Albuquerque the Magazine, June 2024

Whether your wallet is light or you just appreciate the cheaper things in life, we’ve got you covered. This issue of ATM is packed with tons of cheap eats for your thrifty pleasure—Chili Cheese Fries, Spring Rolls, Banh Mi oh my! We have assembled some of our favorites from all around town in this Cheap Eats feature sure to have you going back for seconds.

By Clarke Condé | Photos By Don James

Sensational speakeasies, the scoop on a Westside parking spot and seven (cheap) places to rock out with your dad this Father’s Day.

Attorney Lisa Curtis hates bullies but loves the law, especially when she gets the win for the clients that inspire her to do the work she was born to do.

Liz Sanchez of Los Ranchos’ Liz Sanchez Stables knows about horses, highways and hard work, though not necessarily in that order.

We catch up with local Native guitarist Levi Platero and chat about his new album and his road to stardom.

DEPARTMENTS

181 Culture

182 Creatives

Painter Anthony Hurd takes queer art and the romance of the West in a new direction that reclaims what was once feared.

184 Storytellers

Stories, three ways. Check out a local novel, blog, and podcast that might just become your new favorite thing.

186 Tiempo

A monthly check-in with longtime Tiempo editor Mel Minter on the new performers—and familiar faces—making waves in ABQ’s thriving local music scene.

189 Dish

190 Eats Review

The East Mountain’s Lantern Ridge Farms is a shining beacon of light that guides the way to a delicious turkey avocado sandwich.

194 Eats, Etc.

The name says it all at the New Mexico Beef Jerky Company; Decades of dedication for the cost-friendly Taco Shel.

196 Spirit Spotlight

What’s green, zesty and only available at Central Bodega? If you said ‘Flubber,’ you’ve got the spirit.

198 A Recipe for Success

Stephanie Jacquez reaches for her family’s tamale recipe to bring students and teacher together to make something to be proud of.

200 Bites

Info-filled nuggets about the city’s restaurants to take with you on the go.

JUNE 2024 Volume 21 Number 2

PHOTO DIRECTOR

Don James don@abqthemag.com

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR

Lise Watkins lise@abqthemag.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Emily Klumpenhower emily@abqthemag.com

DATEBOOK EDITOR

Lori Wilding datebook@abqthemag.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Clarke Condé Tristen Critchfield

Mel Minter

Lisa Ocker

Peter St. Cyr

Stephanie Hainsfurther Aimee Prebola

Adam Clark

Albuquerque The Magazine (ISSN 1936-4350) is published monthly except January by Albuquerque The Media Corporation, 1550 Mercantile Ave. NE, Top Floor, Albuquerque, NM 87107. Periodicals Postage Paid at Albuquerque, NM 87101, and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Albuquerque The Magazine, 1550 Mercantile Ave. NE, Top Floor, Albuquerque, NM 87107.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

We welcome letters to the Editor. You may e-mail yours to editor@abqthemag.com, or submit it directly from our website, or via snail mail.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS

Our editorial calendar is available online at www.abqthemag.com/MediaKit.pdf. No phone calls, please. Unsolicited manuscripts require a SASE.

241 Fun

242 Look Good, Feel Good

Our experts weigh in on best practices while staying active as the temperature gets up there.

244 Local Stuff We Love

Handcrafted hummingbird picks from Scojo’s Gifts and Cards.

246 Shop Talk

Happy gardening and plenty of free advice from Osuna Nursery.

248 Paws Button

PACA pairs pets with people through their fostering program which results in happy pups and forever homes.

251 Amazing Pets

This month’s winners: Bowie, Merlin, Pee Wee and Rhapsody 252

A slow drive down Edith Boulevard in Martineztown brings you the big, blue vision of ‘Southwest Pieta.’

255 Your Best Shot

Francisco Salgado’s take on a moment in time from this year’s Gathering of Nations.

JUNE 2024 Volume 21 Number 2

PUBLISHER

Larryl Lynch larryl@abqthemag.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Gena Goodson gena@abqthemag.com

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Philip Kjelland philip@abqthemag.com

SENIOR ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

Megan Life megan@abqthemag.com

PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Bill Stanage bill@abqthemag.com

PUBLISHING COORDINATOR

Jake Handler jake@abqthemag.com

PUBLISHING ASSISTANT

Allie Doty allie@abqthemag.com

BUSINESS OFFICE business@abqthemag.com

INTERN

Addie Siembieda

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER EMERITUS Scott Davis (1966–2004)

SUBSCRIBE!

Which would you pick as your dinner choice tonight: a steak that costs you $50, or a hot dog that costs you 50 cents? Yes, it probably depends on things like your mood or hunger level, but cost is certainly a valid factor.

In fact, it’s fairly easy to argue that the less you have to pay for food, the tastier it becomes, am I right? And that’s the basis for this month’s cover story on “Cheap Eats,” which kicks off on page 94.

We crisscrossed ABQ, checking out menus and spending hundreds of dollars (okay, tens of dollars) trying out budget-friendly dishes and bites. The result is a list of 15 amazingbang-for-the-buck local eats.

And it wasn’t just about the price; these goodies also represent taste and quality, like the huge bánh mí sandwiches made with baked-in-house baguettes from Coda Bakery; or the fresh-fried chips and slow-cooked beef used to create the wonderfully layered nacho plate at Tenpins & More, a bowling alley in Rio Rancho. (Both of those ‘Eats’ are under $10, and enough to satisfy two people!)

Speaking of food, we tracked down the longtime local food blogger behind Gil’s Thrilling (and Filling) Blog, a wonderfully good-hearted gentleman by the name of Gil Garduño. And while ATM just celebrated its 20th birthday, our magazine is just a pup compared to GTFB, which Garduño launched 27 years (and 1,300+ restaurant reviews) ago.

You can find out what led Garduño to take on his self-appointed role as ABQ’s record-keeper on restaurants in our new section, Storytellers, on page 184. Through our first two decades of publication, we brought readers a monthly take on new books by ABQ writers, or new books on ABQ subjects— and we’ll continue to do so.

But today’s media landscape includes voices from plenty of other mediums. So, starting with this issue, we’re expanding our reach to include locally-based blogs, podcasts, websites,

web channels, and more. We’re excited to devote some oldschool ink & paper to these digital forms of, well, storytelling. Pass the word.

June is Pride Month, a celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender pride. So, we thought it was a great time to celebrate the art of ABQ artist Anthony Hurd, whose majestic and colorful paintings are a stark mash-up of gay cowboys and the rugged Southwest. Check out the inspiration and process behind his artwork in our Creatives column on page 182.

Also, we put a spotlight on the good works of the New Mexico People’s Anti-Cruelty Association, an animal rescue organization that works year-round to find not only permanent homes via adoption for our city’s cats and dogs, but also foster families who can provide care until these furry friends can be placed with loving new families. Turn to page 248 for the full story.

We hope you enjoy this issue of ATM; we’re already working on the next one for you!

Sincerely,

ALL ABOARD FOR CRAFT COCKTAILS

We’ve found a three (and a half) hour tour that won’t end in a shipwreck. This guided trolly tour of Albuquerque’s finest speakeasies is a safe, private Saturday afternoon adventure where your voyage brings you to four spots before they are even open for the night. (p. 30).

THE PASSWORD!

If you’re up for a cool ABQ experience that mixes fun history, a trolley ride, and a cocktail or two, then here’s a check-mark for your to-do list: a Speakeasy Tour. Brought to you by the folks who launched and operate the ABQ Trolley Co., the tours kicked off earlier this year, taking advantage of the growing trend of speakeasy bars in the city. “It gives you the ability to experience these speakeasies before they open for the night,” says Jesse Herron, co-founder of TourABQ. “They get personal attention from the bartenders, who explain the history of these locations. It’s a fun afternoon of drinking, and we provide safe transportation with the trolley.” Like the Sandia Tram ride, a trip aboard the ABQ Trolley isn’t just for tourists—Herron reports that locals are buying just as many Speakeasy Tour tickets as visitors. “People care about these new bars in Albuquerque, and it’s also fun to experience them as a group,” says Herron, who, along with his ABQ Trolley Co. business partner Mike Silva, has 20 years of experience in the ABQ tourism industry. The tours include stops at four speakeasies in Nob Hill and Downtown, and guests purchase their own cocktails (some stops include complimentary food). As of press time, there is only one tour offered each week, on Saturdays from 2-5:30 p.m. —Robbie Saginowski

SPEAKEASY STOPS

Z LOUNGE AT HOTEL ZAZZ

TEDDY ROE’S FAT FRANK’S FOUNDERS SPEAKEASY

COST: $66

TOUR LENGTH: 3-1/2 HOURS

INFO: TOURABQ.COM

TAPAS

IF YOUR POSTS OF ABQ ARE AWESOME ENOUGH TO PRINT, TAG THEM!

ABQ YOUR SERVICE @

HELEN JULIET ATKINS

HARWOOD ART CENTER

Helen Juliet Atkins has wide-ranging titles at Harwood Art Center - associate director of opportunity and co-curator of the gallery program – but she sees her jobs as one whole cloth. “I started here as an apprentice at age 18,” she says. “I worked through a lot of the programs Harwood offers. I even got married here!” Her position allows her to create experiences for other artists like solo and group exhibits over five galleries. Totally immersed in art and its promotion, she lives a life anchored by her work. This summer, Atkins looks forward to being the lead artist for the summer apprentice program.

ark It HERE MARIPOSA BASIN PARK

Visitors to Mariposa Basin Park in the Taylor Ranch neighborhood learn when they arrive that the park is first and foremost the home of Petroglyph Little League. The sign at the entrance is the first clue, but it’s hard to miss the mass of kids ages four to 16 that can be found practicing and playing throughout the warmer months on the five baseball diamonds within the park. With batting cages and concessions in the mix, it’s the Westside spot for the boys and girls of summer to play, with plenty of room for families to watch from the tree-shaded stands. A basketball and volleyball court is also in high demand in the park by those looking to

start a pickup game.

For the visitor not there to play ball, Mariposa Basin offers an easy one-mile loop walking trail that encircles the park. Add to that playgrounds, duck ponds, picnic pavilions and an open space suitable for flying a kite or just laying in the grass and you’ve got the makings of a fine afternoon in the park. Mariposa Basin Park also sports a horseshoe pit, a rarity among Albuquerque’s City parks. Bring your own horseshoes if you’ve got them.

TAYLOR RANCH ROAD & KACHINA NW

4900 KACHINA STREET NW

Peyton Montoya

AGE: 10 SCHOOL: VENTANA RANCH

ELEMENTARY GRADE: 4TH

TOTALLY INTO: HARRY POTTER, ANIMALS, MINECRAFT, READING, KIDS COOKING SHOWS NOT A FAN OF: PEAS

Peyton is a young entrepreneur who was born with a genetic hearing loss and wears colorful hearing aids. She is fluent in American Sign Language which she learned from her grandmother who is deaf. Peyton is also trying to pick up a little Spanish from her dad and other grandmother.

Peyton is spirited and full of energy, making friends wherever she goes. She has traveled many times with her grandmother since she was four years old, even all the way to Hawaii! Peyton has found pen pals everywhere she travels. She loves writing and is in the Gifted program in creative writing and reading at school, even writing stories with her spelling words.

Peyton wants to start a nonprofit to help feed the hungry by earning money doing chores. She is a loving big sister to her brother Logan and an amazing daughter to her parents. She loves music and dance, and can easily remember lyrics and moves to any song despite her hearing loss. Peyton is a force to be reckoned with!

TIP

Voting posters are available for free at our office. Digital voting images are downloadable on our social media pages.

BEST OF THE CITY AN INSIDERS GUIDE TO

2024 Best Of The City voting ends Aug 1st! With this being our 20th year doing these awards, we figured it was about time to answer some of the frequently-asked questions about the process, plus dispel a few rumors, and give a tip or two to voters and hopefuls.

TIP

Best Of The City Voting runs from May 1st through August 1st every year. Mark your calendars.

FACT

The annual “Best Of The City” Party showcases those who were voted among the Top 5 in their category. Join us for this year’s party on Dec. 7 at Revel ABQ!

lol lol

ATM JOKES

Q: What’s the difference between May and June?

Q: Why do pirates hate May, June, July, and August?

A: Every single letter.

A: Because they don’t have Arrrrrrs in them.

(Cheap) Spots to Take Dad on Father’s Day

Appreciating Dad on Father’s Day doesn’t have to be a spendy time. This year, skip the tie and take Dad someplace he might enjoy. We’ve found seven Father’s Day spots in the metro that Dad is sure to love:

BIKE IN FOR COFFEE

949 Montoya St NW

Skip the car and make it a Father’s Day two-wheel outing for Dad with a bike trip to Bike in Coffee just west of Old Town. They’ll have food specials, live music and a relaxed atmosphere from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

COST: A CUP OF COFFEE

GO FISHING AT TINGLEY BEACH

1800 Tingley Dr SW

While away your Father’s Day by taking Dad fishing at the well-stocked ponds at Tingley Beach. Better yet, have Dad take you fishing at the children’s pond set up just for kids to learn to fish. Kids under 12 don’t even need a fishing license.

COST: FREE

TAKE A HIKE OUT AT THE VOLCANOS

Atrisco Vista Blvd

The volcanos are always out there on the horizon, but when was the last time Dad was? The Volcanoes Day Use Area offers an easy hike and a great view of the city. Just make sure to bring plenty of water and wear a hat.

COST: FREE

PLAY A GAME OF POOL IN MADRID

2846 NM-14 in Madrid

The pool table at the Mine Shaft Tavern is a destination unto itself so why not take Dad out to Madrid for a game this Father’s Day? It’s a short drive, but a great chance for a little time away from the city with Dad.

COST: $1 PER GAME

RELAX TO MUSIC IN THE OPEN SPACE

15600 Central Ave SE

Catching the setting sun outside with Dad while listening to live music at the Tijeras BioZone Education Center Open Space is a fine way to wrap up Father’s Day. Bring a blanket and a picnic basket or get Dad a little something from the food trucks on hand.

COST: FREE

LEAVE DAD IN THE HAMMOCK

Home

While not technically an outing, many Dads could do with a nap, so consider making space for a little downtime on Father’s Day by setting up a spot for a cozy afternoon rest. A hammock, or a favorite spot on the couch, and a little quiet may make for an appreciative Dad.

COST: FREE

PLAY PINBALL AT SISTER BAR

407 Central Ave NW

Is Dad a pinball wizard or does he just think he is? Test Dad’s skills by taking him Downtown to Sister Bar anytime after 11 a.m. on Father’s Day to try out their array of pinball machines. Plus, they have food and drinks that many Dads are known to enjoy.

COST: $1 PER GAME

ABQ Photo Community Meetup

VILLAGE PIZZA

1 2 3 4 5 6

Photographers of all skill levels in the Albuquerque and Rio Rancho photographers’ community met up at Village Pizza on January 16 t0 snap pics of the Sandia Mountains at sunset. They also took the opportunity to discuss new digital tech and trends. Join the monthly meetings yourself via MeetUp. The community group is open to anyone, with any level of photography experience.

1. Manish Shirlay, Wendy Ward, Paul Burrin

2. Bryan Raymond, Mary Spilman

3. Madison Perla, Virginia Brodie

4. Carolyn Linville, Lorraine Moore

5. Jacob Hecht, Jared Sanchez

6. Larry Stewart, Aven Easley

Chocolate Fantasy Deco & Decadence

SANDIA CASINO

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

The 32nd Annual Chocolate Fantasy Gala was held on February 3rd at Sandia Resort & Casino. The theme was The Roaring Twenties, and fans of chocolate dressed to the nines to help raise money for the New Mexico Museum of Natural History Foundation while sipping champagne and dancing the delicious, magical night away.

1. Susan Olney, Denise Case, Tonya Franchell

2. John Rockwell, Lori Henson

3. Dale Shamblin, Gladys Shamblin

4. Lydia Goldfine, Simon Goldfine

5. LaTonya Jenkins, Chris Jenkins

6. Clair Anderson, Shane Anderson

7. Selena Sanchez, Peter Neidhardt

Cupid’s Carnival Fundraiser for Education

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

The Rio Rancho Education Foundation’s annual gala and Hall of Honor Inductees Award Ceremony was held on February 3 at the Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel. Guests were entertained by the internationally acclaimed Pink Flamingos while enjoying dinner, carnival games, and a puppy petting booth. Proceeds from the fundraiser are distributed to schools in the Rio Rancho District.

1. Juliet Pino, Andy Benson, Collin Schumacher, Steven Osborn

2. Alma Castano, Ezequiel Abeyta

3. Camila Espinosa, Mario Montoya, Jimena Estrada

4. Rocky Vili, Lorraine Vili

5. Joelle Bracken, JT Bracken

6. Renee Cuessy, Alberto Cuessy

7. Gabriela Blake, Jordan Blake

SANTA ANA STAR CASINO

La Cueva High School Baseball Auction

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Sunday, February 4th marked the annual silent auction benefitting the La Cueva High School Baseball organization. The fundraiser helped to raise money that allows for field maintenance, supplies, and gave the Varsity team the opportunity to travel out of state for competition. All three of the La Cueva Baseball teams, and their families participated in the auction, which included tons of great prizes.

1. Chris Reiter, Hannah Reiter, Kate Reiter, Linda Reiter

2. Kris Anciso, Candice Banks

3. Bridget Pineda, Jeff Bentley

4. Lauren Matson, Gary Watkins, Dawn Watkins

5. Carly Qualler, Dave Qualler, Rob Matson

6. Gerard Pineda, Justin Reiter

7. David Blake, Chris Melloy

FACES&PLACES

Souper Bowl ROADRUNNER

FOODBANK

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

On February 3, hundreds of Albuquerque foodies had a blast spending their Saturday morning sampling 40 local restaurant chefs’ “souper” recipes the weekend before the big game, Superbowl LVIII. This fundraising event benefits both Roadrunner Food Bank of ABQ and Food Depot of Santa Fe. Visitors at the sold-out annual event voted for top soups, dessert and booth design.

1. Wendy Beach, John Bartlit, Scott Brown

2. Juan Velasco, Vic Vaquera, Samuel Jaramillo

3. Ashley Gonzales, Jasmine Billings

4. Karla Yniguez, Marie Yniguez, Karen Wine

5. Adeline Kornelus, Kevin Burns, Brian Brown

6. Julio Perez, Jade Cortez

7. TJ Trout, Sonya Warwick

YOUTH PRIDE ART SHOW

FRIDAY 7 | 5–8 PM

The June fundraiser is for CASA Q House, which provides safe living through housing, services, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth and allies. The featured artist is Gwenda McLamb. Info: The Gallery ABQ, Hoffmantown Shopping Center, 8210 Menaul Blvd. NE, (505) 292-9333, abqgallery@gmail.com. Hours are Tuesday–Saturday, 11 am–4 pm.

"FINDING SOLACE," BY GEORGE H. HAYES III

JUNE 2024 Trust us, these are a few ABQ events YOU CAN'T MISS.

DAILY UNTIL OCTOBER 2024

Ticket Sales to the Anderson Abruzzo International Balloon Museum Foundation Views and Fundraisers

During the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Guests will be able to enjoy exquisite dining and superior views of Balloon Fiesta from the comfort of the Balloon Museum.

Attending Balloon Fiesta and adding a VIP element is on a bucket list for many people. The Observation Deck dining experience is accessible and elegant with indoor comforts and breathing space for people who appreciate a less crowded, but very special experience. A portion of the ticket prices are tax deductible and support mission-related operations at the Balloon Museum Foundation. Info: 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE, (505) 452-7208. Tickets available at balloonmuseum.com.

FRIDAY 7 4–7 PM

CERAMICS

SATURDAY 1 | 7:30 PM

The Outsider. A hilarious political farce which makes fun of practically everyone and is sure to keep the viewer wildly entertained. Info: The Adobe Theater, 9813 4th Street NW, (505) 898-9222. Tickets are $15–$24 plus fees and can be purchased at adobetheater.org with $10 tickets on Thursday, June 20th. Additional showings ava ilable.

From Clay and Water. Amapola Gallery’s featured artists exhibition for the month of June joins together Tom Cassidy, watercolorist, and Phil Green, ceramist. Meet these two talented men as clay and water converge at the artists’ reception. Info: Amapola Gallery on the Plaza in Old Town, upstairs, at 205 Romero, NW. Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Call (505) 2424311 or visit amapola. gallery.com.

FRIDAY 7 THROUGH SATURDAY JULY 6

New Mexico Shakespeare Festival. The New Mexico Shakespeare Festival presents two of Shakespeare’s plays every summer at the New Mexico Veterans Memorial. They have a year-round program and maintain a company of actors who perform in classrooms and at senior living sites throughout the year. This summer they present both “Tempest,” directed by Paul Ford, and “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” directed by Micah Linford. Info: Performances at NM Veterans Memorial Park, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE, (505) 349-3526. More information, dates, and times at nmshakes.org. Email at info@nmshakes.org. Free.

ISLAND VIBES

FRIDAY 7 | 6–8:30 PM

Gallery with a Cause/New Mexico Cancer Center. Special fundraiser for “On the Rise: Works by Artists in Early and Mid-Career,” featuring 360 works by 17 emerging and blossoming artists worth watching, exhibited through August 23rd. Forty percent of sales go to patients’ nonmedical needs during their battle with life-changing illness. Info: New Mexico Cancer Center, 4901 Lang Ave. NE. Gallery visits by appointment only; please contact regina@artfullivingstyle.com or (505) 803-3345, gallerywithacause.org.

SATURDAY 1 | 12–6 PM

Caribbean Celebration. Join New Mexico Entertainment Magazine and Corrie Griffith of Big Happy Productions as they present the Caribbean Celebration in honor of Caribbean-American Heritage Month. The event features cuisine, music, clothing, and more with performances and music by Vibestrong, Quico de Castro, Buddahfunk, La Ruda, Ernesto, and DeeCee. Info: Manzano Mesa Park, 501 Elizabeth Street SE. Visit nmentertains.com for more information. Free.

PAINTING

SATURDAY 8 | 1–3 PM

Upon Further Reflection. Wild Hearts Gallery presents this reception for Colleeen Gregoire’s painting exhibit running June 1 through June 23. Wild Hearts Gallery is an artistis’ collective of 15 local artists. Info: Homestead Village, Highway 165, Placitas, (505) 361-2710. Virtual tour at wildheartsgallery.com.

SATURDAY 15 9–11 AM

Rio Grande Valley Blue Star Mothers Care Box Packing Event. Public participation is welcomed. Please join us as we pack 300 care boxes to be shipped to deployed United States Service Members. Info: 2919 Second Street NW.

SUNDAY 16 | 10:30 AM

Chatter Sunday. Enjoy Lou Harrison’s “La Koro Sutro” for chorus and American Gamelan instruments, plus a poetry reading and free coffee by Ohori’s. As always, your ticket will also include a coffee drink from our espresso bar. Info: Chatter at 912 Third Street NW. Tickets: $17 adults in advance; $20 at-door. $9 students/under-30, $5 under-13 at chatterabq.org.

DATEBOOK

daily until october 2024 | on line

Ticket Sales to the Anderson Abruzzo International Balloon Museum Foundation Views and Fundraisers During the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Guests will be able to enjoy exquisite dining and superior views of Balloon Fiesta from the comfort of the Balloon Museum. Attending Balloon Fiesta and adding a VIP element is on a bucket list for many people. The Observation Deck dining experience is accessible and elegant with indoor comforts and breathing space for people who appreciate a less crowded, but very special experience. A portion of the ticket prices are tax deductible and support mission related operations at the Balloon Museum Foundation. Info: 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE, (505) 452-7208. Tickets available at balloonmuseum.com.

saturday 1 | 12–6 pm

Caribbean Celebration. Join New Mexico Entertainment Magazine and Corrie Griffith of Big Happy Productions as they present the Caribbean Celebration in honor of CaribbeanAmerican Heritage Month. The event features cuisine, music, clothing, and more, with performances and music by Vibestrong, Quico de Castro, Buddahfunk, La Ruda, Ernesto, and DeeCee. Info: Manzano Mesa Park, 501 Elizabeth Street SE. Visit nmentertains.com for more information. Free.

saturday 1 | 6 pm

2024 ABQ Wine Classic Live Auction Dinner with Ramey Wine Cellars. The ABQ Wine Classic is back. Join Keshet for an evening of stunning wines, a delicious gourmet dinner, and live and silent auctions, benefitting Keshet Dance & Center for the Arts. Info: Hotel Andaluz, 125 Second Street NW, $195 per person. For tickets and information visit keshetarts.org/ ABQ-Wine-Classic.

saturday 1 through sunday 16 | 7:30 friday and saturday; 2 pm saturday and sunday

Head Over Heels the Musical. The royal court of Arcadia is threatened by

the mystical Oracle of Delphi with the loss of its “Beat,” the divine power that ensures the kingdom’s prosperity. Music by the Go-Go’s. Info: Albuquerque Little Theatre, 224 San Pasquale Ave. SW, (505) 242-4750. Purchase tickets at albuquerquelittletheatre.org/tickets.

saturday 1 through saturday 22 | 7:30 pm friday and saturday; 2 pm sunday

Kinky Boots. Written by Harvey Fierstein with music by Cindy Lauper, the musical follows Charlie Price who inherits his family’s shoe manufacturing company which is near bankruptcy. An interesting plot ensues. Info: Musical Theater Southwest, 6320 Domingo Road NE, Suite B, (505) 265-9119. Tickets can be purchased at mtsabq.org.

saturday 1 through sunday 23 | 7:30 pm friday and saturday; 2 pm sunday

The Outsider. A hilarious political farce which makes fun of practically everyone and is sure to keep the viewer wildly entertained. Info: The Adobe Theater, 9813 4th Street NW, (505) 898-9222. Tickets are $15–$24 plus fees and can be purchased at adobetheater.org with $10 tickets on Thursday, June 20th.

saturday 1 through sunday

July 7 |

Annual SouthWest Writers Writing Contest. The contest is intended to encourage writers to sharpen their writing skills and produce original, creative works. The winners of the contest may have their work published in an anthology later this year. The contest is open to new and experienced writers across 25 categories in both fiction and nonfiction. Info: For a complete list of types of submissions permitted, see southwestwriters.com/annualwriting-contest/ or call (505) 8306034.

sunday 2 | 10:30 am

Chatter Sunday. A new set of songs by composer Eric Malmquist explores

and celebrates ideas of fatherhood, plus music by Beethoven and Timo Andres. As always, your ticket includes a custom coffee drink from our espresso bar. Info: Chatter at 912 Third Street NW. Pay What You Wish at the door or at chatterabq.org.

sunday 2 | 11 am–2 pm

Old San Ysidro Church Tour. Come see the beauty of the church, led by a Corrales Historical Society docent, and learn the history of this 156-year-old, iconic adobe structure in the Historic Heart of Corrales. Info: 966 Old Church Road, Corrales. Contact Nan Kimball, chsmarketing@corraleshistory.org or visit corraleshistory.org. Free.

sunday 2 | 1 pm

2024 ABQ Wine Classic Ramey Wine Cellars Al Fresco Poolside. The ABQ Wine Classic returns. Join Keshet for an afternoon of incredible wines, yummy food, performance, and gratitude at an incredible private home with views - and a pool - that can’t be beat. $95 per person. Info: For tickets and info, visit keshetarts. org/ABQ-Wine-Classic at a private Sandia Peak home.

monday 3 | 9–11 am

Kid Art – Sculpture for Grades K–2. Kids in Kindergarten through second grade can work with Art Teacher Extraordinaire Katie Baca to make fun and fabulous sculptures with clay. Info: Reserve a spot at thegrooveartspace. com, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 7501713. $50.

monday 3 | 12–3 pm

Kid Art – Sculpture for Grades 3–5. Kids in third through fifth grades can work with Art Teacher Extraordinaire Katie Baca to make fun and fabulous sculptures with clay. Info: Reserve a spot at thegrooveartspace.com, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 750-1713. $50.

monday 3 through friday 14 | 9 am–12 pm and 1–4 pm X Studio Teen Summer Camps with Explora. Lots of options are available from a Bake-off to Blast Off 2.0, a rocketry class, from digital

DATEBOOK

photography to brain games, and from “tiny creatures” to digital “media.” Info: Register online at explora.us/ programs/camps. Also interviewing for Junior Camp Assistants and information about summer balloon camps, summer farm camps, and many other opportunities for summer. Call the Camp Coordinator at (505) 6006734 for further questions. FAQ page on the website. Classes cost $170 for members and $195 for non-members.

tuesday 4 | 10 am

Albuquerque Newcomers. Engage and learn about the club’s varied activities, including wine tastings, games, men’s groups and single’s groups. Membership is open to Albuquerque residents of less than five years or who are experiencing major changes in their lives. Info: Sandia Presbyterian Church (not affiliated with the church), 10704 Paseo del Norte NE, (505) 321-6970 or abqnewcomers@gmail.com.

tuesday 4 | 4:30–5:15 pm

Town & Ranch Production and Distillery Tour. Join a behind-the-scenes tour of our production space, meet the team, and watch our lavender essential oil be transformed into soaps, salves, spirits and more. Closed-toed shoes are required. Info: Town & Ranch, 1318 4th Street NW. For details visit lospoblanos.com/events.

tuesday 4 | 6–8 pm

Tamarind Summer Season in La Quinta Gallery at Los Poblanos. Celebrate the opening of the 2024 Tamarind Summer Season at Los Poblanos. Guests will have the opportunity to view the new exhibit in La Quinta Gallery, featuring works by Henni Alftan, Maja Ruznic, Matthew Shlian, June Wayne, Emmi Whitehorse, and others. Drinks are available for purchase from the Library Bar and light hors d’oeuvres will be provided. Info: La Quinta Gallery, Los Poblanos, 4803 Rio Grande Blvd. NW. On view until August 30, 2024.

wednesday 5 | 1–4 pm

Cold Connection – Jewelry Making with Carol. Do you want to create your own metal jewelry but don’t have the money or space for soldering metal? In this class, you will learn an easy way to put different types of metal (copper/bronze/silver) together with rivets to create several jewelry pieces. Learn to stamp, cut metal into circles, squares, and rectangles, patina, and finish your pieces. Info: Reserve a spot at thegrooveartspace. com, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 7501713. $150.

wednesday 5 | 6–8 pm

Los Poblanos Outdoor Music Series. Enjoy live local music, beautiful New Mexican weather, and creative cocktails from our Rio Grande Valley Rescue Truck. Seating is first-come, first-served. Beverages available for purchase. No pets, outside food, or beverages permitted. Info: Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic

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Farm, 4803 Rio Grande Blvd. NW. For details visit lospoblanos.com/events.

thursday 6 | 11 am–12:30 pm

Literary Luncheon at La Quinta. Our featured speaker will be Mary Berry, Executive Director of the Berry Center, and daughter of Wendall Berry, renowned American novelist, poet, essayist, environmental activist, and farmer. Info: Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, 4803 Rio Grande Blvd. NW. Tickets $65 and includes a three-course lunch. For tickets and details visit lospoblanos. com/events.

thursday 6 | 6:30–8:30 pm

Botanical Drawing with Max. Bring your own paper, pencils, pens, ink, and paints to join others in drawing the details of the natural world. We will provide a wide variety of botanical samples (leaves, seed pods, dried flowers, etc.) for us all to draw. You are also welcome to bring in any other natural objects you might want to sketch and share. Info: Reserve a spot at thegrooveartspace.com, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 750-1713. $15.

friday 7 | 4–7 pm

From Clay and Water. Amapola Gallery’s featured artists exhibition for the month of June joins together Tom Cassidy, watercolorist, and Phil Green, ceramicist. Meet these two talented men as clay and water converge at the artists’ reception. Info: Amapola Gallery on the Plaza in Old Town, upstairs, 205 Romero, NW, open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Call (505) 2424311 or visit amapola.gallery.com.

friday 7 | 5–8 pm

Youth Pride Art Show Reception. The June fundraiser is for CASA Q House, which provides safe living through housing, services, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth and allies. The featured artist is Gwenda McLamb. Info: The Gallery ABQ, Hoffmantown Shopping Center, 8210 Menaul Blvd. NE, (505) 292-9333, abqgallery@ gmail.com. Hours are Tuesday–Saturday, 11 am–4 pm.

friday 7 | 6–8:30 pm

Gallery with a Cause at New Mexico Cancer Center. Special fundraiser for “On the Rise: Works by Artists in Early and Mid-Career,” featuring 360 works by 17 emerging and blossoming artists worth watching, exhibited through August 23. Forty percent of sales go to our patients’ non-medical needs during their battle with life-changing illness. Info: New Mexico Cancer Center, 4901 Lang Ave.NE. Gallery visits by appointment only; please contact regina@artfullivingstyle.com or (505) 803-3345, gallerywithacause.org.

friday 7 | 6–9 pm

South Valley Rock. Enjoy Bluehouse with William Johnson (guitar), Phil Petty (bass), Debo Orlofsky (accordian) and Zoom Crespin (drums) when they bring their music to Perico’s. Enjoy a great New Mexico meal, beer and wine, fun, friends, and some dancing. Info: Perico’s, 3504 Isleta Blvd. SW, (505) 388-3703, pericossv.com. No cover.

friday 7 | 9 pm

Chatter Late Works. A late-night concert for the adventurous at Chatter’s downtown warehouse performance space features Lou Harrison’s American Gamelan “Old Granddad” instruments played by six percussionists. Cash bar provided by Rumor Brewing. Info: Chatter at 912 Third Street NW. Tickets: $17 adults in advance; $20 at-door. $9 students/ under-30, $5 under-13 at chatterabq. org.

friday 7 through saturday july 6 | various times

New Mexico Shakespeare Festival. The New Mexico Shakespeare Festival presents two of Shakespeare’s plays every summer at the New Mexico Veterans Memorial. This is a yearround program that maintains a company of actors who perform in classrooms and at senior living sites throughout the year. This summer they present both “Tempest,” directed by Paul Ford, and “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” directed by Micah Linford. Info: NM Veterans Memorial Park, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE as well

as Winrock Town Center Park, (505) 349-3526, nmshakes.org. Email at info@nmshakes.org. Free.

saturday 8 | 10 am–12 pm

Pastel Society of New Mexico. Please join us at our June meeting and enjoy a fascinating presentation by an award-winning pastel artist. Don’t miss this great opportunity to meet and learn from amazing artists and find out more about pastels and the Pastel Society. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW. All welcome, no charge.

saturday 8 |10 am–4 pm

Automania Fiesta Car Show. Experience automotive excellence from vintage classics to modern marvels. Connect with fellow enthusiasts and bring the entire family along for a day of excitement with food vendors, entertainment, and activities for all ages. Info: First Baptist Church, 1350 Bosque Farms Blvd., Bosque Farms. Free.

saturday 8 | 10 am–4 pm

Ready, Set, Shop: $6-A-Bag Book Sale. There are more than 25,000 books, CDs, DVDs, and vinyl treasures from which to choose. Validated parking and carry-out service available. All proceeds go directly to Friends of the Public Library. Info: Main Library, Lower Level, 501 Copper NW. $2 before noon, free after noon, FOPL members always free. For more info, contact friendsofthepubliclibrary.org.

saturday 8 | 11 am–3 pm

Fashion and Compassion Luncheon Fashion Show Benefiting Watermelon Mountain Ranch. You’re invited to save lives in style. This year we will celebrate the thousands of dogs, cats, puppies and kittens who come through our gate and find safety, health, and forever, loving homes. Funds raised through this event will help us to sustain our services and continue our lifesaving Molly’s Mercy Missions. Your $65 ticket includes lite bites and desserts, a mimosa bar, celebrity models, silent auction, door prizes and raffles, and walk of fame by adoptable pets. Info: Marriott Pyramid North, 5151 San

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Francisco Road NE. Tickets available at wmranch.org.

saturday 8 | 12–5 pm

Old San Ysidro Church Tour. Come see the beauty of the church, led by a Corrales Historical Society docent, and learn the history of this 156-year-old, iconic adobe structure in the Historic Heart of Corrales. Info: 966 Old Church Road, Corrales. Contact Nan Kimball, chsmarketing@corraleshistory.org or visit corraleshistory.org. Free.

