I would have been satisfied with reheated pizza and a beer on our patio overlooking the Red Rocks.  She, on the other hand, had something more intimate, charming, and...expensive in mind.  After 20 years of marriage, I knew better than to suggest my idea.

We chose RENÉ at Tlaquepaque because it has a reputation as a fine dining establishment.  We weren't disappointed.

RENÉ at Tlaquepaque

Opened in 1977, RENÉ is nestled in a small tree lined Mexican style courtyard in Sedona's Tlaquepaque shopping village. The yellow and blue Mexican style tiles in the courtyard flow seamlessly into RENÉ's outdoor eating area.  Small, candle lit, wrought iron tables draped in white tablecloths sit on RENÉ's beautiful brick tiled patio. Inside chandeliers provide an intimate dinner glow.

We were seated by the friendly manager and owner, Deborah Leatherwood, at a corner outdoor table overlooking the courtyard.  Calming native flutes played in the background performed by Vibhas Kendzia: Flute, Sax & Piano from inside.

Vibhas Kendzia

Although the dress style is casual, the atmosphere at RENÉ is definitely upscale and elegant.  RENÉ isn't the place to grab a quick bite.  Its entrees generally range from $25-$30, and its RENÉ Signature dish, Colorado Rack of Lamb, cost $41.95 for one and $77.95 for two.  My wife ordered the Signature dish which featured four French cut lamb chop medallions with chutney and mint that she loved.

Being French, the dinner menu is sprinkled with traditional French fare like "Escargot de Chamberlain," "Chilled Vichyssoise," "The Best Baked French Onion Soup," and "Sauté Brie" appetizers.  The entrees consist of a wide range of fish, meat, and pasta dishes with venison, tofu, and duck for the adventurous.

Inside RENÉ