If you are looking for authentic yet diverse flavor in your cuisine, Albuquerque is the place to be. Foodies from all over come to experience the delicious food that New Mexico has to offer. You can enjoy a balloon festival while experiencing some of the best street food vendors you will have seen, or stop in one of their authentic restaurants. No matter where you decide to eat, you will not be disappointed. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to stop in Albuquerque, no worries. Here are a few of my personal favorites to stop by when in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The Cellar
There is just something about sharing delicious tapas with your favorite cocktail while visiting NEw Mexico. The Cellar is known for its incredible service, delightful Tapas Frías and calientes, as well as the spectacular ambiance. The homemade, authentic mexican food is the perfect place for gathering with friends. From the exposed brick to the wood accents and mood lighting you will feel like you have just stepped into a Spanish Tavern.
Bistronomy B2B
While B2B typically stands for business to business, here it stands for beers to burgers. This bistro style restaurant offers a great atmosphere as well as exceptional burgers. You may think a burger is too plain for you to eat while exploring, you would be mistaken here. Try out their Guyère and mushroom demi-glaze burger or the Rosa with chile queso. The food is accommodating to everyone as they have an extensive range of veggie burgers and even a quinoa-kale patty.
Los Poblanos
Located inside of the Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm, Los Poblanos offers not only a wonderful atmosphere, but also locally sourced cuisine as well. Enjoy the comforting smells of lavender as the 25 acre farm located outside fills the air. Their farm to table breakfast and dinners will make you want to return for every meal. Enjoy items like mole negro braised lamb sourced from its own local farms and other local farms in the nearby area.
The Grove Cafe & Market
If you are a Breaking Bad fan, this is the place for you to try. This place played a pivotal role in one of their final episodes. Aside from the 5 minutes of fame it received in the show, it is a wonderful place to experience breakfast and lunch. Whether you are in the mood for classic english muffins and poached eggs or something sweet and savory like cupcakes and macarons, this cafe offers it all.
Guava Tree Cafe
Taste a Latin American flavor here at this popular lunch spot. While it only has a few items on the menu, they are all so delicious it will be hard to choose just one to try. The good news is, you don’t have to. From Caribe turkey sandwiches to the guava pollito sandwich, you will love whatever you choose. It brings classic American dishes a little flavor with the Latin spice.
Naruto
Authentic Spanish may be popular in New Mexico, it is not the only authentic restaurant available. Naruto is a delicious ramen restaurant that is absolutely perfect for those chilly nights. Located just across from the University of New Mexico, this restaurant offers traditional style Ramen as well as Hakata-style ramen. This ramen offers eggless noodles for those who may be vegan. Choose from pork, chicken, beef and much more to add to your delicious bowl.
Restaurant Antiquity
If you are looking for a romantic date night, look no further. This fine dining restaurant is both classic and timeless. This intimate dining experience has a large menu that focuses on steaks, seafood and several other meats. Make sure one of you try the beef tenderloin or the Henry IV filet mignon wrapped in bacon and topped with artichoke heart and bernaise sauce, you will not be disappointed. This restaurant features cozy booths and tables that will make you feel like you and your significant other are the only ones in the room.
Mary & Tito’s Cafe
Locally owned and operated since 1963, Mary & Tito’s offers a “New Mexican” style of dishes that combines authentic Meican dishes as well as American styles and flavors. ENjoy the Carne Adovada, pork marinated in a red chile blend, or the stuffed sopapillas, or puffy deep-fried dough pockets. Mary & Tito’s Cafe earned an American’s Classics Award from the James Beard Foundation in 2010 and as soon as you step in there you will understand why. This is truly a one of a kind Southwestern dining experience.
No matter where you choose to dine while in Albuquerque, I am certain you will love it. Experience the bold flavors, authentic food and of course a wonderful time. Learn all about the history and the culture of the area through food. Each restaurant tells a story of the past, present, and future. I hope you love these restaurants, and please let me know if you tried any of them and what your favorite things about it were.