saturday 8 | 1–3 pm

Upon Further Reflection. Wild Hearts Gallery presents this reception for Colleeen Gregoire’s painting exhibit running June 1 through June 23. Wild Hearts Gallery is an artistis’ collective of 15 local artists. Info: Homestead Village Highway 165, Placitas, (505) 361-2710. Virtual tour at wildheartsgallery.com.

sunday 9 | 10:30 am

Chatter Sunday. Chatter musicians perform Beethoven’s String Trio in C minor and Caroline Shaw’s “Blueprint” for string quartet. As always, your ticket includes a coffee drink from our espresso bar. Info: Chatter at 912 Third Street NW. Tickets: $17 adults in advance; $20 at-door. $9 students/ under-30, $5 under-13 at chatterabq. org.

monday 10 | 9–11 am

Kid Art – Printmaking for Grades K–2. Kids in Kindergarten through second grade can work with Art Teacher Extraordinaire Katie Baca to explore printmaking. Info: Reserve a spot at thegrooveartspace.com, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 750-1713. $50.

monday 10 | 12–3 pm

Kid Art – Printmaking for Grades 3–5. Kids in third through fifth grades can work with Art Teacher Extraordinaire Katie Baca to explore printmaking. Info: Reserve a spot at thegrooveartspace. com, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 7501713. $50.

monday 10 through friday 22 | morning session 9:30–11:30 am; afternoon session 12–2 pm

Summer Youth Theatre and “Box.” Join students from around Albuquerque in a theatre experience for ages 10 through 18. Theatre artists from the Vortex will guide the theatrical journey for a thrilling two weeks, culminating in a staged production of “Bo,” a middle school vignette. Info: Vortex Theatre, 2900 Carlisle Blvd. NE, (505) 247-8600, vortexabq. org. $75 for morning session; $50 for afternoon work with Box and $100 for both morning and afternoon sessions, with limited scholarships available. Contact erindrama@comcast.net.

wednesday 12 | 6–8 pm

Los Poblanos Outdoor Music Series. Enjoy live local music, beautiful New Mexican weather, and creative cocktails from our Rio Grande Valley Rescue Truck. Seating is first-come, first-served. Beverages available for purchase. No pets, outside food, or beverages permitted. Info: Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, 4803 Rio Grande Blvd. NW. For details visit lospoblanos.com/events.

thursday 13 | 6–8 pm

Community PowerUp with Future Fund + Young Professionals of Albuquerque. These entities have teamed up to host a night of fun, networking and “Powering Up” our community through grantmaking. Join them for this free event. The first drink will be sponsored by FF + YPA. Info: go.abqcf. org/futurefund to learn more.

friday 14 | 5–7 pm

Weems Gallery & Framing. This reception celebrates the beauty of New Mexico through painting “en plein air” – in the open air or outdoors – the focus of “2024 Paint New Mexico!” a juried exhibition sponsored by Plein Air Painters of New Mexico (PAPNM). This year, for the first time, Weems Gallery and Framing is pleased to host the show, which will run June 7-22 from 10 am–5 pm. Info: 5935 Wyoming Blvd. NE, weemsgallery. com, (505) 293-6133. Free.

friday 14 and saturday 15 | various times

Into the Woods. Heartstring Theatre Company performs this popular play where a witch tasks a childless baker and his wife with procuring magical items from classic fairy tales to reverse the curse put on their family tree. Info: New City Church, 4700 San Mateo Blvd. NE, heartstringstheatre.com or email hello@heartstringstheatre.com.

saturday 15 | 9–11 am

Rio Grande Valley Blue Star Mothers Care Box Packing Event. Public participation is welcomed. Please join us as we pack 300 care boxes to be shipped to deployed United States Service Members. Info: 2919 Second Street NW.

saturday 15 | 10 am–12 pm

Martha Liebert Public Library, Bernalillo, New Mexico, and Coronado Historic Site. These two entities are offering a new “Ranger Read and Learn” program which is free and open to families of all ages. A historic site ranger will read a story and offer related conversation and activities. June’s book is “Coyote and the Sky where the talk will be about stars and night sky, and participants will create a constellation to take home. Info: Martha Liebert Public Library, 124 Calle Malinche, Bernalillo. Visit nmhistoricsites.org for more information.

saturday 15 | 12–4 pm

Remarque Print Workshop - Intro to Letterpress: Typesetting. Join Katerina Hazell who will introduce letterpress printing where students will print 15 custom stationery cards on Remarque’s C&P platen press. Each student will be provided with pre-cut paper and envelopes for their cards. Info: Remarque Print Workshop and Gallery, 3812 Central Ave. SE, #100B, (505) 268-8952, $110 for the class. Register at remarkqueprintshop. com/products.

saturday 15 | 8 pm

Babyface in Concert. Kenneth Edmonds (Babyface) is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer. He has written and produced over 26 number-one R & B hits throughout

his career and has won 13 Grammy Awards. Info: Isleta Casino, 11000 Broadway Blvd. SE, (505) 452-5100. Tickets available online.

sunday 16 | 10:30 am

Chatter Sunday. Be fascinated by Lou Harrison’s “La Koro Sutro” for chorus and American Gamelan instruments, plus a poetry reading and free coffee by Ohori’s. As always, your ticket will also include a coffee drink from our espresso bar. Info: Chatter at 912 Third Street NW. Tickets: $17 adults in advance; $20 at-door. $9 students/ under-30, $5 under-13 at chatterabq. org.

sunday 16 | 3 pm

To Walk in Beauty: Lessons from the Earth. The New Mexico Peace Choir and Artistic Director David Poole invite you to an afternoon of powerful music that explores our connection to this beautiful planet. Info: Central United Methodist Church, 201 University Blvd. NE. In person and livestream;

tickets online at nmpeacechoir.org and at the door, $20 general, $15 students/seniors, free for children 12 and under.

monday 17 | 9–11 am

Kid Art – Mixed Media/Fiber Arts for Grades K–2. Kids in Kindergarten through second grade can work with Art Teacher Extraordinaire Katie Baca to explore art-making. Info: Reserve a spot at thegrooveartspace.com, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 750-1713. $50.

monday 17 | 12–3 pm

Kid Art – Mixed Media/Fiber Arts for Grades 3–5. Kids in third through fifth grades can work with Art Teacher Extraordinaire Katie Baca to explore art-making. Info: Reserve a spot at thegrooveartspace.com, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 750-1713. $50.

wednesday 19 | 6–8 pm

Los Poblanos Outdoor Music Series. Enjoy live local music, beautiful New Mexican weather, and creative

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cocktails from our Rio Grande Valley Rescue Truck. Seating is first-come, first-served. Beverages available for purchase. No pets, outside food, or beverages permitted. Info: Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, 4803 Rio Grande Blvd. NW. For details visit lospoblanos.com/events.

thursday 20 | 6–8 pm

PRIDE Circle Annual Social. Albuquerque Community Foundation is celebrating its PRIDE Circle collective impact group. Members can contribute at any level to join the group and create a resource stream for the LGBTQIA+ community in the greater Albuquerque area. Members can also participate in grantmaking, education, volunteering, community building, and more. Visit go.abqcf. org/pride or email dominic@abqcf. org or danielle@abqcf.org for more information.

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friday 21 and saturday 22

6:30 pm friday; 2 and 5 pm

saturday

“Box,” a Play by Lindsay Price. Please see “Summer Youth Theatre and ‘Box’” above. Performances of “Box” will be held as noted above, a culmination of Summer Youth Theatre and Box workshops from June 10-22 by Albuquerque students. Info: The Vortex Theatre, 2900 Carlisle Blvd. NE, (505) 247-8600; vortexabq.org for tickets.

saturday 22 | 7–10 pm

Dirty Old Town ABQ. Come to Thirsty Eye Brewing and listen to Irishish Americana music with Thomas Dewers (guitar and mandolin), Debo Orlofsky (accordian), Terry Bluhm (bass), and Zoom Crespin (drums). Enjoy great craft beer, wine, and other beverages as well as food truck snacks in a fun, casual, and artistic atmosphere. Info: Thirsty Eye Brewing, 206 Broadway Blvd. SE, (505) 639-5831, thirstyeyebrew. com. No cover, 21+ or with parental accompaniment.

saturday 22 | 7:30 pm

Lyle Lovett in Concert. Lovett began his music career as a singer-songwriter. By the early 1980s, Lovett had already distinguished himself in the burgeoning Texas folk acoustic scene. He has recorded 14 albums, the most recent released in 2022, and has won four Grammy Awards. Info: Kiva Auditorium, 401 Second Street NW, inside the Convention Center. Tickets can be purchased online.

sunday 23 | 10:30 am

Chatter Sunday. Hear music for piano and strings by Maurice Ravel, Salvatore Sciarrino, and Henri Dutilleux. As always, your ticket includes a custom coffee drink from our espresso bar. Info: Chatter at 912 Third Street NW. Tickets: $17 adults in advance; $20 at-door. $9 students/ under-30, $5 under-13 at chatterabq. org.

sunday 23 | 2–5 pm

Rhythm and Country Blues. Bluehouse plays Rock Canyon Cider in Tijeras.

Come up the canyon and rock to their South Valley blues for your entertainment and, of course, the brews, ciders, wine, cocktails, food truck snacks, and dancing. Info: Rock Canyon Cider, 364 NM-333, located along Old Route 66 (Carnuel exit off I-40), (505) 861-9855, rockcanyoncider.com. No cover and 21+ or with a guardian.

monday 24 | 9–11 am

Kid Art – Painting for Grades K–2. Kids in Kindergarten through second grade can work with Art Teacher Extraordinaire Katie Baca to explore painting a videogame landscape. Info: thegrooveartspace.com, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 750-1713. $50.

monday 24 | 12–3 pm

Kid Art – Painting for Grades 3–5. Kids in third through fifth grades can work with Art Teacher Extraordinaire Katie Baca to explore painting a videogame landscape. Info: thegrooveartspace. com, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 7501713. $50.

friday 21 through saturday 29 | various times

37th Annual Festival Flamenco. A series of headlining performances and over 35 workshops and lectures will address multiple aspects of flamenco. Flamenco artists from around the world will present diverse performances that range from the highly traditional to the cutting-edge of flamenco aesthetics and practice. Info: 1771 Bellamah Ave. NW, Suite A, (505) 242-7600, festival@nifnm.org. Tickets can be purchased at ffabq. org. Performances will take place at the Albuquerque Journal Theatre at the National Hispanic Cultural Center as well as Rodey Theatre at the University of New Mexico. Late night tablaos will take place at Tablao Flamenco Albuquerque, located inside of Hotel Albuquerque.

wednesday 26 | 6–8 pm

Los Poblanos Outdoor Music Series. Live local music, beautiful New Mexican weather, and creative cocktails from our Rio Grande Valley Rescue Truck. Seating is first-come, first-served. Beverages available for purchase.

No pets, outside food, or beverages permitted. Info: Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, 4803 Rio Grande Blvd. NW. For details visit lospoblanos.com/events.

ONGOING/DAILY EVENTS

various days | various times

Albuquerque Visitor’s Guide. Info: Check out visitabq.org for many great ideas for exploring our city. An official printed Albuquerque Visitor’s Guide can also be obtained.

various days | various times

Cancer Support Now. Free services. Info: Call the helpline, (505) 2550405. Also, various days/times listed throughout Datebook for specific group and individual assistance.

various days | various times

CSP Dance Studios. Providing Albuquerque with the best partner dance instruction in town, including ballroom, Latin, swing, country, and line dance instruction. Info: 1624 Eubank Blvd. NE, (505) 883-9521, cspdancestudios.com.

various days | various times

Overeaters Anonymous. This program of recovery uses Twelve Steps, Traditions, and Concepts, as well as the nine tools of recovery to provide a fellowship of experience, strength, and hope, where members support each other’s recovery from compulsive eating disorders such as overeating, binging, bulimia, and anorexia. Info: For more information and a list of local meetings, go to oacnmi.org or call (505) 261-3553.

various days | various times

New Mexico Young Actors, Inc. Now in their 45th season, NMYA features youth ages 9 to 19 in all roles. The mission is to develop an appreciation of theater in our community –performances by children and for children. NMYA offers classes, workshops, and productions, and

are always looking for new young actors to join their company. Weekly theater classes are offered for ages 5 to 18; Drama I classes for elementary, middle, and high school students; and Advanced Drama productions are available for returning students. Call (505) 821-8055, email info@ nmyoungactors.org, or visit website at nmyoungactors.org. Prorated fees and tuition assistance available.

various days | various times

Old San Ysidro Church Tours. Come see the beauty and learn the history of one of Corrales’ most significant historic buildings. Informative docents are on hand to provide insight into the history and current usage of this iconic landmark. Info: 966 Old Church Road, Corrales. Register for a tour at corraleshistory.org. Free.

various days | 8–10 pm

Haunted Tour of Old Town. Take a tour of Old Town Albuquerque and learn about the many ghosts who have made the Old Town square their home. Legends, folklore, ghost stories, and history come to life as you depart on an intriguing excursion – 314 years of haunted history. Info: Approximately 1 hour, 50 minutes. Abqtours.fun.

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Cancer Support Now. LGBT Cancer Peer Support, no charge one-on-one peer cancer support matching for cancer survivors and/or caregivers. Info: Our Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255-0405. Currently hosting web meetings only. Please call our helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to connect with someone for one-toone support.

daily | 9 am–5 pm

At Play in the Atomic Age. The toys of the atomic age reflect the times and culture of their day. The Atomic Age was born with the Manhattan Project and blasted into the public’s consciousness in 1945. This exhibit features over 100 artifacts from the permanent collection of the Nuclear Museum and artifacts on loan specifically for this exhibition. Info:

The National Museum of Nuclear Science and History, 601 Eubank NE, (505) 245-2137. Tickets $15 at nuclearmuseum.org.

daily | various times

Wellness Classes at Los Poblanos. Restore, revive, and move with a class in the Wellness Yurt. Class offerings include Gentle Yoga, Flow and Restore Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga and Mat Pilates. Info: Los Poblanos, 4803 Rio Grande NW, (855) 486-1380. $15 per class. To reserve your space, visit lospoblanos.com/hacienda-spa/ wellness-classes.

daily | various activities and times

Jewish Community Center. The Ronald Gardenswartz Jewish Community Center of Greater Albuquerque (JCC) is part of your extended family, your home away from home, providing programs and services for all ages and stages in life. Within our walls or around the world, our members

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gather to meet, play, learn, celebrate, and be part of the community. Everyone, regardless of age or religious affiliation, is welcome. Info: 5520 Wyoming Blvd. NE, (505) 3320565, jccabq.org.

daily | various times

Al-Anon Family Groups and Alateen. This is an anonymous fellowship of relatives and friends of problem drinkers. Meetings are held on various days and times, at various locationsthroughout Albuquerque and New Mexico. We come together to share our experience, strength and hope to recover from the effects of another person’s drinking. Info: AlAnon Information Service, aisnm.org, (505) 262-2177.

daily | various times

Lovelace Silver Elite. Informative videos are offered that address health issues such as osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, cardiovascular issues, Parkinson’s disease, and treatment options for

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male lower UTIs and BPH, as well as radiology imaging as we age. Presented by Lovelace doctors that are experts in the subject fields. Lovelace Silver Elite also offers free seminars and VIP benefits. Info: lovelacesilverelite.com, (505) 7275502.

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Agora Crisis Center Volunteers. Are you a compassionate, non-judgmental person who wants to help others? Learn new skills, make friends, earn class credit, and be part of a rewarding organization. Info: Agora Crisis Center, agoracares.org, (505) 277-3013.

daily | 10 am–5 pm; closed sunday

Weems Gallery & Framing. The website enables people to purchase fine art online, as well as kaleidoscopes, jewelry, glass, sculptures, photography, and wood. Go to weemsgallery.com, (505) 293-6133.

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Animal Humane Free Behavioral Helpline. This service is available to all pet owners who are experiencing behavior problems with their dogs or cats. Animal Humane New Mexico’s trained behavior coaches answer questions and provide tips on everything from housetraining to living with multiple animals. Info: (505) 938-7900.

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Donate Blood. Because someone needs it every day. Info: (505) 843-6227, unitedbloodservices.org.

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Epilepsy Support and Education Services. For meeting times and places, call (505) 243-9119 or visit epilepsysupportnm.org.

daily | 11:30 am–5:30 pm, closed monday

Rattlesnakes. See different species of live rattlesnakes displayed in recreated natural landscapes. The owners are dedicated to conservation and preservation education. Info: American International Rattlesnake Museum, 202 San Felipe Road NW, Suite A, (505) 242-6569, rattlesnakes. com. Tickets: $8.95 adults; $7.95 seniors, military, students, teachers; $6.95 children (ages 3–12).

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Roadrunner Food Bank. Volunteers needed to prepare packaged food for distribution, repack and sort items, and other activities. The gift of your precious time helps solve hunger for many New Mexicans. Volunteers must register in advance. Shifts are available in two-hour increments, Mondays–Saturdays. Info: 5840 Office Blvd. NE, givetime@rrfb.org, (505) 349-5358.

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Ronald McDonald House Charities of New Mexico. A “home-away-from-home” is available for families whose children are in medical treatment. Operating the 30-guest room Yale House, 20-guest room Highlands House, and the Ronald McDonald Family Rooms at UNM and Presbyterian Hospitals, volunteers make a vital difference in the lives of the people they serve. Info: Volunteer Coordinator, volunteer@rmhc-nm.org, rmhc-nm. org, (505) 842-8960.

daily |

Cancer Support Now. Relaxation support sessions over the telephone by appointment. Our Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255-0405. Currently hosting web meetings only.

daily | 7 am–8 pm

Free Fishing. From sun-up to sun-down, practice your basic fly-tying methods, fly-rod casting techniques, fishing etiquette, effective catch-andrelease practices, and enhancement of advanced skills. Bring your own equipment and refreshments as the store and cafes are currently closed. Great place for a picnic with trails. Make sure you have a fishing license. Info: Tingley Beach, 1800 Tingley Drive SW, call 311 or (505) 768-2000.

daily | 9 am–4 pm

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Please join others for virtual and in-person events which offer a unique way to experience Pueblo culture including cultural dances, daily artists, lecture series, pick-up meals, book club, collections tours, Indigenous agriculture workshops, and many other special events. While here, enjoy the restaurant and shop at the store. Info: IPCC, 2401 12th Street NW, (505) 843-7270. See website for events and exhibitions, indianpueblo. org.

daily | 10 am–1 pm; 2–6 pm

Adopt a Pet. Find your best pet ever. Adopt a dog, cat, puppy, or kitten from Animal Humane New Mexico. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and a microchip. Info:

615 Virginia Street SE, (505) 2555523 and 10141 Coors Blvd. NW, (505) 323-7387, animalhumanenm.org.

daily | various times

NAMI NM and NAMI Albuquerque (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill). There are many support programs available weekly – Zoom at no charge. Also, 8-week classes are offered on mental illness that are available at no charge

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to family members and people with a mental health condition or diagnosis. During trying times, stress, anxiety, depression, and anger are prevalent. Info: naminewmexico.org, namialbuquerque.org, information line (505) 260-0154. Free.

daily | 10 am–5 pm

Amapola Gallery. This is a group of 39 local artists and artisans who have

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joined together to keep quality and variety up, prices down. They are small, local, creative, and the artists’ wondrous works are always priced right. Info: Amapola Gallery in Old Town on the Plaza at 205 Romero, NW, (505) 242-4311, amapolagallery. com.

daily | 10 am–5 pm

Explora! Explora is an innovative experiential learning center located in the heart of Old Town Albuquerque with over 250 interactive exhibits and activities in science, technology, engineering, art, and math for the whole family. Open 9–11 Mondays for Toddler Time. Info: 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora@explora.us, (505) 600-6072. Tickets: $6–$10 at explora@explora.us/visitorinformation.

daily | 10 am–8 pm

Watermelon Mountain Ranch Animal Center. New Mexico’s largest no-kill animal shelter seeks loving homes

for rescued dogs and cats. Adoptions occur at select PetSmart locations and Watermelon Mountain Ranch. Donations, fosters, and volunteers are always welcome. Info: wmranch. org, (505) 771-0140, wmranchnm@ aol.com.

daily | 12:30 pm

Duplicate Bridge. There are open games for newer and experienced players Monday–Saturday, and special novice games on Thursdays. Come with your favorite partner or call us for help finding a partner. Info: Duke City Bridge Club, 8616 Northeastern Blvd. NE, (505) 271-2877, dukecitybridge. com. Entrance fee is $6.

various days | monday–thursday 9 am–12 pm; saturday–sunday 10 am–2 pm

The Wheels Museum, Inc. This museum is a 501(c)3 non-profit community organization whose mission is to create a transportation museum at the downtown Albuquerque

Steam Locomotive Repair Shops. Educational programs, tours, and presentations are provided for the community in the 21,000 square foot historic building located at 2nd and Pacific, SW (1100 2nd Street, SW). Info: visit wheelsmuseum.org for information on all the interesting and informative exhibits, (505) 2436269. Tax deductible donations are gratefully accepted; contact Leba at leba4@aol.com.

various days | various times

Create Art at The Groove Artspace. Explore your creativity in a relaxed setting with local teaching artists. Offered is a wide range of art classes for adults, teens, and youth. Info: The Groove Artspace, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 750-1713. Check out our full list of daytime and evening availability, as well as weekday and weekend classes at thegrooveartspace.com. Class fees include all materials.

various days | various times

ABQ Scavenger Hunt. Teams of 2 to 5 people solve clues, complete challenges, and work together to unravel secrets of the city. Info: (805) 603-5620, 1919 Old Town Road NW, urbanadventurequest. com, $49 per team; $10 off coupon at visitalbuquerque.org.

various days | various times

Tango Club of Albuquerque. Please contact info@abqtango.org for details about various classes, workshops, and opportunities for social dancing.

sundays | check website

Breaking Bad Tour. Breaking Bad fans won’t want to miss this entertaining and action-packed tour that features many show locations that only true fans will appreciate. Your Breaking Bad knowledge will be tested with trivia from the show, so come prepared to win prizes. Locations

may change depending upon ongoing filming schedules. Info: 1919 Old Town Road NW, abqtours.fun for more information and $80 tickets.

sundays | 10:30 am

Chatter Sunday offers weekly Sunday morning concerts which also include readings and refreshments. A calendar can be found at chatterabq.org or by date in this Datebook, previous pages. Info: Performances are held at 912 3rd Street NW. Doors open at 9:30; for best seats, come early and enjoy the coffee and camaraderie. Advance tickets: $16 adults, $9 under-30 and students, and $5 children, at chatterabq.org/boxoffice and if still available, at the door: $20 adults, $9 students, $5 children.

mondays | 9–11 am

Toddler Time at Explora. Enjoy Explora with your wee ones in an exclusive extra hour, including story time and special songs by the resident

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musician, Tom. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, (505) 6072, explora.us.

mondays | 12 pm

Kiwanis Club of Albuquerque. Speaker luncheons are held the first three Mondays of each month. Our speaker programs are highly regarded. Info: Embassy Suites Hotel, 1000 Woodward Place NE. Reserve your seat for the buffet lunch at dorner66@gmail.com.

mondays | 2:30–4 pm

UNM and Cancer Support Now. Survivors Writing Together is a journaling support group for survivors, men and women, all cancer diagnoses. Info: Our Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255-0405. Currently hosting web meetings only. Please call our helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to

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connect with someone for one-toone support.

first and third mondays | 4:30–5:30 pm

UNM and Cancer Support Now. Survivors and/or caregivers, all diagnoses, men, and women. Info: Our Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255-0405. Currently hosting web meetings only. Please call our helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to connect with someone for one-to-one support.

mondays and wednesdays | 9:30 pm

Online Tango Classes. Live lessons with Eva Garle˙ and Pablo Rodriguez. Info: Bien Milonguero Tango School, 1512 First Street NW. evaypablotango@ gmail.com or (505) 313-5316 text or Whatsapp.

monday–friday | 9:30 am–2:30 pm

Albuquerque Garden Center. Our events include the Cactus and Succulent Society Show and Sale, the African Violet Show and Sale, the Annual Spring Plant Sale, and the Aril and Iris Show. Info: Albuquerque Garden Center, 10120 Lomas Blvd. NE. albuquerquegardencenter.org. Free.

mondays–saturdays | 12–2 pm

Exquisite Turquoise in the Castle. This extraordinary German-style castle is the museum setting featuring rare turquoise specimens, lapidary demos, history and geology, a mine tunnel replica, hands-on activities for kids, and silversmithing. Info: The Turquoise Museum, 400 2nd Street SW, turquoisemuseum.com, (505) 433-3684. Tickets: $20 adults, $15 children.

tuesdays | 2–3 pm

Caregiver Support Group. Caregiving for a loved one can be overwhelming

and isolating. This group provides a compassionate space for caregivers to gain emotional support and information. Facilitated by Erin Tarica, LMSW. Info: Jewish Community Center, 5520 Wyoming Blvd. NE. Pre-registration required, (505) 3484451, free.

tuesdays | 6–8 pm

Chess Club. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Info: Corrales Community Library, 84 West La Entrada, (505) 897-0733.

tuesdays | 6:30–8:30 pm

The New MexiChords Barbershop Chorus. Love to sing? The New MexiChords Barbershop Chorus is looking for men and women to join them. It is not necessary to read music to join. Sheet music and learning tracks are available to learn songs. Two concerts are performed annually and they also sing at Albuquerque’s Citizenship Naturalization Ceremonies as well as other civic events, such as the Balloon

Fiesta and others as they arise. Info: St. John’s United Methodist Church, 2626 Arizona Ave. NE. For more information, contact Walt Parsons at (505) 410-9635.

second tuesdays | 4–7 pm

Tasting Tuesdays at Town and Ranch. On the second Tuesday of every month, New Mexico spirits are sampled with guests from distilleries around the state. Stop by to try something new, meet local distillers, and relax. Info: Town and Ranch, 1318 Fourth Street NW, lospoblanos.com/events/townranch-events, (505) 808-1715.

second tuesdays | 5:30–7 pm

Turquoise Trail Harley Owners Group, Chapter #2015. Socialize with other Harley Owners Group members to learn about upcoming events and rides and get to know our fellow Harley-Davidson enthusiasts. Green chile cheeseburgers are available for purchase from the Moose Lodge. First meeting is free; National HOG membership is required in order to join the Chapter. We love to RIDE. Info: Loyal Order of Moose Lodge, 2121 Edith Blvd. NE, turquoisetrailhog. org.

tuesdays, wednesdays, and thursdays | 6 pm

Argentine Tango Classes. Practicums and events with Puerta al Tango (Graham P. Stanford). Info: Las Puertas, 1500 First Street NW, Puerta-al-tango. com. Contact graham@puertotango. com.

tuesdays–saturdays | 9 am–5 pm

Art and History Exhibitions. See the Albuquerque Museum website for the current listing of exhibitions. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, cabq.gov/ artsculture/abqmuseum, (505) 2437255. General admission: $3–$6; a $5 exhibition surcharge may apply.

tuesdays–saturdays | 9:30 am, 1:30 pm tuesdays–fridays; 10:30 am, 12 pm, 1:30 pm saturdays

Casa San Ysidro Tours. Take a tour of this late 19th century building filled with an excellent collection of New Mexico

vernacular art. Info: Casa San Ysidro, 973 Old Church Road, Corrales, cabq. gov/casasanysidro, (505) 898-3915, $4–$6 general admission.

tuesdays | 3:30–5 pm

UNM/Cancer Support Now. Advanced cancer survivors writing together. This is a journaling support group for survivors of cancer; men and women, all diagnoses. Info: Our Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255-0405. Currently hosting web meetings only. Please call our helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to connect with someone for one-to-one support.

second tuesdays | 10:30–12 pm

Pueblo of Isleta Cancer Community Support. Info: Isleta Pueblo Health Clinic, 1 Sagebrush Street.

tuesdays–sundays |

10 am–5 pm

National Hispanic Cultural Center Exhibits. See the website for the current listing of exhibitions. Info: National Hispanic

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Cultural Center, 1701 Fourth St. SW, (505) 246-2261, nhccnm.org.

tuesdays, thursdays, fridays, sundays | 11 am

Historic Old Town Tours. Explore historic Old Town on foot with informative docents who will provide insight into the people and places that shaped this early community. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, cabq.gov, 243-7255. Tour included with paid museum admission, $4–$6, Sundays free.

second and fourth tuesdays | 4–5:30 pm

Cancer Support Now. Santa Fe Women’s Group, Surviving Sisters. All cancers, all diagnoses, all stages, all women. Info: The Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255-0405. Currently hosting web meetings only. Please call the helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to connect with someone for oneto-one support.

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tuesday–sunday |10 am–5 pm

The Corrales Bosque Gallery. Artistowned and operated, the Corrales Bosque Gallery is delighted to display the work of its 18 memberartists. You will find a wide variety of media and styles, including painting, photography, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, drawing, folk art, beadwork, and mosaic. Come see us and enjoy. Info: 4685 Corrales Road, (505) 8987203, corralesbosquegallery.com.

first wednesdays | 9 am–5 pm

Free First Wednesday. Start your month off right with free admission to the Albuquerque Museum and Sculpture Garden tour. An additional $5 special exhibit surcharge may apply. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NE, cabq.gov/ artsculture, (505) 243-7255.

second wednesdays | 12–1 pm

Cancer Support Now. Sandia Base cancer support group for survivors of all cancers, all stages, men and

women. Info: The Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255-0405. Currently hosting web meetings only. Please call the helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to connect with someone for oneto-one support.

second and fourth

wednesdays | 11:30 am

Rotary Club of Albuquerque Del Norte. The Club welcomes visitors and community partners interested in networking, fellowship, and uplifting presentations to luncheon attendees. New members are welcomed into committees which suit their interests and skills. Info and schedule: rotarydelnorte.org, email rotarydelnorteabq@gmail.com.

wednesdays–sundays | 10 am–4 pm

Natural History Museum. Explore the most dynamic dinosaurs that roamed New Mexico. Learn to balance like Seismosaurus, hunt like Coelophysis,

and stomp like Tyrannosaurus. Info: New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, 1801 Mountain Road NW, nmnaturalhistory.org, (505) 841-2848.

wednesdays–sundays | 11 am–5 pm

Help Socialize Cats and Have Fun. Please visit and enjoy drinks, snacks, and spend time with adorable, adoptable cats at Catopia Cat Cafe. Your visit will support their foster home and they will love the snuggles and playtime until they find permanent homes. Regular hours are ages 8+ and an all ages night is offered from 5-8 pm Wednesdays. Also offered are Yoga with Cats, Painting with Cats, and Henna Cat-toos. Info: catopiacatcafe. com, Paseo Village, 8001 Wyoming NE, Suite C-5, (505) 508-4278. Closed Monday and Tuesday.

thursdays | 11:30 am

Road Runner Business Networking Group. If you’d like to generate more business

referrals, meet with us. Info: Jimmy’s Café, 7007 Jefferson NE. Contact Terry at (505) 377-6074, triddle@ rmmsonline.com or roadrunnersabq. com.

thursdays | 4–5:30 pm

UNM/Cancer Support Now. Friends and Family Writing Together. This is a journaling support group for survivors of metastatic cancer; men and women, all diagnoses. Info: Our Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255-0405. Currently hosting web meetings only. Please call our helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to connect with someone for one-toone support.

second and fourth thursdays | 3:30–5:00 pm

Cancer Support Now. Pancreatic cancer caregiver support group for caregivers of patients and survivors of pancreatic cancer, all stages, men, and women. Info: The Helpline is

available seven days a week at (505) 255-0405. Hosting web meetings only currently. Please call the helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to connect with someone for one-to-one support.

first and third thursdays | 5–6:30 pm

Cancer Support Now. Women’s North Valley cancer support group for all cancers, all women, survivors and/ or caregivers. Info: The Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255-0405. Currently hosting web meetings only. Please call the helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to connect with someone for one-to-one support.

thursdays | 4–6 pm

Tutoring Thursdays at Explora. Tutoring in the Tech Lab. Want help with tricky homework or a study partner for that upcoming quiz? Drop in for an effective tutoring session. Ages 13–19

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welcome. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, (600) 6072, explora.us.

thursdays | 9:30 pm

Online Tango Classes. Follower’s technique with Eva. All levels. Info: Bien Milonguero Tango School, 1512 First Street NW, evaypablotango@ gmail.com or (505) 313-5316 text or Whatsapp.

fridays | 12–1:30 pm

Grief and Loss Support Group. Grief is a natural process that can often be eased – sharing with others who have experienced the loss of a loved one or any other significant loss. Info: Jewish Care Program, (505) 8213214, free.

fridays | 1–4 pm

Tamarind Institute. See the workshop facility, learn about fine art lithography, the current programs, and the history of Tamarind (a division within the College of Fine Arts at UNM). See a collaborative process

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video and a printing demonstration. The public is welcome, no reservation required; reservation for other times: tamarind.unm.edu. Info: Tamarind Institute, 2500 Central Ave. SE, (505) 277-3901. Free.

fridays | 4–6 pm

Fix-it Fridays and Crafternoons at Explora. Join others for a variety of projects – repair your broken electronics, use sewing skills to bring old clothes back to life, and craft with friends over Boba Tea drinks. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, (600) 6072, explora.us.

fridays | 7–10 pm

Dance Party. Learn a new dance and meet new people each week at ABQ’s newest studio, with three beautiful ballrooms and state-ofthe-art floating dance floors. Enjoy refreshments and an introductory dance class from 7–8 pm. Info: Holiday Dance Studio, 5200 Eubank Blvd. NE. Call to confirm schedule, (505) 5084020, holidaydancestudio.com, $30.

every first friday |

Free Admission Day. AndersonAbruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum. Check out this award-winning, world-class facility highlighting the art, culture, history, science and sport of hot air ballooning and other lighter-than-aircraft. Info: 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE (north of Alameda), (505) 768-6020, cabq.gov/balloon.

fridays | 7–9 pm

Square Dance. Come dance with the Duke City Square Dance Club every Friday night. We dance SSD, Mainstream and Plus levels. Info: Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4915 Hawkins Street. Dukecitysquaredanceclub. The cost is $8. For more information, contact dukecitysd0@gmail.com.

second fridays | 6–7 pm

Free Country Dance Lessons. Friday night just got waaaay better. Info: Dirty Bourbon, 9800 Montgomery Blvd. NE, (505) 883-9521. Sponsored by and information available at cspdancestudios.com.

every third friday | 7–9 pm

Cactus and Succulent Society of New Mexico. Discuss cacti and succulents; enjoy a program presented on a subject relevant to these plants. The program usually includes a slideshow. It is not necessary to be a member to attend. Info: Albuquerque Garden Center, 10120 Lomas Blvd. NE, (505) 296-6020 new-mexico.cactussociety.org.

fridays, saturdays, and sundays

Tablao Flamenco Albuquerque. The passion and energy of flamenco comes alive as you experience flamenco in its most intimate, powerful setting in the heart of historic Old Town Albuquerque. Featuring a worldclass lineup of artists, the Tablao Flamenco presents a dynamic schedule of performances. Info: Friday and Saturday dinner shows feature electrifying performances accompanied by an exclusive fourcourse meal created by Hotel Albuquerque’s Chef, Gilbert Aragon. Visiting on Sunday? Enjoy a light tapas menu and regionally inspired fine wines and spirits. Reservations and more information, dates, and times are found at tablaoflamenco. org.

saturdays | 9 am–12 pm

Free Duplicate Bridge Lessons. Whether you are new to bridge or a former or rusty player, enjoy the free supervised play lessons – no partner needed. Info: Duke City Bridge Club, 8616 Northeastern Blvd. NE, (505) 271-2877, dukecitybridge.com.

saturdays | 12–1 pm

Watermelon Mountain Ranch Volunteer Orientation. Come to the main facility in northern Rio Rancho to find out all about the volunteer program and the opportunities to work with the animals in our care. Info: Watermelon Mountain Ranch, 3251 Westphalia Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho, wmranch.org. Reservations required: volunteerwmr@gmail.com.

saturdays | 1–3 pm

Duke City Model Yacht Club. Join us every Saturday at Tingley Beach where we

race remote-controlled sailboats. All are welcome to visit us at the pond. We will be happy to help you sail one of ou r boats before or after the races. Info: 1800 Tingley Drive SW, dcmyc. org.

most 2nd, 4th and 5th saturdays | 7–10 pm

ABQ Dance Club. Fun social dances with a variety of music for swing, country, ballroom, and Latin. All levels. No partner needed and beginners are welcome (introductory dance lesson at 6:45 pm on 4th Saturday). Info: ABQ Square Dance Center, 4915 Hawkins NE. For info and to confirm schedule, email glkello@nmia.com or call (505) 299-3737 (no text; leave message). $8 fee ($5 ADC).

saturdays | 2:30–4:30 pm

Tango Club of Albuquerque’s Weekly Practice. At this Argentine Tango practice, no partner is necessary. Info: ABQ Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, abqtango.org.

second saturdays | 6–8:30 pm

Community Coffee House. Warm up with a cup and the opening musical performer. This is a great way to spend a Saturday evening listening to music and enjoying friends, old and new. Info: Unity Spiritual Center, relocated from the East Mountains to 9800 Candelaria NE, (505) 2921998, uscabq.org/coffeehouse for information about the month’s performers. (Not affiliated with the church.)

third saturdays |

Blue Star Mothers. General membership meeting for mothers of sons or daughters who currently serve or have served in the U.S. military. They pack care packages four times a year for those serving in the military. They also volunteer and participate in several military events throughout the year. Info: 2919 2nd St. NW, rgvnmbsm.org. Contact Ruby at rubyjeangarcia@gmail.com or (505) 203-8250 or Denise at (505) 8836240. Free.

every first saturday | 10–11:30 am

People Living Through Cancer. Support Group for women with any gynecological cancer plus concurrent group for families/caregivers. Info: The Gynecological Cancer Awareness Project holds these peer-led groups at the People Living – Cancer Office, 3411 Candelaria Road NE, Suite M, theGCAP.org.

