately 1,000 years standing as a remarkable testament to the history, culture, art, faith and daily living of the Red Willow people. The Pueblo is the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark.

Rio Grande Gorge Bridge

Salon Marjorie - Best of Taos 2019 Thank you Taos, for voting for us!

575-751-7246 salonmarjorie.com

U.S. HIGHWAY 64 WEST • TAOS.ORG Photo by Marjorie p.22

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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Far Flung Adventures STATE ROAD 52, EL PRADO • (800) 359-2627 • FARFLUNG.COM

Best Local Museum

Harwood Museum Best Rafting Company

Los Rios River Runners (575) 776-8854 • LOSRIOSRIVERRUNNERS.COM

HARWOODMUSEUM.ORG

This consummate museum showcases a permanent collection of more than 4,700 works and an archive of 17,000 photographs from the 19th century onward. In the early part of the 20th century, many artists — such as Agnes Martin — were drawn to the Taos area to pursue a new, truly American art devoid of industrial influence. The Harwood Museum collection brings to the public a unique record of this artistic convergence from its beginnings to the present day. Truly an art lover’s destination.

Millicent Rogers Museum 1504 MILLICENT ROGERS ROAD, EL PRADO • (575) 758-2462

MILLICENTROGERS.ORG

Best Hiking/JoggingTrail

Williams Lake Trail

Devisadero Loop Trail FROM TAOS, FOLLOW U.S. HIGHWAY 64 APPROXIMATELY 3 MILES EAST. PARKING IS ALONG THE HIGHWAY AT THE EL NOGAL PICNIC AREA.

FS.USDA.GOV

Best Place for Kids to Have Fun

Twirl Play & Discovery Space 2 CAMINO DE LA PLACITA (ANOTHER ENTRANCE IS ON TERESINA LANE JUST OFF THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF TAOS PLAZA) • (575) 751-1402

TWIRLTAOS.ORG

With a free community outdoor playground and playroom, summer camps and special events, the play and discovery space that is Twirl puts a smile on every child’s face. Twirl — a non-profit corporation — is synonymous with inspiration and fun through play installations and interactive exhibits. And look no further for the best educational and imagination-driven toys.

CARSON NATIONAL FOREST • OFFICE: 208 CRUZ ALTA RD. • (575) 758-6200 FS.USDA.GOV/CARSON/

Gutters Bowling Alley

Maybe this trail wins year after year because it’s easy to find, you don’t have to be an expert hiker to take it on, dogs love it and the scenery

5 PLAZA CAÑON DRIVE, TAOS • (575) 758-2695 TAOSBOWLING.COM

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

In the summer, rafting is king in Northern New Mexico. Local storyteller and river master Cisco Guevara and his highly trained crew form the oldest, most experienced rafting outfit in the area having started in 1978. Los Ríos River Runners also has access to the most stretches of New Mexico rivers than any other whitewater rafting company and are consistently the rafting fan’s favorite guide down the Río Grande. Newly offered are exquisite glamping (camping in luxury) excursions.

238 LEDOUX STREET, TAOS • (575) 758-9826

is beautiful. Or maybe it’s the trail’s proximity to New Mexico’s highest point, Wheeler Peak, that gives it the most thumbs up. The trail is a 4-mile (roundtrip) trek that starts at the Village of Taos Ski Valley. This Carson National Forest trail, which has some steeper points mixed in with mostly level stretches, climbs to more than 700 feet per mile. At its culmination, Williams Lake sits at 11,040 feet. Along the way, outdoor adventurers are rewarded with beautiful columbines, boulder fields and a waterfall near the lake.

p.24

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BEST OF TAOS 2019

MOREGAN TIMMMS

The Río Grande is a part of Cisco Guevara and he is a part of it.

His Los Ríos River Runners rafting outfit is the oldest and most experienced in the area.

WE'RE GLAD YOU LIKE GOOD COFFEE AS MUCH AS WE DO. -THE COFFEE APOTHECARY

Thank you, Taos!

Voted “Best Insurance Agent” 2019

THANK YOU TAOS for voting for us as the Best of Taos Real Estate Agency. business and loyalty for over 30 years.

For those of you who haven't been to our new location, please come by and say hello as we would love to see you.

COME VISIT US OFF THE PLAZA. 114 DONA LUZ WWW.C21SUCCESS.COM

Wanda Lucero 211 Kit Carson Road 575.737.5433 wandalucero.com

CENTURY 21 SUCCESS, LLC 575-758-0080 800-336-4826

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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Best Ski and Snowboard Area

MORGAN TIMMS

COURTESY TAOS SKI VALLEY

El Grupo Mezcal on stage in 2018. Up front and center on lead vocals and guitar is Ernie Marquez.

Taos Ski Valley STATE ROAD 150, TAOS SKI VALLEY • 800-776-1111 • SKITAOS.COM

Christine Autumn performs at The Alley Cantina every Sunday night.

KATHARINE EGLI/THE TAOS NEWS

The grandaddy of all the ski and boarding areas in this part of the state is the annual favorite, having won the first Best of Taos poll in 1999 and never looking back. With a vertical drop of 3,281 feet, 110 total trails, 14 lifts and a mix of terrain, this Alpine ski haven in the Sangre de Cristo mountains of the Southern Rockies provides a fun and challenging European-esque winter experience for all levels of skiers and boarders.

Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort 52 STATE ROAD 514, VADITO • 800-587-2240 • SIPAPUNM.COM

Best Place to Soak Your Bones

See Best Weekend Getaway category — ditto here.

El Monte Sagrado Living Resort and Spa 3KIT CARSON ROAD, TAOS • (575) 758-3502 • ELMONTESAGRADO.COM

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BEST OF TAOS 2019

'Best Local Country Band or Performer?' we asked. Michael Hearne you answered.

MORGAN TIMMS

50 LOS BANOS DRIVE, OJO CALIENTE • (505) 583-2233 • OJOSPA.COM

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa

Best Live Music Venue

Taos Mesa BrewingMothership 123 ABC MESA ROAD, EL PRADO • (575) 758-1900 • TAOSMESABREWING.COM

We love live music and interactive events in Taos. On the way to the Gorge Bridge, out in mesa land, is our favorite place to see local and national performers who grace the indoor and two outdoor stages — including an amphitheater — with plenty of room to shake, rattle and roll most nights of the week. A converted airplane hangar houses the indoor stage fitted with “acoustic purity.” Add to the experience great food and excellent handcrafted, in-house brewed beers — cheers to a fun night out.

KTAOS Solar Center 9 STATE ROAD 150, EL PRADO • (575) 758-5826 • KTAO.COM/SOLARCENTER

Best Place to Dance

Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership 123 ABC MESA ROAD • (575) 758-1900 • TAOSMESABREWING.COM

It stands to reason that the Best Live Music Venue has the best dance space — and in this case, it’s more than one space.

KTAOS Solar Center 9 STATE ROAD 150, EL PRADO • (575) 758-5826 • KTAO.COM/SOLARCENTER

Best Local Singer-Songwriter

Jimmy Stadler (575) 776-8234 • JIMMYSTADLER.COM

Jimmy Stadler is the man — Taos’ “musical virtuoso” ... the “human jukebox” and one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. Entertainment writer Laura Bulkin penned for Taos News’ Tempo publication: “Stadler has been a consistent shining light of the Taos music scene, whether solo or with his band The Colliders, at parties, barn dances, benefits or his always-mobbed Wednesday nights at Sabroso Restaurant and Bar in Arroyo Seco.” Amen to that. His popularity has never wavered.

Stadler was named Best Rock Artist in the first Best of Taos poll in 1999 and has continued to rack up entertainment honors ever since.

Max Gomez MAXGOMEZMUSIC.COM

Best Jazz Group or Performer

Christine Autumn

Night. A theme that seems to run through all of her work, whether it be a painting or a soulful cover of an old Betty Carter song, is one of catharsis and healing.

Big Swing Theory BIGSWINGTHEORY@GMAIL.COM • THEBIGSWINGTHEORY.COM

Best Spanish Language Band or Performer

KTAOS - FM 101.9 9 STATE ROAD 150, EL PRADO • (575) 758-5826 • KTAO.COM

The voice and music of Taos gets its energy and staying power from the popular DJs, national and local news, a diverse music mix and, of course, solar power. This Taos broadcast institution follows an “adult alternative format,” that includes everything from honky-tonk to the Foo Fighters.

Music programming is flexible at KTAOS and they diligently listen to the pulse of the listener.

El Grupo Mezcal

KNCE - FM 93.5

FIND ON FACEBOOK

ABC MESA ROAD (LOCATED BESIDE TAOS MESA BREWING) (575) 737-8326 • TRUETAOSRADIO.COM

Once again, El Grupo Mezcal has been named the Best Spanish Language Band or Performer in The Taos News’ Best of Taos readers’ choice poll. The group has stood at the top in this poll for 20 of the past 21 years.

Mezcal formed in the late 1980s and solidified as a band with brothers Ernesto (Ernie), Antonio (Archie) and Adonais (Níte) Marquez and Rex Martinez in the mid-1990s. They are known for their original Spanish songs written by the Marquez brothers and inspired by life aquí en Taos.

Andrew Gonzales FIND ON FACEBOOK

Best Rock Group or Performer

Jimmy Stadler (575) 776-8234 • JIMMYSTADLER.COM

See Best Local Singer-Songwriter entry.

The Damn Band (575) 770-9360 • FIND ON FACEBOOK

Best Radio Personality

Paddy Mac KTAOS - FM 101.9

9 STATE ROAD 150, EL PRADO • (575) 758-5826 • KTAO.COM

Morning drive host Patrick McCarty, better known around these parts as “Paddy Mac,” has regularly won this category since he came to Taos years ago. In a past Best of Taos issue, Mac described his DJ style and mission: “The individualism of radio stations is pretty rare these days.

