FLAGSTAFF, AZ ~ June 9, 2007

For the most part we’ve been bypassing Flagstaff on our Route 66 trips lately, but this time it was our destination. Jon had a birthday postcard for $5 off any book at Bookmans, so that was our first stop. Then we looked around the downtown area for a while, went into Peace Surplus, and got to see a few trains passing through. I would have stopped at the Flagstaff Visitor Center next to the tracks, but the parking lot was full. Actually, the whole downtown area was crowded and congested. I realize that Flagstaff is not the small town that it used to be, but personally I think it’s grown too much for its own good. Despite the presence of historic museums and old buildings, Flagstaff has gotten away from its Western roots and has become a typical liberal college town. We might as well have been in downtown Tempe!

Anyway, we decided to drive east on Old Route 66. Originally I was looking for something like a Route 66-style diner (and we did drive past the classic Museum Club restaurant), but we decided to eat at the Salsa Brava Fresh Mexican Grill (2220 East Route 66). We got there at 5:00 and soon after that it got pretty busy, mostly families like us with children. The prices were quite reasonable and they offer a wide selection of appetizers, salads, fajitas, enchiladas, traditional plates, house specialties, breakfasts, desserts, and a children’s menu. Along with the bowl of chips, they give each person a little cup to bring up to the salsa bar. This way everyone can choose their own salsa according to their personal taste. We sat right across from a wall covered with award plaques for “Best Mexican Food,” “Best Salsa,” and more. The food was indeed fresh, healthy, and delicious, while the service was friendly and fast. We too would rate this restaurant as excellent!