EARLY JULY EVENTS

monday 1 | 9–11 am

Kid Art – Mosaics for Grades K–2. Kids in Kindergarten through second grade can work with Katie and Erika where they will use glass baubles and tiles to make coasters and small mosaics. No cutting of glass will be done. Info: thegrooveartspace.com, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 750-1713. $50.

monday 1 | 12–3 pm

Kid Art – Mosaics for Grades 3–5. Kids in third through fifth grades can work with Katie and Erika where they will use glass baubles and tiles to make coasters and small mosaics. The kids will learn how to cut and shape glass tiles Info: thegrooveartspace.com, 309 Gold Ave. SW, (505) 750-1713. $50.

thursday 4 | 3–10 pm

Freedom 4th at Balloon Fiesta Park. Join the City of Albuquerque and bring the family to Balloon Fiesta Park to celebrate our country’s Independence Day. Watch the brightest firework show in the state following a concert with local bands and a national headliner. Gates open at 3 pm for this free event. Visit cabq. gov/artsculture/freedom4th.

thursday 4 | 5–10 pm

Red, White and Balloons: Fourth of July at the Balloon Museum. Bring family and friends for a picnic and firework viewing celebration with museum lawn access, food trucks, music and hot air balloons to be enjoyed by all. Reserve outdoor lawn tickets where you can bring your own picnic or enjoy a lovely catered indoor meal upstairs with balcony views as part of the Stars & Stripes Balloon Museum

Benefit. You’ll have the best views of Albuquerque’s largest firework show from above the crowds. This is a benefit for the Anderson Abruzzo International Balloon Museum Foundation. Info: 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE, balloonmuseum. com. Tickets range from $10 –$125 at redziaevents.com.

DATEBOOK

INCLUDE YOUR EVENTS IN THE DATEBOOK!

Please send an e-mail with the date, time, and event description to datebook@abqthemag. com. If available, include a high-resolution digital photograph or image. Listing information deadline is the 10th two months prior to publication (e.g.—all MAY events must be submitted by March 10, etc.). All events are subject to change. Please call event organization for final verification on events, times, dates, prices, and ticket availability.

Beauty & Wellness

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

YES ORGANIC Boutique & SPA

INDIGO VERTON - OWNER

3420 Lomas Blvd NE - 602-295-2278 - yesorganicboutique.com

By growing up in an alternative lifestyle, Indigo Verton began developing a passion for holistic herbal remedies at an early age. That laid the foundation for the birth of Yes Organic Boutique and Spa, which has provided a natural and holistic approach to skin care since 2013.

“I wanted to create a business that focused not only on reducing waste and pollutants in the environment, but that was a safer and cleaner alternative for individuals,” Indigo says.

At Yes, a variety of organic and hand-made apothecary beauty products are available for both men and women. Clients can enjoy a complimentary cup of tea during their visit, and a friendly staff of licensed estheticians is on hand to mix a personal blend or guide you through mixing your own bath and body creations. Yes features Eminence Organic products, a wonderful earth-friendly skin care line that is also used in all of their customized spa facials.

In addition to handmade all natural skin care products, Yes offers services such as massage, facials, waxing, lash lifts and tints, brow laminations, pedicures and manicures.

“We continue to prioritize a holistic approach to help all of

our clients meet their skin goals,” Indigo says. “We are constantly looking for new ways to adapt to the changing economy and world around us.”

Yes is also focused on giving back, as they participate in a high school mentoring and apprenticeship program teaching young adults about holistic skin care and production of all natural products. They also consistently partner with the community to pick up trash and clean up the environment.

Yes has grown considerably in the past year, which only serves to benefit their valued customer base.

“We have created so many new and wonderful all natural body products and continue to create more,” Indigo says. “We have hired more women and expanded our services that we provide, including Mayan abdominal massage and yoni steam. We hired a certified herbalist who is extremely knowledgeable and offers herbal consultations.

“We are excited to embrace whatever the future holds and look forward to continuing to create new and amazing all natural skin care.”

LOVE LASEr & MED SPA

TINA & CHRIS SISNEROS - OWNERS

There are a few key words to live by at Love Laser and Med Spa: “People don’t care how much you know, til they know how much you care.”

Both knowledge and caring can be found in abundance at this medical spa, which provides its patients with the most innovative medical aesthetics available under the guidance of a friendly, well-trained staff.

Tina Sisneros purchased the company in April 2022 from founder Linda Love and has since grown it from three employees to 11 while adding seven new treatments to better service the spa’s clients. That expansion truly is a team effort.

“The success of our growth comes from our amazing staff,” says Tina, a wife and mother of two sons.

Love Laser and Med Spa is a full-service medical spa that offers Botox, fillers, weight loss management, vitamins, IV therapy, laser hair removal, PRP, teeth whitening and esthetician services such as Diamond Glow, Dermaplaning, micro needling,

lash tint and brow lamination.

The Love Laser and Med Spa team stays on top of the latest trends, which is evidenced by the various types of services available. This includes options outside of fillers like Morpheus8, Lumecca, Forma and Define.

“The industry has gone back to a more natural look,” Tina says.

Love Laser and Med Spa has already made significant strides in recent years with its expansion, and the mission going forward will be to continue making positive impacts on people’s lives and the community by bringing beauty, wellness, and confidence through professional, caring, and affordable laser and aesthetic skin care services.

“We will continue to be a leading provider to our clients and we will do more advanced training to ensure we are the best in the industry,” Tina says. “Clients are our focus.”

JENEE CELESTE SANCHEZ OWNER - OPERATOR - ESTHETICIAN

BELLA COSA MED SPA

I (Jenee) am proud to say my spa has been open 10 years strong! The name was inspired by both of my daughters, Isabella and Kassaundra.

My motto is let us help you bloom your BIO beauty inside and out. I truly believe when you feel your best you want to maintain self love and self care, which is so important. My vision has always been to educate, inspire, empower and help make a difference in people’s lives — and self care is a wonderful way to do so.

I have always loved the beauty industry and helping others. In my 20s, I modeled for John Robert Powers, and my modeling coach would teach us about skincare and hair regimens. That’s where I became inspired to want to learn more about skincare regimens, treatments and services.

I worked in customer service as a pharmacy technician and outside sales for many years, learning how to sell and build customer relations. Once I hit 35, I decided I wanted to make the move and open my own business and bring my passions into reality. I went back to school at National Laser Institute for esthetics, lasers, facials, peels and body contouring. I proceeded

to grow to a day spa for three years, and in the past seven years, I transitioned into a successful medical spa.

Some of the awards I have received include Best Med Spa and New Mexico Business Owner of the Year. When I’m not at work, I love spending quality time with my family, working out, salsa dancing and traveling.

At Bella Cosa Med Spa, we enjoy giving back to the community, as we’ve helped raise money for the Boston bombing with a 5K run, provided coats and backpacks for kids, essentials for the homeless and more. Especially important to me is our fundraising in the community for breast cancer, as my own best friend is a survivor.

I have an amazing team: Jaime Lucero (FNP/ Medical Director/ Advanced Injector), Monique Gonzales (RN/BSN/ Advanced Injector) and Kassaundra Sanchez (Modern Esthetician). We work together to serve our clients with the utmost care and state of the art services and will continue striving with new innovative services to meet all skin types. Please come see us. We book by appointment at (505) 712-1550. We would love to have you as our client. We love what we do!

LOVE’s HEALING TOUCH DAY SPA

Love’s Healing Touch Day Spa is well-versed in the healing benefits of massage.

Co-owners Love and Sunbeam Stropnicky have always had an affinity for helping others. They were inspired to begin a career in massage while caring for their father in the hospital, and they knew they could help many of the people they witnessed suffering in that environment. With that in mind, Love and Sunbeam took a leap of faith, leaving their careers in the corporate world to attend school at Universal Therapeutic Massage Institute, where they graduated with honors.

Through this vision, Love’s Healing Touch Day Spa was born. It offers far more than your average spa, with a service menu that provides a wide variety of massage modalities aimed at treating individual needs. Each type of treatment offered has its own unique health benefits, providing everything from relaxation to pain relief. Moreover, the staff at LHT Day Spa all share the same passion and have at least five years of experience offering great care and expert knowledge in their trade.

Some of the specialized treatments offered at LHT Day Spa include Structural Relief Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage, Traditional Thai, CranioSacral, Therapeutic Touch that combines multiple modalities, Ayurvedic Body Scrubs and more. The spa is designed for health, rest and relaxation in a welcoming and communal setting. Clients can enjoy a long soak in a solar-heated hot tub (104°) and a cleansing sweat in an authentic Finnish cedar sauna (170-190°). Then, they can cool off with a dip in the cold plunge (55°) and rest in a beautiful garden courtyard. The spa was inspired by the many cultures which have long traditions of communal bathing: Japanese Onsens, Russian Banyas, Scandinavian saunas, as well as local hot spring resorts. The spirit of these traditions were incorporated into a beautiful design that is welcoming to all.

At LHT Day Spa, customer satisfaction is the main priority. That is evidenced by the spa motto: “Never underestimate the healing power of human touch and loving individuals by treating them with courtesy, compassion, and respect.” With expansion on the horizon within the next five years, LHT Day Spa hopes to continue to exceed the community’s expectations as it grows.

Revived Skin & Hair Salon

7600 Jefferson St. NE, Suite 23 - revivedskinhairstudio.com

At Revived Hair and Skin Salon, the customer experience is key.

Thanks to a thorough consultation process, clients are able to receive a specially-tailored and realistic plan that helps them achieve their desired look. Located in the Heart of Jefferson Square, Revived offers a variety of services ranging from hair care and styles to full-body treatments.

“I love talking to people and getting to know them more to build a strong relationship. Making people feel their best makes me the happiest,” says owner and hair stylist Kassi Acosta. “So putting these two things together is what makes my career rewarding.”

Revived is successful thanks to an experienced and talented team, which includes Michaela Estrada, Haleigh Hendren, Ciara Gutierrez and Denise Gonzalez. Michaela is a hairstylist with more than 15 years of experience who offers color services,

cuts and smoothing treatments; Haleigh is an esthetician who specializes in full body waxing, eyelash extensions, lash lifts, and facials; Ciara is an esthetician whose range of services includes microneedling, custom facials, and eyelash/eyebrow enhancements and Denise helps ensure that everything runs smoothly at the front of the salon.

“I cherish the women that I work with. They are very talented in what they do,” Kassi says. “We all work very well with one another because we all have a common goal: do our best work and encourage each other to be the best versions of ourselves.”

Revived continues to grow in numerous ways. The salon recently underwent some key renovations, as an interior wall was removed to make room for an additional styling chair and a shampoo bowl. And thanks to Kassi’s passion for mentoring new hairstylists, Revived is always looking forward to building its team.

THE SPA @ WESTERN DERMATOLOGY

10151 Montgomery Blvd NE, Suite A, Bldg 1 - 505.855.5503 - westerndermatology.com

More than 20 years ago, Western Dermatology opened for business, making us the first spa in Albuquerque to be owned and operated by board-certified dermatologists.

Today, we continue to remain on the cutting edge of treatment for our clients, as evidenced by the introduction of Optimas by Inmode to The Spa. Among the most advanced machines available for non-invasive cosmetic treatments, this has allowed us to add the following three treatments to The Spa as of this spring:

Morpheus8: a fractional skin treatment that stimulates collagen production of the underlying layers of the dermis. By targeting the deeper layers of the skin, the building blocks will reorganize themselves in a natural anti-aging process.

Lumecca: the most powerful intense pulsed light (IPL) to treat pigmented and vascular lesions. After just one use, patients notice significant improvements in the complexion and clarity of the skin.

Diolaze: an advanced laser hair removal procedure that safely and gently eliminates unwanted hair. This has one of the largest treatment spot sizes, making treatments convenient and fast. The combination of efficacy, patient comfort and speed makes DiolazeXL a leader in laser hair removal. It is powerful enough to target and treat even the most stubborn hair.

As pioneers in dermatological care since 1997, we’ve always believed in innovation and inclusivity — a commitment that continues to this day.

LEFT TO RIGHT: DR. BARBARA EINHORN; KATIE JOSHI, PA-C; DR. CATHERINE N. TCHANQUÉ-FOSSUO, MD, MS, FAAD; CAROL PURCELL, PA-C; LORETTA GONZALES, PA-C

PINK MOUNTAIN MEDICAL

ALLYSON ESQUIBEL - MSN, CFNP, CNM

5820 4th St NW - 505-477-0526 - pinkmountainmedical24@gmail.com

Allyson Esquibel is a true medical professional with a wealth of experience in a wide variety of fields.

After working for a healthcare organization for more than two decades, Allyson decided she wanted to go into business for herself while providing more efficient and optimized care to Albuquerque patients. That led to the 2024 launch of Pink Mountain Medical, a med spa that offers services such as toxin injections, dermal fillers, PDO threads, laser hair removal, laser tattoo removal, body sculpting and laser lipo. Pink Mountain also provides non-steroidal joint injections for pain and arthritis, medical weight loss options, and direct primary care.

“The small, boutique aesthetic of the practice makes us unique,” Allyson says. “We offer very personalized care and we are located in the North Valley, where there are few other providers. Plus, we are open on Saturdays!”

As Pink Mountain continues to grow, Allyson hopes to provide free or discounted micropigmenting services for women who have had mastectomy and tattoo removal for those who regret their ink choices. Driven by Allyson’s ambition, work ethic and undeniable resolve, the future is bright for the burgeoning company.

Here in Albuquerque, we can put together a big, expensive meal like the best of them but what we really excel at is cheap eats. Nachos? Naturally! Sushi? Certainly! Spam? Yes, Ma’am! The city is full of deals from New Mexican standards like tacos and taquitos, to tasty imports like Chicago Dogs and New York-style pizza. We’ve found a ton of fantastic cheap eats from all around town. Turn the page and dig in!

By Clarke Condé

Photos By Don James

Chicago Dog

at Clowndog Hot Dog Parlor

Be a kid, add Fruit Loops?

For $6 on any given day at Clowndog in Nob Hill (except Tuesdays when they are closed), you will find the Chicago Dog. All clowning aside, the hot dog connoisseur will not be disappointed in the quality—and the bargain shopper will see the value—in this loaded frankfurter. It’s the traditional ingredients in this Windy City varietal that make it a Chicago-style dog: thick tomato slices, a generous-sized pickle spear, chopped onions, pickled Sport Pepper (like a Serrano), relish, yellow mustard and, of course, celery salt, all packed in a poppy seed bun with your choice of a beef, turkey or veggie dog. (And since it’s classic Chicago-style, ketchup is not welcome.) The dog is packed with more stuff than its more famous New York-style challenger—placing it head and big shoulders above the pack for sheer volume, if nothing else. And if you want to put a little Southwest on your Midwest dog, for a small upcharge you can add ingredients like chopped green chile, chicharrones, even Frito corn chips. Or you can take full advantage of the avail able toppings (they don’t call this place a Hot Dog Parlor for nothing) and add stuff like popcorn, fried eggs, pine apple chunks, or mac & cheese. (And don’t leak this info to the kiddos, but you can also have Fruit Loops cereal sprinkled atop your dog.)

Clowndog Hot Dog Parlor

3624 CENTRAL AVE. SE (505) 255-0052

Chili Cheese Fries

at Laguna Burger

Arguably, the defining factor in any cheap eat is the quantity-to-cash ratio. If you are looking for volume for your buck, Laguna Burger has got you—and your fries—covered. The menus at all three area locations offer the hearty Chili Cheese Fries ($5.99 at the 12th Street location, slightly more at the others). And caution must’ve been thrown out along with yesterday’s fry oil, because this popular eatery isn’t holding back on the beef, red chile or cheese with these fries. Each serving is a monumental sculpture of fries (we’re talking multiple potatoes here), topped with generous scoops of ground beef in red chile, followed by a mound of fresh-shredded cheddar and diced onions. To be sure, it’s an ample meal in a rectangular paper bowl. For first-timers, we recommend ordering it as your meal, rather than as a side dish, given the large volume. Now, the only thing left is to make the biggest decision regarding chili cheese fries: do you dive in using only your hands, or do you reach for a trusty fork? Again, newbies take heed: trying to pick your way through this pile of fried and marinated goodness with only your fingers and a bunch of napkins is a fool’s errand. Do yourself a favor, grab a fork and dig in.

Laguna Burger

2400 12TH ST. NW (505) 352-8282

2401 RIO RANCHO BLVD. SE

INTERSTATE 40 (INSIDE ROUTE 66 CASINO) INTERSTATE 40 (RIO PUERCO/66 PIT STOP)

$5.99

$6.25 AND FINGERS OR FORK?

Slice, Drink & Salad

Aldo’s Pizzeria

New York City’s greatest gift to the world of cheap eats is the re-heated slice of cheese pizza. And Rio Rancho has long been home to NYC-style pizza joints, so it’s no surprise that this classic combo from Aldo’s Pizzeria makes our list. The huge slices here are classics of the New York style, cut from a 24-inch pie and flopping over the edge of the paper plate with thin, melty goodness. The sauce is sweet and flavorful, with a hint of garlic and a tang that will bring you back to the streets of Gotham where these iconic triangles are usually eaten while standing. To make that easier, the dough is pliable enough that you can fold the slice over in your hand (be careful, doing this move will make New Yorkers think you’re a native). Next comes the easiest and greasiest part—the ooze of mozzarella into your pie hole. Low-fat cheese? We don’t think so. Extra napkins? Now you’re talking. But wait, there’s more in store at Aldo’s as part of this bargain-meal deal. For only $8.85 (dollars less than a drive-thru combo), you get to pair your slice with a drink and a salad. You can still stand if you want, but now you’ve got good reason for a sit-down meal. Mangia!

Aldo’s New York Style Pizzeria

1690 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE, STE D (505) 892-2026

Early Bird Meal at Pelican’s

There are three things you need to know about the early bird special at Pelican’s. The first is that you need to get to either of their two metro locations early. (That may seem obvious from the name, but it bears repeating so there is no confusion.) This local chain’s early-bird special is only available from 4 to 6:30 p.m. In this scenario, you are the “early bird.” The “Pelican” is not. Second, you can choose from Fish and Chips, Hawaiian Chicken, Trout Almondine (when available), Shrimp Pelican, Top Sirloin, Salmon or Catfish. The portions are a bit smaller than their regular menu, but the kicker is that you still get their bottomless salad bowl and your choice of side dish. How can you go wrong? The third thing you need to know (and the part that makes this a cheap eat) is that the entire meal is only $23.95. Yes, that might seem a bit pricey to be called a ‘cheap eat,’ but consider that this is a full-on, sit-down dinner we are talking about here. Plus, by eating early in the evening you can be out the door with time to spare. Fly on, early bird.

Pelican’s

9800 MONTGOMERY BLVD. NE (505) 298-7678

10022 COORS BLVD. NW (505) 899-2000

Five Rolled Tacos at Kathy’s

Carry-Out

5TACOS MINUTES BUCKS 50 inyears the making

Mom’s

recipes rule!

In the heart of the South Valley, Kathy’s Carry-Out has been dishing out its own blend of New Mexican food for 50 years. That includes a simple á la carte item that regulars rave about for its value and taste: the Rolled Taco order, which consists of five freshly cooked, hand-rolled bean ‘taquitos’ that are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside—for just five bucks. The folks at Kathy’s are quick about it, too. You can easily be out the door with your freshly-made tacos in under five minutes. It might also be worth noting that while Kathy’s has “Carry-Out” in the name, they have booths inside the restaurant, and a drive-thru. Maybe skip the carrying-out part and just chow down on your five-pack right there. Heck, add an old-school, sugar cane, in-a-glass-bottle Coke to your order while you’re at it. Owner Kathy Alvarez says most of the recipes originated with her mother, and freshness is the key. And the dish is as yummy as it is simple to make: corn tortillas are loaded with refried beans, rolled up, and held closed with a toothpick so that everything holds together in the deep fryer. We might be ready for another 5-pack.

Spam Musubi

at Kimo’s Hawaiian BBQ

SHawaii in ABQ

pam is incredibly popular in Hawaii (it’s even on the menu at McDonald’s there). And the standard is a hand-held snack named Spam musubi, which is found in most casual island eateries. The version served at Kimo’s Hawaiian BBQ features a thick slice of Spam steak atop a block of steamed rice, wrapped in nori (dried seaweed). It’s perfect for on-the-go eating, as you can personalize every bite to your taste. “People get very experimental with what they put on it,” says Jhane Otero, a server and cook at the Midtown industrial area eatery. “They’ll do soy sauce, chile sauce, they even ask for mustard. My personal favorite is to put spicy mayo on it.” The dish’s appeal is its simplicity: the only flavoring added by Kimo’s is a quick soy sauce marinade for the Spam, which is then quick-fried in a pan. Because of the $5 price, hearty portion (the Spam is nearly ½-inch thick) and ease of consumption, Otero reports that numerous customers regularly pop in to buy the musubi as their entire lunch. The popular item is also sold by the restaurant’s food truck, which is out and about a couple times each week (check social media for schedules).

Kimo’s Hawaiian BBQ 3239 GIRARD BLVD. NE (505) 582-2797

$5MEAL TOPIT WITHYOUR CHOICES

Boneless Honey Glazed Combo

at Sticky Rice

Let’s face it: fresh and fast is where it’s at when looking for a cheap eats lunch spot. This Lao restaurant in the Market Place at Journal Center is just that kind of lunchtime place. Open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sticky Rice offers quick meals for the lunchtime crowd pressed for time. Our top pick is the Boneless Honey Glazed Combo. Served in a to-go container, this dish is an ample and tasty mix of grilled chicken served over steamed or fried rice, with a side of broccoli or mixed vegetables, plus spicy sauce. This is simplicity at its best, with large portions, blazing fast service, and little by way of frills. All the main combo plates are roughly the same price and all are chicken-based (the most common dish in traditional Laotian cooking is chicken, in case you haven’t figured that out already). In fact, to get through the demand during a lunch rush, Sticky Rice uses an oversized grill that can cook about 100 chicken halves at once—talk about fresh! Make sure to arrive on the early side of lunchtime, because when they are out of food, they close for the day.

TTacos

Taqueria El Paisa

he menu at this longtime South Valley spot is loaded with Mexican street food: burritos, tortas, gorditas, and tacos. And the tacos are so good you’ll want to eat several—and cheap enough that you’ll be able to afford it! You can choose from several standard fillings, from the familiar (pork, chicken, steak) to what the uninitiated might call ‘exotic’ (beef cheek, beef tongue, pork stomach). All come freshly prepared on a corn tortilla, topped with diced onion and cilantro, along with a baggie (yes, a plastic baggie) of red or green chile, plus a slice of lime. The proteins are perfectly cooked, and what sets these tacos apart

from what you find at fast-food chains that are clueless about terms like “al pastor” and “asada.” The restaurant has a high daily volume of customers, who are used to ordering from a walkup window, and paying in cash only. To keep everyone fed and happy, El Paisa is open daily from morning to almost midnight. And if you’re wondering if $2.50 is a bargain for a single taco, know that a comparable taco from Taco Bell (after upgrading their Crunchy Taco to include steak, onions and chile sauce) is $4.29. And you don’t even get a soft corn tortilla or a lime slice. Provecho!

Taqueria El Paisa 820 BRIDGE BLVD. SW (505) 452-8997

$2.50

Half-Off Rolls

at Dragon Sushi

TTry the 007 roll

he best-kept secret for cheap eats in local sushi is Dragon Sushi on Eubank. Don’t let the unassuming building fool you, every inch of the interior is plastered with paper lanterns, umbrellas, movie posters and signs in Kanji, putting you in the mood for some fantastic sushi rolls. And fantastic sushi rolls are what you shall have! Dragon Sushi lists 25 rolls in the $6 to $8 range but then offers them all at 50% off all the time making them really $3 to $4 rolls. You have been warned—this may prompt you to go a little wild with your ordering. Classics like the California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll and Philadelphia Roll are superb choices for the conservative sushi roll eater, but maybe get a little adventurous and try the Money Roll (shrimp tempura, cucumber and seared cream cheese), the Phoenix Roll (crab stick, salmon and avocado) or the Green Chile Tempura Roll (don’t worry, the green chile in this roll is hot enough not to disappoint). Consider over-ordering just part of the process of finding your favorites and bringing a friend for their take. Add a little hot sake or a Sapporo and you are in for a meal. When you’ve stuffed yourself to capacity, just ask for a to-go container and try to remember which you liked the best for your next visit.

Dragon Sushi

2918 EUBANK BLVD NE

$3 TO $4 SUSHI ROLLS (505) 294-8612

A sushi adventure 50% OFF

Bar Menu

at M’tucci’s Italian

TTO BAR PATRONS

his is proof that grown-ups can get in on the fun of cheap eats, too: M’tucci’s Italian on the city’s Westside offers an entire bar menu of fresh-made, smallish-but-hearty dishes that are priced at just six bucks apiece. And those aren’t happy hour prices; they’re good all day long. The lineup includes 9 dishes, and batting in the lead-off spot is the Cajun Beef Tips, a perfectly seasoned and generous portion of sautéed tenderloin bites topped with crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and chopped green onions, plus warm pita bread. The bar choices also include two mini-pizzas, either Margherita or pepperoni, as well as a Bruschetta Caprese Half Flatbread. Some of the other options are perfectly shareable as nosh, like the Truffle Fries, Fried Artichokes, and Wood Roasted Baked Goat Cheese (which comes with warm pita for dipping). If you want to pair different bites with different wines, there are more than a dozen by-the-glass vino options. We should note that the other three M’tucci’s metro locations have similar bar-menu deals, each with varying options and prices. As for the Italian location, there’s only one catch to this deal: the items are available only to those seated in the bar, and the dishes are for dine-in only. (No worries—you had us at ‘bar.’)

M’tucci’s Italian 6001 WINTERHAVEN RD NW (505) 503-7327

ALL DAY LONG WINE PAIRING

Fresh Nachos

at Tenpins & More

Clearly, Tenpins & More is a great spot for bowling (or karaoke on Friday nights), as players tend to work up an appetite, which explains the full menu of burgers, pizza, chicken tenders and other appropriate fare here. But we’ll let you in on a little secret—Tenpins is also a cheap eats hidden gem, thanks to a budget nacho platter that overwhelms the senses. Despite the all-star food lineup, nachos seems to play on a higher level, maybe because you can grab quick bites without getting your fingertips—and your bowling ball—too messy. And the $8 Tenpins version is a 10-pin strike, starting with freshly fried chips, which are cut from corn tortillas into the triangles that will deftly scoop up all that cheese. Speaking of cheese, the topping is made in-house here, and poured generously over said chips. And the meat? Strips of succulent, tender beef. You also get tomatoes, lettuce and onions, plus sliced jalapeños on the side (so you can add heat as your bowling skills warm up). Isn’t it amazing what a difference you taste when nachos are made fresh-to-order? That’s certainly the case here—what other bowling alley has an exhibition kitchen so you can watch your order being prepared? And of course, to wash down your delightful snack, there are plenty of beverage choices, from local craft beer on tap, to a full-scale liquor selection. Re-set the pins, please!

Tenpins & More 1416 DEBORAH RD SE (505) 891-4462

Full Breakfasts

at The Sandwich Company

The Most Important Meal Of The Day has mostly turned into Grab Something Quick And Go, hasn’t it? Well, for those of us who could eat breakfast for every meal, the menu at this diner near ABQ’s industrial corridor is a throwback to yesteryear: huge plates filled with eggs, potatoes, bacon, sausage and pancakes—at budget prices! In fact, two dozen breakfast items are $9.95 or less, including The Company Burrito (loaded with two eggs, home fried potatoes, your choice of meat, plus red or green chile and cheese) and the Croissantwich with Bacon, featuring a flaky pastry filled with scrambled eggs and cheese, and served with a generous mound of home fried potatoes (shown here). The diner also

has a few back-in-the-day options, like Spam and corned beef hash. Another half dozen selections are only $1 more, including Enchiladas & Eggs, Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs, and Boneless Pork Chop & Eggs. And if you crave hearty breakfasts but still have that ‘grab it and go’ mentality, you can opt for their Hand Held Model Foil breakfast burrito, which is a close cousin to The Company Burrito, scaled down just a bit to make it practical for take-out, and of course with chile inside the tortilla instead of smothered on the plate. Potato, potata…they’re both fantastic!

7am-2pm weekdays only EXTENSIVE MENU!

The Sandwich Company 3100 CARLISLE BLVD. NE, A (505) 881-0956 OLD-SCHOOL PORTIONS

$9.95 & under 24 PLATES UNDER $10! You had us at home fries

Personal Cakes at Nothing Bundt

Cakes

We used to count on sweets to be cheap, but that’s not always the case anymore. (Apparently sugar and butter aren’t inflation-proof.) So, we’re thanking our sweet tooth for Nothing Bundt Cakes, which offers a bargain with their line of individual-sized cakes called “Bundlets.” The treats give us the decadent taste of rich bundt cake for only $5.50. The ABQ bakery (Nothing Bundt Cake has 500 locations in the U.S. and Canada) makes full-size cakes for special occasions (as well as the cupcake-sized Bundtinis), but the individually packaged Bundlets are really available for the cake lover who wants cake without having to wait around for much of anything. And why should you have to wait for a special occasion? Isn’t eating cake a

special occasion? These apple-sized bundt cakes come in a variety of flavors, including White Chocolate Raspberry, with a cream cheese frosting that tops a fluffy, moist cake filled with raspberries swirled in. The use of fresh raspberry purée is evident in these tiny cakes with the presence of raspberry seeds, the sign of a truly premium cake. Other flavors include Carrot, Vanilla, Chocolate Chocolate Chip (gluten-free also available), Lemon Blueberry, Strawberries and Cream, Snickerdoodle, Confetti, Lemon and Red Velvet. Cheap sweets? A piece of cake.

Nothing Bundt Cakes 5901-X WYOMING BLVD. NE (505) 924-2222

$$5.505.50 TO SHARE OR NOT TO SHARE?

FSpring Rolls at Spring Rollin’

reshness is built in to this yummy dish, because you get to— yes—build it to your liking. You’ve got six choices to make, starting with whether you want rice paper or lettuce to hold everything in. Then you get your pick of noodle, protein, veggie, and even texture (you can toss in some crunch with your choice of shrimp chips, Hot Cheetos or fried egg roll skins). And while these rolls are certainly made up of healthier ingredients, it doesn’t mean the dish won’t be filling (after all, the order comes with not just one, but two rolls). And they’re absolutely loaded; for example, the shrimp option will get you four perfectly plump whole shrimp in each roll. You can also pile in from a good selection of veggies, including pickled Daikon radish, bean sprouts, carrots, cilantro, mint, basil and cucumber. Of course, things wouldn’t be complete in the spring roll world without sauce, and this spot has you covered, with traditional choices like peanut or fish sauce, plus a sriracha lime sauce, and even a nod to New Mexico cuisine with both a green chile sauce, and a nacho cheese sauce (with Hot Cheeto crumbs, naturally). Spring Rollin’ has two ABQ locations, including a drive-thru at the Cottonwood spot.

Spring Rollin’ 6241 RIVERSIDE PLAZA (505) 792-7786 10131 COORS BLVD. NW (505) 312-8559

Bánh Mí

at Coda Bakery

In Vietnamese, the word for bread is ‘bánh mí,’ which also became the term for the cheap and tasty street food sandwiches that originated in Saigon. At Coda Bakery, cheap and tasty is still the mission. The key to this bánh mí is the heavenly baguettes—they’re baked fresh in-house during the wee hours every morning at this popular eatery in the International District. The slightly sweet 12-inch rolls here have the perfect contrast: a crunchy shell that gives way to a pillowy center. Because Coda goes through a high volume of bánh mí orders daily, the fillings are always fresh, and include chicken, pork, meatballs and tofu, plus some exotic options, like sardines or eggs. The traditional ingredients include pickled carrots, daikon radishes, cucumbers, cilantro and Vietnamese mayo. Service is always quick, and you can be out the

door (or settled into one of Coda’s numerous tables) in just a few minutes. Now is where you’re faced with an awesome dilemma: these sammies are so big that it's like you’re getting two instead of one, which is what makes them such a bargain (the shop offers 13 varieties of bánh mí, and all come with the same $8.50 price tag). But a bite or two will probably bring you to the same conclusion we had: these traditional sandwiches are too tasty to share.

Coda Bakery

230 LOUISIANA BLVD SE (505) 232-0085

$8.50

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Legal Pros

Davis Kelin Law Firm

GINA DOWNES AND ELLEN GESKE |

ATTORNEYS

When trial lawyers Ben Davis and Zackeree Kelin formed their partnership in 2016, they did so with the intention of becoming a leading firm in the state in their areas of practice: wrongful death, medical malpractice, professional malpractice, legal malpractice, and insurance bad faith. By surrounding themselves with like-minded, intelligent, and compassionate collaborators, they not only achieved that goal, but surpassed their own expectations.

Davis Kelin Law Firm is recognized today as one of the top trial law firms in the state of New Mexico, specializing in wrongful death and complex civil litigation.

In honor of this recognition, Mr. Davis and Mr. Kelin are proud to acknowledge the firm’s elite associate attorneys, Gina Downes and Ellen Geske, whose niche experience, strong work ethic, and unwavering client dedication helped make it possible.

Gina Downes, whose family is rooted in New Mexico, graduated cum laude from UNM and began her law career with a well-known defense firm in Albuquerque. This provided her with invaluable insight into insurance law, insurance defense, and insurance company claims-handling practices; however, she quickly realized her calling to represent children, victims of sexual abuse, and injured or harmed people, and joined the Davis Kelin Law Firm in 2018 as a personal injury attorney.

Ms. Downes has handled hundreds of Albuquerque personal injury cases involving medical malpractice, catastrophic injury, sexual assault and wrongful death. She serves on the Board of Editors for the New Mexico Trial Lawyer Journal and is the author of the Verdicts and Settle-

ments column.