I took a [cross-country drive] a few years ago. I was like, ‘This station sounds just like that station.’ ... When I’m driving, I seek out these tiny individual stations, and I want to hear the voice of that town. ... I’m going to be as local and personal and as informational in this town as I can be.”

Howie Roemer KNCE - FM 93.5

123 ABC MESA ROAD, EL PRADO (LOCATED BESIDE TAOS MESA BREWING) (575) 737-8326 • TRUETAOSRADIO.COM

Best Place to Hit the Jackpot

Taos Mountain Casino Best Country Band or Performer

Michael Hearne MICHAELHEARNE.COM, BIGBARNDANCE.COM

Those who know two-steppin’, guitar pickin’ and his distinctive voice know Michael Hearne and his band South by Southwest. Hearne is pretty much a household name not only in Taos, but just about the entire Southwest. A consistent winner of Best of Taos awards over the years, Hearne’s brand of “Southwestern Americana” can be heard woven through songs he’s written for the likes of Jerry Jeff Walker and others. He’s also the chief promoter of his annual, three-day Big Barn Dance Music Festival (Sept. 5-7, Kit Carson Park). This year marks the festival’s 17th season.

(575) 751-1885 • CHRISTINEAUTUMN.COM

With her soulful voice and classic song list from the 1930s through ‘50s, Autumn has been voted best jazz singer for many years in a row.

Autumn can be heard every Sunday night at The Alley Cantina’s Jazz

Best Radio Station

The Rifters RIFTERS.NET

TAOS PUEBLO (THERE ARE TWO ENTRANCES — ONE IS PAST THE ALLSUP’S CONVENIENCE STORE AND GAS STATION AND THE OTHER IS OFF HAIL CREEK ROAD, BOTH OFF PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE. TAKE EITHER ENTRANCE AND PROCEED NORTH APPROXIMATELY 1 MILE.) • (575) 737-0777

TAOSMOUNTAINCASINO.COM

As the saying goes, sometimes the best things come in small packages. It may not be the largest place to play games of chance in the state and certainly has proximity on its side, but the quaint, non-smoking, Taos Mountain Casino is where blackjack players, bingo lovers and slot fans around here head to most often. The casino runs an array of promotions throughout the year, with thousands of dollars given away weekly. The Bison Rewards Card is the direct avenue to winning at Taos Mountain Casino, allowing players to accumulate points that lead to giveaways and prizes.

Buffalo Thunder Resort and Casino 30 BUFFALO THUNDER TRAIL, SANTA FE 877-455-7775 • BUFFALOTHUNDERRESORT.COM

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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WE ASKED, YOU ANSWERED

by Staci Matlock

You know you’re in Taos when …?

Jeff Northrup, a favorite thorny, political curmudgeon, was second only

to the mountains as the way most people know they are in Taos. Northrup is known for standing along a main road or on the corner of Taos Plaza

holding up one of his inflammatory political signs on neon poster boards.

He’s one of those local characters people love or hate, but who definitely adds to the Taos flavor.

Another top pick for knowing you’re in Taos — potholes. We’ve got them in all sizes and depths, some rivaling the Río Grande Gorge!

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BEST OF TAOS 2019

THANK YOU TAOS

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The UPS Store

™

Thank You For Voting Us

BEST PLACE TO SHIP A PACKAGE! (again & again & again)

The UPS Store is the only pack and ship store in town that offers the Pack and Ship Guarantee, Guaranteed Service Refunds, and AARP/AAA Discounts! We’re Experts in Packing & Shipping of Artwork, Collectibles and Your Valuables.

A GREAT SELECTION OF GREETING CARDS / SHREDDING SERVICES Locally Owned, Nationally Known—Jeanne Timber, The Shipping Diva”

The UPS Store

2018

™

1335 Paseo del Pueblo Sur • Taos, NM 87571 575-758-8647 • (fax) 575-758-8667

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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Sweet dreams Mary Domito isn’t called Mattress Mary for nothing

By Tamra Testerman / Photos by Morgan Timms

Mary Domito has a flare for drama, a skill that can transform the sale of something as prosaic as a mattress into a welcoming experience that Taoseños have gravitated toward for years.

Once again, Best of Taos voters have chosen Taos Lifestyle the Best Place to Buy a Mattress. Mattress Mary’s Mountain Lifestyle also took first place for Best Home Furnishings with her Taos Lifestyle store placing second.

Domito began her journey in sales decades ago. After moving to Taos she aligned her passion for helping people with sales into her ultimate role as Mattress Mary. “What I enjoy most about mattress sales is using all my communication and sales skills. I have an inherent desire to help people make a very important decision in their lives that affects their comfort and wellness.”

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BEST OF TAOS 2019

Domito’s flare for interacting with people and gregarious nature began in her youth. In high school, she was involved in acting and had the lead in her senior play.

“Soon after dropping out of San Diego State, I got my first job in sales at Pacific Stereo in Berkeley, California,” she said.

Over the following years she worked in sales for food brokers, tobacco companies and distilled spirits companies. She realizes that, “Being in sales is akin to acting in the sense you are giving a performance when working with a customer. I don’t want to imply that selling performances are fake, using my performance and communication and listening skills to help customers is a fun and positive way make a good buying decision. The definition of selling as I understand, is to provide the customer with all the correct information so they can make a good buying decision.” p.30

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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Then her career got rolling in 1995 when she went to work selling mattresses in the San Francisco Bay Area. Domito’s brand was born. The first time “Mattress Mary” was uttered was when her “best girlfriends” heard of her new job and jokingly started calling her Mattress Mary. The more Domito thought about it she realized, “It’s a provocative euphemism, if you’re of a certain age.” From then on it just stuck.

THE PULL OF TAOS Domito’s first trip to Taos was in 2002. After one visit I was hooked, and I spent the next two years trying to figure out how to move to Taos. I had to live in Taos.

The pull was that strong. It just so happened that what I thought Taos needed was what I knew, a quality mattress store. So I sold my house in the Bay Area and got an SBA loan, and put everything I owned in the world on the line to start my business. I opened Sleep Sanctuary July 17, 2004, but who’s counting.”

She maintains her time in Taos “have been the best years of my life. I cannot articulate what Taos means. It has given me permission to have fun and be the best person I can be. It is as though we all live in a big high school here. So many beautiful people connecting with one another in a way you don’t see other places.”

EXPANSION Always the savvy decision maker, Domito took possession of Graystone Furniture in December 2018, based on “Simple business survival. It was me or a competitor. And I preferred the former.”

She chose the store’s new name because, “Mattress Mary is the brand. Although we were Taos Lifestyle, people would still say, ‘Go see Mattress Mary.’ So after all these years, it feels like it’s time to call us Mattress Mary’s Mountain Lifestyle, this describes the focus of our new store.”

She is unquestionably a public face in these parts.

Domito continues to use old-school billboard advertising around town to market her brand. “I want you to think of me and remember me for your mattress and home furnishings needs. Sometimes old school is the best school,” she said.

Shoppers can expect her new store, Mattress Mary’s Mountain Lifestyle, to be the local source for lodge-type furniture from rustic to refined ranch with reasonable price points to the high-end beauty of Simply Amish, which features a large variety of styles in many types of wood and finishes customers can customize.

Besides Taos Lifestyle and Mattress Mary’s Mountain Lifestyle, her empire includes Alamosa Home in Colorado and she’s a partner in Sleep & Dream in Santa Fe. A busy staff of 15 work across the four stores. She is proud of their performance and the growth of her businesses. “I want to throw a lot of love and deserving attention to my entire staff. They deliver the customer service and experience that helps bring us the Best of Taos award every year. Fifteen years ago I had one full-time employee. Now I have a total of 15. It’s hard to believe sometimes. People say how do you do it? Well the answer is, we all do it!”

Taos Lifestyle

710 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY A.M.-6 P.M.; SATURDAY A.M.-5 P.M.; AND SUNDAY A.M.-4 P.M. (575) 758-5885 TAOSLIFESTYLE.COM

Mattress Mary’s Mountain Lifestyle 815 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY A.M.-6 P.M.; SATURDAY A.M.-5 P.M.; AND SUNDAY A.M.-5 P.M. (575) 758-7730 MATTRESSMARY.COM

Even though Domito is immersed in her businesses, she’s not the proverbial workaholic. She devotes much of her free time to music. “At this time of my life I have my bucket list of concerts I enjoy going to.”

Another pleasure for Mattress Mary is “taking beautiful drives with my husband, artist Mark Gould, and our two rescues (dogs) Maggie and Mooch.”

Being an animal lover, 10 years ago Domito created and still spearheads the Dog Days summer concert event to benefit Stray Hearts Animal Shelter.

In the future she sees herself continuing to being a Taos fixture with her adventurous spirit intact. “I’ll still be running the businesses. I can say I am done opening stores. In five to ten years I hope to be traveling. There are so many places I’d like to go.”

MARY DOMITO OPENED HER FOURTH STORE, NAMED MATTRESS MARY'S MOUNTAIN LIFESTYLE, EARLIER THIS YEAR. A GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION WAS HELD MAY 4 AND HAS ALREADY WON FIRST PLACE FOR BEST HOME FURNISHINGS.

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BEST OF TAOS 2019

Mary Domito and employees at the Mattress Mary's Mountain Lifestyle store rest a spell. Of her staff she said, 'They deliver the customer service and experience that helps bring us the Best of Taos award every year.'

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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BEST OF TAOS 2019

KATHARINE EGLI/TAOS NEWS FILE PHOTO

The Taos Farmers Market isn't just regionally grown produce, plants, cut flowers, baked goods, hot food and live entertainment — it's puppies, too. And it's a local gathering place every Saturday morning during the summer on Taos Plaza.

w

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Thank You for Your Vote of Confidence &21 Great Years!

