Albuquerque Restaurants

The residents of Albuquerque love to eat out, as the nearly 2,000 restaurants scattered across the city can testify. Although the highlight is undoubtedly the delicious New Mexican cuisine, you can also find plenty of ethnic food and some of the country’s best steak houses. Many places stay open well into the night, allowing you the option of eating whenever you choose. There are no set dining times in Albuquerque, but waiters do expect a 15 per cent tip.   

Local cuisine

New Mexican cuisine is based on the native ingredients used by the local Indians and Hispanics for centuries: chili, beans, corn and tortillas. Although similar in style, it’s not quite the same as traditional Mexican food. Most would argue that it’s much better thanks to the abundance of amazing green chilies which are grown across the southern part of the state. Local cuisine can be found all over the city, from tiny roadside dives to fancy linen table-clothed restaurants.

Don’t be afraid to try the ubiquitous green and red chili sauces, which cover many traditional dishes. It may be spicy, but most restaurants can serve it mild, medium or hot. Tamales stuffed with pork and steamed in corn husks are delicious, as are the classic enchiladas, chimichangas, burritos and tacos. If you can, try a chili relleno, a large green chili stuffed with cheese and batter-fried. Alongside every New Mexican main course, you will find beans, rice and posole - which is a kind of soup. 

Where to eat

Most of the city’s best restaurants can be found in Nob Hill, Old Town and the downtown district. As with all large American cities, the place is awash with bland chain restaurants and fast-food joints. If you want to experience a traditional American dining ritual, then you’ll have plenty of choices. But it’s much better to seek out local establishments, where you’ll find the ambiance and quality that New Mexican food deserves.

Don’t hesitate to try one of the smaller take-out style places which serve New Mexican food. They may look unremarkable and even a bit dilapidated, but they often make some of the best food at the cheapest prices. They’re also usually open late, particularly around the university, Nob Hill and Old Town. For a really special experience, take the Sandia Tram in the evening to the top of the mountain and enjoy a sunset dinner overlooking the city and the Rio Grande Valley.