When she’s not fighting with insurance adjusters or unreasonable opposing counsel, Ms. Downes enjoys traveling with friends and spending quiet time with her dog, Roxy. She may even tell you the best place in town for good Italian food if you ask nicely.

Ellen Geske came to New Mexico in 2006 after earning her undergraduate degree in Illinois. One of her first jobs in the state was as an application/reporting analyst for an ophthalmic practice (she even knows how to spell “ophthalmic”). Following law school at UNM where she graduated cum laude, she clerked for a medical malpractice defense firm. But she, too, realized early in her law career that her heart was not in defense work.

Ms. Geske developed her analytical skills while clerking for the Honorable C. Shannon Bacon at the New Mexico Supreme Court where she also fine-tuned her writing and research skills. She joined the Davis Kelin Law Firm in January 2023 and works primarily in the areas of medical malpractice, legal malpractice, catastrophic injury, wrongful death, and insurance bad faith. She also serves on the Board of Editors for the New Mexico Trial Lawyer Journal and the New Mexico Women’s Bar Association, and cares deeply about issues involving women and children.

Ms. Geske and her husband are raising their daughters in Albuquerque where they fell in love, undeniably and unabashedly…with the craft beer scene.

Whether you’re a victim or know someone who is, Davis Kelin Law Firm is here to help with life’s most unpleasant experiences.

I was born and raised in Albuquerque, growing up in and out of trouble from a young age. After spending time as an MMA fighter, I felt a pull to move in a more positive direction for my future; a need for something better for myself. Focusing on my education, and then excelling through business school, I proudly achieved a degree from the UNM School of Law. Within just one year, I opened my law firm in 2018. Specializing in criminal, civil, and family law, I am proud to have been able to help thousands of clients to this point, all from right here in my very own community. I still very much consider myself a ‘fighter,’ but now I’m on the right side of the law–fighting for my clients.

The Law Offices of Darlene Gomez

Darlene Gomez has made a career of fighting for segments of society that are often overlooked.

Darlene grew up in the rural northern New Mexican town of Lumberton, a community where water availability was a consistent issue. While she attended law school at the University of New Mexico, Darlene worked diligently to ensure that her hometown was able to receive grants and funding for a more clean and stable water system while also enlisting one of the law school’s professors to do pro bono work for the cause. That success convinced Darlene that she had chosen the right career path.

Today, Darlene is the owner and head litigator at the Law Offices of Darlene Gomez, a boutique law firm that offers specialized and personal customer service to its clients. While the office is located in Albuquerque, Darlene and her team of lawyers practice all over the state. In fact, the firm’s specialty is practicing in Indian Country, but it also serves many other small corporations, companies, public entities, and municipalities. With an experienced, trauma-informed, and easily accessible team, it’s no surprise that 50% of their cases are family law.

“I believe that we’re different from very highly-structured law firms because we’re more relatable to people,” Darlene says. “We want to have the best outcome for our clients in the shortest amount of time while being conscientious about the money spent. We have a very personalized approach and a deep understanding of our client’s needs.”

One of the firm’s primary areas of emphasis is actively working for causes related to promoting Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Relatives (MMIWR). It’s an area of passion for Darlene, who encountered its impacts firsthand in her hometown.

“I have been working pro bono for MMIWR since 2001

because I had a friend of mine go missing that year,” Darlene says.

“I am very passionate about bringing justice to my community because I grew up in a community that was 95 percent Native American. I couldn’t bear to think of my nieces or nephews going missing and that no one would look for them.”

As of 2023, the firm has done more than $2 million of pro bono work for MMIWR while representing 27 families. This work has a national scope, as well; Darlene has partnered with the Gabby Petito Foundation to promote further awareness of MMIWR, and she has been featured in the New Yorker magazine for work relating to the families she represents. Darlene has also launched a non-profit called “MMIWR Indian Country,” which promotes advocacy in law schools and creates a curriculum to teach Native American communities what to do when one of their own goes missing.

“I’m proud of the national attention that we have brought to MMIWR as well as the individual stories where we’ve been able to bring justice through victim rights — and bringing perpetrators to stand trial and get convicted of MMIWR crimes against Native Americans,” Darlene says. “The fact that we’ve been able to mentor families, allowing them to tell their stories and to advocate for themselves is significant.”

In the months to come, the Law Offices of Darlene Gomez will continue to grow by adding another lawyer to the team and purchasing a new building. It’s all in the name of continuing to serve the community.

“We’re definitely motivated by the positive results that we see in our clients,” Darlene says. Knowing that what we do is not just a business — but it’s providing people with quality services that make them feel like they’re not just a customer.”

FAME

PEOPLE

String Theory

Levi Platero learned to play guitar in the church band, but his pastor father frowned on him buying rock CDs. Thankfully, friends downloaded some of the music he loved, and the future Diné rocker was on his way to stardom. (p. 178).

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

A Fighter By Nature

Attorney Lisa Curtis takes on the big guys who have wronged her clients—patients in medical malpractice cases. It’s a fight to be sure, filled with long days, long depositions and sometimes, long odds. Curtis wouldn’t have it any other way.

Lisa Curtis hates bullies. It’s clear from our conversation that being a mother and a grandmother informs her work as both a lawyer and an advocate, but her nurturing instincts only extend to the victims. The people or corporations that wrong them will find no comfort in Curtis. They are more likely to find themselves on the business end of a lawsuit answering uncomfortable questions and writing checks to pay for what they have done. All that is to say that being a trial lawyer is a natural fit for Curtis. It’s what she always wanted to do.

We sat down with Curtis to learn more about her love of the law, her work as an advocate for women and children in New Mexico, what she sees as the real problem with downtown Albuquerque, and more importantly, what she hopes to do about it.

ATM: How do you describe what you do?

CURTIS: First, I’m a mother of four kids and the grandmother of four. That always serves as the backdrop for everything else I do. But, I’m a trial lawyer. I only represent patients in malpractice cases and I do a little bit of sexual assault work. It’s all

very tragic, to be honest, so my hobby is architecture and design. I’m really interested in renovating downtown because honestly, I need something creative and beautiful in my life.

ATM: Did you did you grow up here?

CURTIS: I did. I went to Madison Middle School and Sandia High School and

barely graduated in the last two weeks. I have ADD, so I could do things very fast, but not for long. I went to college here at UNM. It took me a long time because I put myself through college and I worked in law firms. I always wanted to be a lawyer. I’m really just a lawyer by personality.

ATM: What drew you to torts?

CURTIS: I’ve been fortunate because I started in the legal profession as an 18-year-old, and I’ve gotten to do everything on all sides. This is the place that fits what I do naturally. I hate bullies. I am a fighter by nature. And then intellectually, medical malpractice is really complicated. It’s very stimulating. I learn something new every day. I really wouldn’t even be a lawyer unless I could do this. Although, I did just prosecute a serial rapist as a special prosecutor.

ATM: Many Albuquerque attorneys did a stint as a background actor on Better Call Saul when it was filming here. Did you?

CURTIS: No, I can’t fake anything. I don’t know how people pretend. I really admire that, but I don’t have the ability to do it.

ATM: Albuquerque is famous for those outrageous lawyer ads…

CURTIS: Oh, my God, I hate them. I absolutely hate them. Quite honestly, we don’t go to lawyers that advertise. This is not part of the real legal community because it’s kind of cheating. Everything in the legal community is about reputation. It’s through reputation that we get our cases. We don’t get our cases from billboards. Many years ago there was a lawsuit to try to stop lawyers, that we were all part of, to say that lawyers couldn’t advertise on billboards but that got lost in the 10th Circuit. They said it was free speech to be obnoxious on a billboard.

ATM: You are the chair of the New Mexico Commission on the Status of Women. What is the status of

women in New Mexico?

CURTIS: Women are really suffering when it comes to health care access. Women are not being paid equally. Do you know, it’s weird in New Mexico, advanced degrees are more likely held by women than men? Still, women get paid less than men, even though they put the time and the effort in to get that additional education.

We have an unusual state where we have a number of women in powerful positions. Trial lawyers for instance, in the other states, very few women, but a bunch of really powerful women doing that job here. So, we’re doing better than other places in many ways. But rural New Mexico, in particular, it’s really worrisome. They don’t have access to just regular pregnancy care. There’s some guy down south that won’t give a woman with children who is married birth control unless her husband signs a permission slip. I mean, that’s how out of touch we are sometimes. So there’s lots of work to do.

I’m not the carrot person. In fact, I’m not the stick person. I’m the club person.

We (the New Mexico Commission on the Status of Women) finally got permission to actually accumulate data on all these points for women in our state. And we ran a summit for the first time that did incredibly well and had 300 people go to it. It was really inspiring. So women in New Mexico are achieving, but they need support.

ATM: How does the foundation you founded, the LK Curtis Children’s Fund, fit into your life?

CURTIS: Taking care of children in our state, every time we seem to take one step forward, there’s two steps backward. There’s no consistency in trying to help these kids. My foundation is all about trying to support organizations that are supporting kids’ issues. There are people very devoted to that, and I’m very devoted to that, but we just keep missing the mark.

My sexual assault work, in particular, makes that very obvious, the fact that we don’t prosecute people who assault children sexually. The guy that I was on the news for two days ago got off on probation, even though he’s a police officer, and a coach, and raped a teenager on the team twice, that’s all we can do? So in particular, trying to support kids that have been sexually assaulted is a real passion.

ATM: Is that the focus of the foundation?

CURTIS: The nice thing is because it’s a foundation and not a 501(c) (3) I can spend it anywhere I want. I’m the trustee so it can be anything I think will help kids, but that in particular is a place that really needs help.

ATM: You were appointed and served as a state senator for the better part of a term a decade ago. Any interest in returning to elected office?

CURTIS: Oh, I don’t know. The fun thing is I get asked to run for everything. From the most local to the highest. That job is a profession. A lot of the time people work their whole lives to be able to work up. I’m going to retire here in about five years. I really don’t know how not to represent people so I wouldn’t count it out, but I really love the law. I am kind of interested in the judiciary, which is elected in our state.

ATM: Who inspires you?

CURTIS: I know what most people mean when they ask that question. They’re looking for somebody like Ruth Bader Ginsburg, which is not me.

I’m really inspired by my clients. They’re the ones that have been through this terrible thing, yet—like I have a client right now. She’s essentially paralyzed and she’s 50. She has a child. She’s a single mom. And she has this positive outlook that I would never have in that set of circumstances. So when, you know, I get the idea that, oh, my gosh, I’m going be tired, or I’m worn out or I’m feeling a little burnout, it’s like, I don’t know how Diane stays so positive with what’s happened to her. I get daily inspiration from them for sure.

ATM: What is next for you?

CURTIS: I really care about revitalizing downtown. This is a passion for me, because this is my city. This is my state. My children live here. My grandchildren live here. I know you cannot have a good city,

a good successful functioning city unless there’s a downtown. In downtown, we have a lot of old ownership or out-of-state ownership by people that are not doing the right thing with their buildings.

I’m a lawyer and as most people know, I am usually the bad cop. I’m not the carrot person. In fact, I’m not the stick person. I am the club person. So if you can’t do the right thing, then I know how to use that club to make things happen because it’s a nuisance what’s going on.

I’ve been down here since I was 18 years old. I am not worried about homelessness. We need to take care of these vulnerable people because they’re the ones that are getting hurt. They were the victims in my serial rape case because they can be taken advantage of by anybody at any moment. The homelessness thing is not a deterrent, it is the fact that we don’t have businesses because the owners of those buildings won’t rent them out for fair market value and won’t make them habitable. I’m going to do something about that because I can.

– Clarke Condé

Horse Sense

For Liz Sanchez and her life at Liz Sanchez Stables in Los Ranchos, where there is always someplace to go, something new to learn and hard work always holds the reins, horses are only part of the story.

Liz Sanchez is an 80-year-old dynamo in Los Ranchos De Albuquerque with a stable of horses, a wall full of awards and a lifetime of stories about working with horses. For over 50 years, Sanchez has run Liz Sanchez Stables on Rio Grande Boulevard, boarding horses in addition to training both rider and horse. It hasn’t always been easy, but Sanchez has a positive attitude driven by a love of learning about these animals and a willingness to work hard all day long, qualities found in all successful horse trainers. Sanchez’s story begins in the Midwest but is decidedly an Albuquerque one.

The daughter of a wildcatter and a Zigfield Follies showgirl, Sanchez spent her early years in a Catholic boarding school in Chicago. “I had pigtails,” she remembers, adding, “Never have pigtails in Catholic school because they just pull on them all so badly.”

Her father died while drilling for oil when she was nine. “They blew up his car,” she says. Even at nine, Sanchez knew foul play was involved, especially when the police showed up at the funeral. Eventually, her mother remarried and moved to San Marino, California while Liz remained at boarding school.

After graduating from high school, Sanchez came to New Mexico from Chicago in 1961, enrolled in the University of New Mexico and joined the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority back when the house was roughly where the second lane for Golden Pride on Lomas Boulevard is today. She admits her intentions were not wholly academic. “I came west to marry a cowboy,” she says. Marry she soon did, but not before getting pregnant and not to a cowboy, but rather a UNM undergrad, Raymond Sanchez, who would go on to serve as the speaker of the New Mexico House of Representatives for 16 years. “Billy Joel

has it right,” she says. “Catholic girls start way too late.”

Broke and pregnant, Sanchez remembers working as a server at Juan’s Beer Garden in Jarales (just south of Belen) and then moving into a small rental house at 115 Stanford by UNM. “The place was so bad that we just painted over the dirt,” she said. Sanchez had her baby and settled into life while her then-husband attended law school at UNM. “It was a good life,” she says. “The best I ever was was poor.”

In 1967, Sanchez saw an ad for the 800-square-foot house on three-quarters of an acre on Rio Grande Boulevard in Los Ranchos De Albuquerque which would become her home and eventually Liz Sanchez Stables where she still lives and works today. The property became the launching point for over five centuries of working with horses. “After that, I just had to go to work to make my house payments which were $247.50 a month,” she says.

The work Sanchez started was hauling horses around the county. “I was the first woman on the road driving a semi-truck with livestock,” she said. Making runs anywhere between the West Coast and Kentucky with the CB handle of “The New Mexico Filly,” Sanchez was in the horse business and making friends with her fellow truckers. “It was a quiet fraternity of people on the move. They all knew each other because we all had the same run.”

Then came her career showing horses starting in 1972. “My show career started in my backyard,” she says. That small backyard was slowly transforming into Liz Sanchez Stables. It was there that Sanchez started her training business with a focus on American Saddlebred and Morgan horses. She is quick to add, “No Arabians.” From there she began showing horses around the country at all of the major national horse shows, driving the same roads she did when she was hauling horses for sale. It was at these shows that Sanchez learned all she could from the others in her field.

That learning came mostly from quiet observation and a well-placed question or two. “Then I would go home at night and make notes,” she said. “I would eat, learn and not ever sleep.” Through traveling and showing horses Sanchez developed a reputation as a knowledgeable judge of horses and riders which always brought her back to Albuquerque.

Training riders became another big part of her career, attracting people from all over the world. Those arriving for training at Liz Sanchez Stables soon learned her priorities. “They knew that before we did anything for ourselves, the horse came first,” she said. “The horse was bedded. The horse was fed. The horse was watered. We don’t actually go do anything until the horse is taken care of.”

Her training philosophy is pretty straightforward. “A horse is not by force because he outweighs you 10 pounds for every one of yours,” she says. “You have to finesse him and manage him. You have to learn what makes him think.”

Training and showing horses is one thing, but what Sanchez is really known for internationally is judging horses. “When I picked an animal, it was clear-

ly the best that had been there,” Sanchez says, adding, “They gave me a lot of money to do it.”

Judging competitions has taken Sanchez to four continents over the last 50 years, skipping Australia for one good reason she says. “I was afraid to fly over the barrier reef and be eaten by a great white shark.”

Today the stables are still going strong with year-round horse boarding and a kids’ day camp (Trot to the Top) scheduled for this summer. Sanchez still moves around the ranch with the familiarity of someone who has touched every inch of the place hundreds of times, the names and histories of every animal easily recalled. If there is a grace earned through decades of dancing the trainer’s dance with horses, Sanchez has it, though she would probably say that it was just the result of surviving all that she has over the years. “I’m a very interesting person,” she says, “in that my highway’s had a lot of potholes.”– Clarke

Condé

ABQTHEINTERVIEW

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH OUR LEADERS AND DIFFERENCE MAKERS

THE ROCK OF TO’HAJIILEE

From his gospel music roots in To’hajiilee to playing on a national stage, Levi Platero has maintained a unique and bluesy sound

Those with an ear for music often say Levi Platero’s guitar riffs sound like those of legendary blues rocker Stevie Ray Vaughn—and that’s just fine by Platero. “That’s cool that people make that comparison. I’m honored,” says Platero. In fact, at nine years old he spent an entire summer learning to play “Crossfire,” Vaughn’s screaming-licks classic, after Platero’s pastor father switched him from drums to guitar in the church band. “My dad taught me a few chords, and I got the rest from Stevie. That’s where it all started.” Platero’s talent took him from his hometown of To’hajiilee to gigs on the road, some before he was even a teenager, playing guitar at bars and clubs in ABQ and Santa Fe, waiting patiently in the kitchen until he and his family’s band would take the mic. After two decades of touring and performing, the Diné rocker, now 31, is poised for stardom on a bigger stage. With the help of two-time Grammy-winning music producer Tom Bee (founder of iconic 70s native group XIT) and Bee’s record company, SOAR (Sound of America Records), Platero is set to release a new album this summer.

ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE: Which is more accurate: to call you a blues rocker or a Native rocker?

LEVI PLATERO: It’s both. I honestly am just about my music, so if you hear me play or hear my voice or my music, it’s identifiable. I’m not trying to sound like anybody else.

ATM: How would you describe that sound?

LP: I don’t know if there’s one way to de scribe it. I got a lot of influence from my

dad’s friends with Christian music, and I had gospel influences that kind of incorporated into what I’m making. But as far as blues, I would say my sound is blues guitar, for sure.

ATM: Do you write music to your lyrics, or do the words come first?

LP: It happens both ways. I have journals that are just filled with lyrics, and I’ll just mix and match and put things together. Sometimes I’ll write (music to) half of a song, or write half the lyrics of a song.

Then ten years later, I read it again, and then I might finish it.

ATM: Does your Native background influence your songwriting?

LP: On some songs, yes. I write about spirituality and metaphors. There’s one song called “Firewater Whiskey,” and it’s attacking that stereotype of the Native American alcoholic, which is a strong stereotype. I know what strong drinking can do to any person, so it’s not a party song, it’s about downfall, and drowning everything out.

ATM: Tell us about some other songs that are unique because they tell a story from your Native American point of view.

LP: I wrote a song called “Dirt Road Blues,” and it talks about how I moved to (Albuquerque) for about two years when I went to community college, and another two years when I got married, and how there’s something about the city that kind of conforms and compromises you a little bit, without you even knowing it. The song is about missing the red sands

and the big blue skies, and I talk about hopping in my truck and just going back home. There’s nothing like the Res (Reservation).

ATM: It seems like today’s music has a lot more stars with organic backgrounds, like Lizzo or Ed Sheeran, as opposed to the 1990s and 2000s, which more heavilyproduced, camera-ready pop stars. Is that something you can capitalize on as a Native American singer and songwriter?

LP: Yes, there’s more singers and musicians coming out that are being recognized for their musical talent alone. Look at Teddy Swims, or Chris Stapleton, or the YouTube singer, Daniel Caesar. Back in the 1970s it was more like that, and it’s coming back. I think it’s a good time to be,

you know, showcasing what you’ve got.

ATM: You’ve spent years touring and building a sound and an audience, but these days it’s common for musicians to quickly gain notoriety through social media and clicks. How do you feel about that?

LP: I hate it. But as an artist, I have to do it, too. But also, there are people who are famous on social media for no reason, and that’s kind of weird. There were probably thousands of people more talented than Stevie Ray (Vaughn) or (Jimi) Hendrix but they never got the notoriety because they weren’t in the right moment.

ATM: Do you ever worry about missing your moment, as far as finding a higher level of success?

LP: No, because I make music I would like

to hear. And that’s because of this hard lesson I learned in high school when I entered a talent contest. I played “Life Without You,” by Stevie Ray (Vaughn). It’s a beautiful song, just great. But nobody knew the song but me. Someone else did a Jason Mraz song, and everybody loved Jason Mraz, and everybody went crazy, and he won. The kind of interest and direction I’m going had no popular response, and I’m okay with that.

ATM: What’s the process like to record an entire album?

LP: It starts with picking out the best songs for the album. We started with 15, then got it down to the 10 best songs. And for me, I start doing some pre-production at home in my own studio. Then I take it to the recording studio, and start adding real instruments, like drums and organs, with real amps. The whole process has taken about a year, but I took my time.

ATM: You mentioned a unique idea you had for this album, in terms of distribution. Give us some details.

LP: Well, we’re still talking about this, but my idea is to release the album on vinyl before I release it digitally. There’s not a lot of money for smaller artists to make on Spotify or iTunes. I feel like, I worked pretty hard on this music, and I feel like I should get something back. So, I mean, even if I have to sell it out of the trunk of my car, or the bed of my truck, that’s fine.

CULTURE

A PULSE CHECK ON ALBUQUERQUE’S ART, MUSIC AND THEATER SCENE

COWBOYS OUT WEST

Painter Anthony Hurd wanted to take their painting in a new direction but wasn’t sure exactly how. By reinterpreting Southwestern motifs and reclaiming a hypermasculine outdoorsy type they created a tender, romantic series worthy of a hardy ‘yee haw’ (p. 182).

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

CREATIVES

DIP INTO THE PERFECTLY MIXED PALETTE

HURD NOW

ATHE ROMANCE OF THE WEST REDEFINED

nthony Hurd’s life as a painter is always evolving but they say they have now hit a stride. Since moving to Albuquerque in 2019, six months before the COVID shutdown, Hurd has transformed their work in ways that now look outward into dreamy moments that are rarely rendered in paint. Couples in the soft pastel light of sunset, surrounded by motifs of the Southwest, share a romantic pause, often wearing cowboy hats. It is a new direction for Hurd, but one that suits them. Hurd would not describe themselves as a gay cowboy painter, but their newest collection, “Gay Dreaming,” is very much a collection of paintings of gay cowboys.

Hurd’s artistic life in Albuquerque didn’t start with so much romanticism. Their paintings included in the January 2020 group show at Stranger Factory (then still located in Nob Hill) “Made in New Mexico IV: A Local Group Exhibition” were somber and turbulent, with plenty of skulls. “I was doing these really dark and abstracted landscapes for many

years,” Hurd says. “When I look back at it now, that was like a weird internalization. I called them often emotional landscapes because that’s kind of what they were.”

Then the pandemic upended Hurd’s work. “During the pandemic, I switched my work completely because there was so much going on politically at the time, there was so much going on with all the

Black Lives Matter protests. Everything seemed chaotic.”

The next step in this change occurred to Hurd on a return drive to Albuquerque from a solo exhibit in Los Angeles in January 2023. “I just had a lot of time to think to myself,” they say. “I didn’t really know if I was doing anything important. The important side of it didn’t really matter, but the fact that I wasn’t happy with it did.”

Long trips through the desert have been fertile ground for artistic contemplation and reinvention for millennia. Hurd embraced the idea of experimentation and committed to trying a new direction. “It wasn’t like, ‘Oh, I’m going to paint gay cowboys when I get back,’ I just wanted to do something different.”

Influenced by living in the Southwest, Hurd began thinking of their relationship

BY DON JAMES/ATM

PHOTOS

with the landscape and the culture. “Having lived in Sedona, Palm Springs and Albuquerque, I’ve lived in three different desert areas, and in each of those places, being out in the land is my safe place.”

Then somehow, Hurd says through a bit of reckoning with their childhood, cowboys got into the mix.

“Growing up in Missouri, I was very fearful of cowboys and this hypermasculine outdoor element that was a huge part of my family. My family were farmers, some hunters and truck drivers,” Hurd says. The paintings were a way for them to reclaim and recategorize these archetypes and “make these tender little loving moments and spaces that used to be fearful for me.”

Hurd then brought Southwestern motifs into their new work, adding a cactus here, an abstract sun there. The pastels were also a major departure for Hurd, but positively seemed appropriate. “The cowboy thing started taking on a life of its own, too because there’s just something about that hypermasculine motif of cowboys in this soft desert light that provides a lot of interesting contrast.”

But the cowboys in the paintings are not simply chiseled men of the range repositioned in an embrace, they are more realistic depictions of people of different colors, sizes and ages. “I wanted everybody to be able to see themselves in the work and feel seen,” Hurd says.

Within the canon of queer art (if one truly exists), this collection is an outlier. “Most queer art revolves around eroticism and there is nothing wrong with that,” Hurd says, but adds that this work is not that. “I have old ladies that have like a gay grandson or something and this makes them feel good about it, like there’s a place for them in the world.”

Hurd doesn’t consider themselves a portrait painter, yet they have begun, reservedly, taking painting commissions in this style of work. “I only do two commissions a month, and I’m booked out months ahead each time.” They makes it very clear that the image is more about the mood and the moment than accurately representing someone’s facial features. Decisions are made on the fly once the paint gets to the canvas and the clients are asked to understand that specific color or compositional elements can change throughout the process. Hurd is an artist,

not a house painter.

Hurd was in advertising for twenty years, owning several design companies, making the business end of being a fulltime artist easier. “I have enough business sense to make my art work for me when it’s working,” they say. “I kind of started it as a selfish endeavor, which I think most art is, and now it’s turned into something that has taken on its own little life.”

The future for Hurd is not yet painted. “I have a million ideas for future paintings. I feel really inspired,” they say. “I have a lot of really cool opportunities coming up, a big solo show planned for next year and several events this year. I kind of just don’t question it.” As a painter, Hurd has embraced the change. “I just kind of take it day by day and enjoy the process.”

– Clarke Condé

STORYTELLERS BOOK

EMO: ON THE ROAD TO ADVENTURE

Chris Dylan Dylan says he tried to write several books before EMO.

“I realized I didn’t care as much as I thought I did about what I was writing about,” says Dylan, 34. He says EMO stuck because he loved the characters and their road trip adventures. He became prone to adventure after leaving his home in Washington state at 15 to work in the restaurant industry, even hitchhiking a lot in his late teens. These days he works at Canteen Brewhouse in ABQ and is contemplating novel No. 2. “It’ll be set around 2004, like EMO, because I don’t want my books to be influenced by what smartphones did to society,” he says.

ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE: What or who inspired your early writing?

CHRIS DYLAN: My seventh-grade English teacher made us ‘blitz write’ for two minutes at the beginning of every class. He would put a timer on and have us write and the idea was to write in a ‘stream of consciousness’ style the whole time. It was a humbling way of looking at words, and that stuck with me.

ATM: Walk us through the process of creating this debut novel.

CD: I wrote the rough draft on a notepad on my phone while I was traveling. Sometimes my phone would die while I still had ideas in my head and the only way I could charge my phone was to keep driving, so I did. Revision and editing happened later and took about a year. I couldn’t afford an editor, so I ended up reading the story 3040 times to find all the typos and errors myself.

ATM: The book is a road trip adventure. What was the inspiration?

CD: I was personally driving around the country in search of a new place to call home and I took to throwing my characters into the places that I visited on the way.

ATM: Jack and Karla have different ways of speaking. Whose section was

EMO

By Chris Dylan

349 pages

$14.99

easier to write?

CD: Karla’s voice and story was definitely more difficult, I think mainly because of the plot elements and more complicated emotions in her story. Jack’s side of the story was definitely more fun to write at times because he was a good conduit for me to express some major qualms with society that I’ve had over the years.

ATM: How do you see your readers reacting to Karla’s struggles with getting older and feeling bored with life.

CD: I want people to be excited about life and live it to its fullest. We all have the choice to make what we want out of our lives, but I feel that many people feel the way Karla does at the beginning of the story, as if the world is forcing her to live her life in a way that she will never be satisfied by.

ATM: Your characters are so incredible different from one another. Do you feel personally connected to any of them?

CD: I feel very connected to Cee. She is the reason the story was written. Although most of the characters are representations

of myself at different points in my life, Cee is an amalgamation of many things that I tend to adore about people. Sometimes she feels like an imaginary daughter.

ATM: You write without using quotation marks. Why?

CD: A few of my favorite writers have taken this approach and it’s grown on me. Irvine Welsh (“Trainspotting”) and Chuck Palahniuk (“Fight Club”), to be specific. As I was revising, I tested quotation marks and decided that they took something special away from the first-person present tense.

ATM: You reference music and bands quite a bit. Is there an influence there?

CD: I’ve been a musician since I was a child. I’ve surrounded myself with musicians and played in a lot of bands over the last twenty years, mostly drums. It’s an influence on every aspect of my life.

ATM: What do you want readers to take away from this story?

CD: That life can be difficult through its entire course. I’d like people who are going through troubled times to understand that they are not alone. —Interview by Addie Siembieda

GIL’S THRILLING (AND FILLING) BLOG

WHAT: Casual and informative reviews of practically every restaurant in ABQ.

WHERE: nmgastronome.com

SAMPLE: “Perhaps if Bugs Bunny had ordered Mesa Provisions’ spiced carrots, the snarky wabbit wouldn’t have taken that left turn at Albuquerque.”

He’s done more than 1,300 reviews of ABQ (and Santa Fe) restaurants, but Gil Garduño says the title of “critic” isn’t for him. “I think of myself as someone who appreciates food and the effort that goes into preparing and serving it,” says Garduño, who launched his “Gil’s Thrilling (and Filling) Blog” about food in 1997. The Peñasco native says he became a foodie while stationed near Boston during his days in the U.S. Air Force, where he was a Technical Writer. Later he worked at Intel in Rio Rancho, specializing in writing HTML website code. Those writing and web-building skills—plus that love of food—prompted him to start the blog. His other motiva-

tion? Sharing positive news about our city’s eateries. “No restaurant or chef is trying to make a bad meal, they’re all trying their best,” says Garduño, 66. “The internet has made it possible for people to say mean spirited things and remain anonymous, and I’m not a fan of that.” He says each month he dines out about 10-15 times, and generally posts 4 new reviews, plus updates and ongoing reviews. Since 2007 (when Garduño began keeping metrics), the site has registered an impressive 6.6 million hits. Yet he’s perfectly content to admit he has no interest in trying to monetize those views. “I consider this as a little bit of community service,” he says. —Ramsey Michel

STORYTELLERS

SOMETHING MORE HUMAN

SAM & ELLIOT: UNM alums; ABQ natives

DOWNLOADS: 80K in more than 150 countries

APPLE: Top 10% of relationship podcasts INSTAGRAM: somethingmorehuman

WEB: somethingmorehuman.co

Before they married, Sam and Elliot Archuleta ran in the same circles in ABQ—they even collaborated artistically, with Sam dancing, and Elliot taking photos and video. Theirs is what Sam describes as “a perfect Albuquerque story.” The two have a deep appreciation of their community and decided to start a podcast to expand and enrich their surroundings. The result is Something More Human, their ABQ-based podcast about human connection where they discuss marriage, friendship, and community with a focus on authenticity and vulnerability. But their aim is higher than simply podcasting, stating that Something More Human is “a movement on a mission to ignite authentic relationships and inspire tangible impact for a return to true connection.” In April they organized a live event in ABQ called “Return to Real Life,” an explicitly phone-free experience of comedy, drinks,

and food that aimed to connect people without the often alienating presence of technology. The event sold out, and the couple is already planning an encore in Denver, with the goal of taking the event across the country. You can catch their weekly episodes on their website or wherever you listen to podcasts.  —Adam Clark

ABQ’S THRIVING LOCAL MUSIC SCENE

STICKING WITH IT TIEMPO

RAISING A RUCKUS

Since 2011, Duke City Riots have been serving up an original and highly combustible blend of hard rock, punk, and rockabilly, earning multiple New Mexico Music Awards (NMMA) nominations with every release—their debut EP OK to Burn in 2013; their first full-length album, Land of Entrapment in 2015; and in November 2023, Worst Case Scenario, arguably their most sophisticated and butt-kicking release to date.

The group started out as a jam session between vocalist and bassist Charlton “Chuck” Parker, who covers all the territory between head-exploding rage and disorienting heartbreak, and Shannon Haworth, who thought he’d be playing guitar until Parker parked him behind a drum kit belonging to Haworth’s wife. The two of them worked up an EP’s worth of original material and, on the advice of NMMA founder José Ponce, contacted John Wall to record their tunes. Just days before their recording date, Parker and Haworth decided bass and drums needed a guitar, and Haworth contacted Ron Reust, a veteran rockabilly guitarist who hadn’t played for a couple of years. “I’ve known Shannon. I met his brother in art school and met Shannon a little after that,” says Reust. Through the years, Shannon and I have always joked, ‘Someday we’ll be in a band together.’ ” A week later, the three, who jelled immediately, were in Wall’s studio, and they’ve been at it ever since.

They recently added rhythm guitarist and backup vocalist, Zoe Madison, a longtime fan. “I met Chuck three years

ago,” says Madison. “He showed me his music, and it was the best thing I ever heard.” She started jamming with Parker and hanging out at practices. “We did one practice with her—” says Parker, “—and we were sold,” finishes Reust.

Parker, the band’s songwriter, is intimately acquainted with life’s difficulties, having escaped his family’s suffocating expectations, only to disappear into “an existential doom spiral” fueled by alcohol and drugs. “I describe it as a slingshot of dysfunction,” he says. He survived and funnels his despair and rage into the music, his vocal performances, which recall the raw, exasperated energy of the late Shane MacGowan of The Pogues, and his

standup comedy routines.

With Worst Case Scenario, whose songs the group started developing as far back as 2017, Parker would bring “the skeletal structure” of a song to practice. “I have the chords, the arrangement, and all of that stuff,” he says, “and then everybody puts their—” “—extra sauce in it,” adds Reust, a graphic artist whose extra sauce includes the album’s artwork.

Maintaining that sort of collaborative approach for 13 years requires commitment and a sense of humor. “From the very beginning, [Chuck] and I said let’s just keep it fun. If there’s a part where it feels like too much work or too businessy or whatever, we’ll take a break, and we’ve

Duke City Riots

never had to do that,” says Haworth, whose degree in business management from UNM has made him the band’s numbers nerd. “That’s always been in the forefront. Let’s keep it fun.” Fun it may be, but in the studio, the band is focused on every detail and ready to do take after take to get exactly what they want. That approach results in music that gets to the heart of the matter without a wasted note.

Right now, the band is focused on getting its music to the ears of an audience that they believe is looking for what the band has to offer. See if you’re a member of that audience by heading to dukecityriots.com or the band’s Facebook, Instagram, and Bandcamp pages. Head to the Launchpad on July 18 for the vinyl release party.

HEART FULL OF SOUL

Since 2018, drummer JD Davis has been laying down the deep-pocketed groove in Chill House, behind vocalist Hillary Smith, guitarist Jim Casey, saxophonist and keyboardist Glenn Kostur, and bassist Milo Jaramillo. But when he returned to the bandstand in February 2024 after his open heart surgery in November 2023, some folks heard something different in his playing. In the operation to fix an aortic aneurysm and a damaged heart valve, his surgeons, Dr. Dana Booth and Dr. Brian Castlemain, used a porcine patch and valve. “In my defense, if I seem to be swinelike at times, I have no control over that,” says Davis with a grin. “Somebody the other day said, ‘I think he’s got some pig funk going on.’ So I guess there’s a little more grease happening now.”

There was plenty of grease to go around even before the surgery, which is not surprising, given that the Long Beach, California, native has been playing the drums since he was 11. An award-winning drummer in high school, Davis won a highly coveted and highly competitive spot in the U.S. Army Band in 1973. He was ultimately posted to Fort Bliss in El Paso and was gigging in a country-western band at night, which is how he met his wife-to-be, Yaida. “Once we really got going and were really in love, I kind of wanted her to go back to California with me,” says Davis. “She just kind of put her foot down and said, ‘No, I’m not going to be married to a musician. You’re going to have to get a real job.’ ” So that’s how Davis came to sell his drum kits and spend the next 26 years as a

firefighter in El Paso.