New stuff • Old Stuff • Stuff you Need

Open 7 days a week, Hwy 150

Thanks from

T

H

A

N

K

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2019 BEST ART GALLERY Wilder Nightingale Fine Art Wilder Nightingale Fine Art, The Gallery Artists & TheoTHANK YOU all for your support, patronage, and for keeping Theo happy.

for Best Place to Buy Yarn!

ACROSS

FROM

KIT

CARSON

PA R K

575.758.1241

VORTEXYARNS.COM

Photo: curryimages.com

7 THANK YOU TAOS BEST OF 2019 !

Tre’ you will be missed, never forgotten and always loved.

208 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte 575-224-3077

taostattoo.com TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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TINA LARKIN/TAOS NEWS FILE PHOTO

Best Local Artisan (artist, painter, weaver, photographer)

Ed Sandoval ED SANDOVAL GALLERY • 102B PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS (575) 751-3502, (575) 758-1400 • EDSANDOVALGALLERY.COM

Ed Sandoval can be found painting on a giant easel outside his gallery on Paseo del Pueblo Norte next door to World Cup Café and around the corner from Taos Plaza nearly every day — so long as the clouds aren’t dropping rain. His signature image in his much-admired work is the “old man with the cane,” who came about during the filming of the movie “The Milagro Bean Field War” (1998), from the book by Taos author John Nichols (who also wrote the screenplay).

In 2016, he told The Taos News, “Painting every day is like feeding your heart and soul with nourishment. My favorite color is red-orange.

It raises my level of anxiety and passion. I’m not a reclusive artist. I like the traffic. The noise doesn’t bother me. And I have to have music playing. Other artists might say I’m putting myself out there too much.

I’ve coined myself as ‘the prostitute artist.’ ”

Larry Bell

Winner of Best Local Artisan Ed Sandoval can often be found painting outside his gallery. Of painting in full view he says, 'I like the traffic. The noise doesn't bother me. And I have to have music playing. Other artists might say I'm putting myself out there too much. I've coined myself as ‘the prostitute artist.’ He also placed second for Best Art Gallery.

Arroyo Seco Mercantile

Brodsky Bookshop

488 STATE ROAD 150, ARROYO SECO • (575) 776-8806

226A PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-9468 • FIND ON FACEBOOK

SECOMERC.COM

233 RANCHITOS ROAD, TAOS • (575) 758-3062 • LARRYBELL.COM

Best Place to Buy a New Mexico Souvenir

Best Art Gallery

Wilder Nightingale Fine Art 119 KIT CARSON ROAD,TAOS • (575) 758-3255 WNIGHTINGALE.COM

Wilder Nightingale Fine Art and its owner, Rob Nightingale, are respected and well-liked fixtures in the Taos art world. The gallery has been a shining beacon for Taos’ talent for years. Of the more than 35 artists Nightingale represents, a large percentage of them are local. It is one of the oldest galleries in town and has been awarded many times over.

Ed Sandoval Gallery

Best Groovy Gift Shop

FX /18

103 BENT ST., TAOS • (575) 758-8590 FIND ON FACEBOOK

This is not your run-of-the-mill gift shop. Here you’ll find funky and fabulous jewelry, clothing, accessories, socks, books, cards, candles, games, gifts galore and so much more. It’s easy to see why this store is consistently one of Taos’ favorite places to shop.

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BEST OF TAOS 2019

488 STATE ROAD 150, ARROYO SECO • (575) 776-8806

SECOMERC.COM

See story on P. ?40

Made in New Mexico 104 W. PLAZA, TAOS • (575) 758-7709

MADEINNEWMEXICO.COM

Best Place for Bookworms

Taos Public Library 402 CAMINO DEL LA PLACITA, TAOS • (575) 758-3063

TAOSLIBRARY.ORG

Even with information and downloadable books readily available on phones and home computers, the library is a multiyear, first-place vote getter. The mission of the Taos Public Library is to provide and facilitate freedom of access to informational, recreational and educational materials for everyone and that is exactly what it does. The often busy library is known for its excellent children’s section, friendly staff and free internet access. Special events are held there year-round, especially for the kiddos.

Cid's Food Market 623 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-1148 CIDSFOODMARKET.COM

For 33 years, independently owned Cid’s Food Market has been providing Northern New Mexico with organic, local and gourmet groceries. Cid’s is a full-service grocery store touted for its knowledgable staff and the best selection of natural and organic food in town, including a popular salad bar, deli counter, and hot and cold prepared meals. In addition, Cid’s offers an extensive selection of environmentally friendly household products, natural pet foods, plus a wide variety of supplements, herbs, incense and body care products. This Taos institution has been repeatedly recognized by Best of Taos survey respondents as the one to beat in this category.

Smith's Food and Drug 224 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-3711

SMITHSFOODANDDRUG.COM

Best Place to Buy Fruits and Veggies

Cid's Food Market 623 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-1148

CIDSFOODMARKET.COM

It stands to reason that the store voted the best place to get organic, local and gourmet groceries has the best fruits and veggies. See previous entry for more information. p.36

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

102B PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS (575) 751-3502, (575) 758-1400 • EDSANDOVALGALLERY.COM

Arroyo Seco Mercantile

Best Grocery Store

for supporting Schreiber Family Medicine.

We are pleased to welcome John White, MD Board Certified Pulmonologist •Monday appointments

630 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite 125 575-751-7430 schreiberfamilymedicine.com

LUCAS SCHREIBER, MD

BED & BREAKFAST Thanks for voting us

Best Bed & Breakfast 2019!

575-751-0947 · adobepines.com

THANK YOU TAOS

Voted Best Men’s Clothing Store 120-E BENT STREET AT THE JOHN DUNN SHOPS • 575.758.2696

Thank You Taos!

FOR VOTING US THE BEST

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOP IN 2019

for making us

Best of Taos, 2019!

We Value Your Support

Best of Taos 19 Years in a Row!

“Serving Taos Since 1971”

758-3027 rmdraper@laplaza.org

Raton Bypass/ Gusdorf Road License # 61030

1314 Paseo del Pueblo Sur 758-1658 TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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locally produced wool, mohair, alpaca, stencil, silk bamboo, hemp and anti-pilling acrylics.

Mooncat Fiber 120B BENT STREET, TAOS • (575) 758-9341 • MOONCATFIBER.COM

Best Resale Shop

Best Place to Buy Fruits and Veggies continued

Pieces Consignment Goods 1024 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 737-0500 • PIECESTAOS.COM

Taos Farmers Market TAOS PLAZA (EVERY SATURDAY THROUGH OCTOBER 26, 8 A.M.-12:30 P.M.) TAOSFARMERSMARKET.ORG

Best Farmers Market

Taos Farmers Market TAOS PLAZA (EVERY SATURDAY THROUGH OCTOBER 26, 8 A.M.-12:30 P.M.) TAOSFARMERSMARKET.ORG

Arroyo Hondo Farmers Market

Community Against Violence (CAV) Thrift Store 1103 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 751-4824 • FIND ON FACEBOOK

Best Women’s Clothing Boutique

Francesca's Clothing Boutique 492 STATE ROAD 150, ARROYO SECO • (575) 776-8776 • FIND ON FACEBOOK

Substance of Taos 102 DOÑA LUZ ST. • (575) 751-0992 • SUBSTANCEOFTAOS.COM

Best Men’s Clothing Store

Clarke & Co. Menswear 120E BENT STREET (JOHN DUNN HOUSE SHOPS), TAOS • (575) 758-2696

CLARKE-CO-MENSWEAR.BUSINESS.SITE

“Swag is for boys, class is for men.” Clarke & Co. presents a wide selection of high quality clothing and accessories — including hats, ties and belts — for the best-dressed man whether you’re going for the lumberjack or the man-about-town look. And the service is as raved about as the selection.

The Underground 107B BENT STREET, TAOS • (575) 770-5140

THEUNDERGROUNDTAOS.COM

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

Taos Farmers Market has been at the forefront of the local sustainable food movement since its inception in 1973. For weeks from late spring into fall, each Saturday morning becomes a true community event. Taos, in all its multiculturalism and diversity, is represented at the open-air market when Native American, Spanish, Anglo, Asian and many other people who hail as Taoseños, meet to enjoy what is no less than a small weekly festival. Locally grown produce, plants, cut flowers, baked goods and hot food are the real treasure of the market. You will also be entertained by local musicians. It is a place to meet friends to share recipes and chat, and mainly just to celebrate living in Taos.

The minute you walk in the door you are met with the promise of treasures everywhere. The large rooms are chock-full of items, spectacular or humble, of use for your home, your whimsey or simply because you’ve been looking for “one of those” for years, and there it is.

Pieces offers a stunning array of clothing for women, men and children. There is also sporting goods, furniture and household items, artwork, jewelry, tools, pottery, rugs, artwork, collectibles and one-of-a-kind items. The consignment helps people put a little money in their pockets and keeps things out of the landfill. Pieces has been in business since 2006.

Francesca’s offers a large selection of women’s clothing and accessories in a cute little store in a cute little village. Clothes are stylish and trendy with something for every body type. There is definitely a special find for all ages and customers notice — Francesca’s has topped this category for years.

Francesca Medina “blames” her success on her mother, Charlotte, who was a famous clothier in New York City. Her mother was “beautiful and fabulous” and “I was her sidekick,” Francesca says. “I learned everything about clothing from her. And my father made women’s blouses.” Fashion is in her blood.

