Sena Plaza — Attraction in Santa Fe

Sena Plaza is a perfect illustration in the traditional Spanish-style Plazas (aka Market Place) of the Mexican 17th and 18th centuries. One is walking through the past in the present. The beginnings of this Plaza date back to its purchase by Don Juan Sena in 1796 and eventually became what it is over a few years. When you walk the shops and businesses here you are enthralled by the mix of architecture which follows an odd but modest trek from Victorian Territorial to Pueblo Revival, but you know and feel you’re in the Southwest. Its enclosed square layout allowed the open and expansive patio or courtyard within in the very Spanish styles with trees, shrubs, fountains and walkways yet the rustic and western feel so prevalent throughout the city and surrounds. The forefathers of the area knew how to create shaded areas from the intense southwester sun yet keep within the comforts for enjoying life, via second story living quarters, verandas and shading canopies. Although this may be one of the lesser known of frequented plazas in old town it remains demonstrative of a way of life way back when no air...

This is the location of The Shed Restaurant. I rarely eat here even though they offer Northern New Mexico cuisine. The reason is that this is a tourist trap. Furthermore they're Chile is so hot as to render one ill after eating a meal. New Mexico cuisine which uses green and red chili peppers in sauces is not meant to be so hot as to make people ill. This is not funny I have witnessed people who have suffered after eating in this restaurant. It's a very popular and successful restaurant in spite of what I have offered here. Proceed at...

This is the courtyard outside of Casa Sena restaurant. It's a pretty neat courtyard, a little bigger than the one outside of The Shed. Be sure to pop in if you are sightseeing. Very historic buildings representative of early Santa Fe style. Casa Sena is pretty good food and nice environment but service is spotty. Also a...