Retiring as a captain in 2005, Davis leveraged his experience as pension trustee and union rep to find work with a Boston-based real estate investment company, and the following year started gigging again. No longer tied to El Paso, he and his wife eventually decided to move to New Mexico, where she had some family and where Davis had a long history of visiting for recreation. (His visits included a bus trip at age 12 to Roswell, where one night, he, his step-sister, her husband, and the entire neighborhood—“God is my witness,” says Davis—watched a UFO hovering over the city. “The air base scrambled a couple of fighters, and this thing did the craziest double-360 thing I’ve ever seen in my life,” he says, “and was gone.”)

Davis and his wife settled in Rio Rancho in 2012, and Davis found his way into the local music scene. Playing the after-concert party for the Pimentels’ annual showcase of international artists who play their exceptional guitars, Davis crossed paths with Casey, who sat in with the group. “He starts jamming, and I thought, ‘Jeez, this guy sounds like John Scofield,’ ” says Davis. The two of them started jamming together, which led, in 2013, to gigs at the Placitas Café with a fusion band they

formed. In 2017, the group set up at Hillary’s house and jammed on some tunes with her. “Hillary goes, ‘Oh, I like this. I like this vibe,’ ” says Davis. That marked the beginning of Chill House.

In 2018, Davis interrupted his gigging to spend time with Yaida, who had been fighting breast cancer for 20 years and passed away in October 2018. In February 2019, grateful for the opportunity, he reassumed the drummer’s chair in Chill House when his replacement, Mo Roberts, left town.

“There have been gigs where we’re playing, and I’ll start crying, for lots of reasons. I mean, I wish my wife could hear it. But I can tell, sitting there, listening to this band when we have the horns and everything, and I think, ‘I’ll put this band up against anybody, any day,’ ” he says.

Check out the band’s Facebook page to catch up with them, and you can reach Davis at firedogiii@yahoo.com.

John “JD” Davis

DISH

FARM TO CUP

Is Lanturn Ridge Farm an eatery, a market or a nursery? The answer is yes to all three. The East Mountains are home to this ever-evolving spot with stellar food and plants to match, plus cool drinks. Is it worth the drive? That’s another ‘yes.’ (p. 190)

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

EATS

LANTERN RIDGE FARM

An East Mountain gem with a menu to match

During his travels across the United States, Seth Stockton made mental notes of the best gathering spots the country had to offer. That ultimately was the inspiration behind Lantern Ridge Farm, an East Mountain establishment that offers visitors a restaurant, market and nursery in one central location.

“He’s doing this thing with his family to travel all 50 states before his kids get older and they move out. He always tries to find really cool places around the country,” says Ethan Stockon, Seth’s brother and general manager of Lantern Ridge. “He’s

into farming, he’s into more organic and kind of cool products.

“So he bought this property in Sandia Park and he was like, ‘Let me try to make something here.’ It kind of just combined what he saw: a plant nursery, a market and also a restaurant. He brought me in in the early stages because he wanted someone to build it out … I kind of fell in love with it.”

If Seth is the visionary behind Lantern Ridge, Ethan is the one who makes everything go. He was so enamored with the concept that he left his career as a physical

therapist to handle the renovation of the property, setting the stage for its grand opening in May 2022.

“Our main mission was to have a really cool community hotspot where people can come, get a good sandwich and enjoy the scenery with all the plants and just have a nice place to go,” Ethan says.

The name itself, “Lantern Ridge,” stems from the business being located on top of the hill.

“We wanted to be the light on top of the hill, like a shining light,” Ethan says. There’s a special synergy between all

PHOTOS BY DON JAMES/ATM

of Lantern Ridge’s offerings. The restaurant has different menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and there’s also a bakery and coffee shop on site. The nursery helps to provide atmosphere, particularly when patrons are enjoying their food and drink in the ample outdoor seating. And on their way out, visitors can shop in the market and find specialty, boutique-style gifts and take-home eats.

“I think it’s like a whole experience,” Ethan says. “I think coming to eat, it’s not just like your run-of-the-mill, let’s grab breakfast and go. You come and enjoy yourself, enjoy time with loved ones. I think it flows really well having all three work together.”

The menu centers on fresh ingredients, similar to a farm-to-table concept. All the cuisine comes from the creative mind of chef Martha Adriana Castro. Breakfast, which is available from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., features a blend of traditional and New Mexican favorites, ranging from biscuits and gravy to huevos rancheros to green chile corned beef hash. Additionally, the Lantern Breakfast allows diners to

WINE AND DINE

Date Nights are a popular special event, providing an upscale experience with a multi-course meal set in intimate outdoor huts on the property.

COFFEE AND PASTRIES

Lantern Ridge isn’t just a restaurant, it’s also a bakery/coffee shop, with house-made baked goods like cheesecake and key lime pie along with a collection of specialty coffees available.

GOOD TO GO

Those looking for food to go can find frozen meals such as pizza, enchiladas and lasagna as well as house-made snacks such as popcorn and trail mix at the market.

SELLING THEIR WARES

Lantern Ridge just started a weekly farmer’s market, where crafts, produce, spices and more are sold each Saturday.

WE ALL SCREAM

A recent addition to the menu is ice cream, which is currently shipped from Kemps Dairy in Wisconsin. However, the owners’ ultimate goal is to have their own ice cream maker.

Lantern Ridge Farm 12540 N Highway 14 (505) 395-7774

lanternridgemarket.com

choose from a combination of eggs, meat, grilled items, bread and a side of fruit, salad, quiche or oatmeal.

Meanwhile, lunch — offered from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. — focuses primarily on sandwiches and salads. Crowd favorites include the turkey avocado, which is served on a buttery croissant, and the reuben, complete with house-made corned beef and dressing on marble rye bread. The New Mexican influence is also present here, as diners tend to gravitate to the green chile smash burger, a two-patty offering topped with roasted green chile.

“It wasn’t supposed to be super fancy,” Ethan says. “It was just more of a casual breakfast and lunch place.”

At dinnertime (5 p.m. to 8 p.m.), the restaurant transitions to a steakhouse vibe, with four different cuts — filet mignon,

top sirloin, New York strip and bone-in ribeye — available to order. Other noteworthy options include the Smoked Pecan Crusted Chicken, the House-Made Herb Ravioli with Mushrooms and the Blackened Ahi Tuna, to name a few.

“There’s some unique items,” Ethan says. “We’re trying to run more specials here and there to change it up and give a new experience.”

Thus far, Ethan says the community has been appreciative of what Lantern Ridge provides. And the concept of having a place to spend time with loved ones carries over to those in charge of operations.

“I’m just hanging out with my family creating something,” Ethan says. “I’m with them every day. … For me it doesn’t feel like work.” —Tristen Critchfield

TURKEY AVOCADO SANDWICH $16

House-smoked cracked pepper turkey, avocado, romaine lettuce, cucumber, tomato, pickled red onion, provolone and mayo on a buttery croissant

REUBEN $17

House-made corned beef, swiss cheese, sauerkraut and house made thousand island dressing on marble rye bread.

PAN FRIED BRIE $19

With pears, hazelnuts and toasted baguettes

FEATURED DISHES

Eats, Etc.

A quick glance at three local eateries that you may or may not already know about.

Fresh and made from scratch is how they do it at the New Mexico Beef Jerky Company

There’s a reason why the beef jerky sold at this establishment has a well-earned reputation for excellence.

“My father grew up with his grandpa, they were ranchers,” says Veronica Chavez Lewandowski. “My dad carried on the tradition, and we were also ranchers when we were small. We raised animals; we sold them. So basically we just kind of carried on the tradition.”

More than four decades ago, Frank and Evelyn Chavez launched New Mexico Beef Jerky Company. To this day, the jerky is hung and dried in a controlled environment until the ideal texture is achieved. Then it is marinated to “perfection” in New Mexico grown red and green chile, with no other preservatives added. In addition to the ever-popular red and green chile options, jerky flavors such as habanero, lemon pepper, teriyaki, salt and pepper and garlic, among others, are sold. The

recipe dates back to those ranching days.

At one time, beef jerky was the lone attraction, but approximately 15 years ago, the restaurant transitioned to offering other New Mexican fare under the Chicharron Burrito Express moniker.

“We’ve been in business for 45 years and people know us by New Mexico Beef Jerky,” Veronica explains. “Then we started doing the chicharrones and adding to the menu. We just kind of added on the name. What we consider ourselves is a New Mexico specialty restaurant.”

The burritos, whether they’re made with chicharrones or other breakfast fare, are some of the most popular items on the menu. But there’s plenty of other fare, including burgers, tacos, sandwiches and other New Mexican plates.

“We specialize in the chicharrones; I think we’re the best,” Veronica says. “We sell good quality products. …Everything is made from scratch and everything is

fresh.”

New Mexico Beef Jerky Company remains a family-owned and operated business. Veronica works at the restaurant her parents founded, as does her sister and brother. The key to such longevity is pretty simple.

“My parents are truly genuine, great people,” Veronica says. “We’re just very appreciative of everybody. I think that’s why it’s gone on for so long.” —TRISTEN

CRITCHFIELD

1425 4th St. NW (505) 242-6121

newmexicobeefjerkycompany.com

PHOTOS

Eats, Etc.

A quick glance at three local eateries that you may or may not already know about.

Simplicity is the key at Taco Shel, like the Breakfast Burrito Bowl with eggs, red chile and sausage patties.

While Taco Shel opened in its current location nearly four decades ago, the origin of its menu dates back even further than that.

“My family opened their first business in 1960,” says owner Gary Maestas. “They sold their business in 1985 and I opened this one in 1986. It was just like my family’s restaurant. I took the recipes that my grandmother had given my uncle and that we had used in the family for all those years and I applied them here.

“All the ingredients that I use are top quality. I believe that’s what makes our food better.”

Simplicity is another key ingredient to Taco Shel’s longevity. The restaurant serves 15 cost-friendly plates — primarily tacos, enchiladas, tamales, burritos and stuffed sopapillas — in styrofoam containers Monday through Thursday. Maestas employs a staff of two (down from 10-

12 in past years), and the establishment does a steady business of dine-in and carry-out orders. It’s important to note that Taco Shel is a cash-only restaurant.

Everything is made in house, and Maestas says the stuffed sopapilla and the beef burrito plate are the most popular items. Another offering that tends to pique customers’ interest is the Chilaca Plate, which resembles an enchilada casserole with cut-up corn tortillas, beef, chile, cheese, lettuce and tomato. Every order comes in a generous portion and is accompanied by sopaipillas and honey.

For Maestas, running the business is now a labor of love.

“I enjoy visiting with people,” he says.

Maestas has been doing this so long that generations have dined at the holein-the-wall spot in the Northeast Heights.

“I have a lot of customers that started coming here when they were dating,” he

says. “Now their children are having their families.”

Carrying on his own family’s legacy is something that Maestas was destined to do.

“It was just a way of life for us,” he says. “For me growing up, I always knew that this was what I was gonna do. I started out selling burritos out of an ice chest and then I got a catering truck … I had other jobs that I’ve done, but it’s just been a lifestyle.” —TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

TACO SHEL

7001 San Antonio Dr NE Suite G (505) 828-0260 tacoshel.com

PHOTOS

SPIRIT SPOTLIGHT

innamonSyrup

FLUBBER

“Sometimes great drinks are made by accident,” says award-winning bartender Andrew Szeman as he pours an eye-catching neon green drink over an enormous stamped ice cube. This is Flubber, a bright, refreshing, and slightly smoky cocktail found at Central Bodega, known for their delicious one-of-a-kind cocktails and top tier service. This unique drink was invented by the Bodega’s bar manager Grace Young, who mistakenly added cinnamon syrup to her recipe while trying to recreate a pandan cocktail she’d had in New Orleans. The unexpected result is a fun, zesty cocktail that’s just as good on a cool autumn evening as during a sweltering summer day. It has since become a crowd favorite and a go-to recommendation for customers looking for something they have never tasted before. Flubber is made with lime juice, cinnamon syrup, cucumber-infused Mezcal, and pandan extract — the ingredient which not only confers the electric green color to this beverage, but adds an additional subtle hint of nuttiness to the flavor profile. – ADAM CLARK

Flubber, $14

Central Bodega 3418 Central Ave SE (505) 433-5600 centralbodeganm.com

BY

LimeJuice

Cucumber Mezcal

Pandan Extract

PHOTO

DON JAMES/ATM

A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

WITH WITH STEPHANIE JACQUEZ

Assistant Principal

V. Sue Cleveland High School

The students in Stephanie Jacquez’s classroom had never made tamales.

Most had no experience with cooking because their moms and grandmas didn’t trust them in the kitchen. These were kids with behavioral issues, who had trouble getting along with others and “emotional disturbances as a disability,” Jacquez explains.

But on a day just before Christmas break, these kids were assembling tamales made from the Sanchez (Jacquez’s maiden name) family recipe that they’d get to take home for their families. They were gaining skills and confidence they hadn’t had before. “They were like, ‘Oh, my family is going to be so proud. They’re going to be shocked that I actually made these,’” Jacquez recalls. “They would giggle and say to their classmates, ‘Oh, yours look really good,’ or ‘I’m struggling to tie them. Can you help me?’”

For Jacquez, the lesson in community building within the classroom was a success. “The purpose was to give us time to work together – students and teacher – and enjoy each other’s company, making something they were proud of and could take home to families or share with friends,” she says. “A lot of them learned

things about themselves including what they’re capable of doing. I enjoyed watching them using basic skills of asking for help, giving compliments, giving advice.”

Jacquez, now assistant principle at V. Sue Cleveland High School, also volunteers with Rio Rancho Education Foundation, which raises money to fund classroom projects, extracurricular activities, field trips, school supplies and many other things that enhance student opportunities and aren’t eligible for funding by the state. The tamale-making project would’ve been a candidate for funding, but Jacquez wasn’t aware of the foundation, so she paid for the ingredients herself.

“I’m sure if you ask any educator on the street, ‘Have you ever bought things for your classroom or for your lessons with your own pocket money?’ the answer is always going to be ‘Yes,’” she says.

Jacquez became involved with the Rio Rancho Education Foundation after attending a fundraising event. “Funding gives teachers and students the opportunity to do things that are extracurricular in the community or within school that they wouldn’t be able to do otherwise. That’s what really excites me,” Jacquez says.

Funding from the foundation has helped pay for band instruments, supplies for STEAM (science, technology, engi-

neering, arts and mathematics) labs, field trips for special education students, gift cards for elementary students whose families couldn’t afford Christmas presents, and many other things.

Jacquez’s career began in 2010 as a special education teacher. “I find myself migrating toward students who have more severe disabilities and behavior issues. They struggle with focus, how to deal with authority. That’s kind of where my heart has always been,” she says.

Now as an administrator, Jacquez sometimes peaks into classrooms to see the interactions between teachers and students. “I miss that engagement, but I have a lot of former students who come to my office and just say, ‘God bless, Miss! Have a good day!’ or, ‘I made this in CAD [computer-assisted design]. Can I put it up in your office?’ or, ‘Miss, you have any snacks?’”

Jacquez also hears from students after they’ve graduated. “I run into them or they call to tell me how great they’re doing and how their life is. They say, ‘Remember how I was being a pain in the butt?’ And now they’re just so proud of themselves. That reminds me of why I’m here in education and that I am making a difference. It’s nice to sometimes be reminded of that.”

—Lisa Ocker

PHOTOS BY DON JAMES/ATM

Sanchez Tamale Recipe

Ingredients

4 pounds boneless pork shoulder or butt roast

40-60 pods red hot chile pods

4 pounds Maseca Traditional Instant Corn Masa Flour

1 48 ounce bottle canola oil

3 bags corn husks

1 pitcher water

Salt Garlic Salt Process

Prepare Red Chile

1. Rinse 15-20 chile pods in colander.

2. Place rinsed chile pods in blender. Add 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp garlic salt. Add 6 Cups water.

3. Blend on high until all pods and seeds are blended.

4. Add salt and garlic salt to taste.

Prepare Roast

1. Place pork roast in slow cooker on low. Add enough water to cover roast and 2 teaspoons salt.

2. Cook roast on low for 6-8 hours.

3. Remove roast from slow cooker and place on a cutting board. Let roast rest for 15-20 minutes.

4. Use two forks to shred roast, removing any fat.

5. Place shredded pork in large mixing bowl.

ARECIPEFORSUCCESS

Save Broth

Strain broth from slow cooker into bowl. Place in sealed container and refrigerate.

Make Pork Filling

1. Pour chile into bowl with shredded pork and mix until pork is well coated. (If there isn’t enough chile to smother pork, prepare more red chile, repeating steps above, and add to coat roast.)

2. Cover pork and chile in sealed container and refrigerate overnight.

Soak Corn Husks

Rinse and place corn husks in bowl with very hot water for 30 minutes or until softened.

Make Corn Masa

1. Remove broth from refrigerator and warm 6 cups in microwave-safe bowl in microwave.

2. Place 6 Cups Maseca flour in large mixing bowl.

3. Add 2 Tbsp. salt.

4. Pour 5 1/2-6 cups of very warm broth into mixing bowl.

5. Mix flour by hand; texture should be moist but not so tacky that bits of masa remain on hands. If it’s too wet, add masa; if too dry, add water. Add oil and salt as needed.

Make Tamales

1. Rip 2 corn husks into strips and set aside. These will be used to tie tamales.

2. Place 1 corn husk flat on cutting board.

3. Put 1-2 Tbsp. of corn masa in center of husk and spread masa with fingers or a spoon in shape of a circle ¼-inch thick.

4. Place 3 Tbsp. pork-chile mixture in center of corn masa.

5. Fold each side of husk over pork-chile filling and use corn husk strip to tie and secure each end. (You may trim sides of tamales with scissors for appearance and to create more room in steamer.)

6. Continue steps 1-5 until all pork-chile mixture is used.

Steam Tamales

1. Using steamer, add water as directed. Or use large pot with steamer basket, adding water to bottom of pot. Place 1-2 dozen tamales into steamer or pot standing vertically.

2. Steam tamales for 60-90 minutes, ensuring steamer has water at all times.

3. Remove tamales and let rest for 5-10 minutes.

4. Repeat steps 1-3 until all tamales are cooked.

5. Remove corn husk before eating. Serve and enjoy!

BITES

OUR EATS ALUMNI, CONDENSED INTO PERFECTLY SIZED SNACKS TO TAKE WITH YOU ON THE GO

POLICY:

“Bites” is a guide to Albuquerque-area eating establishments compiled by Albuquerque The Magazine’s editorial staff. These restaurants have been featured previously in the “Eats” department of the magazine. Restaurants may or may not accept reservations or major credit cards, so call before visiting.

CORRECTIONS:

Please send corrections and suggestions to bites@abqthemag.com.

THE 377 BREWERY

2027 Yale Blvd. SE (505) 916-0331, the377brewery.com

$$

Check out the funky metal and wood sign of The 377 Brewery. This warehouse-style structure is a little off-the-beaten path but they’ve got multiple creative drinks and meaty entrees just an order away. Along with burgers, nachos and burritos, the Fish and Chips have been labeled as the best in the city.

66 DINER $$

1405 Central Ave. NE (505) 247-1421, 66diner.com

This blast from the past specializes in burgers, chicken fried steak, liver and onions, and blueplate specials, including the Pile Up: a mound of pan-fried potatoes, chopped bacon, green chile, two eggs, cheddar cheese, and red or green chile sauce on top.

ABC CAKE SHOP

1830 San Pedro Dr. NE (505) 255-5080, abccakeshop.com

$$

Specializing in custom cakes and baked goods for all occasions, this bakery focuses on freshness and flavor. Everything is made from scratch, including the cupcakes, cookies, pies, Danishes, pastries, and other desserts.

ABQ SWEET SPOT

9250 Golf Course Rd. NW, Ste D (505) 900-3814 abqsweetspot.net

$

Cleverly-decorated cakes and cookies are as easy as your everyday chocolate chip cookie for these bakers who think out of the box for a sight that’s almost too good to eat every time. Almost. Cookies, cakes, cupcakes, macarons–this is basically heaven, even if you’ve only got a tiny sweet tooth.

ABUELITA’S NEW MEXICAN KITCHEN $

6083 Isleta Blvd. SW, (505) 877-5700

Kathy Martinez’s brother, Chris Romero, opened Abuelita’s New Mexican Kitchen in Bernalillo 26 years ago. Since then, nothing has changed. The Huevos Rancheros are a best seller, as is the Kitchen’s signature dish, the Tacopilla.

ALBUQUERQUE CITY LIMITS $$

3211 Coors Blvd. SW, Ste F4 (505) 873-8959, abqcitylimits.com

This dive aims to provide food that makes you feel at home. Dishes like made-from-scratch meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and savory brown gravy, homemade salsa, or a fan favorite—natillas—bear uncanny resemblances to the dishes mom used to make.

AJIACO COLOMBIAN BISTRO

3216 Silver Ave. SE (505) 266-2305, ajiacobistro.com

$$

Inside the intimate space, you’ll find combination plates, arroz con pollo, arepas, plantains, and of course, a great cup of Colombian coffee. The dishes at Ajiaco combine indigenous Colombian, Spanish, African, and Arab flavors for a truly thrilling experience.

ALQUDS MEDITERRANEAN

GRILL & GROCERY $

5555 Montgomery Blvd. NE, (505) 888-2921

Owner Mohamad Abdel Jalil and his sons run this all-in-one operation—a small grocery store and Middle East restaurant—seven days a week. This family team makes fresh pita bread every day and serves platefuls of their delicious hummus. It’s a great spot for lunch on-the-go.

AL’S BIG DIPPER $

501 Copper Ave. NW (505) 314-1118, alsbigdipper.com

From the beginning, Al’s Big Dipper has been a family affair. Every sandwich is named after a family member, and the owners test every soup they make. Try the 505 Lunch Deal—a cup of soup, a grilled cheese sandwich and a homemade cookie for only $5.05.

ALDO’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZERIA

1690 Pat D’Arco Hwy., Unit E plus 1 other metro location (505) 892-2026, aldosalbuquerque.com

$

With handmade lasagna and pizza dough, among other items, Aldo’s New York Style Pizzeria shares family recipes with its customers. From the buttermilk ranch dressing to the Eggplant and Chicken Parmigianas, homemade cooking is not too far away.

ALICEA’S NY BAGELS & SUBS $

1009 Golf Course Rd. SE, Ste 103 (505) 896-4555

This East Coast–style deli on ABQ’s Westside is serving up 20 different sandwiches to Rio Rancho’s hungriest diners, using fresh-baked New York–style bagels and meats prepared in house for the likes of its Philly Steak and Cheese or the Cuban. Come hungry, because Alicea’s portions are not for the faint of heart. Can’t get out? Delivery options in Rio Rancho and parts of ABQ are also available when that hunger pang strikes.

AMADEO’S PIZZA AND SUBS

585 Osuna Rd. NE plus 2 other metro locations (505) 344-5555, amadeospizza.com

$

This family-run pizza place believes that there truly are a million different ways to make a pizza. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients, they specialize in pizzas, subs, pasta, and fresh salads.

AMERASIA-SUMO SUSHI

800 3rd St. NW (505) 246-1615,amerasia-sumosushi.net

$

Dim sum—which means “small piece of your heart” in Chinese—takes on a bigger meaning at AmerAsia, where everything is made from scratch daily. Try the fried beef and garlic

HOMEMADE FROM THE HEART

As Duran’s soda fountain transitioned into a full-fledged restaurant, its hand-rolled flour tortillas were a key figure behind that evolution. It’s a recipe that dates back to the 1960s.

“Soda fountains were closing all over the U.S. because they weren’t very profitable, and they took up a lot of space. So my father, who owned the pharmacy at the time, decided to see if we could make a go at it and put a little kind of cafe/diner in there,” says current owner Mona Ghattas, who took over for her father, Robert, in 2010.

“He worked with the women in the soda fountain and started tweaking different types of New Mexican recipes until they got it to where they wanted it. They decided that the hand-rolled tortillas were a favorite, so we kept them on the menu.”

While making tortillas fresh is labor intensive, the work is well worth it. And with Duran’s serving up to 300 people daily, plenty are consumed.

“When you make something from scratch, it’s always better than when you just go buy it off the shelf in the grocery store,” Ghattas says. “Homemade cookies are better than store bought, normally. It’s the same thing with tortillas. It’s all the love we put into it.”

—TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

Duran’s 1815 Central Ave. NW (505) 247-4141 duransrx.com

dumplings, pork and ginger potstickers, or scallion pancakes.

AMORE NEAPOLITAN PIZZERIA $$

3600 Cutler Ave. NE, #3 plus 1 other metro location (505) 554-1967, amoreabq.com

After relocating to Albuquerque from Naples, Italy, Gabriel and Kimberly Amador missed Neapolitan pizza. The husband and wife team, certified by the Association of Neapolitan Pizzaiuoli (APN), opened Amore, bringing a slice of Italy to Albuquerque. A Neapolitan brick oven fires delicious pizzas, such as the Margherita and the Zia, for 60 to 90 seconds at 905 degrees Fahrenheit. Local beer and wine compliment the pies perfectly.

ANA’S

KITCHEN

6004 Edith Blvd. NE (505) 341-0055

old-fashioned combination of American classics and New Mexican comfort food ensures that no one leaves hungry and everyone enjoys themselves in the process.

ANNAPURNA’S WORLD VEGETARIAN CAFÉ

5200 Eubank Blvd. NE, Ste E7 plus 2 other metro locations (505) 275-2424, chaishoppe.com

$

Off the beaten path, but absolutely worth the deviation. Ana’s Kitchen is rooted in family recipes and hearty homestyle meals. This good

$

Annapurna offers some of the most enlightened, health-conscious vegetarian and vegan plates in the city, with plenty of options for people suffering from food allergies or Celiac disease. And the menu is world-class, with options from virtually every continent.

ANNIE’S SOUP KITCHEN $

3107 Eubank Blvd. NE (505) 296-8601, anniessoupkitchen.com

With four homemade soups made fresh every day, and home-style favorites such as avocado and bacon omelets and piles of potatoes

ANTIQUITY RESTAURANT

$$$$ 112 Romero St. NW (505) 247-3545 antiquityrestaurant.com

Antiquity Restaurant is located just off historic Old Town Plaza. Antiquity holds the distinction of being the only restaurant in Albuquerque to serve the Henry IV—a bacon-wrapped filet mignon placed on a bed of artichoke leaves, topped with an artichoke heart and covered with béarnaise sauce.

ARTICHOKE CAFE

424 Central Ave. SE (505) 243-0200, artichokecafe.com

$$$

This EDo fine-dining spot boasts a Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence,” and for good reason. A veteran of the Duke City’s fine dining scene, Artichoke Café remains the best bet for a great lunch or evening out. Innovative dishes and European aperitifs served by staff that

topped with melted cheese, chile and eggs, Annie’s specializes in comfort.

Tortillas ($1.80 a la carte)

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takes ownership of the experience, the location is also an ideal launchpad for downtown adventures.

ASIAN NOODLE BAR $$

318 Central Ave. SW (505) 224-9119, asiannoodlebar.com

Every kind of noodle awaits at this Downtown eatery, from spicy sesame udon noodles to chicken pho with cilantro, jalapeños, and lime. Slurping has never been so tasty.

ASIAN PEAR $

8101 San Pedro Dr. NE, Ste D (505) 766-9405, asianpearabq.com

Specializing in healthy, authentic, Korean-style eats, this shop pleases the palate with delicious takes on BBQ chicken, kimchi pancakes, and flavorful bowls.

A TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN $$

2720 Central Ave. SE (505) 503-8428 atasteofthecaribbeannm.com

A Taste of the Caribbean brings flavors from Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Trinidad, and other islands of the vast region right to the Duke City. Friendly staff is available to offer advice to help those unfamiliar with Caribbean cuisine navigate the menu and find something they’ll love.

AZUMA SUSHI & TEPPAN $$

4701 San Mateo Blvd. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 880-9800

azuma-sushi-teppan-abq.com

From flame-flipped teppan grill items to a substantial sushi selection, the menus at Azuma Sushi & Teppan have something for everyone. The green chile-infused New Mexico Roll and Filet Mignon Steak please palates daily and are perfect when washed down with an imported Japanese sake, soda, or beer.

BACA BOYS CAFÉ $$

102 4th St. NW (505) 200-0065

Family is at the heart of this downtown spot, and you’ll know it walking through the doors. You’ll find good, simple New Mexican comfort foods and service that only comes from a local mom-and-pop place.

BANDIDO HIDEOUT $

2128 Central Ave. SE (505) 489-9865 bandidohideout.com

The masked luchador on the median might catch your attention, but venture inside Bandido Hideout, and you’ll be delighted by authentic south-of-the-border specials and a fun, festive, colorful interior.

BARELAS COFFEE HOUSE $

1502 4th St. SW, (505) 843-7577

This legendary neighborhood restaurant serves New Mexican dishes from the Gonzales family cookbook: menudo, posole, chicharrone burritos, and huevos rancheros -- all smothered with its famous red or green chile.

BASIL LEAF VIETNAMESE

RESTAURANT $$

1225 Eubank Blvd. NE (505) 323-2594, basilleaf.us

Sure, Albuquerque offers a variety of Vietnamese eateries, but Basil Leaf elevates the everyday with healthy and fragrant versions of traditional noodle and soup selections. They’ll even modify for any dietary desire. Celiacs and vegans, rejoice!

BAWARCHI BIRYANI’S $

3305 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE (505) 933-9889 bawarchinewmexico.com

Self-proclaimed foodie Irfan Khan started this traditional Indian dive as a tribute to his love for authentic Indian cuisine. Now, the spot boasts a long roster of happy customers who travel hours just for a taste of the aromatic dishes that grace Bawarchi Biryani’s menu (including the popular Chicken Dum Biryani).

BEN MICHAEL’S RESTAURANT

2404 Pueblo Bonito Ct. NW (505) 267-6827

$$

The food at Ben Michael’s is fresh, preservativefree and takes its roots from the owner’s family’s New Mexican recipes. Try the salmon or the steak served with a side of calabacitas, papas, and sautéed mushrooms.

BENNY’S MEXICAN KITCHEN $

1675 Bosque Farms Blvd. (505) 869-2210

Since 1972, Benny’s has obliged countless stomachs with delicious New Mexican treats, which include red-chile smothered enchiladas and deep-fried burritos. Don’t let the Benny Burger—a double-meat, double-cheese beauty—intimidate you. And, don’t forget to save room for that vanilla ice-cream shake.

BEST LEE’S $

2003 Southern Blvd. SE, #127 (505) 892-7887

Specializing in American-Chinese and Cantonese Chinese cuisine, Best Lee’s has over 100 items on the menu. From fried rice to chicken dishes and everything in between. You can select your level of heat ranging from a little hot, all the way to extra hot, or for those not a fan of the heat, no spice. Popular items include General Tso’s Chicken, sweet and sour shrimp, and Mongolian Beef. Best Lee’s is a reliable choice for delicious simple Chinese food accompanied by friendly service.

BIG MIKE’S BURGERS AND MORE

$$

19388 NM-314 (505) 864-7918 bigmikesburgersandmore.com

The hand-pressed and specially seasoned burgers are the star of the show at this Belen staple. Big Mike’s uses locally sourced ingredients to bring you the best mouthwatering burgers and monster sandwiches.

BLACK MESA COFFEE COMPANY

Albuquerque International Sunport 220 Sunport Blvd. SE, (505) 842-4305

$

With two Sunport locations, flight delays are easier when you’re close to Black Mesa. The house coffee and vanilla latte are sure to perk you up pre-flight. The made-to-order turkey sandwich will fill you up far more reliably than the bag of pretzels you’ll get on the plane. Baked goods, including the popular banana bread, are made in-house daily. Five menu items, including brownies and cookies, are gluten-free.

BLADES’ BISTRO $$$

221 NM Hwy. 165, Ste L, Placitas (505) 771-0695, bladesbistro.com

Owner and chef Kevin Bladergroen’s restaurant offers a culinary journey from his 30-plus years of experience in restaurants across the country and Europe, serving up steak and seafood with a twist.

BLAKE’S LOTABURGER

3806 Montgomery Blvd. NE plus 30 other metro locations (505) 883-7615, lotaburger.com

$

Blake’s became an Albuquerque establishment more than 70 years ago, and almost immediately garnered kudos for its out-of-this-world green chile cheeseburgers (the restaurant has since scored spots on National Geographic’s “top hamburgers in the nation” list and Albuquerque The Magazine’s Best of the City list). Everything is made from scratch as soon as it’s ordered— and not a second before.

BOSQUE BREWING CO.

106 Girard Blvd. SE, Ste B plus 2 other locations (505) 508-5967, bosquebrewing.com

$

Another favorite on the ever-growing ABQ brewery scene, Bosque Brewing Co. is the product of three NMSU grads’ love for brew. With 10-12 of Bosque’s own sudsy creations on tap every day, the brewery is teeming with options to pair with seasoned fries, daily specials, or an array of other appetizers, soups, salads, and sandwiches.

BUDAI GOURMET CHINESE

6300 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Ste. H-1 (505) 797-7898, budaigourmet.com

$$

The menu features specialties from different regions of China and Taiwan, all painstakingly prepared by chef Hsia Fang. The Crispy Flounder Filet is sure to please diners from both

the East and the West. The Mini Steamed Pork Buns shouldn’t be missed.

BURGER BOY $

12023 New Mexico 14, (505) 281-3949, burgerboynm.com

Everything in this tried-and-true staple is made from scratch: enchiladas, breakfast burritos, tacos and burgers (of course!). Fans are especially enamored with the green chile cheeseburger.

BURRITO EXPRESS $

141 Osuna Rd. NW, Ste A plus 3 other metro locations (505) 503-8964

burritoexpressinc.com

This Roswell-original brings southern New Mexican flavor to the Duke City. With madefresh-daily tortillas and a myriad of breakfast and lunch options, Burrito Express is a satisfying spot for southern New Mexican transplants and multi-generational Burqueños alike.

THE BURRITO LADY $

938 Eubank Blvd. NE, (505) 271-2268

The Burrito Lady—otherwise known as Consuelo Flores—cooks every one of her huge burritos herself, made-to-order. That means you should be prepared to wait (the line here

can often go out the door). It’s worth it—ask for your burrito smothered if you want to really heat things up.

BURRITOS ALINSTANTE $

2101 Broadway Blvd. SE plus 5 other metro locations (505) 242-0966, burritosalinstante.com

A paradise for anyone who loves wrapping tasty things (chicharrones, carne adovada, bacon, cheese, potatoes—you get the picture) up inside of locally made tortillas, this operation maintains a half dozen storefronts between Belen and Albuquerque.

CAFE 6855 $$

6855 4th St. NW (505) 890-9150, cafe6855.com

A sister restaurant to Vernon’s Speakeasy, Café 6855 has gourmet dishes, expertly prepared and served in an elegant atmosphere. The menu is populated with gourmet sandwiches, salads, and cafe specialties that redeploy Vernon’s ingredients to thrilling effect.

CAFÉ BELLA COFFEE $

2115 Golf Course Rd. SE #102 (505) 994-9436, cafebellacoffee.com

With made-to-order panini and tasty salads filled with the freshest seasonal ingredients,

this restaurant’s farm-to-table concept is a smart—and delicious—one.

CAFE ISTANBUL

1410 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Ste F (505) 294-9900

$$

Mediterranean delights abound at Cafe Istanbul—don’t be fooled by the name, as this restaurant is known for its wide array of European eats (including the fan-favorite baklava topped with crushed pistachios).

CAFÉ LUSH

700 Tijeras Ave. NW (505) 508-0164, cafelushabq.com

$

Located on a quiet neighborhood corner, this café is perfect for a nice brunch or lunch and your wallet will not be hurt after your visit. The menu is gluten-conscious, vegetarian-friendly and has some of the best gluten-free red chile in town.