Best Place to Gear Up for the Slopes

Cottam's Ski & Outdoor Shop TAOS: 207 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR • (575) 758-2822 TAOS SKI VALLEY: 101 SUTTON PLACE • (575) 776-8719 ANGEL FIRE: 40 NORTH ANGEL FIRE ROAD • (575) 377-3700 SANTA FE: 740 HYDE PARK ROAD • (505) 982-0495

MIDTOWN MARKET & SPIRITS PARKING LOT, 680 STATE ROAD 52, ARROYO HONDO; EVERY WEDNESDAY THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER FROM 3-6 P.M. • (575) 776-1680

Best Place to Buy Fresh Flowers

Taos Farmers Market TAOS PLAZA (EVERY SATURDAY THROUGH OCTOBER 26, 8 A.M.-12:30 P.M.) TAOSFARMERSMARKET.ORG

See Best Farmers Market entry.

Enchanted Florist TINA LARKIN/TAOS NEWS FILE PHOTO

622A PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-3030 • TAOSFLORIST.COM

Best Place to Buy Yarn

Vortex Yarns 218 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-1241 • VORTEXYARNS.COM

Voters have noticed where to get exceptional yarns and fibers from local sources and beyond. To the knitters and multimedia artists, you’ll find anything you could possibly hope for at Vortex Yarns such as

36

BEST OF TAOS 2019

When you say 'women's fashion,' Best of Taos voters answer, Francesca's.

COTTAMSSKISHOPS.COM

Northern New Mexico’s favorite family-owned ski shop has supplied ski gear rentals, equipment sales, outerwear, gear upkeep and repair service since 1976. Patrons point to Cottam’s customer service, the convenience of four locations, prices and wide selection as reasons they keep coming back snowfall after snowfall.

Taos Mountain Outfitters 113 N. PLAZA, TAOS • (575) 758-9292 • TAOSMOUNTAINOUTFITTERS.COM

Best Place to Gear Up for the Trail

Taos Mountain Outfitters 113 N. PLAZA, TAOS • (575) 758-9292 • TAOSMOUNTAINOUTFITTERS.COM

As the name implies, Taos Mountain Outfitters carries a large selection of clothing, footwear and accessories for hiking, camping, climbing, paddling — for any and all things on the mountain or in the river, whether in rain or shine. Standing at the top of the heap is this dog-friendly proprietor, which is staffed with knowledgable people who are patient and attentive. TMO staff knows Taos and can get you set off into our beautiful backyard with everything you need and will happily point you in the right outdoor-adventure direction.

And with constant sale items and the best clothing from brands such as The North Face and Patagonia, TMO is definitely worth a look for the adventurer. After all, it’s where your “adventure begins.” New this year, you can book an all-inclusive tour with Heritage Inspirations at TMO.

Mudd N Flood 103A BENT STREET, TAOS • (575) 751-9100 • MUDDNFLOOD.COM

Best Place to Buy a Pair of Shades

Taos Mountain Outfitters 113 N. PLAZA, TAOS • (575) 758-9292 • TAOSMOUNTAINOUTFITTERS.COM

The sun is potent and extra bright in Taos. And protecting your eyes is key. With a great selection and range of prices, “TMO” is where people keep coming back to when looking for the perfect pair of shades. For more information, see the previous entry.

RealEyes

When you love them enough to give them the very best.

Thank you Taos!

1021B SALAZAR ROAD, TAOS • (575) 758-3215 • REALEYESTAOS.COM

Best Hardware and Home Improvement Store

Rio Grande Ace Hardware SOUTH: 1381 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-4268 NORTH: 223 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 751-2061

RIOGRANDEACE.COM

This retailer-owned cooperative seemingly has just about every hardware and home repair/ improvement item known to man. Fortunately, the red-vested staff at both Taos locations will point you in the right direction and offer advise if needed. In 1970, it was opened as a family-owned building material retail store. Río Grande Ace Hardware won first place for Best Lumber/Hardware Store in the inaugural Best of Taos poll years ago and has won many times since.

Randall Lumber & Hardware SOUTH: 315 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-2271 NORTH: RANCH AND FEED, 14 STATE HIGHWAY 150, EL PRADO • (575) 776-2556

RANDALLTAOS.COM p.38

Blue Sky Pet & Feed

214 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-1841

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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Established in 1988, Dan’s is consistently ranked at the top among Best of Taos voters when it comes to all things for floors and windows, having won the honor years in a row. Why Dan’s? Expert advice, professional staff, courteous and reliable service, large selection and reasonable prices that are comparable to big-box stores. Dan and his staff are a pro’s pro.

SECOND PLACE TIE

Best Garden Center and Nursery

Larry Martinez Jewelers

4114 STATE ROAD 68, RANCHOS DE TAOS • (575) 758-5986 VARGASTILE.COM

822 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-4169 LARRYMARTINEZJEWELER.COM

SOUTH: 1381 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-4268 NORTH: 223 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 751-2061 RIOGRANDEACE.COM

Best Home Furnishings

Mattress Mary's Mountain Lifestyle 815 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR • (575) 758-7730 • MATTRESSMARY.COM

See story on P. 28

KATHARINE EGLI

Taos Lifestyle 710C PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-0800

TAOSLIFESTYLE.COM

Best Place to Buy a Mattress

25PETREE LANE (OFF BLUEBERRY HILL ROAD), TAOS • (575) 758-3021 PETREENURSERY.COM

It’s springtime in the Southern Rockies and the people have spoken – Petree Nursery & Greenhouses is the Best Garden Center and Nursery in 2019’s Best of Taos survey. And really, that choice is a no-brainer.

Where else can you get all your perennials and annuals grown right here in Taos, and at the lowest prices going? Not to mention low-priced soil amendments and other nutrients. Petree’s is Northern New Mexico’s largest and oldest nursery.

SOUTH: 1381 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-4268 NORTH: 223 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 751-2061

RIOGRANDEACE.COM

Best Place to Buy Floor Coverings

Dan's Carpet, Tile & Window Coverings 7237 STATE HIGHWAY 518, RANCHOS DE TAOS • (575) 758-2420

DANSCARPETANDFLOORS.COM

38

BEST OF TAOS 2019

Taos Lifestyle

In a town known for its many talented artisans, Larry Martinez has consistently stood on the top of the jewelry mountain. He is best known for his complex, museum-quality pieces that are “inspired by Native America.” His work has been exhibited in museums around the country and has certaily not gone unnoticed by Taoseños. Martinez also has an impressive selection of vintage pieces. Chances are, he has something gleaming under glass that will get your attention.

Claireworks Gallery 482A STATE ROAD 150, ARROYO SECO • (575) 776-5175 • CLAIREWORKS.COM

Best Rock Shop

Taos Gems & Minerals 637 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-3910 TAOS-GEMS-MINERALS.BUSINESS.SITE

Taos Gems and Minerals is the oldest store of its kind in town. This well-established, family-operated treasure trove opened more than 45 years ago. The shop offers beautiful minerals and related items — such as dishes carved from fossil-filled rocks — and a healthy selection of jewelry-making supplies. A testimonial says it all: “Everything you can imagine if you are an artist using gems and minerals. Fun place to browse and nice pieces for sale. Very knowledgable owner, good prices.”

Taos Rockers 229A CAMINO DEL LA PLACITA, TAOS • (575) 758-2326 • TAOSROCKERS.COM

710C PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR • (575) 758-7730 • MATTRESSMARY.COM

You don’t use the moniker “Mattress Mary” if you don’t know a thing or two about a good night’s sleep. Mary Domito (aka “Mattress Mary”) began her business life in Taos by opening Sleep Sanctuary in 2004 with a mission of offering a warm, friendly sleep shop in an otherwise rather nondescript industry. Since then, Domito added home furnishings to the mix (Toto Home) and later changed the business name to encompass the store. Taos Lifestyle has been the top dog for new mattress seekers in Taos times. See related story on P. 28.

Red Arrow Emporium 1405 U.S. HIGHWAY 64, EL PRADO, IN THE OVERLAND RANCH COMPLEX (575) 758-0540 • REDARROWEMP.COM

Best Liquor Store

The Cellar 623 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS, BEHIND CID’S FOOD MARKET (575) 758-7445 • THECELLARTAOS.COM

Taos’ newest liquor store has quickly become its most popular. The Cellar features a vast selection of craft beers, wines and spirits with a very well-versed staff to help in the decision-making. In just two years of operation The Cellar has impressed voters, awarding it with first-place honors both years.

“It’s a labor of love,” says co-owner Angelica Robinson. “Every employee here has something to offer that helps keep expanding our selection.”

Best Place to Ship a Package

The UPS Store 1335 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, UNIT 1, TAOS • (575) 758-8647 TAOS-NM-2317.THEUPSSTORELOCAL.COM

When needing to carefully package and mail a treasured heirloom or that special gift, which may have taken several hours of searching for, Taoseños say they turn to tried-and-true UPS. A box full of pottery chards that was once a whole pot — bad. UPS — good.

9 to 5 Ship and Print 925 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 751-1313 • 9TO5TAOS.COM

Best Place to Buy Pet Supplies

Blue Sky Pet & Feed Supply 214 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-1841 FIND ON FACEBOOK. See story on P. 54.

Taos Tack and Pet Supply 710 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 737-9798 TAOSTACKANDPETSUPPLY.COM

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

Rio Grande Ace Hardware

Best Place to Buy Jewelry

Vargas Tile Company

Rio Grande Ace Hardware

Petree Nursery & Greenhouses

Del Norte Liquors 1574 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, RANCHOS DE TAOS • (575) 758-8904

I wanted to ‘Thank all of Taos’ for this honor and ask for continued support to keep moving Taos Municipal Schools forward with the transformation that our staff has been working diligently towards the last five years. The Taos community has been outstanding in the support we have received. We love our students and want to provide a premier education for each of them to reach their goals and dreams. Each student is special and important to our District. Thank you, Taos, for building the capacity of Taos Municipals Schools as we work together to educate every Taos student to success into the future!

