That’s what the locals call it…. It’s really spelled TLAQUEPAQUE and pronounced tuh-lah-keh-pah-keh. Tlaquepaque is a word from Native Indian language that means “best of everything.” Tlaquepaque was built by Abe Miller and fashioned after a Mexican city on the outskirts of Guadalajara.
This large arts and crafts village was our first stop in Sedona. Filled with stores and restaurants, this is a can’t miss if you are headed to Sedona for the first time. Unique stores line both the North and South side of the main road in Sedona. Stores are filled with anything from clothing to jewelry to home decor, crafts and everything in between, there is something for everyone. Most stores are a bit pricey, so you may want to go elsewhere to pick up a souvenir for the kids, but if you’re looking for a special gift or treat for yourself, I’m sure you’ll find it here.
Durning our trip, Daniel and I were able to visit two of the restaurants in Tlaquepaque. Our first day in Sedona we had lunch at the Oak Creek Brewery & Grill. This restaurant has a beautiful setting with indoor/outdoor seating and some of the best wood fire grilled food around. Their world class microbrewery is on site and produces award winning beers (try the sampler!!)
Our last day in Sedona we had Lunch at the Spoke and Wheel. This restaurant is inside the Los Abrigados Resort and Spa and has some amazing items on the menu. Daniel and I stuck to the lunch menu, but it was tempting to go back for dinner. Check out the pictures of their steaks below…
Overall our first day in Sedona was great. We had a wonderful time walking in and around the shops of Tlaquepaque. We didn’t purchase anything, but Daniel is still sad that he didn’t buy this leather hat he had his eyes on (think Indiana Jones hat…like we need that)… so maybe I’ll have to order it for him for Christmas.