CAKE FETISH

2665 Louisiana Blvd. NE (505) 883-0670, cakefetish.com

$

Cake Fetish specializes in baker’s cups filled with heaven, such as the Sleepless in Albuquerque (chocolate cake with mocha French buttercream frosting) and the Inside-

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BY THE DOZEN

Garcia’s flour tortillas have been a tradition since the early days of the popular New Mexican establishment.

“We’ve been making fresh, handmade tortillas for as long as I can remember,” says co-owner Eddie Garcia. “Of course, we weren’t the size that we are now, but we would make them at our store on 4th and Mountain, and they continued to grow (in popularity). That’s one of our signatures that we do (to this day) is make fresh, handmade tortillas each and every day.”

Garcia believes that, in total, as many as 250 dozen tortillas are produced each day at all of the restaurant’s Duke City locations. The recipe itself has evolved over time.

“A lot of our recipes have evolved either through us working on them or somebody bringing one and us continuing to improve on it,” Eddie says. “So we got to the tortilla that we liked for our company, and that’s what we continue to use.”

It’s safe to say that recipe is a hit. If patrons aren’t consuming them with their meals, they’re ordering tortillas by the dozen to take home.

“It’s a reminder of how their grandmother used to do it or how it used to be when you would get home and smell them making those fresh tortillas,” Eddie says. —TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

Garcia’s Kitchen 4917 4th St. NW (five other locations) (505) 341-4594 garciaskitchen.com

Out German Chocolate Cake (coconut and pecans and crowned with chocolate French buttercream).

CAMPO AT LOS POBLANOS $$$

4803 Rio Grande Blvd. NW (505) 344-9297, lospoblanos.com

Beautifully situated in the heart of Los Ranchos, Campo is the newly renovated and reimagined fine dining establishment at Los Poblanos. A top-of-the-line menu mixes with fresh ingredients from the Los Poblanos Farm and a quiet, rustic atmosphere to make for one of the city’s best dining experiences.

CANVAS ARTISTRY $$

1 Central Ave. NW (505) 639-5214, canvas-artistry.com

Specializing in international street food with a local twist, expect seasonally rotating artsy fare made with local produce, daily and weekly specials, and art to boot. A great late-night spot with live spinning DJs featuring different genres each night.

CASA DE BENAVIDEZ $$

8032 4th St. NW (505) 898-3311, casadebenavidez.com

One of the original New Mexican eateries in the North Valley, this expansive property boasts a lush patio, fabled margaritas and authentic eats, including a trademark on the sopaipilla burger.

CASA TACO $$

5801 Academy Rd. NE (505) 821-8226, casa-taco.com

Both Casa Taco locations offer a window into owner James Pecherski’s signature take on the U.S. Southwest—a strange place where you could picture a classic John Wayne character lingering over a plate of Jamaican jerk chicken and Yucatan pork tacos. Casa Taco defies expectations.

CECILIA’S CAFÉ $

230 6th St. SW, (505) 243-7070

Recognized on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives,” and ranked No. 45 on the Travel Channel’s “101 Tastiest Places to Chow Down,” Cecilia’s Café offers tasty New Mexican

treats, such as their Fireman’s Burrito or homemade chicharrones in a cozy atmosphere.

CENTRAL BODEGA

$ 3418 Central Ave. SE (505) 433-5600

This European bistro features a marketplace with local products and great eats. Central Bodega spotlights good food, wine, and community with favorites like whipped feta with honey, black pepper, and Italian Eggs Benedict.

CENTRAL GRILL & COFFEE HOUSE $ 2056 Central Ave. SW (505) 554-1424

centralgrillandcoffeehouse.com

This local favorite on Route 66, adjacent to Old Town, offers a bevy of breakfast and lunch options that will comfort your belly and your wallet. Here, you’ll find traditional New Mexican favorites, serious sammies, and solid caffeine with a staff famous for their classic Southwestern hospitality.

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

Flour Tortillas (prices vary)

CERVANTES NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT

5801 Gibson Blvd. SE (505) 262-2253, cervantesabq.com

$$

Old-world style meets traditional New Mexican fare at this family-owned restaurant. Go for the made-from-scratch chile rellenos, tamales, and carne adovada.

CESAR’S MEXICAN & GREEK

5300 Lomas Blvd. NE (505) 256-8017

cesarsmexicanandgreek.com

$

Both the drive-thru and the dining room at Cesar’s are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. On the Mexican menu, try the No. 15, a chile rellenos plate. Popular Greek items include the No. 64 Gyros sandwich and the No. 78 Chicken pita sandwich.

CHEBA HUT

115 Harvard Dr. SE plus 1 other metro location (505) 232-2432, chebahut.com

$

Located next to UNM, Cheba Hut serves up toasted subs made from quality ingredients. Try sandwiches loaded with everything from guacamole, olives, mushrooms, cheeses, meats and much more.

CHEESE AND COFFEE

2679 Louisiana Blvd. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 883-1226, cheeseandcoffee.com

CHILE CHICKEN NASHVILLE HOT CHICKEN

3005 Eubank Blvd. NE (505) 293-1700

chilechicken.com

$

As the legend of Nashville chicken goes, revenge is a dish best served fiery hot. This Southern staple comes to the Duke City in red hot fashion. Frying up proteins like chicken and catfish, diners can choose sauces ranging from mild to really cluckin’ hot for a customizable, unforgettable meal.

CHILI HILLS $

5 NM-344, Edgewood, NM (505) 286-9202, chilihillsedgewood.com

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Chili Hills is a comfort food haven. Owners Debbie and Wes are all about providing quality food and service at a fair price. From Huevos Rancheros to Chicken Fried steak they are serving up classic American and New Mexican eats.

CHOCGLITZ & CREAM

10660 Unser Blvd. NW (505) 898-4589, chocglitzandcream.com

offerings (including ice cream flavors such as raspberry red chile and Mexican coffee).

CHRISTY MAE’S RESTAURANT

1400 San Pedro Dr. NE (505) 255-4740

christymaes.com

$

Certified fair-trade chocolate and a chocolatier with 45 years of experience means you’ll find some of the best sweet-tooth satisfying

$$

There’s more than just cheese and coffee here—think homemade soups, sandwiches, salads and specials. At lunch, the line often goes out the door, so it’s worth getting there early.

CHELLO GRILL

5010 Cutler Ave. NE Ste A (505) 881-2299, chellogrill.com

Known for the varieties of kabobs, Chello Grill aims to introduce authentic Persian cuisine to Albuquerque. This restaurant offers different salads, sandwiches, and combinations of plates packed with immense flavor.

CHEZ AXEL

6209 Montgomery Blvd. NE (505) 881-8104, chezaxelrestaurant.com

At Chez Axel, classical music is played at dinner Tuesday through Saturday, and the food has a decidedly French twist: cassoulet, trout amandine, chocolate mousse, and authentic French onion soup. Reservations are recommended.

$

“Hearty” and “homestyle” are the key words here, a hands-down favorite of early-dinner lovers. Old-fashioned staples are the standards, so look for chicken salad, potpies, country-fried steak with homemade mashed potatoes, and beef stew.

CHURCH STREET CAFÉ

2111 Church St. NW (505) 247-8522

churchstreetcafe.com

$$

Calling the oldest residence in Albuquerque its home, this café serves up favorites ranging from natillas to margaritas. They also sell their own bottled salsa and cookbooks with recipes from the restaurant.

CINNAMON

SUGAR & SPICE CAFÉ

5809 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE (505) 492-2119

cinnamoncafeabq.com

$

Featuring breakfast and lunch options, endless baked goodies, friendly staff and regular

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cooking classes, this place puts the “everything nice” in the well-worn phrase.

COCINA AZUL

4243 Montgomery Blvd. NE plus 2 other metro locations (505) 831-2600, cocinaazul.com

$

The newest location of the Old Town favorite serves up the same tried and true homecooked recipes you’ve come to love. Don’t miss location specific specials and local brews amid New Mexican staples.

CODA BAKERY

230 Louisiana Blvd. SE, Ste C, (505) 232-0085

$

Wrap your hands around one of Coda Bakery’s unique, Vietnamese-inspired sandwiches. Beyond its popular lineup of sammies, Coda Bakery also puts a distinctive twist on Vietnamese street food, using from-scratch recipes, including the bread, its deli meats, and its desserts.

CORN MAIDEN

1300 Tuyuna Trail, (505) 771-6060, tamaya.hyatt.com

$$$

For a special dinner or celebration, look no further. Boasting a view of the Sandia Mountains, this restaurant will leave you breathless as you enjoy three-course meals with sweet potato Granny Smith apple soup, lavender salted shrimp or the classic crème brulee.

COPPER CANYON CAFE $$

5455 Gibson Blvd. SE (505) 266-6318

coppercanyoncafeabq.com

All-day breakfast and a killer chicken fried steak topped with your choice of traditional white gravy or homemade green chile sauce (naturally) grace this menu, and a steady lineup of loyal customers means the food’s always hot and fresh.

THE COUNTY LINE BBQ $$

9600 Tramway Blvd. NE (505) 856-7477, countyline.com

It doesn’t take long for the barbecue to arrive at your dinner table, whether it’s wood-burning oven cooked and slow-roasted brisket, ribs, or sausage. Throw in the Rib King Platter, greenchile stuffed pork loin, live music, and two stepping, and at The County Line, everybody wins.

CRACKIN’ CRAB $$

2100 Louisiana Blvd. NE plus 2 other metro locations (505) 433-4611, crackincrababq.com

Their headline seafood boils are super customizable, allowing you to choose from a trio of house combinations or mix and match

your own selection of crab, lobster, mussels, scallops, clams, or shrimp by the pound.

CRAVIN’ COOKIES AND MORE $

10420 4th St. NW (505) 298-2597

cravincookiesandmore.com

Serving up specialty cookies, muffins, breads, pies, and pretty much any dessert you can dream of, Cravin’ Cookies and More offers dinein and to go orders to satisfy any sweet tooth, with coffee and hot tea to match.

CRAZY FISH SUSHI

BAR AND RESTAURANT $$

3015 Central Ave. NE (505) 232-3474, crazyfishabq.com

Tasty, fresh sushi and sashimi await you in this sleek Central Avenue restaurant, along with kitchen-made favorites such as tempura and crispy chicken.

THE CROWN ROOM

145 Louisiana Blvd. NE (505) 767-7171, abqdowns.com/crown-room

DAVE’S HIGH DESERT GRILL $$

5200 Eubank Blvd. NE, Ste B5 (505) 433-2380

Restaurant veteran Dave Hanisch is back with this Northeast Heights eatery serving up Midwestern comfort food with a little New Mexican flair. Come for the hearty entrees like the Braised Beef Short Ribs on Bubble & Squeak, stay for the Biscochito Peach Cobbler; the restaurant’s flagship dessert.

DAVE’S VALLEY GRILL $$

6601 4th St. NW (505) 639-5807

davesvalleygrill.com

Dave’s Valley Grill offers a delightful range of traditional favorites, each infused with a modern twist and a deep respect for ingredients.

DEBAJO TAPAS Y VINO $$

1025 Lomas Blvd. NW (505) 503-8645, debajoabq.com

$$$$

Perhaps Albuquerque’s best-kept fine dining secret, this gem is tucked away in the newly remodeled Downs Casino. With an incredible selection of liquors and wines, gourmet dishes, tableside Bananas Foster, and Dom Pérignon palate cleansers, this special occasion hideout is hard to beat, anywhere in the 505.

CURRY LEAF $

6910-C Montgomery Blvd. NE (505) 881-3663, curryleafrestaurant.us

Curry Leaf is the only restaurant in New Mexico to offer both North and South India cuisine. This means that, while you can get familiar favorites like tandoori chicken, you can also explore the world of chicken chettinad and dosas—a type of crepe made with fermented lentil and rice flour, filled with stuffing like potato, spiced vegetables, or ground lamb.

THE DAILY GRIND

4360a Cutler Ave. NE (505) 883-8310, dailygrindabq.net

$

This family-friendly restaurant serves breakfast and lunch, including huevos rancheros and a huge assortment of baked goods. On Friday and Saturday, look for spontaneous specials, such as stuffed French toast or steak and eggs.

DAMACIOS BAR & TAPAS

722 Central Ave. SW (505) 595-7383, damacios.com

$$

Nestled downtown in a non-traditional eating space, Damacios uses its fun atmosphere and talented chefs to put a twist on classic Spanish tapas.

This Iberian-inspired restaurant serves modernday eats and classic drinks, perfect for a special occasion or a relaxed night out. The chefs are passionate about providing guests with locally sourced ingredients and a farm-to-table experience.

DELICIAS CAFÉ $

6001 San Mateo Blvd. NE (505) 830-6561

Named after the city in Chihuahua, Mexico, Delicias delivers traditional fare of the region, like caldo de res (beef stew), gorditas, carnitas, flautas, and horchata.

DG’S DELI $

1418 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Ave. NE (505) 247-3354, dgsdeli.com

With 31 cold sandwich options and a wide variety of grilled hot sandwiches—ranging in size from mini to jumbo—there’s something for everyone here. Try the Green Chile Philly or the Lobo Club.

D.H. LESCOMBES WINERY & BISTRO $$$

901 Rio Grande Blvd. NW (505) 243-9916, lescombeswinery.com

With generations of experience in winemaking coursing through this North Valley staple’s doors, D.H. Lescombes Winery & Bistro specializes in pairing wine with its expertly crafted and entirely house-made menu, with a local twist. Themed events and giving back to its community are big parts of this eatery’s success, not to mention popular dishes such as its Chicken Picado, Mac and Cheese Bites, and Ghirardelli Port Brownie.

DION’S $

6308 Fourth St. NW plus 14 other metro locations (505) 345-4900, dionspizza.com

Launched in 1978, Dion’s aims to keep your wallet and tummy full with build-your-own pizzas, gourmet pizzas, slices, salads, and subs. The ranch and Greek dressings are homemade from secret recipes, and everything on the menu is tried and true.

DOG HOUSE DRIVE IN $

1216 Central Ave. SW, (505) 243-1019

An ABQ landmark since the 1940s, the eat-inyour-car Dog House serves grilled footlongs and halflongs topped with red chile, cheese, onions, and more. Enjoy your dog with a side of chili-cheese fries and a thick shake.

DON CHOCHE TACOS Y CERVEZA $

7319 4th St. NW Unit 1 (505) 433-2242, donchochetacosycerveza. com

Starting as a food truck, Don Choche Tacos y Cerveza established residency in the Los Ranchos area in 2009. Tacos are the signature here and can be ordered with various fillings such as asada, barbacoa, fried shrimp, and green chile brisket, just to name a few. A trip to this

classic Mexican eatery wouldn’t be complete without stopping at the salsa bar packed with interesting and delicious choices. Dine inside or on the renovated and shaded patio.

DONUT MART

4501 Montgomery Blvd. NE plus 2 other metro location (505) 292-6278, donutmartusa.com

$

Multiple locations sprinkled around town means a donut lover can always get a sweet fix. Find apple strudels, piñon coffee, green chile bialys, croissants, muffins, and even a Peanut Butter and Jelly donut.

DOWN N DIRTY SEAFOOD BOIL $$

6100 4th St. NW, (505) 345-0595

Southern transplants who make their way to ABQ have a new spot for traditional seafood boil. From dry rub to a spicy, buttery fusion sauce, your tastebuds will dance with delight when you feast on this eatery’s collection of crawfish, rock shrimp, crab legs, and more.

DUGGAN’S $

227 Lead Ave. SE (505) 312-7257, dugganscoffeeshop.com

This breakfast and lunch spot serves up newsthemed entrees like the Journalist Salad and Fact Checker Green Chile Chicken Soup in an intimate setting. Cups are filled with locally roasted Trifecta coffee.

DURAN’S CENTRAL PHARMACY $$

1815 Central Ave. NW (505) 247-4141, duransrx.com

Where in the city can you get amazing huevos, kitschy printed dish towels, an emergency rubber chicken in a box, and a flu shot? There is only one answer, Duran’s Central Pharmacy.

DURAN’S STATION $$

4201 Menaul Blvd. NE (505) 830-0007

Traditional New Mexican food served up with a side of homestyle cooking. An off-shoot of Duran’s Pharmacy, Duran’s station has built a reputation for amazing red chile, house-made tortillas, and plenty of blue corn.

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EAST OCEAN CHINESE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

3601 Carlisle Blvd. NE (505) 889-9315, eastoceanalbq.com

$$

East Ocean Chinese Seafood Restaurant was the first of its kind in Albuquerque. Most dishes are served family style and are made fresh to order. Those looking for traditional Chinese dishes should try the Roast Duck. Seafood eaters will enjoy the Honey Crispy Walnut Shrimp.

EL BRUNO’S RESTAURANTE Y CANTINA

8806 4th St. NW (505) 897-0444, elbrunos.com

$$

El Bruno’s got its start in Cuba, NM, in 1975. At the Albuquerque location, the tried-andtrue family recipes are still the focus of the menu. The Ceviche, Pollo Adovo, and the Deep Fried Spinach are a few items guests can look forward to.

EL CAMINO DINING ROOM $

6800 4th St. NW, (505) 344-0448

Those with a bottomless appetite might meet their match with any of El Camino’s breakfast burrito options. These plate-sized behemoths are filled with eggs, hashbrowns or home-fries,

and your choice of meat, then smothered in red or green chile.

EL PATIO DE ALBUQUERQUE $

142 Harvard Dr. SE plus 1 other metro location (505) 268-4245, elpatioabq.com

A UNM favorite since 1977, this family-owned restaurant uses local ingredients and makes everything fresh daily in small batches. The No. 10 Green Chicken Enchiladas have won rave reviews for years, as have the tasty salsa and pillow-soft sopaipillas.

EL PATRON $$

10551 Montgomery Blvd. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 275-0223, elpatronabq.com

A customer favorite, El Patron’s menu includes dishes such as mouthwatering tacos, enchiladas, chile rellenos, and housemade chips. Wash them down with a tasty margarita.

EL

PINTO

10500 4th St. NW (505) 898-1771, elpinto.com

$$$

Food and atmosphere go hand-in-hand at this Duke City staple, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Enjoy fresh salsa, enchiladas, burritos, carne adovada, and many more New

Mexican dishes while sipping a margarita on one of the many beautiful patios. Reservations are recommended.

EL ROI CAFE

616 Lomas Blvd. NW Ste A (505) 401-9313, elroicafe.com

$$

El Roi Cafe offers a blend of Native American and New Mexican cuisine aimed to pay tribute to owners’ favorites growing up. Diners will find various options, including mutton stew, Indian tacos, and fry-bread green chile cheeseburgers.

EL SABOR DE JUAREZ

3527 Gibson Blvd. SE, (505) 265-3338

$

Its name means “the flavor of Juarez,” and since 1980, this restaurant has served just that. Try the family recipes for menudo and carne desebrada (shredded roast beef sautéed with jalapeño, tomato, and onions).

EL SARAPE

3248 Isleta Blvd. SW, (505) 877-8871, elsarapeabq.com

$$

Specializing in authentic food from all regions of Mexico, you can count on dishes such as nopalitos (cactus sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and garlic), fresh salsa, burritos, chile rellenos, and seafood specials with shrimp, oysters, calamari, and fish.

CLAUDIA’S CREATIONS

Every morning before the sun comes up, Claudia Perea arrives at her restaurant to get started on a fresh batch of tortillas.

Claudia estimates that she makes about 250 on a daily basis, and it’s for good reason. Nothing complements New Mexican comfort food quite like homemade tortillas.

“Store bought are too flour-ey, really dough-ey. I don’t know how to explain it,” she says. “Authentic is better, fresher. We try to pride ourselves on everything homemade.”

They go quickly, too. Whether it’s for huevos rancheros, burritos or simply as a side (some like them heated over flame for extra crispness) — customers make sure Claudia’s labor doesn’t go unappreciated. That popularity also makes it hard to order in bulk, which is a testament to the quality.

“We don’t sell them like that because they go too fast for the ones that are eating and getting them on the side,” Claudia says. “To sell them like that, we won’t have any for the plates.”

With that being said, a call in advance might be able to yield a special order.

“We can make them fresh for them if they call ahead, so I can make more dough,” Claudia says. “If there’s leftovers, we sell those.”—TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

Perea’s New Mexican Restaurant 1140 Juan Tabo Blvd NE (505) 293-0157

Instagram: pereasnm_restaurant

ELOY’S NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT $

1508 Wyoming Blvd. NE, (505) 293-6018

Opening 52 years ago, Eloy’s New Mexican Restaurant’s claim to fame is its consistent food and service, offering the same recipes that made it famous all those years ago. Try the No. 1 Eloy’s Deluxe Dinner, with a little bit of everything.

EMBERS STEAK & SEAFOOD $$$

11000 Broadway Blvd. SE (505) 244-8288, isleta.com

Whether you are dining inside or al fresco on the rooftop patio, Ember’s boasts some of Albuquerque’s most beautiful 180-degree views of the Bosque, making for the perfect setting to catch the sunset next to the warmth of the glowing fire pits.

FANO BREAD COMPANY $

4605 McLeod Rd. NE (505) 884-5555, fanobread.com

For more than 16 years, Fano has made the freshest bread in the city. Whether it’s the

rustic loaf, the green chile cheese bread or raisin cinnamon bread, you’ll think you’re touring the streets of Italy with each bite.

FAN TANG

3523 Central Ave. NE (505) 266-3566, fan-tang.com

$$

With authentic family recipes that include coffee chicken (rubbed in Satellite coffee, then stir-fried with flavorful sauce) and creative additions like soul dumplings (made with tofu, kimchi, and cashew pesto), this spot is sure to satisfy.

FAREAST FUZION SUSHI BAR

& LOUNGE

5901 Central Ave. NE, (505) 255-2910

$$

The sushi is served aplenty, but those who shy from raw fish can flirt with some Thai or Chinese cuisine. This might be one of the only places where a “Heart-Attack”—a sushi roll with deep-fried spicy tuna, jalapeños, mushrooms, and cream cheese—is a good thing.

FARINA ALTO PIZZERIA & WINE BAR $$ 10721 Montgomery Blvd. NE (505) 298-0035, farinaalto.com

The Northeast Heights version of Farina offers the same urban atmosphere as the East Downtown (EDo) Farina, minus the elbow-toelbow seating. Alto offers every pizza on the EDo menu, such as the Formaggio di Capra and the Carne, but includes unique dishes— Eggplant Parmesan Napoleon and OvenRoasted Chicken Wings. Alto’s wine room is stocked with more than 300 bottles of wine.

FARINA PIZZERIA $$

510 Central Ave. SE (505) 243-0130, farinapizzeria.com

Whether you like yours bianco or covered in carne, you’ll get a pie cooked to perfection at this relaxed-but-hip urban eatery.

Tortillas ($1.80 a la carte)

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FARM & TABLE $$$

8917 4th St. NW (505) 503-7124, farmandtablenm.com

This North Valley eatery’s ever-changing menu features seasonal produce, which often comes from the restaurant’s own farm. If the produce doesn’t come from the farm, it’s sourced from a slew of local vendors. Enjoy grass-and-alfalfafed steaks and produce-focused dishes that use local kale, chard, okra, chile, and tomatoes.

THE FARMACY $$

3718 Central Ave. SE, (505) 227-0330

The Farmacy takes the idea of organic and local ingredients, and presents them in a way that tastes like comfort. The Farmacy provides a tasty menu of eight breakfast items, as well as eight sandwiches for lunch.

FIESTA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT & CANTINA

4400 Carlisle Blvd. NE, (505) 881-0478

FLYING STAR CAFE $$

8001 Menaul Blvd. NE

plus 5 other metro locations (505) 293-6911, flyingstarcafe.com

With menu options ranging from breakfast served all day to flavor-packed salads and sandwiches, handmade desserts to die for, and beautiful patio dining, Flying Star is the place to treat yourself to good vibes and great food.

FORK & FIG $$

6904 Menaul Blvd. NE, Ste C (505) 881-5293, forkfig.com

Upscale, but surprisingly down-home, Fork & Fig dishes offer up a streamlined menu of favorites, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, with surprising artistry along the way. Sweet potato tots, anyone?

$

Fiesta’s Restaurant & Cantina has been familyowned and operated since 1986, making it an Albuquerque go-to for quality New Mexican cuisine. With its family dining area, outdoor patio, lively bar and banquet room, Fiesta’s has something for everyone.

FIRENZE PIZZERIA $

12501 Candelaria Rd. NE (505) 433-4022

They’ve moved from downtown to the heights, but the wood-fired pizza is just as good as ever. A plethora of smart toppings and custom pizzas, including vegan and gluten-free options, and outdoor seating with a lovely view of the Sandias make this a pizza spot worth a stop.

FIVE STAR BURGERS $

5901 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 821-1909, 5starburgers.com

From bison, salmon, turkey and crab to lamb, chicken and Black Angus beef, burger addicts will love Five Star’s 100 percent natural meat. Hand-formed patties or vegetarian options paired with wine from St. Clair Winery or beer from Marble Brewery are a match made in heaven.

FLIX BREWHOUSE $$

3258 La Orilla Rd. NW, B-1 (505) 445-8500, flixbrewhouse.com

Flix is a one-of-a-kind concept; a movie theater that serves full meals and an in-house brewed beer menu in its stadium-seating “dining rooms.” The dream is real, Albuquerque–you can catch the latest blockbuster in theaters while knocking back a pint and having dinner brought to you.

FRANK’S FAMOUS CHICKEN AND WAFFLES

400 Washington St. SE, (505) 712-5109 franksfamouschickenandwaffles.com

Owner and former Lobo basketball player Frank Willis wanted to give Albuquerque the soul food he had while growing up in Los Angeles. He fiddled with flavors, making sure they were perfect, before opening his restaurant to dish out favorites like chicken and waffles, fried pickles, mac ‘n cheese, and collard greens.

FRENCHISH

3509 Central Ave. NE (505) 433-5911, frenchish.com

Envisioned as a casual neighborhood restaurant, frenchish’s menu draws inspiration from an eclectic mix of French and Midwestern U.S. cuisines, with an active focus on clean, simple foods.

FRIENDS COFFEE & SANDWICH SHOP $

200 3rd St. NW (505) 243-4801, fcass.com

Every cup of coffee served at Friends Coffee & Sandwich Shop is from New Mexico Coffee Company, and a different flavor is showcased each day of the week. Local favorites such as the quesadilla and the Taco Burger are dependable lunch choices.

FRONTIER RESTAURANT

2400 Central Ave. SE (505) 266-0550, frontierrestaurant.com

FUEGO 505 $$

5750 McMahon Blvd. NW (505) 705-8439, fuego505.com

Traditional meets trendy at this Westside rotisserie grill and bar. Gourmet tacos, bowls, and hot-fired skewers (including exotic meats like rabbit, elk and rattlesnake) pair nicely with whiskeys from their extensive list. Salads, handshaken cocktails, local craft beers and a large patio round out the scene.

FUN NOODLE BAR $ 5317 Menaul Blvd. NE, (505) 801-6888 funnoodleabq.com

The perfect place to go with family and friends to enjoy fresh Asian cuisine. Fun noodle bar provides you with an authentic and, well, fun experience. Fresh dumplings and hand-pulled noodles are a homerun.

GARCIA’S KITCHEN $

2924 San Mateo Blvd. NE plus 5 other metro locations (505) 888-3488, garciaskitchen.com

This Albuquerque institution serves up classic New Mexican dishes, from freshly made tortillas to an extensive burrito list. You’ll leave one of the multiple locations with a full belly and content heart.

GARDUÑO’S OF MEXICO RESTAURANT AND CANTINA $$

10031 Coors Blvd. NW plus 1 other metro location (505) 880-0055, gardunosrestaurants.com

Garduño’s consistently earns enthusiastic kudos for its mouthwatering enchiladas, burritos, salsa, and knock-your-socks-off margaritas. And, with three locations around town, you’re always near a fiesta.

GECKO’S BAR AND TAPAS $$ 5801 Academy Rd. NE (505) 821-8291, geckosbar.com

Plenty of tasty tapas—including Southwestern Krab Taquitos and Red Molé Grilled Sirloin Tacos—and hearty salads and sandwiches, too.

$

Famous for its legendary Frontier Rolls, hotoff-the-iron tortillas, burgers, New Mexican favorites, hash browns, fresh-squeezed orange juice, and more, the Frontier is Albuquerque’s melting pot—it’s a guarantee you’ll see someone you know there.

GINO’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA $ 3908 San Mateo Blvd. NE (505) 883-6000, ginosnystylepizza.com

With handmade lasagna and pizza dough, among other items, Gino’s New York Style Pizza shares family recipes with its customers. From the buttermilk ranch dressing to the Eggplant and Chicken Parmigianas, homemade cooking is not too far away.

GIOVANNI’S PIZZERIA $ 921 San Pedro Dr. SE, (505) 255-1233 giovannispizzaalbuquerque.com

Giovanni’s isn’t easy to spot at first, but once you’ve had a big slice of fold-in-half New York-

style pie, you’ll never miss it again. Whether you like it covered in spinach, pesto and tomatoes, cheese-only, no cheese at all, or plain pepperoni, you’re sure to find your pizza match.

GOLDEN CROWN PANADERIA $

1103 Mountain Rd. NW, (505) 243-2424, goldencrown.biz

Golden Crown Panaderia is known for taking creativity in baking to the next level. Try the original biscochitos or cappuccino, chocolate and sugar-free versions. Don’t miss out on homemade green chile bread, pizza, and creative bread sculptures.

GRASSBURGER $

5600 Coors Blvd. NW, Ste C3 plus 1 other metro location (505) 361-2368, eatgrassburger.com

There’s a lot that sets the burger joint apart— including its community involvement, its vegan and gluten-free burger options, and its commitment to a no-corn syrup menu.

GREENSIDE CAFÉ $$$

12165 NM-14, Cedar Crest (505) 286-2684, greenside.cafe

This Cedar Crest café offers a casual family atmosphere with large portions of gourmet-

quality food: French toast made with orange and vanilla batter, Turquoise Trail Trout, rich homemade ice cream, and a Monte Cristo sandwich with green chile.

THE GRILL ON SAN MATEO $

3300 San Mateo Blvd. NE, (505) 872-9772

A choice of mesquite-grilled chicken, rib eye, hot dogs, and burgers (beef and garden) accompany bottomless house-made chips and salsa, complete with sides like classic fries and fried zucchini, and fresh fixings are on a build-your-own basis offering a completely customizable burger.

GRANDMA’S K & I DINER $

2500 Broadway Blvd. SE (505) 243-1881

grandmaskandidiner.com

This South Valley dive is known for its heaping plates of classic American comfort food— they’ve even been featured on “Man vs. Food” for their massive “Travis on a Silver Platter” dish.

THE GROVE CAFÉ AND MARKET $$

600 Central Ave. SE, Ste A (505) 248-9800

thegrovecafemarket.com

The brunch and lunch favorite is well-known for its exceptional dishes made from local and organic ingredients, and it now offers a newly expanded menu, with additions such as the French Ham & Cheese with d’affinois cheese, mostarda, and caper mustard sauce.

GOBBLE THIS $$

308 San Felipe St. NW (505) 975-3969

gobblethis.biz

A fusion of ingredients from El Salvador, Los Angeles, and New Mexico make up the recipes at Gobble This. Owner and chef Nestor Lopez goes out of his way to make the food and atmosphere like being at a friend or family member’s house for dinner.

GYROS MEDITERRANEAN $

106 Cornell Dr. SE, (505) 255-4401, egyros.com

Tried-and-true Greek recipes, such as traditional Kota Reganato (oven-roasted chicken with oregano, garlic and lemon), fresh Greek salads,

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Patates, and, of course, sweet baklava, served in a friendly, laid-back collegial atmosphere.

HABIBI HOUSE $

3218 Silver Ave. SE (505) 508-0307

habibihousenm.com

The word Habibi means “my love” in Arabic, and love is exactly what you’ll find in the food at Habibi House in Nob Hill, with delicious Middle Eastern food, a friendly staff, and a dog friendly patio.

HANNAH & NATE’S MARKET CAFÉ $

4512 Corrales Rd. plus 1 other metro location (505) 898-2370

Offering breakfast and lunch, Hannah & Nate’s is all about flavor—whether it’s the flavor of traditional New Mexican cuisine, cuisines from throughout the world or the family recipes served.

HELLO DELI $$

7600 Jefferson St. NE (505) 797-3354, hellodeliabq.com

Home to one of the most delicious breakfast burritos around, Hello Deli serves sandwiches and even Frontier’s sweet rolls.

HIBACHI ONE $$

3230 Coors Blvd. NE 505) 839-0808

hibachioneabq.com

In addition to their tableside teppanyaki service, Hibachi One visitors can take advantage of private rooms. Hibachi options like shrimp, scallops, and filet mignon are available wherever you’re sitting in the house, as is a full menu of sushi, sashimi, and rolls.

HIGH POINT GRILL $$

9780 Coors Blvd. NW (505) 312-8519

highpointgrill.com

Those perpetually on the hunt for the perfect burger will find plenty to love at High Point. With a foundation of 100-percent Akaushi, American Prime Wagyu beef, the burgers at High Point Grill are some of the city’s most popular. Its Southwest burger, for instance, features a red chile crusted patty, extra hot local green chile and cheddar cheese.

HIGH NOON RESTAURANT AND SALOON

425 San Felipe St. NW (505) 765-1455

highnoonrestaurant.com

Located in a 300-year-old house in the heart of Old Town, High Noon has a menu stocked with New Mexican fare such as burritos and enchiladas, but you can also find baked brie

and buffalo burgers here. Reservations are recommended.

HOLY BURGER $

700 Central Ave. SE (505) 242-2991

holyburgernm.com

Originally a Route 66 diner with a carport, and later Bob’s Fish and Chips, Holy Burger now boasts some of the juiciest burgers in town, as well as one of the breeziest and most boppin’ patios in the city.

HORSE AND ANGEL TAVERN $$

5809 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE (505) 299-0225

Whether you want a simple sandwich for lunch, appetizers and a beer in the afternoon, or steak and enchiladas at midnight, this Heights tavern is the place to be any time of the day.

HOT PINK THAI $$

2626 San Pedro Dr. NE (505) 872-2296

For dine in or takeout at lunchtime, you’ll get $1.50 off dishes over $10 and a free vegetable egg roll. Favorites include pumpkin curry, pad thai, and drunken noodles. Most dishes are customized with your choice of protein and spice level, from no chili at all to Thai hot.

HOT TAMALES $

1520 Rio Rancho Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho (505) 962-0123

hottamalesnmrestaurant.com

This Rio Rancho restaurant serves bona fide New Mexican with hand-blended red chile and fire-roasted green chile: Green Chile Stew Omelet, Hot Tamale Bowl, and Fajitas are just a few of the spicy dishes.

HUMBLE COFFEE COMPANY

4200 Lomas Blvd. NE plus one other metro location (505) 289-9909, bakerad.com/humble

Humble prides itself on keeping it simple. Here you’ll find the most classic coffee drinks (ones that aren’t overly sweet) in an attempt to highlight the coffee bean itself. They use single-origin beans so customers can taste the difference between other beans. Both locations are perfect for sipping delicious coffee and gathering with friends.

HURRICANE’S CAFE

4330 Lomas Blvd. NE, (505) 255-4248

hearty Disaster Burrito, but you’d better make plenty of room if that’s on your agenda.

IHATOV BREAD AND COFFEE

3400 Central Ave. SE, (505) 539-5445

$

With Route 66 serving as the city’s heart, it’s always good to hop over to a good ol’ fashioned diner. Pick out a classic dish, such as pancakes or omelets from the lengthy breakfast menu, or chow down on a burger, enchilada, or chicken fried steak. Of course, you can take a stab at the

$

Bread and coffee are the foundation of this diverse bakery. IHATOV is whipping up approximately 20 types of bread inspired by different locations. Must-try items include the buttermilk biscuit and the croissants.