Dr. Torrez Superintendent Taos Municipal Schools

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

39

walking through a time warp Arroyo Seco Mercantile revives the vintage general store

By Virginia L. Clark / Photos by Morgan Timms

40

BEST OF TAOS 2019

Arroyo Seco Mercantile scores.

It won first place for Best Place to Buy a New Mexico Souvenir and second place for Best Groovy Gift Shop, both in the 2019 Best of Taos online customer survey.

Seco Mecantile owner Jeanie Clinton was beaming when we caught up with her shortly after the awards were announced.

“It’s so wonderful to get this recognition,” she said, extending her arm toward her coworker Patricia Reza acknowledging her efforts, which helped garner the accolades.

Clinton was raised in Farmington, New Mexico, and fell in love with Taos. She always thought she’d like to live here, so when it came time to move it wasn’t much of a stretch to open a general store cum antique and artisanal shop in a place she already loved.

Stepping over the threshold from the portál into the main room of the 121-year-old building feels like you’re walking through a time warp into the distant past. It’s filled with lots of here-and-now and sooner-or-later. Which is exactly what the Mercantile is all about.

“We’re always trying to have three kinds of products – new stuff, old stuff and stuff you need.” Clinton stocks the shop with a disarmingly wide array of antiques, old pawn jewelry, souvenirs, nuts and bolts, screws, rakes, postcards, pottery, 1900’s kitchenware and religious mementos, including Dia de los Muertos tchotchkes.

Locals and visitors both descend upon the “Merc” for family celebration items and holiday decór for Halloween, and of course during the popular Arroyo Seco Fourth of July weekend parade.

The building was first used as a general store until the 1930s, back in the day when acceptable currency included hay, wool and produce as barter for its goods. The store was later used as a weaving shop and restaurant, among other things. In 1998, Clinton restored it to its original purpose as a general store.

“I bring in things from estates all around – like that stone sink from Bali and lots of vintage carvings from Bali I got when I visited there,” Clinton said.

Household items and kitchenware will steal the show and make you vow to come back for more, as will the selection of old postcards adorned with imagery from the eras of Fred Harvey and J.R. Willis.

“A lot of this old stuff I get at estates, people can use again,” Clinton said. “It’s like recycling. People will buy something and sometimes they remember that their mother or grandmother used the same thing.”

Local craftspeople and artisans’ works can also be found at the Merc. There are candles, vintage Western gear and gifts, candy, toys, linens, soaps and a great selection of Old West books and histories by Taoseño authors Mabel Dodge Luhan and Frank Waters, among others.

And true to the general store’s purpose, you’ll even find more common items such as pencils, pens, paper, paper clips, notebooks, tape and staples; and they also offer copy and fax services. It’s no wonder the store is so popular.

Don’t miss the garden Clinton has grown out of the flattened, dusty earth of the old parking lot next door, complete with a vintage log shelter from Peñasco she saved and transported to Seco. Every year, Clinton says Seco hollyhocks grow in states and countries all across the globe, carried there by visitors eager to take a little bit of the Land of Enchantment home with them.

Originally built in 1898, stacked from corner to corner in the old adobe are oldie-but-goodie furniture pieces and heavy metal items that you are sure were first made 200 years ago, like the humongous branding irons, iron fry pans and especially the Griswold waffle irons used to cook breakfast over an open fire.

Don’t miss the upstairs antique and vintage “stuff” – tables and cupboards, chairs, two-man saws, pitch forks and a pair of hand forged-in-Oklahoma thick metal andirons daintily decorated with metal rose vines.

“People come in here and spend a lot of time looking around,” Clinton said, moving from vintage trade-blanket-patterned Pendleton jackets, vests and bags to brand new Pendleton baby blankets, bandanas, dog beds and doggie coats. There are brilliantly colored and embroidered leather collars and leashes from Chiapas, Mexico, too.

Arroyo Seco Mercantile 488 STATE ROAD 150, ARROYO SECO OPEN MONDAY-SATURDAY A.M.-5:30 P.M.; SUNDAYS A.M.-5 P.M. • (575) 776-8806 SECOMERC.COM

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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WE ASKED, YOU ANSWERED

by Staci Matlock

What industry would you like to see in Taos?

Tourism, a focus of local officials as the answer to maintaining a strong

local economy, came in low on the list for Best of Taos voters. Way ahead of it as industries people would like to see in Taos were recreational gear manufacturing and solar and wind energy development, which were top picks. That was followed by film and tech enterprises.

Other industries voters picked along with tourism were farming, cannabis, hemp and music.

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BEST OF TAOS 2019

Because we know you want to live here.

OVER 31 YEARS SERVING TAOS! Taos County and the Enchanted Circle for Voting Us

Thank You!

Best Place to Buy Floor Coverings for Ten Years in a Row

Dan’s

Flooring & Window Coverings HARDWOOD • CARPET • TILE • CABINETS • AREA RUGS WINDOW COVERINGS • CORK • LUXURY VINYL PLANKS Ranchos de Taos • 7237 Highway 518

575-758-2420 • danscarpetandfloors.com • dansflooring1@gmail.com

TAOS’ PREMIER GUIDE TO FINE ART PLACES AND CREATIVE SPACES

2019-2020

READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE AT

enchantedhomeseller.com

COVER ARTIST: INGER JIRBY

GALLERYGUIDEOFTAOS.COM

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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BEST OF TAOS 2019

COURTESY TAOS TATTOO & BODY PIERCING GALLERY

When Taoseños and folks just passing through want a tattoo by an experienced and talented artist, they go to Taos Tattoo & Body Piercing Gallery. The shop has won first place for Best Tattoo Parlor since 2014.

Thank You Taos!

Serving Domestic & Import Beers • Wine • Margaritas

Taos’ BEST Mexican Restaurant

Your commitment to CAV brings hope to children and adults in our community.

FIRST PLACE

2018

To support or volunteer call 758-8082 or visit TaosCAV.org Providing free and confidential services for survivors of sexual/domestic violence

24 HOUR HELP LINE 575-758-9888 Hablamos Español

OFFICE: 945 SALAZAR ROAD 575-758-8082

TaosCAV.org

NORTH SIDE 822 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte Taos 737-0816 SOUTH SIDE 1384 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur 751-0063 (across from Ace Hardware) SUMMER HOURS: Sunday - Thursday, 10:30 am - 9 pm Friday - Saturday, 10:30 am - 9:30 pm

guadalajaragrilltaos.com

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

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TINA LARKIN/TAOS NEWS FILE PHOTO

Shree Yoga takes home Best Yoga Studio honors once again this yearbecause it's not a scene. It's not rail-thin exercise addicts in $100 pants trying to out-headstand the rest of the class. Rather, the studio is warm and inviting, and the instructors go out of their way to inspire a sense of freedom.

Best Real Estate Agency

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Taos 314A PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-1924, 800-530-8899

BERKSHIREHATHAWAYHOMESERVICESTAOSREALESTATE.COM

of properties for more than 30 years.

Best Barber Shop

Salon Marjorie

Johnny's Barber Shop

237 LEDOUX ST., TAOS • (575) 751-7246 • SALONMARJORIE.COM

308A PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-4286

A hair salon can be more than just a place to go to get hair cut or styled.

At Salon Marjorie, it’s an oasis of pampering and a rare opportunity to tune out a hectic schedule. Marjorie Olsen opened her salon in 1996 and built its reputation by teaching her staff French haircutting techniques.

“Taking care of the clients is what makes a salon good or not,” Olsen says. “As artists, we celebrate the beauty of the individual. We share our creativity, talents, skill and enthusiasm in helping the client look as good as they can. We also like to learn about the client and what they need. We find out what their wants and desires are.”

The main man at Johnny’s Barber Shop is Ruben Graham — a craftsman with scissors and a razor, a barber’s barber for more than 50 years. Not to mention, he’s one of most genuinely pleasant people you’ll ever meet.

There’s often a wait — but not terribly long — at this classic two-man barber shop on Taos’ main drag. Graham is the reason why. For years, Taos men have been saying any wait time is worth it; Johnny’s has won the Best Barber accolade since the first issue of Best of Taos in 1999.

Working alongside Graham at the iconic shop is Questa’s master barber Jerome Ortega.

Century Success

Shank

Carlos' Barber Shop

114 DONA LUZ, TAOS • (575) 758-0080, 800-336-4826 • C21SUCCESS.COM

109 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 737-0882 • GETSHANKED.COM

402 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • APPOINTMENT ONLY: (575) 758-7187

46

BEST OF TAOS 2019

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and its brokers are regularly recognized for their knowledge, accessibility and professionalism, and considering the buying or selling of property can be formidable at best, it’s a time when a little hand-holding is very much appreciated. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has represented buyers and sellers of all types

Best Place for Hair Styling

Best Place to Pamper Your Fur Baby

Thank You To Our Wonderful Patients!!

10,000 Wags Pet Resort & Bow-wow-tique

Without You This Wouldn’t Be Possible

24822 U.S. HIGHWAY 64 WEST • (575) 751-9247

10,000WAGS.COM

When it comes to pet grooming, boarding, training and daycare, Taoseños regularly put 10,000 Wags at the top of the list. And if pets could vote, they would too. Pet owners are more than comfortable leaving their dogs and cats at 10,000 Wags, whether for a cut and shampoo or for a week-long stay. The staff takes great pride in developing relationships with every pet and every human.

Taos Fur Styling 1018 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, EL PRADO • (575) 208-6699 • FIND ON FACEBOOK

Best Tattoo Parlor

Taos Tattoo & Body Piercing Gallery 208 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 224-3077 • TAOSTATTOO.COM

Taos Tattoo & Body Piercing Gallery is the oldest tattoo shop in town. For six years in a row, voters have named their high-caliber body art created by experienced artists — within a classic, historic adobe structure — tops in this category. The moment you walk in, you’ll feel the energetic and infectious vibe.