ISLETA GRILL

4047 NM State Highway 47 (505) 869-2046 FB: Isleta Grill

$

A popular breakfast-and-lunch counter on the Isleta Pueblo serving up tortilla burgers, Indian tacos and Frito pies, along with an assortment of made-to-order sandwiches (BLT, Club, etc.). The grab-and-go morning menu includes breakfast burritos and quesadillas in two sizes.

I SCREAM ICE CREAM

$ 2000 Carlisle Blvd. NE (505) 268-0139

The cozy dessert shop is filled with toys, gadgets, board games, and—oh yeah—34 flavors of ice cream and 28 different toppings. Each scoop comes with a free mix-in, and there are fresh mini doughnuts available on weekends.

IL VICINO

3403 Central Ave. NE plus 2 other metro locations (505) 266-7855, ilvicino.com

$$

Using wood ovens to bake its thin-crust pizzas, Il Vicino (which means “The Neighbor”) also offers hearty calzones and award-winning brews from its own brewery.

INDIAN PUEBLO KITCHEN $$$

2401 12th St. NW (505) 724-3510, indianpueblo.org

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is the perfect backdrop for the Native American-inspired cuisine prepared in the café, serving traditional and innovative dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Reservations are recommended.

INDIGO CROW CAFÉ $$$

4515 Corrales Rd. (505) 585-3061, indigocrowcafe.net

This café is cozy, thanks to the fact that it’s housed in an old adobe building. When it’s cold, patrons warm up by the indoor fireplace; when it’s warm, they enjoy meals such as lobster ravioli, tarragon chicken salad, and New Mexico chicken fried steak under the stars on the outdoor patio. Reservations are recommended.

IRONWOOD KITCHEN $$

5740 Night Whisper Rd. NW, Ste 250 (505) 890-4488, ironwoodkitchen.com

This family operation’s goal: to serve meals made with whole foods at affordable prices. Try the green chile cheeseburger, with freshlyground chuck, topped with fresh vegetables and roasted green chile.

JAPANESE KITCHEN $$$

6521 America’s Parkway (505) 884-8937, japanesekitchen.com

Entertainment is the main course at this teppanyaki grill restaurant. The cooks, who are at your table, can be caught tossing shrimp into their pockets and creating to-die-for dishes from the classic teriyaki chicken, to seafood or steak, and everything in between.

JAVA JOE’S $$

906 Park Ave. SW (505) 765-1514, downtownjavajoes.com

You’ll find all walks of life at this relaxing Downtown joint, enjoying freshly made sandwiches, breakfast burritos, green chile chicken melts, coffee drinks and more.

JC’S NEW YORK PIZZA DEPARTMENT $$

215 Central Ave. NW, Ste B (505) 766-6973, jcnypd.com

New York-style pizza, pasta, salads, and fullyloaded pasta and calzone dishes, all in a laidback lounge. During lunch hour, the line goes out the door.

JIMMY’S CAFÉ ON JEFFERSON $

8900 Holly Ave. NE, Ste. B (505) 856-1413, jinjabistro.com

Evoking a vintage ambiance, Jinja serves inspired and mouthwatering pan-Asian cuisine, such as Kung Pow Chicken (a Thai version of the Chinese favorite) and Home-Style Chicken Udon Wok Bowl.

JINJA BAR AND BISTRO $$

7007 Jefferson St. NE (505) 341-2546 jimmyscafeonjefferson.com

The menu here lists more than 100 items, most of them mouthwatering comfort foods: sandwiches, burgers, New Mexican dishes, handmade pizzas, and breakfast served all day long.

JINJA BAR & BISTRO WESTSIDE $$

5400 Sevilla Ave. NW (505) 792-8776

Whether you’re looking for a good place to gather some friends for tasty drinks and appetizers or a laid-back place to bring the family, Jinja has the atmosphere for you. You won’t find one specific menu theme at Jinja,

with its blend of Chinese and Vietnamese which makes it easy for anyone to find something they like. Staples like potstickers, Kung Pao chicken, and wings with different sauces are all served up

JOE’S PASTA HOUSE $$

3201 Southern Blvd. SE (505) 892-3333, joespastahouse.com

A neighborhood Italian-American joint with an incredible dose of warmth and personality, Joe’s offers a terrific lunch buffet and an expansive dinner menu to please every palate in la mia famiglia: steaks, pasta, and some of the best cannelloni and tiramisu anywhere.

JUNIPER STEAKHOUSE $$$

54 Jemez Canyon Dam Rd. (505) 771-7145, santaanastar.com

Inside the Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel, Juniper Steakhouse offers a fine dining experience in an entertaining atmosphere. With popular options like the prime rib and filet mignon, diners can also opt for a seafood entree. The food is enticing; they also have a full bar with an extensive wine list and handcrafted seasonal cocktails.

KABAB HOUSE: AUTHENTIC PERSIAN CUISINE $

8104 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Ste. A (505) 312-8949

Authentic, made-to-order Persian food is constantly sizzling on the grill here. The koobideh kabab is made with minced ground beef or ground chicken, onion, and house spices. Each dish is a healthy size and comes with soup, salad, and rice. Top everything off with a glass of delicious banana milk, or majoun, which is banana milk with almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and honey.

KAKTUS BREWING CO. $

471 S Hill Rd, Bernalillo (505) 818-7285, kaktusbrewery.com

Tucked away from it all, Kaktus specializes in European-style pints, and a menu featuring pizzas and apps uniquely topped with game meats like elk, boar, bison, and duck. Special events on weekends abound.

KAP’S COFFEE SHOP & DINER $

5801 Central Ave. NE 505) 232-9658

kapscoffeeshopanddiner.com

Serving the Duke City and hungry travelers since 1968, Kap’s is the place to go for a great

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meal. Enjoy a hearty plate of chicken fried steak or chicken fried chicken with an egg on top or some golden brown, griddle-cooked flapjacks.

KATHY’S CARRY OUT $

823 Isleta Blvd. SW (505) 873-3472 FB: Kathy’s Carry Out

A half-century of success in the heart of the city’s South Valley that’s renowned for $2 tacos on Wednesdays (yes, Wednesdays), stuffed sopaipillas, smothered burritos and burgers. Take-home pints also available for beans, rice, carne adovada, etc. Indoor and outdoor seating, plus a drive-thru.

KATRINAH’S EAST MOUNTAIN GRILL

150 State Rd. 344 A (505) 508-0601 kawaiibobacafeabq.com

$$

This contemporary diner specializes in homemade dishes, such as gyros, handcut steaks and burgers, and the best-selling Southern Salad (with fried green beans, bacon, cheddar cheese, tomato, and fried or grilled chicken or steak).

KAWAII BOBA-CAFÉ $

3200 La Orilla Rd. NW, Ste E (505) 281-9111, eastmountaingrill.com

Boba tea is just the beginning of the menu at this westside cafe. While the expansive tea menu allows for plenty of customizations, what really sets this cafe apart is their food menu featuring ramen, kimchi, and other Asian staples. Located conveniently next to Flix Brewhouse, this spot is a magnet for Albuquerque’s anime fans and cosplayers.

KIMO’S HAWAIIAN BBQ $

3239 Girard Blvd. NE (505) 582-2797, kimosabq.com

Hawaii comes home. What began as a food truck is now a brick-and-mortar location also. Try fresh-from-the-isles Kalua Pork and Huli Huli Chicken plates served with sides like steamed cabbage, rice, and macaroni salad.

KITSUNE

524 Romero St. NW (505) 977-2313

$

Kitsune transforms traditional Asian dishes into a fusion of flavors blended with New Mexico staples, American cuisine and more.

K’LYNN’S SOUTHERN & CAJUN FUSION

4300 Ridgecrest Dr. SE, Ste O, Rio Rancho (505) 453-3068

$$

Kathrine Johnson-Bey brings Cajun cuisine from the bayou to the desert in this Rio Rancho fusion restaurant. From fried oysters to handbreaded crawfish tails, alligator po boys to collard greens, this unique eatery is a can’t-miss.

KOSMOS RESTAURANT $$

1715 5th St. NW (505) 369-1772

kosmosabq.com

Part art gallery, part restaurant, Kosmos is a feast for the senses. The inventive staff brings together high-grade dinner style burgers with dishes sparked by the flavors of the Near East.

KOYAMA $$

8201 Golf Course Rd. NW (505) 681-8869, koyamasushi.com

With over 40 different sushi rolls to choose from, including classics like the California Roll or the more ‘out there’ freshwater eel-forward Caterpillar Roll, the hearty servings over at this local Japanese mainstay keep sushi-lovers coming back time and again. For something to warm the soul, the hotpot is always a solid choice.

LA QUICHE PARISIENNE BISTRO $

5850 Eubank Blvd. NE, Ste 17 (505) 242-2808

laquicheparisiennebistro.com

Long considered an authentic French staple of downtown ABQ, La Quiche has comfortably settled into the Heights and the baked goods will comfort your lazy weekend brunch cravings with true Parisian cuisine from the mainland.

LA REFORMA $$

8900 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Ste I (505) 717-1361, lareformabrewery.com

On the taco front, La Reforma is virtually unimpeachable, offering options like braised pork shoulder carnitas, tempura-battered white fish pescado, and rotisserie-broiled al pastor for carnivores, along with tempura-battered avocado (aguacate) for those looking for something plant-based.

LA SALITA

1950 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE (505) 299-9968, lasalita.com

$

The name may mean “little room,” but this New Mexican restaurant always has a full house. The chile rellenos, chile con queso, sopaipillas, and shredded beef burrito (a Wednesday special) have earned loyal customers for 37 years.

LA GUELAGUETZA

MEXICAN RESTAURANT $

816 Old Coors Dr. SW (505) 916-0095, la-guelaguetza-mexicanrestaurantllc.business.site

If you’re looking for something especially authentic, La Guelaguetza is the place for you. This restaurant will provide you with no frills and traditional Mexican food. Options range from Birria, to mole, to cocktail shrimp and everything in between. Located on Old Coors

La Guelaguetza gives a homestyle feel to all the favorites.

LAGUNA BURGER

2400 12th St. NW

plus 3 other metro locations (505) 352-8282, thelagunaburger.com

$

Every half-pound burger is made fresh upon ordering, topped with Hatch green chile, and slipped on a butter-toasted bun made specifically for Laguna Burger by Sara Lee. Also on the menu: freshly-cut fries, foot-long chile cheese dogs, and zingy breakfast burritos.

LAZY LIZARD GRILL

12480 North Hwy. 14, Sandia Park (505) 281-9122, lazylizardgrill.com

$

From the King Cobra Pizza and made-fromscratch Jalapeño Poppers to their impressive selection of microbrews, the Lazy Lizard Grill has customers always coming back for more— and has the food and atmosphere to back it up.

LE BISTRO VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT

1313 San Pedro Dr. NE, (505) 266-6118

$$

Le Bistro Vietnamese Restaurant is just as much a bakery as it is a restaurant, specializing in traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

LE CHANTILLY FINE PASTRIES

$ 8216 Menaul Blvd. NE (505) 293-7057, lechantillybakery.com

This French-style bakery features breakfast pastries, muffins, strudel, cookies, and tarts— not to mention delicious quiche, croissants, sandwiches and cakes. Try homemade soups such as creamy chicken and artichoke, then satisfy your sweet tooth with a tower of chocolate decadence.

LE TROQUET

228 Gold Ave. SW (505) 508-1166 abqfrenchrestaurant.com

$$

The Parisian bistro, open for lunch or dinner, offers classically simple French dishes made by Chef Jean Pierre Gozard. From Boeuf Bourguignon to quiche and delectable desserts, expect a tres bien atmosphere with a comprehensive wine list.

LEVEL 5 AT HOTEL CHACO

2000 Bellamah Ave. NW (505) 318-3998, hotelchaco.com

$$$

The food here needs be good, because first and foremost, it competes with the view. Like the name implies, Level 5 sits on the 5th floor of Hotel Chaco and offers a near-360 degree view of the city.

THE LIBRARY BAR & GRILL $$

312 Central Ave. SW (505) 242-2992, library-abq.com

Featuring more than a great party, the Library offers drink specials and half-priced appetizers during happy hour, as well as salads, hamburgers, sandwiches, wraps, and specialty items.

LIMONATA CAFÉ $$

3222 Silver Ave. SE (505) 266-0607, limonatacafe.com

Channel your inner Italian at this street foodinspired café, where the breakfast and lunch menus feature perfect pastries, craveable cappuccino and trattoria-inspired lunches. The chef makes every dish from scratch and insists that everything about the restaurant, from the menu to the atmosphere, be done just as it would in Italy.

LINDO MEXICO $$

7209 Central Ave. NE plus one other metro location (505) 266-2999

lindomexicogrillandseafood.com

This once smaller operation has since been in business for 20 years. With extreme passion to express the heritage of certain dishes through authentic tastes, owners are proud to have an atmosphere that values family and traditions. Some popular items include mole, tacos, guacamole and their chile rojo. All made fresh in house.

LINDY’S DINER $$

500 Central Ave. SW, #3114 (505) 242-2582

lindysdinerabq.com

Lindy’s is a neighborhood joint, through and through. The sort of place where, even if they don’t know your name, you’ll feel like they do anyway. The owners recommend the Ultimate Burger for that classic American diner experience.

LILY AND LIAM BISTRO $$

1751 Rio Rancho Blvd. SE, Ste 101, Rio Rancho (505) 340-3309, lilyandliambistro.com

The NM Dutch Baby (loaded with green chile, of course) is a Lily and Liam staple that has regulars coming back time and again. As a family-run business, it makes perfect sense that your whole family will love this homegrown spot.

LITTLE BEAR COFFEE

2632 Pennsylvania St. NE (505) 917-8902, littlebearcoffeeco.com

Plus 1 other metro location

THE LOCAL BREWHOUSE $$

300 Unser Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho (505) 994-2007

Even situated in the large metro area, The Local Brewhouse still has that small town, neighborhood charm. Their menu features brewpub classics and 32 local, regional, domestic, and international beers and ciders on tap, more than a dozen of which are brewed in house.

LOS COMPADRES RESTAURANT $

2437 Central Ave. NW (505) 452-8091, compadresabq.com

Family recipes like the No. 16 Taco Plate, tacos with carne y papas (beef and potatoes) and the restaurant’s Menudo, have kept locals coming back for more than 15 years.

LOS CUATES

8700 Menual Blvd. NE plus 2 other metro locations (505) 237-2800

loscuatesrestaurants.com

and southern Minnesota farms. In fact, a unique pork dish is incorporated into a featured dinner special every night. Wash down your pasta, pizza, or salad with a carefully crafted cocktail from the bar.

MAC’S STEAK IN THE ROUGH $

4515 Menaul Blvd. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 888-3611, macsnm.com

Taquitos, onion rings, guacamole salad, and an original “steak in the rough”—slivers of beef served with French fries, coleslaw, a roll, catsup, and a fresh green scallion… these are just a few of the reasons Mac’s has been in business for so many years.

MANZANO GRILLE AT THE CANYON CLUB AT FOUR HILLS

$$

$$

$

Located near Uptown, Little Bear is not just serving up quality brew, but also providing an outpost for the neighborhood and coffee community.

Popular since it opened over 25 years ago, Los Cuates serves its own ancho-chile salsa and tons of delicious New Mexican dishes in humongous portions.

LOS OLIVOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT $

7900 Zuni Rd. SE (505) 503-7879

Virtually everything on the menu at Los Olivos is Hernandez family recipe. Focused on traditional Mexican flavors, diners can enjoy authentic tacos, tortas, burritos, and soups, as well as different salsa for every dish.

LOYOLA’S FAMILY RESTAURANT $$

4500 Central Ave. SE, (505) 268-6478 loyolasfamilyrestaurant.com

You’ll find both American and New Mexican goodies here, from fried chicken, roast beef and sandwiches to tasty local favorites such as burritos and posole.

LUIGI’S RISTORANTE

AND PIZZERIA $$

6225 4th St. NW (505) 343-0466, luigisitalianfood.com

Enjoy more than 250 made-from-scratch Italian dishes, including pizza, chicken Florentine, spaghetti and meatballs, and green chile chicken lasagna.

M’TUCCI’S $$

6001 Winter Haven Rd. NW plus 3 other metro locations (505) 503-7327, mtuccis.com

The menu at the Westside’s authentic Italian staple features refined comfort food classics, from meatball marinara to pot roast. Other menu items are crafted from choice Berkshire pigs that the eatery imports from northern Iowa

911 Four Hills Rd. SE (505) 299-9555, canyonclubgolf.com

This newly remodeled property was rejuvenated thanks to its own club members, and now boasts modern décor, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Members can enjoy creative dishes like Pork Alexander, New Mexico Eggs Benedict with green chile Hollandaise sauce, or the Turkey Lurkey, including green chile and Pepper Jack cheese in the dining room or al fresco on its large, shaded patio overlooking the mountain vistas. Dining-only memberships available.

MARIO’S PIZZA

2401 San Pedro Dr. NE plus 3 other metro locations (505) 883-4414, mariospizzaabq.com

$$

Gourmet pizzas, big bowls of pasta, custom calzones and New York-style sandwiches are the norm at this tasty Italian eatery.

MARISCOS ALTAMAR

1517 Coors Blvd. NW plus 1 other metro location (505) 831-1496 mariscosaltamarabq.com

$$

With live music on the weekends, colorful murals, and authentic Mexican seafood dishes such as tostada de ceviche with shrimp, fish, and snow crab, dining at Mariscos Altamar is well worth the trip.

MARY & TITO’S CAFÉ

2711 4th St. NW (505) 344-6266, maryandtitos.com

$

From their famous carne adovada to their authentic New Mexican chips and salsa, Mary & Tito’s Café makes sure guests leave full and happy. This homey café also became the only Albuquerque restaurant to win a James Beard Foundation America’s Classics Award in 2010.

BITES

MATA G VEGETARIAN KITCHEN

116 Amherst Dr. SE (505) 266-6374, mata-g.com

$$

An authentic vegetarian restaurant with a wide variety of vegetarian breakfasts, soups, salads, sandwiches, and hot specials.

MARIGOLD

CAFE $

161 Lang Ave. NE, Ste C (505) 433-4427, marigoldabq.com

This cozy cafe is serving up a much-loved fusion of Indian and American cuisine. The marigold cafe is a local family-owned business that uses only the highest quality ingredients and spices.

MAZAYA CAFÉ $

120 Harvard Dr. SE (505) 582-2447, mazayacafe.com

Mazaya Café is dedicated to adding an authentic Mediterranean dining experience to the medley of options in the Nob Hill area–without breaking the bank for its diners. If you are looking to fill up, fresh-grilled kebabs, a half-dozen wraps, shawarma, and three kinds of fried or steamed dumpling plates headline the restaurant’s entrée menu.

MESA

PROVISIONS $$

3120 Central Ave. SE (505) 494-5264, mesaprovisions.com

With an emphasis on seasonally and locally influenced ingredients, you can always expect to find something fresh on the menu at Mesa Provisions. And although they have a wide variety of culinary offerings, year-round staples such as the half-smoked chicken or the green chile cheddar biscuit will have you coming back for more.

MERAKI COFFEE + MARKET

5900 Eubank Blvd. NE (505) 291-1116, drinkmerakiabq.com

$$

Meraki in Greek is the word that describes the attention and love put into something you are preparing for others. With all real ingredients (no fake butter, sugar substitutes, etc.) it is clear the passion runs through each item that is made at Meraki. Everything is made early in the morning and most ingredients are sold instore exclusively. Whether you’re looking for a classic cappuccino or smoked salmon toast with homemade tomato jam, you are sure to find that every dish is extremely high quality and delicious.

MICHAEL

THOMAS COFFEE

ROASTERS $ (505) 504-7078

202 Bryn Mawr Dr. SE michaelthomascoffee.com

Michael Thomas’ fresh-roasted coffees can be purchased in bulk or by the cup. Favorites include the Banda Bear Blend and the Duke’s

Runners’ Blend. If you prefer to let them make your cup of Joe, try an espresso-based drink such as a Double Espresso, a Macchiato, or a Cubano.

MICK’S CHILE FIX

3351 Candelaria Rd. NE, Ste A (505) 881-2233, mickschilefix.com

$

One of the city’s true spots for getting something hot: try The Shocker (an eightpound breakfast burrito), huevos rancheros, or the Frito pie, all with homemade red or green chile.

MILLY’S $

2100 Candelaria Rd. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 884-0707, millysrestaurants.com

If you’re not sure what to eat, have a little of everything with an American-New Mexican–Greek menu. This breakfast and lunch spot melds salads and sandwiches with traditional New Mexican and Greek entrees.

MONICA’S EL PORTAL RESTAURANT

321 Rio Grande Blvd. NW (505) 247-9625

$

Traditional New Mexican favorites make up the menu at this Old Town staple that has been around for 34 years. Monica’s roasts its own green chile, makes biscochitos from scratch and offers red chile straight from the pod.

MONROE’S

RESTAURANT $

6051 Osuna Rd. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 881-4224, monroeschile.com

More than 50 years after opening its doors south of Old Town, Monroe’s continues to serve reliable New Mexican favorites to a local fan base, and service around here is a team effort, so no glass goes unfilled.

MONTE CARLO STEAKHOUSE $$$

3916 Central Ave. SW, (505) 836-9886

The iconic steakhouse meets liquor store has been featured on the Food Network and boasts some of the best steaks in the city. Since 1971, locals always come back for hand-cut steaks, house-made Greek salad dressing, freshly cut fries, and a mean green chile cheeseburger.

MONTE VISTA FIRE STATION $

3201 Central Ave. NE, (505) 255-2424

Once an actual working fire station, this secondfloor restaurant now offers traditional bar food, wings, and nightly specials. Choose from tasty chicken wings and burgers, or order from the restaurant downstairs—they’ll bring your steak to you.

MR. TOKYO

11200 Montgomery Blvd. NE, (505) 292-4728

$$

Soak up the cool Zen-like atmosphere while enjoying six versions of fried rice, sushi, sashimi, tempura, hibachi, grilled udon, soups, and teriyaki spiced with fiery Thai chili peppers.

MUSTANG CAFÉ

8601 Lomas Blvd. NE, (505) 275-4477

$

Perfect for anyone shopping at the Rich Ford car dealership—or anyone at all—is this autothemed restaurant, which serves up homemade breakfast burritos, papitas, enchiladas, rellenos, tamales, and the Dennis Snyder Favorite: a 16oz. sirloin patty with cheese and chile.

NAAN & DOSA

6501 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 797-4243

naananddosa.com

$$

Many Indian restaurants only serve either Northern or Southern Indian food. Not Naan and Dosa. Named for the traditional breads from both regions of the country, take your pick of the leavened flatbreads (naan) or eight different types of rolled dosas. Also try their lunch buffet Tuesdays through Saturdays, featuring a sampling of their menu.

NAGOMI RESTAURANT

2400 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE (505) 298-3081

nagomirestaurantabq.com

$

The Nagomi menu is virtually overrun with Japanese culinary classics. Nagomi is also one of the few places in Albuquerque where you can go to indulge in shabu-shabu, a Japanese-style hot pot.

NAKA SUSHI

1035 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE (505) 200-9152 nakasushiabq.com

$$

A little bit of Thai, a little bit of Korean, and a little bit of Japanese, but entirely delicious. Naka Sushi fuses multiple Asian flavors to make fresh sushi, bento boxes, and other Asian dishes, all in a location with a vibrant, appealing ambiance.

NAMASTE

1580 Deborah Rd. SE, plus 1 other metro location (505) 896-3126, namastenm.net

$

Offering authentic Nepalese and Indian dishes— including chicken tikka masala and lamb curry— Namaste also serves traditional food with a New Mexico twist, such as the green chile chicken curry.

BITES

NAPOLI COFFEE $

3035 Menaul Blvd. NE (505) 884-5454, napolicoffee.com

A diversified menu of caffeinated companions means something for everyone at Napoli Coffee. Currently located on Menaul, Napoli aims to please and cater to guest requests, so the possibilities and drink combinations are seemingly endless. In addition to coffee, they also offer a variety of freshly made sandwiches, wraps, and breakfast burritos.

NARUTO $

2110 Central Ave. SE (505) 369-1039, narutonoodle.com

Who knew Ramen noodles could be so creative, so diverse, and so darn good. Naruto is reinventing the Ramen noodle with specialized dishes that can’t be found anywhere else in the city.

NEXUS BREWERY

4730 Pan American Fwy. NE, Ste D plus 1 other metro location (505) 242-4100, nexusbrewery.com

$$

If the made-to-order fried chicken and waffles and mac and cheese has you drooling, reach for one of Nexus’ brewed in-house beers.

NEXUS BLUE SMOKEHOUSE $$ 1511 Broadway Blvd. SE (505) 445-1545 smokehouse.nexusbrewery.com

Tender and mouthwatering meat, Nexus uses the blue smoke method. With favorites like burnt ends and pulled pork sandwiches, tangy sides, and perfectly paired brews, Nexus Blue Smokehouse achieves top of the line status.

NM SANGWICHES

4400 Masthead St. NE, Suite 160 (505) 835-5138 nmsoulfoodco.co

$

The former Rio Rancho favorite has moved to North ABQ with their menu of classic sandwiches, served both hot (grilled cheese, pulled pork, meatball) and cold (chicken salad, BLT), plus salads. The breakfast menu includes bowls, biscuits & gravy, muffins and bagels.

NOODLE WORKS

5901 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Ste S (505) 990-0055 noodleworksnm.com

$$

Every noodle at Noodle Works hand stretched, hand spun, and hand sliced in house fresh for every meal. With unique dishes and signature takes on popular favorites, almost everything on the menu can be modified or elaborated with noodles.

OAK TREE CAFÉ

4545 Alameda Blvd. NE (505) 830-2233, cafeoaktree.com

$$$

This hometown café has served a lot of locals over the past 30 years, and the current venue on Alameda is great at the basics, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, made fresh, inhouse every day.

OHANA HUT $

5740 Night Whisper Rd. NW (505) 508-4439, ohanahut.com

Family owned and operated Ohana Hut means “Family Hut.” It specializes in Hawaiian, Japanese, and Korean flavors to create an Asian fusion menu with a New Mexican twist.

OLD TOWN PIZZA PARLOR

108 Rio Grande Blvd. NW (505) 999-1949, oldtownpizzaabq.com

$$

This comfy, funky, family-owned restaurant serves tasty pies, huge calzones, and portions of pasta that won’t ever leave you hungry.

OLO DESSERT STUDIO $

3339 Central Ave. NE, Ste C-3 (505) 750-4656, olodessertstudio.com

Nothing is as sweet as a guilt-free treat. In the same building as Staples in Nob Hill, Olo features a Candyland-esque interior, complete with 10 flavor choices and a salad-bar-sized toppings bar.

O’HARE’S GRILLE & PUB $$

4100 Southern Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho (505) 896-0123, oharesgrillepub.com

With a menu that is centered around the idea that variety is the key to success, O’Hare’s offers pub fare in a family-friendly atmosphere. Try the Corned Beef and Cabbage special, O’Hare’s Double Decker Reuben, or the staple Fish and Chips, for a truly Irish experience.

ONI $$

600 Central Ave. SW # 100 (505) 503-6722, oniabq.com

Warm, umami scents fill the air at Oni, which has an abundance of ramen and other Japanese options. A house favorite is the Shoyu Ramen, which features cherry wood smoked pork belly, seasonal vegetables, and a pork bone broth that’s cooked in-house.

O’NIELL’S

PUB $$

4310 Central Ave. SE plus 1 other metro location (505) 255-6782, oniells.com

O’Niell’s boasts the same neighborhood feeling, many of the same staffers, and virtually the same menu (including the “weird sandwich,” the “burger in paradise,” and homemade fish and chips). Added: an outdoor patio and more beer choices.

O RAMEN $

2114 Central Ave. SE, (505) 508-1897

Yes, the Duke City has the real thing. O Ramen’s Tonkotsu (pork bone broth) spends 18 hours on the stovetop before it blesses your bowl; expect plenty of options for vegetarians and Japanese curry lovers, to boot.

ORCHID THAI CUISINE

4300 Central Ave. SE (505) 265-4047, orchidabq.com

$

Orchid Thai has been serving hungry Albuquerqueans traditional dishes like Pad Thai at its Nob Hill location for more than a decade. But this award-winning eatery goes beyond the traditional with unique dishes like deep-fried sesame duck, green tea curry, and Szechwan eggplant, all made from scratch.

THE OWL CAFÉ $$

800 Eubank Blvd. NE (505) 291-4900

owlcafealbuquerque.com

World-famous green chile cheeseburgers, milkshakes, fajitas, quesadillas, meatloaf, burritos, fries… the list of great drool-worthy dishes goes on and on.

PACIFIC PARADISE TROPICAL GRILL AND SUSHI BAR

$$ 3000 San Pedro Dr. NE (505) 881-0999

pacific-paradise-restaurant-abq.com

Faux palms and tiki huts frame a menu filled with more than 100 options: salads, soups, stir-fry, seafood, fried rice, noodles, sushi, and dessert menu. Try the Seafood Rice Pizza or Rock ‘n’ Roll Sushi.

PADILLA’S MEXICAN KITCHEN

1510 Girard Blvd. NE, (505) 262-0115

$

It might not get any more New Mexican than it does at Padilla’s—from huevos rancheros and tamales to chile rellenos and egg-topped blue corn enchiladas. You may have to shake your head after a taste of the chile just to remind yourself you’re not in your grandmother’s kitchen. A sopaipilla dripping with honey will seal the deal for your traditional meal.

PAISANO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

1935 Eubank Blvd. NE (505) 298-7541, paisanosabq.com

$$

Family recipes have kept Paisano’s going for more than 35 years, but the hand-rolled pasta, hand-stuffed ravioli, homemade sausage and marinara haven’t hurt business, either. It’s also the only place in town to get wheat-free pizza and pasta.

THE PALETA BAR

2325 San Pedro Dr. NE plus 12 other metro locations (505) 884-0049, thepaletabar.com

$

A hidden Albuquerque gem, The Paleta Bar has taken a tried-and-true, frozen Mexican dessert to new heights. Since 2017, this paleta wonderland has been slinging refreshing Mexican popsicles in endless combinations of flavors.

PAPA FELIPE’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

9800 Menaul Blvd. NE (505) 292-8877, papafelipes.com

$$

Papa Felipe’s exceeds expectations by offering traditional New Mexican cuisine (enchiladas, stuffed sopaipillas, tacos) as well as simple twists on favorite dishes (green chile carne adovada, Tampico Tacos, Green Tamale Pie).

PAPA NACHOS

7648 Louisiana Blvd. NE (505) 821-4900, papanachosfood.com

$$

Great homemade Mexican food based on triedand-true family recipes is the specialty here: burritos, fish tacos, and the namesake nachos will all make your panza happy.

PARS CUISINE

4320 The 25 Way NE, Ste 100 (505) 345-5156, parscuisine.us

$$

For more than 20 years, Pars has served Persian and Mediterranean menu items in a unique atmosphere. Choose to sit on the floor under a large tent, and enjoy the talents of belly dancers, and enjoy tasty kebabs, gyros and more.

PELICAN’S RESTAURANT $$$

9800 Montgomery Blvd. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 298-7678, pelicansabq.com

For 30 years, customers have fallen for Pelican’s—hook, line and sinker. Favorite entrées include Alaskan king crab, Australian lobster tail, and their delicious prime rib.

PEREA’S NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT $

1140 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE (505) 293-0157

Even after multiple relocations over the course of it’s 40-plus year history in Albuquerque, Perea’s keeps their loyal customers and newcomings coming back with their hearty New Mexican comfort foods.

PEREA’S

TIJUANA BAR $$

4590 Corrales Rd., (505) 898-2442

Open for lunch only, the family-owned and -operated business specializes in real, homecooked New Mexican food that’s consistently earned kudos from customers who can’t say “no” to the Frito pie, carne adovada, and green chile cheeseburgers.

PERICO’S $

10401 Golf Course Rd. NW plus 3 other metro locations (505) 792-5255

pericosmexicanrestaurant.com

Serving delicious New Mexican food at affordable prices made Perico’s instantly popular, and the “home of the ½ lb burrito” is now an Albuquerque institution with three locations, catering services, and 22 different burritos.

PHO LINH

9100 Central Ave. SE (505) 266-3368, pholinhabq.com

$$

Authentic Vietnamese cuisine is the name of the game at this restaurant. Look for pad thai, special noodles (with grilled barbecue shrimp), spring rolls, curry, and papaya salad.

PIATANZI

1403 Girard Blvd. NE (505) 792-1700, piatanzi.com

$$

A neighborhood Italian eatery with artisan flair, Piatanzi serves up big bites on smallish plates that please families and adventurous foodies alike, in a venue that scores big points.

BITES

PIZZA 9 $$

4000 Louisiana Blvd. NE plus 9 other metro locations (505) 883-6463, pizzanine.com

Chicago-style pizza at 10 locations around the city, along with the option of gluten-free crust— that’s what Pizza 9 brings to the, er, table. Don’t forget the wings, salads, breadsticks and calzones to complement any meal.

PIZZERIA LUCA $$

8850 Holly Ave. NE (505) 797-8086, pizzerialuca.com

With imported Italian flour, cheese, and pepperoni, Pizzeria Luca offers authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant has a subway-inspired interior and features delicious and affordable lunch specials.

PLANTY SWEET

2506 Washington St. NE (505) 433-7111, plantysweet.weebly.com

$$

Planty Sweet is the city’s first 100% vegan and gluten-free bakery and dessert shop, and the quality of the products available is hard to deny. Not only do their artisanal baked goods taste fantastic, they are impeccably presented, each crafted to please the eye as much as the taste buds.

POKI POKI CEVICHERIA $$

3422 Central Ave. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 503-1077, pokipokinm.com

Think deconstructed sushi if you’ve never had the traditionally Hawaiian poké. Completely customizable bowls with Latin and Asian fusion are the specialty here. Seven types of fish, 12 sauces, and 22 toppings make for endless combinations atop rice, chips, or a salad.

POLLITO CON PAPAS

6105 Gibson Blvd. SE (505) 765-5486, pollitoconpapas.com

$$

Get ready for a punch of Peruvian cuisine. The menu is dotted with combinations of chicken, potatoes, and cilantro rice. The chicken is brined in vinegar and cumin for about 10 hours, then fired on a spit. The traditional drink, chicha, makes the perfect complement to any dish. The southeast part of town just inched a bit closer to South America.

PONDEROSA BREWING CO.

1761 Bellamah Ave. NW (505) 639-5941, ponderosabrewing.net

$

A sister brew pub to Pints Brewing in Portland, Oregon, Ponderosa features a wide selection of American and German standard beers, with a classic menu of burgers, salads, and innovative appetizers.

POP FIZZ

1701 4th St. SW (505) 553-5929

$

Made in-house from all natural ingredients, kids can’t miss the Mexican paletas and ice cream tacos, and adults will love their menu of boozy popsicles and shakes. Find them on campus at the National Hispanic Cultural Center or book them for your own event or party.

PRAIRIE STAR RESTAURANT

288 Prairie Star Rd. (505) 867-3327, mynewmexicogolf.com

$$

Taking a drive past Bernalillo is a pleasure when you know the visit will include amazing madefrom-scratch dishes such as herb-grilled ribeye with chipotle cheddar gratin and New Mexico bison-raised tenderloin. Reservations are recommended.

PUPUSERIA Y RESTAURANTE SALVADOREÑO

1701 Bridge Blvd. SW, (505) 243-8194

In El Salvador, pupusas (stuffed corn tortillas) are found on every street corner. In Albuquerque, they can only be found in the South Valley, stuffed with shrimp, calabacitas, cheese, beans, or guacamole and served with a side of fresh salsa and curtidos (a spicy cabbage salad garnish).

QUARTER CELTIC BREWPUB $$

1100 San Mateo Blvd. NE, #50 plus 1 other metro location quartercelticbrewpub.com

Irish brews like the Crimson Lass and Rye’t Side of Dublin are paired nicely with Celtic pub fare with a New Mexico twist. Must-tries include the classic fish and chips, ruben, shepherd’s pie, and poutine with green chile.