Magical Tattoo 112 CAMINO DE LAS PLACITAS, TAOS • (575) 779-1405

MAGICALTATTOO.COM

Best Place for a Massage

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa 50 LOS BANOS DR., OJO CALIENTE • 800-222-9162 • OJOSPA.COM

“Ojo” isn’t just fabulous springs and quintessential Northern New Mexican views. Accolades consistently pile up year after year for this legendary and popular oasis, which has an extensive array of therapeutic massage and body work choices such as deep tissue to hot stone. And with add-on therapies that focus on everything from feet to hair, rejuvenation is certain.

El Monte Sagrado Living Resort and Spa

“Serving the Taos community for over 50 years” WE NOW HAVE TWO OPEN OFFICES

RED RIVER OFFICE

612 W. Main Street Red River, NM 87558 (575) 754-2300

TAOS OFFICE

1392 Weimer Rd. Taos, NM 87571 (575) 758-8760

“A History of Elegance”

Casa Benavides inn Since 1988

Thank you for voting us Best Bed & Breakfast 2019 The Tom McCarthy and the Benavides family have been making Taos a more beautiful place.

317 KIT CARSON RD., TAOS • (575) 758-3502 • ELMONTESAGRADO.COM

Best Yoga Studio

Shree Yoga Taos 112C CAMINO DE LA PLACITA, TAOS • (575) 758-8014 • SHREEYOGATAOS.COM

To the uninitiated, a yoga studio is a yoga studio is a yoga studio. But for Taos yogis, Shree Yoga is one space dedicated to form and grace, and once again it walks away with first-place honors. The studio is warm and inviting, and the instructors go out of their way to inspire a sense of freedom. It’s a serious practice, but it doesn’t feel that way. “Relax, breathe and indulge.” p.48

137 Kit Carson Road, Taos • 575.758.1772 • casabenavides.com

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

47

Taos Tennis at Quail Ridge

Adobe & Pines Inn

88 STATE ROAD 150, EL PRADO • (575) 776-3447 • TAOSTENNIS.COM

4107 STATE ROAD 68, RANCHOS DE TAOS • (575) 751-0947

ADOBEPINES.COM

Best Place to Play Golf

Taos Country Club 54 GOLF COURSE DR., RANCHOS DE TAOS • (575) 758-7300

Best Yoga Studio continued

TAOSCOUNTRYCLUB.COM

Watch drives travel farther than ever before, thanks to a little help from the altitude. Taos Country Club sits at 7,000 feet in elevation and holes range from 5,336 to 7,300 in yardage. This par-72 layout’s Bermuda fairways route their way through low sagebrush. Frequent sand traps guard the undulating Bent grass greens. This favorite course, designed

by Jep Wille, was awarded a four-star rating by Golf Digest. The Terrace serves drinks, craft beers, snacks and gourmet dishes.

AuraFitness 1337S GUSDORF RD., TAOS • (575) 758-9733 • AURAFITNESSTAOS.COM

Best Gym & Workout Facility

Valle Escondido Golf Course 28 LODGE RD., TAOS • (575) 758-3475 • TAOSGOLF.ORG

Best Lodging for Visitors TINA LARKIN/TAOS NEWS FILE PHOTO

El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa 317 KIT CARSON RD., TAOS • (575) 758-3502 ELMONTESAGRADO.COM

Taos Spa & Tennis Club 111 DOÑA ANA DR., TAOS • (575) 758-1980

TAOSSPA.COM

Pick your exercise poison — Taos Spa & Tennis Club has what you’re looking for with plenty of free weights, cardio machines, ellipticals, rowers, recumbent bikes, adaptive motion trainers and free-motion machines. Also offered are specialty classes. Taos Spa has racquet ball and tennis courts, two swimming pools, hot tubs, saunas, steam room, spa services, therapy and trainers. It’s all here and for years it has been voted Taos’ favorite place to get in shape.

High Altitude Health & Fitness 1307 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, EL PRADO • (575) 751-1242

HIGH-ALTITUDE-HEALTH-FITNESS.BUSINESS.SITE

Locals recommend El Monte Sagrado (the sacred mountain) to their friends and families because it has solidified itself as the premier luxury resort in Taos. It features beautifully appointed themed rooms amid an amazingly sculpted property and inspiring views of Taos Mountain.

And it’s just a few blocks from Taos Plaza. El Monte Sagrado also offers numerous services from spa treatments to meetings and weddings.

Visitors can expect a taste of the local, seasonal flavors that make the region unique at De la Tiera restaurant. Or for a more natural setting, dine al fresco in The Gardens. The Anaconda Bar also offers a creative menu and a signature margarita. Voters say guests who visit El Monte Sagrado experience a getaway unlike any other in Taos.

Historic Taos Inn

111 DOÑA ANA DR., TAOS • (575) 758-1980 • TAOSSPA.COM

See the previous entry, Best Gym & Workout Facility, as to why Taos Spa gets the nod from court junkies. There’s also a pickleball court — a paddle sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis.

48

BEST OF TAOS 2019

317 KIT CARSON RD., TAOS • (575) 758-3502 • ELMONTESAGRADO.COM

Taos has no shortage of natural beauty, historic churches and unique venues in which to exchange vows and celebrate with family and friends.

But voters say the most beautiful and romantic of them all is on the grounds at El Monte Sagrado. This “living resort and spa” has a variety of customized and regular wedding packages and a “wedding team” to help make the planning of this special day seamless.

R io Grande Gorge Bridge U.S. HIGHWAY 64 WEST • TAOS.ORG

Best Bank

Centinel Bank MAIN BRANCH: 512 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-6700 MOTOR BANK DRIVE-THRU: 508 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-6788 NORTHSIDE MOTOR BANK DRIVE-THRU: 707 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS (575) 758-6790 • CENTINELBANK.COM

“We believe in the customer, in the business and in the community,” says Centinel Bank’s chairman of the board and CEO Angel Reyes. “I really feel good about knowing that we want to support the underdog.”

Started by the Romero family more than 40 years ago, Centinel Bank is miles apart from its larger “too-big-to-fail” national counterparts.

This community lending institution operates on a kind of closed system, lending only to borrowers in area counties. That, and the fact that Centinel Bank is completely local, are some of the reasons why it is regularly awarded Best Bank by the people.

Nusenda Federal Credit Union 640 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 776-2703

NUSENDA.ORG

Best Bed & Breakfast

Casa Benavides Inn An accommodation trifecta, Casa Benavides is consistently the reader’s choice in this category due the longstanding property’s close proximity to downtown Taos, the homemade breakfast and a choice of 37 distinctively styled rooms decorated with “artistic treasures.” And after a morning of exploring Taos, guests can return for an afternoon tea complete with sweets. At a “bed and breakfast,” the second half of the name is as important as the first. To that end, Casa Benavides prides itself in cooking up a “killer” first meal of the day. Loyal customers come back again and again from Colorado, Texas, Mexico and Albuquerque.

“It’s a family business in the truest sense,” says owner Tom McCarthy who started the inn with his late wife, Barbara Benavides McCarthy, in 1989.

Best Plumber

Phoenix Mechanical 1217 GUSDORF RD., TAOS • (575) 758-3027 • PHOENIXMECHANICAL.NET

Plumbing issues happen and many Taoseños are in agreement that Phoenix Mechanical can handle most any job that any structure requires.

Since 1971, the company has employed technicians licensed in natural gas, electrical, plumbing and sheet metal — all the mechanical systems that keep a building operating for its occupants. They also service hot tubs, septic tanks, radiant floor heating, sprinkler systems … you name it.

SECOND PLACE TIE

Bond Plumbing & Heating 1001 ENERGY DR., TAOS • (575) 751-0060 BOND-PLUMBING-AND-HEATING.BUSINESS.SITE

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

Taos Spa & Tennis Club

El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa

125 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-2233 • TAOSINN.COM

137 KIT CARSON RD., TAOS • (575) 758-1772 • CASABENAVIDES.COM

Best Place to Play Tennis

Best Place to Say “I do”

Best Plumber continued Adobe Plumbing & Heating

Thank You Taos!

229 STATE ROAD 230, TAOS • (575) 751-7171 • FIND ON FACEBOOK

Best Chimney Sweep

Bailey's Chimney Cleaning & Repair 1470 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, UNIT 2, EL PRADO • (575) 770-7769 • BAILEYSCHIMNEY.COM

The staff at Bailey’s professionally handles interactions with insurance companies, creation of online slide shows and proposals, sales, service and installations. Because of the knowledge required, the necessary physical abilities and the technological knowhow it takes, techs at Bailey’s are a special breed.

Terry's Chimney Service 314D PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-1825 • TERRYSCHIMNEY.COM

Best Auto Repair Shop

Metric Motors 1314 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 613-4395 • METRICMOTORSTAOS.COM

Dang those Taos potholes and that ever-turning mileage counter. Everyone dreads car trouble, but whether you drive a foreign or domestic-made vehicle, Metric Motors’ certified techs can fix it and fix it right. They also work on diesels. And along with being Taos’ only “green” auto repair shop, Taos has chosen Metric Motors No. 1 for many years in a row.

That’s saying something.

Taos Offroad & Performance 1010 DEA LANE • (575) 758-7144

Voted Best Local Rock Shop

Taos GemS and Minerals 637 Paseo del Pueblo Sur - Taos (575) 758-3910

THANK YOU TAOS for Voting Me Best Jazz Performer

Special Thank you to Larry Audette and Dan Lizdas for incredible music, thanks Mark Geery for holding down the bar, and The Alley Cantina for loving Jazz.

Thank you, Taos for your continuous business!

Best Insurance Company

Wanda Lucero Insurance Agency, State Farm 211 KIT CARSON RD., TAOS • (575) 737-5433 • WANDALUCERO.COM

Business, community, life and a genuine mission of helping others all intertwine for Wanda Lucero and the State Farm insurance agency she has run for the past 17 years. Because of this, the Wanda Lucero Insurance Agency has been named Best of Taos 2019 — marking the 10th year in a row she has been awarded the top spot.

“Although I enjoy most aspects of owning a small business, I absolutely love my profession, my team, my clients, my associates and my community. Being in a position to exchange information with my clients about what their hopes and dreams are and provide assistance with protecting their property, assets and income from what could go wrong while ultimately planning for making things go right is what brings me joy,” Lucero told The Taos News, who began her career in the insurance business 37 years ago. She was featured as a Mover & Shaker in the 20th edition of Taos Woman.

Brown & Brown Insurance 627 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-2244 • BBNM.COM p.50

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

49

Ever the seeker, always the teacher, Larry Torres — Best Educator for 2019 — stands in the entryway to his Seco home, which has been called The Sistine of Seco."

KATHARINE EGLI/TAOS NEWS FILE PHOTO

50

Best of Taos 2 01 9

taosnews.com/best-of-taos

Cid's Food Market 623 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, TAOS • (575) 758-1148

CIDSFOODMARKET.COM

Best Financial Advisor

Billy Knight, Knight Financial Limited

Best Building Contractor

Affordable Adobe ARROYO HONDO • (575) 741-6040, (575) 776-2865

AFFORDABLEADOBE.COM

p.52

Affordable Adobe is all about sustaining traditional building. Proprietor Andy Romero and his two sons, Jose and Andres, use traditional adobe bricks made by hand in the labor-intensive building of exterior-frame and interior walls all while offering competitive prices. They install Thermopane windows, radiant floor heating, basic electricity and plumbing, brai roofs and tongue-and-groove and viga ceilings. The vigas are also made by hand.

115D LA POSTA ROAD, TAOS • (575) 751-3388

KNIGHTFINANCIALLIMITED.COM

When thinking about financial planning and saving, many people are overwhelmed. But Taos believes in the investing advice from Billy Knight who says, “Our community philosophy commits that it isn’t account size that matters, but rather getting started with an account and nurturing a longterm relationship toward achieving one’s goals.”

North Central Regional Transit District (aka The Blue Bus') 1327 N. RIVERSIDE DR., ESPAÑOLA • 866-206-0754 NCRTD.ORG

Car on the fritz? Too cold or rainy for a bicycle commute? Just don’t feel like driving? Based in Española, the North Central Regional Transit District (NCRTD) has been in service for 11 years. It provides fare-free and premium fare-based bus transit connecting communities and pueblos throughout the counties of Los Alamos, Río Arriba, Santa Fe and Taos, as well as the pueblos of Pojoaque, Nambé, Tesuque, San Ildefonso, Santa Clara and Ohkay Owingeh. Further expanding its reach, the signature RTD Blue Buses provide riders with connections to New Mexico Rail Runner, Santa Fe Trails, New Mexico Park and Ride, Los Alamos Atomic City Transit and Red River Miner’s Transit. NCRTD also provides service throughout the town of Taos on the RTD Chile Line.

Taos Ski Valley Airport Shuttle 800-776-1111 • SKITAOS.COM/DISCOVER-TAOS/AIRPORT-SHUTTLE/

Best Customer Service

1103 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE, SUITE 4A, EL PRADO • (575) 737-5772

Best Local Elected Official

Town of Taos Mayor Dan Barrone CITY HALL: 400 CAMINO DE LA PLACITA, TAOS • (575) 751-2000 DBARRONE@TAOSGOV.COM • TAOSGOV.COM

“Dan, Dan, the lumberman” has won the hearts of Taos voters with his signature folksy and gregarious personality since taking office in 2014. Mayor Barrone is a leader within his religious community and is a visible politician who consistently attends all town proclamations.

In 2016, Barrone — alongside family members — started a free pancake breakfast on the Plaza for the Fourth of July as well. It all continues into his second term.

State Representative Roberto ‘Bobby’ Gonzales CAPITOL PHONE: (505) 986-4319 • CAPITOL ROOM: 304A ROBERTO.GONZALES@NMLEGIS.GOV • NMLEGIS.GOV

Best Local Website

taosnews.com THE TAOS NEWS • 226 ALBRIGHT ST., TAOS • (575) 758-2241

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

MAIN BRANCH: 512 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-6700 MOTOR BANK DRIVE-THRU: 508 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS • (575) 758-6788 NORTHSIDE MOTOR BANK DRIVE-THRU: 707 PASEO DEL PUEBLO NORTE,TAOS • (575) 758-6790 • CENTINELBANK.COM

Is it wrong for us to toot our own horn — again? We still think not, because providing timely, accurate and newsworthy information is at the forefront of what we do as professional journalists. At taosnews.com, locals and visitors are just a click away from finding out everything Taos from breaking news, to weather to nightly entertainment. All of our guides and magazines can be found online as well. if you live here, you get it. And even if you don’t live here, you still get it.

“We are a very proud to have such a locally engaged bank in Taos,” proclaimed an online review of Centinel Bank by Elana Lombard. There are many reasons for that (see Best Bank entry), and one of those reasons is the priority of building loyal customer relationships through unequaled personalized service.

TAOS SKI VALLEY • 1 SUTTON PLACE, TAOS SKI VALLEY MAIN SWITCHBOARD: (575) 776-2291

Centinel Bank

taosnews.com/best-of-taos

NORTHERN NEW MEXICO CENTER FOR COSMETIC DENTISTRY 1337A GUSDORF RD., TAOS • (575) 993-5911

KELLIEHARRISDDS.COM

Full-mouth reconstruction is Dr. Kellie Harris’ passion, but general dentistry is what goes on day in and day out at the airy, well-appointed Gusdorf office. She and her associates (including daughter Dr. Kayci Harris) continue to expand upon a solid, 20-year foundation of compassionate, professional dentistry — all in the name of making Northern New Mexico Center for Cosmetic Dentistry the office of choice among Taoseños who need dental care; even the dentist cowards agree.

Taos Dental Group TAOS OFFICE: 1392 WEIMER RD. • (575) 758-8760 • RED RIVER OFFICE:

Paul Sands, Edward Jones

Magee Build

Best Shuttle

Kellie Harris, DDS, FAGD

612 W. MAIN ST. • (575) 754-2300 • TAOSDENTALGROUP.COM

EDWARDJONES.COM

TAOS • (575) 741-0456 • MAGEEBUILD.COM

Best Dentist

skitaos.com

Best Doctor

Lucas Schreiber, MD SCHREIBER FAMILY MEDICINE 630 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, SUITE 125, TAOS • (575) 751-7430

SCHREIBERFAMILYMEDICINE.COM

Dr. Lucas Schreiber followed in his beloved late father’s footsteps (Dr. Larry, who won Best Doctor in the first Best of Taos poll and for many subsequent years). He is committed to continuing his father’s legacy. In his own right, Dr. Lucas has cemented himself as one of Taos’ favorite physicians. In 2018, he started his namesake practice, Schreiber Family Medicine. Dr. Lucas is a born and bred Taoseño who is often described by his patients as “compassionate” and “exceptional.”

Jemery Kaufman, MD TAOS MEDICAL GROUP • 1399 WEIMER RD., TAOS • (575) 758-4903 TAOSMEDICALGROUP.COM

Best Educator

Larry Torres ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR CHAIR: LINGUISTICS, FOREIGN AND SIGN LANGUAGES, UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO-TAOS, KLAUER CAMPUS (575) 737-6215, LARTOR@UNM.EDU • TAOS.UNM.EDU

“In the course of his life, Larry Torres has become an esteemed storyteller and keeper of local culture, history and ways of healing.

Torres is a prolific writer, quirky thinker, world traveler, deacon in the Roman Catholic Church, though he’s long held the untitled role of spiritual leader in the folk traditions of Northern New Mexico,” as written by Taos News reporter Cody Hooks for The Taos News’ Tradiciones publication when Torres was selected as an Unsung Hero in 2017.

“But among all of his roles in the Taos community, Torres has established his place as a one-of-a-kind educator, teaching thousands of young people in Taos across over a four-decade career ... Torres has been a teacher across New Mexico.

“National organizations and associations have bestowed numerous teaching awards on Torres throughout the years because he radiates learning, not merely as a profession, but as a calling.

Torres recently retired from teaching. He held his post as a foreign languages professor at the University of New Mexico-Taos for 21 years. Torres won Best Teacher in the first-ever Best of Taos poll years ago when he taught at Taos High School. p.52

Best of Taos 2 01 9

51

TINA LARKIN/TAOS NEWS FILE PHOTO

Salazar Road Veterinary Clinic was voted Best Veterinarian again. That's not only due to the vets being skilled; All of them have pets in their lives. They rescue animals, they place and foster shelter animals, and nurse them back to health in their own homes.

Best Veterinarian

Dr. Lillian Torrez TAOS MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT 575) 758-5202 SUPERINTENDENT@TAOSSCHOOLS.ORG TAOSSCHOOLS.ORG

52

BEST OF TAOS 2019

Salazar Road Veterinary Clinic

Community Against Violence

1025 SALAZAR RD., TAOS • (575) 758-9115 • SALAZARROADVETCLINIC.COM

945 SALAZAR RD., TAOS • 24-HOUR HOT LINE: (575) 758-9888 (COLLECT CALLS ACCEPTED) • OFFICE: (575) 758-8082 • INFO@TAOSCAV.ORG TAOSCAV.ORG

Pet owners from every neighborhood will tell you that Drs. Trisha Albin, Kim Sides, Olivia Love and Kim Herndon are excellent vets, very skilled surgeons, extremely personable, passionate and compassionate about your pet’s well-being. They all have their own pets in their lives. They rescue animals, they place and foster shelter animals, and nurse them back to health in their own homes. That’s commitment. That’s love.

Taos Veterinary Clinic, P.C. 41 STATE ROAD 522 NORTH, EL PRADO • (575) 758-7310 • TAOSVETCLINIC.COM

Community Against Violence (CAV) has been providing services for children and families affected by domestic and sexual violence in Taos County since 1978. CAV has won this category many times; the staff’s dedication to their mission and help in the community is appreciated by Taoseños. CAV’s expansive array of services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence include advocacy and case management services; crisis intervention and safety planning; counseling and support groups; parenting classes; Batterer’s Intervention Programs; and prevention and educational programs for the community.

*WINNERS LISTED FIRST AND SECOND, RESPECTIVELY

Best Educator continued

Best Local Nonprofit

Gracias Taos!

!

Thank You

For Recognizing Us as a Best Annual Event in Taos!

Join Us July 19-21, 2019

want a tattoo by an experienced and talented

Photo by Sean Kelly Portraits, Taos, NM www.seankellyportraits.com

COURTESY TAOS TATTOO & BODY PIERCING GALLERY

When Taoseños and folks just passing through

Taos Fiesta Council, Inc.

www.fiestasdetaos.com

artist, they go to Taos Tattoo & Body Piercing Gallery. The shop has won first place for Best Tattoo Parlor since 2014.

LOCAL BANKING for the community we call home.

Best Local Nonprofit continued Stray Hearts Animal Shelter 1200 ST. FRANCIS LANE, TAOS • (575) 758-2981 • INFO@STRAYHEARTS.ORG • STRAYHEARTS.ORG

Best Civic Organization

Taos Milagro Rotary Club INFO@TAOSROTARY.ORG • TAOSROTARY.ORG

“Service above self” is the motto of this many-times-awarded organization. Literacy and education are a big part of Rotary International and a major focus of what the local club does in Taos and nearby communities. With a common goal to make life better for those around them, the approximately 50 TMR members and other volunteers give their time to read to kids in kindergarten through third grade who are reading below their grade levels. They also raise funds for and hand out four-year, unrestricted college scholarships to area seniors; created and supply free library boxes; distribute dictionaries to third-graders throughout the county; and contribute to international projects in underserved countries. Meetings are held every Wednesday, 7:a.m., at the Hotel Don Fernando de Taos.

Photo Credit: Kathryn A. Hayden/Chick with Clicks

THANK YOU TAOS for voting us best bank & best customer service!

Taos' community bank, since 1969 - Founded Here. Focused Here.

Taos Lions Club PRESIDENT CINDY ATKINS, (210) 288-9336 • CATKINS58@GMAIL.COM • TAOSLIONS.ORG

512 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571 (575) 758-6700 www.centinelbank.com

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

53

Beyond the bones, behind the business Blue Sky Pet and Feed, one of ‘the little places’

By Dawn Franco / Photos by Morgan Timms

It isn't just a great inventory of food and supplies for our domesticated pets that can be found at Blue Sky Pet and Feed Supply. During the spring, baby chicks are available.

54

BEST OF TAOS 2019

BLUE SKY PET AND FEED SUPPLY OWNER ANN ROMERO CRADLES A CHICK. THE BUSINESS HAS GROWN ITS CUSTOMER BASE SINCE OPENING DECEMBER 2011. 'WE HAVE REGULARS AND WE GET NEW CUSTOMERS DAILY,' SAID ROMERO. 'MOSTLY, I APPRECIATE THE PEOPLE THAT COME IN HERE AND SHOP WITH US, AND KEEP US GOING AND LIKE TO SHOP AT THE LITTLE PLACES.'

Squeaking, flying pigs, cotton pterodactyls, mealworms, bridles and pillows are just a few of the menagerie you can find at Blue Sky Pet and Feed Supply. For the fourth year in a row, the shop has won Best of Taos for Best Place to Buy Pet Supplies.

Upon entering the business, the south wall appears like an old saloon complete with wood paneling, riding saddles and helmets hung upon the walls. The far right wall has a metallic brooder full of gray, brown and gold baby chicks. Often in place of the chicks are shelter kitties housed in a tall cage looking for homes, mewing at customers. Behind the counter there may be a 10-year-old border collie-, sheltie-mixed canine named Chick keeping owner Ann Romero company during store hours. Walking farther into the store there are buckets of dog chews, shelves full of ingredientspecific food for chickens, goats, horses, cattle, dogs and cats.

There is a DIY dog wash, designer dog bowls, hamster wheels, kennels, cat trees, animal medical supplies and shampoos.

Alongside Romero are employees Melissa Winters and Jaime Ortiz who operate the store six days a week providing Taoseños needed products for their furry, hoofed, meowing and feathered friends since it first opened in December 2011.

THANKS TAOS FOR THE VOTE OF BEST VETERINARIAN! SALAZAR ROAD VETERINARY CLINIC

DR. KIM SIDES • DR. TRISHA ALBIN • DR. KIM HERNDON DR. HOLLY JOHNSON • DR. OLIVIA LOVE

758-9115 • 1025 Salazar Rd. Taos, NM 87571

“First I thought I wanted to do strictly horses, not with the business, but with my life and I realized here it’s hard to make a living doing that year-round. So I wanted to do my own thing,” said Romero who went on to open Blue Sky Pet and Feed Supply.

Romero has been riding since she was 9 years old. She received a degree in equine studies from Southern Virginia College. She’s shown horses and started with English riding in the Eastern part of the state. Then transitioned to Western riding. She’s won ribbons and buckles in competition back East and in Santa Fe. Romero has previously worked with a veterinarian office and understands dietary needs as well as dieting restrictions. She is currently a mother to a 6-year-old son, dogs, cats and horses. “That’s all right now,” she chuckled.

Voted Best Patio 2019

Blue Sky utilizes several distributors and can custom order a variety of products for their customers as well. The only rule, it must be natural.

“I carry natural [products]. There’s no corn, no wheat, no soy, no byproducts, no artificial preservatives,” said Romero.

Romero passes her knowledge onto the employees, a vital source that has helped Blue Sky win Best of Taos yet again.

“I go over the foods with the employees — ingredients in the food, the important ingredients, people might be looking for,” she explained.

Romero trains her staff to create conversations with the clientele to figure out what their needs are. p.56 103 EAST PLAZA, TAOS Open daily at 11am 575.758.8866

thegorgebarandgrill.com

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

55

ONE OF THE FOUR CATS THAT CALL BLUE SKY PET & FEED SUPPLY HOME PICKS A GOOD SPOT FOR HUMAN-WATCHING.

For the fourth year in a row, Blue Sky Pet and Feed Supply has won Best of Taos for Best Place to Buy Pet Supplies.

“Specific questions we should ask our customers:

HOW OLD IS THEIR PET? WHAT KIND OF PET? ARE THEY YOUNG? ARE THEY ACTIVE? DO THEY HAVE ANY SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS?

That way, we can direct them to something product wise,” said Romero.

“We try to have something for everybody.”

“I like to shop here because of the wonderful variety of puppy and dog foods, and toys, chews, and very high level of knowledge of the staff,” said customer Lisa Goffman.

“Since our puppy has been a little baby the staff has helped us out a lot making safe and healthy choices for him,” Goffman added. “The staff was super helpful for picking out age-appropriate toys and chews and things that would not harm him that he could really enjoy.”

Bento, Goffman’s four-legged companion, has been frequenting the shop since he was 8 weeks old. The Australian shepherd is just one of many furry customers one can encounter in the shop.

The shop also has four cats that live permanently in the south office and roam the store on the weekend. Blue Sky also frequently works with Stray Hearts Animal Shelter hosting kittens available for adoption and adopt-a-thons.

Like many businesses, Blue Sky has had its obstacles and highlights. The most difficult thing for Romero was finding good employees who could approach clients with the right personality for discussing pet needs. As for the highlights, Romero humorously suggested winning Best of Taos and more seriously suggested the support of the community.

“We keep growing every year and people still keep coming here,” said Romero. “We have regulars and we get new customers daily. Mostly, I appreciate the people that come in here and shop with us, and keep us going and like to shop at the little places.”

56

BEST OF TAOS 2019

Blue Sky Pet and Feed Supply 214 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR, TAOS OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY, 9 A.M.-5:30 P.M.; AND SATURDAY A.M.-4 P.M. BLUESKYPET@YAHOO.COM

SIMPLY THE

BEST!

TOMASITA RAMIREZ won the $500 Cid’s Grocery Giveaway after completing 100% of the 2019 survey. She’s pictured here

THE TAOS NEWS

with Cid Backer, of Cid’s Food Market. A special thanks to our more than 2700 folks who took the time to vote in this year’s Best of Taos.

TAOSNEWS.COM/BEST-OF-TAOS

57

WE ASKED, YOU ANSWERED

by Staci Matlock

What ‘s another word for Taos?

It’s super hard to think of just one word to describe Taos.

Like the people who live here, the landscape and the ambience are eclectic, different almost every day.

The answers to this question from voters ranged from

steep to entrapment. Other words that popped up in a word cloud were enchanted, quirky, weird and love.

But the word that popped up most frequently – and the one we think is right on – is home.

58

BEST OF TAOS 2019

2019 BEST OF TAOS Best Burger

11 Years Running!

Thanks for your Vote and See You Soon!

575.758.8484 5starburgers.com 1032 Paseo del Pueblo Sur

Best Happy Hour 6 Years Running!

Craft Drafts - 3.00 • Wine - 3.50 • Burger and Pork Sliders - 1.65 Lobster Slider - 3.50 • Snacks - 1.25 to 3.50

BEST PLACE TO HIT THE

.COM

SUNDAY THRU THURSDAY 8–1AM, OPEN TILL 2AM FRIDAY & SATURDAY