RANGE CAFÉ

4400 Wyoming Blvd. NE plus 5 other metro locations (505) 293-2633, rangecafe.com

Locals flock to the Range Café when they’re in search of good, made-from-scratch comfort food, including meatloaf sandwiches, huevos rancheros, enchiladas, ice cream, and the gooey Life by Chocolate dessert.

RED ROCK DELI $

2414 San Mateo Pl. NE (505) 332-9656

So authentic that the menu is derived from a family cookbook written entirely in Polish, Red Rock Deli boasts Polish and Chicago-style deli delights, especially their handmade pierogies with ingredients sourced from Chicago.

RELISH GOURMET SANDWICHES $$

8019 Menaul Blvd. NE (505) 299-0001 relishsandwichesabq.com

It’s no wonder this sandwich shop has been voted “best” by publications throughout Albuquerque—it serves only the best Boar’s Head meats and all of their dishes are accompanied by homemade sides or soups. Try the Cubano. You won’t be disappointed.

RESTORATION PIZZA $

5161 Lang Ave. NE, Ste A (505) 582-2720, restorationpizza.com

Here, good food and positive works—delivered simultaneously—is in the very nature of the business. The idea is to provide patrons with top-notch pies and first-rate beers while giving traditionally underemployed individuals work opportunities they would otherwise miss.

REVEL BURGER $$

4720 Alexander Blvd. NE (505) 303-4700

revelburger.com

Located inside Revel Entertainment, Revel burger’s delicious menu of Angus burgers and chicken sandwiches are cut, trimmed, and prepared in house. Try one of their American classics or challenge yourself to the Jawbreaker: a five-patty, pound and a half burger.

RICHARD’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT $$

3301 Menaul Blvd. NE, (505) 881-1039

Mexican favorites—such as carne adovada, relleño, tacos, and green chile enchiladas— cooked in the healthiest, most nutritious, yummiest way possible. Open for breakfast and lunch.

BITES

RICHIE B’S PIZZA $$

7200 Montgomery Blvd. NE, Ste A-2 (505) 312-8579, richiebsabq.com

New York-style pizza has come home to roost in Albuquerque’s Northeast Heights. Whether by the slice or by the pie—some of which measure 25 inches in diameter—you’ll need every bit of your appetite when you visit Richie B’s. Not in the mood for pizza? Wrap your hands around a turkey, cheesesteak, or Italian sandwich, topped with its signature Viper sauce, or tempt your sweet tooth with traditional cannoli or New York-style cheesecake.

RIO BRAVO BREWING COMPANY

1912 2nd St. NW (505) 900-3909

riobravobrewing.com

$

The pub and grill is bright and airy with high ceilings and a modern industrial style, mixed with the cozy rustic feel of a neighborhood bar, with 32 taps, including their award winning La Luz Lager.

ROCKIN’ TACO

2904 Indian School Rd. NE, LS (505) 401-1000

greenjeansfarmery.org

$

Rockin’ Taco is housed inside of Albuquerque’s premier indoor/outdoor gathering place, Green Jeans Farmery. With a food truck vibe and an East Coast flare, this hidden gem is elevating the street taco.

ROMA BAKERY & DELI

501 Roma Ave. NW (505) 843-9418

romabakeryanddeli.com

RUSTIC ON THE GREEN $

3600 Cutler Ave.NE (505) 315-1148

rusticburger505.com

Rustic simplicity is the key for this burger joint at Green Jeans Farmery, serving up five equallycravable burger options and two different kinds of fries from its minimalist menu. Don’t let the simplicity fool you: this unique eatery does gourmet burgers that have fans coming back for more, including its Day of the Dead burger with a secret “Diablo” puree and the Divine Intervention, topped with bleu cheese and caramelized onions.

RUTILIO’S FAMILY RESTAURANT

455 N Main St, Belen (505) 864-0093

$

Belen Mayor Rudy Jaramillo’s carne adovada is what put Rutilos on the map. This hangout serves their perfect pork with rice and beans, stuffed inside burritos and sopaipillas, and layered inside enchiladas and quesadillas. Add Rutilios breakfast burritos and classic New Mexican combos, and guests are sure to find something worth campaigning for.

SADIE’S OF NEW MEXICO

6230 4th Street NW (505) 296-6940

sadiesofnewmexico.com

$

You’ll find more than fresh-baked cookies and pastries at this bakery—feast your eyes (and taste buds) on grilled sandwiches and eight fresh deli salads and soups.

ROSE GARDEN

6541 Paradise Blvd. NW, Ste E plus 1 other metro location (505) 897-8880

rosegardenabq.com

$

Over 100 menu items and great customer service ensures locals always return. Rose Garden never disappoints with a wide range of appetizers, soups and entrees. Owner, Mieng Lu, says the Kung Pao chicken, orange chicken and beef lo mein are just a few of his favorites.

RUSTIC BUBBLE TEA CAFE

840 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, Ste B (505) 508-1813

$

Rustic Bubble Tea Cafe has all of the fundamentals of a bubble shop down, of course - the hint is in the name - but what sets the independent Albuquerque startup apart is the Vietnamese-inspired menu that accompanies its decadent beverages.

$$

A staple in New Mexican cuisine, Sadie’s features enchiladas, carne adovada ribs, tacos, burritos, and of course, world-famous chips and salsa. Reservations are recommended.

SAGGIO’S $$

107 Cornell Dr. SE plus one other metro location (505) 255-5454, unmsaggios.com

This university joint is known for its pizza, particularly the pepperoni and green chiletopped pie, but the pasta, sandwiches, and salads shouldn’t be slept on!

SAHARA MIDDLE EASTERN EATERY $

2622 Central Ave. SE, (505) 255-5400

saharamiddleeasterneatery.com

Delectable Middle Eastern plates served up Manhattan-deli style. The chicken shawarma plate, complete with greens, pita, hummus, and award-winning tabbouleh, is always a good bet. Complete with beer and wine, and belly dancing on weekends, this is a fave of students, locals, and out-of-towners alike.

SAIGON RESTAURANT $

6001 San Mateo Blvd., Ste.D4, NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 884-0706

saigonrestaurantnm.com

Vicky Truong’s secret to 12 years of success has been consistency. Truong maintains an extensive menu that caters to every type of

eater. From summer dishes such as noodle bowls to winter mainstays like beef noodle soup, Truong will make sure you find your favorites.

SAKURA SUSHI & GRILL

6241 Riverside Plaza NW (505) 890-2838

abqsakurasushingrill.com

$$

Favorites at Sakura are the Stone Pot Bibimbap (which is cooked at the table in a stone pot), the Tiger Roll, the Short Rib, the Baked Lobster Roll, the Sushi Tacos, and the impressive list of sake imported from Japan.

SALATHAI

3619 Copper Ave. NE, (505) 265-9330

$

Made-from-scratch, fresh, ingredients and keeping it simple are owner Pitak Pitakkan’s rules to cook by. Pitakkan cooks every menu item himself so don’t go to Salathai in a hurry. Pitakkan’s grandmother taught him to make curry and his curries are a longtime customer favorite.

SALT AND BOARD $$

115 Harvard Dr. SE, Ste. 9 (505) 219-2001 saltandboard.com

Salt and Board offers a tailored selection of wines to go along with different charcuterie boards, pressed sandwiches and salads. For those who aren’t wine drinkers, Salt and Board offers a variety of local New Mexico beers on tap.

THE SALT YARD WEST

3700 Ellison Dr. NW (505) 750-9273, thesaltyardnm.com

$$

A multi-concept bar and restaurant, The Salt Yard West is equipped with games, dozens of televisions, great food, drinks, and plenty of space to stretch your legs. This unique location is a great place for parties, trying the newest beer and tequila, or just watching the game.

SAMURAI GRILL AND SUSHI BAR $$$

9500 Montgomery Blvd. NE (505) 275-6601, abqsamurai.com

What’s your pleasure, sushi or teppan? Here, you can have either expertly crafted right in front of you. It’s also where you can get fresh sushi favorites such as the California roll, the dragon roll, and a veggies-and-sushi “Viagra salad” special.

SANTIAGO’S NEW MEXICAN GRILL $

1911 Eubank Blvd. NE, (505) 292-8226

It’s in the sauce—Papa Jim’s Taco Sauce, at least—which comes with items such as burritos, tacos, and salsa. This Santiago Scramble—a pile of scrambled eggs, cheese, corn tortillas, chorizo, and hash browns—is great morning fuel. The tamale and enchilada take-and-bake

casseroles will please any partygoer. And take a jar of that taco sauce home—after all, you can.

SAVOY BAR & GRILL $$$

10601 Montgomery Blvd. NE (505) 294-9463

savoyabq.com

Resembling a California wine-country bistro, Savoy Bar & Grill is one of Albuquerque’s premier fine-dining establishments. Specializing in food and wine pairing, Savoy’s menu is a toast to the art of balance of food and wine.

SCARPA’S BRICK OVEN PIZZA $$

5500 Academy Rd. NE (505) 821-1885

scarpaspizza.com

That brick oven is cornerstone to this neighborhood favorite, producing pizzas such as the shrimp pesto, the Greek, and the chipotle chicken. But Scarpas also knows pasta, including red chile cream pasta and pasta sorento with oak-roasted chicken.

SEARED $$

119 San Pasquale Ave. SW (505) 999-8414

searedabq.com

During the day, the space is Cheese & Coffee, but at night, it gets a makeover and becomes Seared, a fine dining establishment serving up steak, pork loin, and Atlantic Salmon among other things.

SEASONS ROTISSERIE AND GRILL $$$

2031 Mountain Rd. NW (505) 766-5100

seasonsabq.com

As the name suggests, Seasons varies its menu in accordance with what’s going on throughout the year, using the finest, freshest ingredients. Depending on what time of year you venture in, you’ll find butternut squash ravioli, grilled Atlantic salmon, and bleu cheese-crusted beef filet. Reservations are recommended.

SERGIO’S BAKERY & CAFE $

2740 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 554-2602

Fresh, made-from-scratch cookies, donuts, breads, pastries, cakes, and cannolis are on the mouthwatering menu at this Italian bakery.

SHARK REEF CAFÉ

2601 Central Ave. NW (505) 848-7182

$

To conclude your tour of the Albuquerque Aquarium, grab a seat at this full-service restaurant, where the dining room features a view of the oceanic reef exhibit. Catering to visitors, families, and daytime dates, the menu offers simple, fun options. Call ahead for special events, like themed dinners and holiday celebrations.

SHARKY’S FISH & SHRIMP

5420 Central Ave. SW (505) 831-8905

$

Slip on your flip-flops and enjoy some Baja–inspired seafood, tacos, and carefree beach house ambiance in this roadside outdoor eatery. Sharky’s won acclaim as the little food truck that could, and this brick-and-mortar locale delivers the goods.

SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT

3310 Central Ave. SE (505) 265-9166

https://shogunabq.com/

$$

When your order of sushi comes around the bend on its floating wooden boat, you couldn’t be happier, whether you’ve ordered the “Super

Crunch” (shrimp tempura roll), or the “TNT Roll” (fish, zucchini, and onion, baked with spicy mayo and smothered on a California roll).

SLAPFISH $$

6400 Holly Ave. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 503-1645 | slapfishrestaurant.com

Have you ever had a fish so fresh that it jumped up and tail slapped you in the face? Well, that’s the joke behind the very popular eater, Slapfish. This fast casual gem has gained a great reputation for efficiency, service, flavor combos, and the freshness of their seafood.

SIXTY SIX ACRES $$

2400 12th St. NW (505) 243-2230, sixtysixacres.com

A modern take on a classic bar and grill, SixtySix Acres has something for everyone. With unique appetizers, salads, and bowls, plus craft cocktails, you’re sure to find something to satisfy. Located in the Avanyu Plaza, you can enjoy your meal with a beautiful view of the Sandias.

SLATE STREET BILLIARDS BAR & GRILLE $

2003 Southern Blvd. SE, #139, Rio Rancho (505) 994-0363

slatestreetbilliards.com

Come for the pool, stay for the nachos. And the burgers. And the wings. Rio Rancho’s favorite pool hall also has great Happy Hour pricing and plenty of special events.

SLATE STREET CAFE

515 Slate Ave. NW (505) 243-2210

slatestreetcafe.com

$$

Slate Street Cafe is a sleek, contemporary eatery that combines big city ambiance with inspired, modern cuisine. From the smoked salmon frittata to build-your-own bruschetta to mouthwatering Ahi tuna, their culinary flair will tantalize and delight from breakfast through dinner.

SLICE AND DICE PIZZERIA $

5720 McMahon Blvd. Ste B plus 1 other metro locations (505) 261-2058

sliceanddicepizzeria.com

With both a sweeping library of board games and full menu of hot pies and subs, Slice and Dice is a venue for everyone from seasoned players to wide-eyed beginners (or people just hungry for some pizza). They provide a space where you can gather with a few friends and take in the twin delights of pizza and board games.

SOBREMESA

3421 Coors Blvd. NW (505) 444-5555, sobremesanm.com

$$

This Spanish-inspired restaurant brings people together with a cozy atmosphere, craft beer, and a vast selection of fresh and locally sourced foods.

SOO BAK

11 Hermosa Dr. SE (505) 268-0017

soobakfoods.com

$

Serving up a style of food known as “koi fusion”, Soo Bak offers a wide variety of delicious entrees including eight different varieties of kimchi. Try the Soy Crunch Kimchi, which comes with pickled chayote squash, onions, some jalapenos, and fish sauce, apple juice, soy sauce, and vinegar.

SQUEEZED JUICE BAR

7900 San Pedro Dr. NE, Ste A-12 plus 2 other metro locations (505) 821-1437

squeezedjuicebars.com

$

STICKY RICE

7600 Jefferson St. NE, #5 (505) 797-1288

Incredibly innovative, modern mixed juices, smoothies, and other healthy delights for people on the move and looking for exercise recovery. Three to five pounds of fruit are squeezed into every drink, and it’s all extract, no fillers, and sure to brighten your day.

ST. JAMES TEA ROOM

320 Osuna Rd. NE, Ste D (505) 242-3752

stjamestearoom.com

$$$

Albuquerque’s long-standing, go-to teahouse, this enveloping, intricately detailed, and authentically British tearoom provides oldfashioned conversation and honest service.

STARR BROS. BREWING

5700 San Antonio Dr. NE, Ste B1 (505) 492-2752

starrbrothersbrewing.com

$

With dishes ranging from American favorites to Southern fare, Starr Bros. Brewing is more than an award-winning brewery. It has turned heads with Poutine Burqueno: a New Mexican take on the Canadian greasy-spoon classic. The house burger, with high-quality beef and homemade green chile aioli, is a customer favorite.

STEEL BENDER BREWYARD

8305 2nd St. NW (505) 433-3537

steelbenderbrewyard.com

$

Likely the only authentic Laotian sticky rice to be found anywhere in ABQ, this menu offers moist, slow roasted chicken and a few frills at prices you can’t beat with a chopstick. The family meal is a steal.

STONE FACE TAVERN

8201 San Pedro Dr. NE (505) 822-8855

$$

Whether as a sports bar, live music venue, upscale grill, or just as a place that offers a little fun in the sand, Stone Face Tavern has something for everyone. Inside these doors, guarded by stone gargoyles, you’ll find large, shareable appetizers and entrees, plenty of beets on tap, and both outdoor and indoor volleyball courts.

STORMING CRAB

5001 San Mateo Blvd. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 407-2032 albuquerque.stormingcrab.us

$$

Specializing in large, customizable seafood boils, rich in Cajun and Atlantic coast flavor, Storming Crab’s selection of dinner combos encourages diners to build their own. Black and green mussels, shrimp, crawfish, white clams, and crab legs can be ordered by the pound.

STRAIGHT UP PIZZA

2801 Eubank Blvd. NE (505) 796-9343, straightuppizza.com

$$

Pizza, wings, calzones, and cannolis, Straight Up Pizza has it all. For over 20 years, they’ve been creating high-quality, made-to-order favorites. The veteran-owned and family-operated pizzeria will have you feeling right at home.

STRIPES BURRITO CO $

2204 Menaul Blvd. NE plus 6 other metro locations (505) 881-5151, stripesco.com

Stripes is serving up classic burritos all day long. From bacon to carne adovada, the flavorpacked favorite will surely hit the spot. What’s the hardest choice you’ll have to make? Red or green!

SUSHIBUCKS $$

$$

The 275-seat brewery has an industrial vibe with cozy undertones. But the Los Ranchos brewery stands apart from competitors based on its wide selection of house-made beers and its gourmet menu.

2106 Central Ave. SE, Ste A (505) 243-8089

This Asian-inspired restaurant with New Mexican flair provides customers with fast service and quality food. Sushibucks offers over 30 sushi rolls, including baked and no-rice offerings. Diners can also order udon, bulgogi, and bibimbap for those not feeling sushi.

BITES

SUSHI KING $$

9421 Coors Blvd. NW

(505) 890-6200, sushikingabq.com

As one of the originators of sushi in Albuquerque, it’s no wonder Sushi King is beloved by so many. By merging tastes of Japan and America with rolls like the New Mexico Roll and the Lady in Red, you really can’t go wrong.

SUSHI XUAN $$

417 Tramway Blvd. NE, #3 (505) 200-2477

sushixuanasiangrill.com

You’ll find more than just tasty sushi here. Diners dig into Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai dishes too. Sushi Xuan has multiple shipments of fresh fish during the week, and only uses Japanese Kokoro rice, and organic veggies whenever possible.

SUSHIYA $$

2906 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE (505) 275-4777

sushiyanm.com

This family-owned and operated restaurant strives to serve up sushi the way you’d find it on the southern California coast. A clean and comfortable atmosphere pairs well with friendly service and some of the thickest cuts of salmon in the city.

SWISS ALPS BAKERY & BODEGA $

3000 San Pedro Dr. NE (505) 881-3063, swissalpsbakery.com

Desserts rule, but the sandwiches hit it out of the park. Endless flavors of pastries, tiramisu, and over a dozen cookies line the bakery case. Everything is scratch made including the many varieties of bread and authentic Bavarian style pretzels available on Saturdays. Paninis, grilled, and cold sandwiches round out the sweets with a full espresso bar.

TAAJ PALACE

1435 Eubank Blvd. NE (505) 296-0109, taajpalacenm.com

Taaj Palace is a multifaceted field of flavor and texture, built around the fiery core of the tandoor oven, that serves up a variety of delicious curries, including the widely popular chicken makhani (butter chicken), where tandoori chicken is presented swimming in a creamy tomato sauce.

TAJ MAHAL CUISINE OF INDIA

1430 Carlisle Blvd. NE (505) 255-1994, tajmahalabq.com

Taj Mahal is filled with all of your Indian favorites, from fresh naan (try the garlic version) to tasty saag paneer. The line goes out the door for the popular lunch buffet.

TACO

SAL

9621 Menaul Blvd. NE (505) 298-2210

$

This family-owned and operated restaurant offers tasty, traditional New Mexican (burritos, chile rellenos, enchiladas, tacos, huevos rancheros, and more) with its own chunky salsa, made with real green chile.

TAKO TEN

1250 Candelaria Rd. NE, Ste B plus 1 other metro location (505) 508-3518

$

Chef and owner Dominic Valenzuela takes a creative spin on tacos, or takos if you will, by curating a unique menu, which includes a Vegan Sweet Potato Tako.

TAP N TACO

1120 Pat D’Arco Hwy. (505) 800-5966, tapntaco.com

$

This spot specializes in Mexican street tacos, quesadillas, papa asada, nachos, and fries, with protein options for everyone ranging from asada to vegetarian. If you’re a fan of salsa bars, Tap N Taco has one with just about everything you need to elevate your food. Not only are the taco options pleasing to the palate but there’s an aesthetic appeal too.

BITES

TASTE OF INDIA $$

1605 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE (505) 294-6342, tasteofindiaabq.com

Family recipes modified for American tastes; Taste of India typically dials back the spice a bit. But it’s no misnomer to think of Taste of India as just what the name advertises: a taste of regional flavors, conveyed by people who grew up with them

TASTY NOODLES AND DUMPLINGS $$

2325 San Pedro Dr. NE, Ste 1E (505) 219-3988

tastynoodlesanddumplings.com

This Uptown spot known for their hand-pulled noodles and made-to-order dumplings and Bao (soup dumplings) also features more “traditional” Chinese fare and an adventurous Chef’s Special menu on request.

TEN 3 $$

30 Tramway Rd. NE (505) 764-8363, ten3tram.com

Whether you’re looking for fine or casual dining, TEN 3 is an experience. With a take on modern American and Mediterranean cuisine, choose from a menu of delicious appetizers, salads, and entrees while dining 10,300 feet above sea level. TEN 3 is a treat for your eyes and taste buds as you sit at the top of Sandia Peak.

TEOFILO’S RESTAURANTE $$

144 Main St. NW, Los Lunas (505) 865-5511

teofilos.com

This restaurant’s generations-old made-fromscratch recipes will draw you to Los Lunas, along with the warm chips, chile rellenos, crème cake enchiladas, and more, all handmade from scratch.

TERIYAKI MADNESS $$

11032 Montgomery Blvd. NE (505) 508-0430

teriyakimadness.com

For those looking for a break from the old guard of fast casual Asian cuisine, Teriyaki Madness offers fresh, simple teriyaki bowls. The secret is in their house made sauce, officially known as MAD sauce.

THAI BORAN $$

3236 La Orilla Rd. NW, Ste A (505) 492-2244

thaiborannm.com

Steeped in spicy tradition, Thai Boran has quickly gained traction as one of the top Thai restaurants Albuquerque has to offer. Thai Boran, which means “Old Thai”, features 53 items on its menu, including five soups, six curries, and five unique dishes off the “Chef’s Collection” section.

THAI CUISINE II $

4201 Central Ave. NE (505) 232-3200

thaicuisinenm.com

House in perhaps the most curious A-frame along Route 66, this is the second-coming of a much-beloved Westside Thai staple, and judging by the fandom, it’s simply better. Be wary of the heat in these dishes, and if you’re vegan/vegetarian, be very, very thankful.

THAI KITCHEN $

10707 Corrales Rd. (505) 890-0059

thaikitchenabq.com

Art Xaiyasiha is one of two siblings who crafted one of the Duke City’s first great Thai restaurants, Siam Cafe. Thai Kitchen is his very own venture, featuring his takes on authentic dishes that taste “just like they do back home”.

BITES

THAI HOUSE $$

2000 Carlisle Blvd. NE (505) 247-9205 thaihouserestaurantabq.com

With an impressive stay in ABQ (Thai House is approaching its 40-year anniversary), this South Asian restaurant has a secret weapon in its native Thai chef who brings her vast knowledge of Thai cuisine to the metro.

THAI SPICE $$

7441 Paseo Del Norte NE (505) 503-1521, thaispiceabq.com

An extensive menu features authentic Thai favorites like Pad Thai or Thai fried rice. Lunch special includes an egg roll, entrée, and coconut milk tapioca pudding punctuated with an origami rose–topped straw.

THAI VEGAN

5505 Osuna Rd. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 884-4610, thaivegannm.com

$$

Utilizing local organic produce, you’ll get some of the healthiest food around, all without sacrificing taste. This non-vegan favorite has hearty offerings and a soy chicken that satisfies even the pickiest of meat eaters.

THEOBROMA CHOCOLATIER

12611 Montgomery Blvd. NE (505) 293-6545

theobromachocolatier.com

$

More than 20 years of experience goes into every morsel of European–inspired chocolate and sweet treat at this 505 sweet-tooth savior. Streamlined and polished, Theobroma has the look of a franchise, but everything is handcrafted and produced on-site.

THE WHOLE ENCHILADA

10701 Corrales Rd, #25 505-897-5933

$$

The Whole Enchilada is dishing up authentic Mexican food and great customer service. By incorporating different cheeses like queso fresco, and guajillo chiles instead of the red or green used here in New Mexico, the flavors shine to give a true Mexican Influence to each dish. The Whole Enchiladas fare extends beyond the restaurant moniker with options such as bone marrow tacos, steaks, and seared fish filets.

THUNDER ROAD STEAKHOUSE AND CANTINA AT

ROUTE 66 CASINO HOTEL $$ 14500 Central Ave. SW, Laguna Pueblo (505) 352-7888, rt66casino.com

Nestled inside this busy casino, you’ll find dishes that are a confluence of cultures at Thunder Road: made-from-scratch salsas, fresh tortillas, Pastel de Tres Leches Cake, Yucatan Tacos, Smoked Baby Back Pork Ribs, and much more.

TIA B’S LA WAFFLERIA $

3710 Campus Blvd. NE (505) 492-2007 lawaffleriaabq.com

You’ve never experienced waffles of this magnitude. A residential home-turnedrestaurant, anticipate artisan flare (lavender whipped cream, goat cheese, and caramel apple toppings) and plenty of goods for vegans and celiacs.

TIA BETTY BLUE’S $

1248 San Mateo Blvd. SE (505) 268-1955, tiabettyblues.com

1940s influence is sprinkled throughout this gem, from the décor to the food. The chile, red or green, is nice and spicy, just like your grandma made it. New Mexican breakfast and lunch items

dot the menu (including many gluten-free and vegetarian options), but often have a unique twist, like ranchero blue corn waffles piled high with eggs, carne adovada, and chile. The coffee is fresh, and numerous specialty beverages are poured up daily.

TIA JUANITA’S PRONTO!

2200 Sunport Loop SE (505) 842-4280 fresquezcompanies.com

You’ve never experienced waffles of this magnitude. A residential home-turnedrestaurant, anticipate artisan flare (lavender whipped cream, goat cheese, and caramel apple toppings) and plenty of goods for vegans and celiacs.

TOMASITA’S

4949 PAN AMERICAN FWY. NE (505) 344-1204, tomasitas.com

Known widely for its Northern New Mexican food and margaritas, Tomasita’s prides itself on authenticity and locally sourced ingredients. The food and friendly service will not disappoint.

TURTLE MOUNTAIN NORTH $$

7835 Enchanted Hills Blvd. NE, Rio Rancho plus 1 other metro location (505)404-0414

The newest location of a beloved original, Turtle Mountain North features double the beer taps and double the kitchen size. Keeping classic brewery finds on the menu, they have expanded to include harder-to-execute menu items such as glazed salmon steaks, and Jagerschnitzel. New menu items paired with a longer wine and beer list takes Turtle Mountain to an elevated level.

TRAIL RIDER PIZZA

12165 NM-14, Ste B2, Cedar Crest (505) 281-6068, trailriderpizza.com

The fact that this spot is a 98% from scratch kitchen should be reason enough to stop by, and with 14 types of specialty pizza, there’s bound to be something for everyone.

TRIANA $$

111 Carlisle Blvd. NE (505) 503-6202 triananobhill.com

Named after the historic district in Seville, Spain, Trianas brings traditional tapas to Nob Hill. Their seasonal menus ensure only the freshest ingredients go into their beautiful, eye-catching small plates, making every bite a flavorful experience.

TULLY’S ITALIAN DELI AND MEATS $$

1425 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Ste A (505) 255-5370

tullysdeli.com

A family-owned and operated spot through and through, this Duke City staple has been the one-stop shop for all things authentically Italian for over half a century. Come in for lunch for their mouthwatering signature subs, stock up on imported Italian cheeses and pasta at the market, and try fresh, scratch-made cannolis and other pastries at the bakery.

BITES

TWO BOYS DONUTS $

6400 Holly Ave. NE, Ste H plus 3 other metro locations (505) 302-0102

twoboysdonuts.com

Regularly stocking more than 30 flavors of donut, Two Boys has particular favorites–like their blueberry cake donuts with maple icing and cinnamon sugar–and also brews up Villa Myriam coffee, giving you everything you need for a full-course wake-up.

BITES

TWO CRANES BISTRO + BREW $$

901 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, Ste A (505) 295-3970, twocranesnm.com

Comfort food with a high-end twist is all the rage at this spot, where you’ll find enticing dishes like Chorizo Rellenos wrapped like egg rolls and grilled salmon with a Michelin Starlevel presentation.

TWO FOOLS TAVERN $$

3211 Central Ave. NE (505) 265-7447, 2foolstavern.com

Dubliner or not, there’s soul-warming Irish fare to be found at this authentic Irish eatery. Two Fools Tavern is known to have good food, drink and conversation. Its atmosphere earns an A plus for feeling just like a traditional Irish pub, and its food most definitely does not fall short. If Irish classics like Scottish Eggs and Guinness Beef Boxty don’t do it for you, the 300 brands of whiskey will certainly make you feel like you’re right in Dublin.

URBAN HOTDOG COMPANY $

10250 Cottonwood Park NW, Ste 400 H plus 1 other metro location (505) 898-5671 urbanhotdogcompany.com

With about 20 choices–and even a vegetarian option–this restaurant has become a doglover’s go-to. Look for Chicago and NYC classics, plus adventurous temptations like the Crafty Dog (topped with mac ‘n’ cheese and bacon).

UPSCALE BURGERS AND SHAKES

1520 Deborah Rd. SE, Rio Rancho 505) 835-5902, upscaleburgers.com

$$

Made-from-scratch burgers and sides with only the highest quality ingredients. Burgers here are divided into two categories: “upscale” and “classic.” Unique offerings include the chipotle tortilla burger and the smokehouse BBQ burger, while more traditional favorites range from green chile cheeseburgers to bacon mushroom Swiss burgers. To go with the name, Upscale Burgers and Shakes has seven shake options ranging from vanilla to berry to brownie.

UPTOWN SPORTS BAR $

6601 Uptown Blvd. NE (505) 884-4714, uptown-sportsbar.com

A huge sports venue with wall-to-wall televisions and all the extras—solid American fare alongside a wide selection of local and national beers.

VEGOS $$

4003 Carlisle Blvd NE (505) 554-1041 vegosabq.com

New Mexican staples made for vegans and vegetarians without skipping out on any of the flavor. Vegos aims to bring traditional flavors

and textures found in New Mexican food while keeping it entirely plant based. However, don’t get discouraged if youre all about meat, Vegos makes it a priority to try and tailor food to everyone’s liking no matter the diet.

VERNON’S SPEAKEASY $$$

6855 4th St. NW (505) 341-0831

vernonsspeakeasymenu.com

This unmarked restaurant requires a secret password to gain entrance. Once inside, you’ll discover a world of perfect steaks and gourmet seafood, paired with an unbeatable loungey atmosphere. Reservations are recommended.

VIC’S DAILY CAFÉ

3600 Osuna Rd. NE (505) 341-9710, vicsdailycafe.com

$

With a full range of breakfast items, New Mexican favorites, and comfort food, this is a one-stop shop for tasty options like breakfast burritos, meatloaf, and coconut cream pie.

VICK’S VITTLES COUNTRY KITCHEN

8810 Central Ave. SE (505) 298-5143, vicksvittles.com

Rustle up your posse and head to Vick’s for heaping helpings of Texas-New Mexico fusion and breakfast served all day—except Wednesdays, when Vick’s is closed. Country comfort meets southwestern flair in an environment that welcomes suits and cowboys alike. Prepare to be stuffed.

VIET TASTE

5721 Menaul Blvd. NE (505) 888-0101

pwbportal.us/viet-taste-abq

With more than 100 menu options—noodle and rice dishes, eight varieties of Pho, coconut shakes, and many more—this restaurant is true to its name, offering a real taste of Vietnamese cuisine.

VIET PHO

4208 Menaul Blvd. NE (505) 717-2359

This Vietnamese-based cuisine restaurant offers a homey feel and Southeast Asian comfort food. Try the popular Beef Pho Soup or go for a lighter dish like the Shrimp Spring Rolls.

VIET RICE

1340 Rio Rancho Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho (505) 892-7423 ordervietrice.com

This family owned and operated restaurant brings storied Vietnamese cuisine to the City of Vision. Their most popular dish is rice noodles with meatballs or brisket, but the dish is heavily customizable, from the kind of noodle to the proteins, including vegetarian options.

VILLAGE PIZZA $

3200 La Orilla Rd. NW, E-2 plus 1 other metro location (505) 219-3766 villagepizzanm.com

Family owned and operated, Village Pizza offers salads, nachos, calzones, pasta, and of course, signature pizzas, along with an all-you-can-eat buffet.

VINAIGRETTE

1720 Central Ave. SW (505) 842-5507

vinaigretteonline.com

$$

Getting in touch with your “green” side has never been as hip as it is at Albuquerque’s newest goto salad bistro. Vinaigrette offers a menu full of unique salads made with fresh produce from owner Erin Wade’s farm in Nambè. Items like The Nutty Pear-Fessor and the Asian Chopped Salad don’t sacrifice deliciousness just because they’re healthy. Expect one of 17 vinaigrette dressings to be perfectly paired with your salad.

VINTAGE 423

8000 Paseo Del Norte Blvd. NE (505) 821-1918 vintage-423.com

$$

Decorated with plush booths, black and white photos of vintage cars, a glass wine cellar wall, and an outdoor patio with couches and fireplaces, Vintage 423 is a go-to location for good eats and happy hour—all year long.

VOODOO GIRL PIZZA

1401 2nd St. NW (505) 243-6095 voodoogirlpizzapints.com

$$

Handcrafted, authentic Italian brick oven pizzas aren’t the only thing Voodoo Girl Pizza serves up. This snazzy joint offers a full slate of appetizers too—nachos, potato skins, fried zucchini, the list goes on. And if you’re big on brews, Voodoo Girl has more than 30 different beers on tap.

WECK’S

4500 Osuna Rd. NE, #100 plus 9 other metro locations (505) 344-1472 wecksinc.com

$$

For nearly 20 years, Weck’s has served up huge, tasty portions of breakfast and lunch. Examples: The Original comes with one pound of potatoes mixed with eggs, cheese, and chile; the “Scratch Made” Buttermilk Pancakes are more than seven inches wide.

WESTERN VIEW

6411 Central Ave. NW (505) 836-2200

$$

With a cozy diner feel and a long history, Western View is turning out plates of diner classics and New Mexican staples—finely

seasoned with a sprinkling of Greek options— for diners hungry for both hearty home cooked meals and classic countertop service.

WHIPTAIL

355 Pat D’Arco Hwy, Rio Rancho (505) 859-7410

whiptaileatery.com

While diners can enjoy a multitude of traditional shareable bites– like fries, salads, and sandwiches, Whiptail has many comfort zonebreaking dishes such as charred broccolini and lizard eggs. In addition to various unique foods, Whiptail has over 20 hand-crafted cocktails and a rotating tap of local beers.

WHICH WICH

8110 Louisiana Blvd. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 856-1617

whichwich.com

A national brand with a local twist, list your favorites on the bag and await a sammie that edges the competition.

WHOLE HOG CAFE

9880 Montgomery Blvd. NE 505-323-1688

https://wholehogcafenm.com

Get award-winning Memphis-style barbecue in a family-friendly atmosphere. Can’t-miss items include the pulled pork, potato salad, and the homemade banana pudding.

YASMINE’S CAFÉ

1600 Central Ave. SE (505) 242-1980

Yasmine’s is one of the few places in Albuquerque with shawarma—pitas filled with marinated chicken or beef that’s been pressed, stacked and cooked slowly on a rotisserie. Also try lamb and beef shish kababs, baba ghanoush, fatah, and four varieties of baklava.

YUMMY NOODLE HOUSE

6001 Winter Haven Rd. NW, Ste E (505) 595-3296

yummynoodlehouse.com

$$

This dive is exactly what it sounds like: a yummy noodle house. With 12 noodle dishes to choose from, the question isn’t “Which one should I get?” but instead it’s “What order should I get these in?”

THE YELLER SUB

7200 Montgomery Blvd. NE (505) 888-9784

yellersub.com

ZENDO COFFEE

413 2nd St. SW (505) 926-1636

zendocoffee.com

$

Owner Mark Roerick has been perfecting his sandwiches since 1979 and the customer favorite, Steak & Grilled Onions Sub proves it. The potato chips, fries, and onion rings made from scratch the old-fashioned way sure won’t let you down.

$

Opening its doors in 2013 on 2nd Street, Zendo Coffee’s creativity plays a huge part in the beloved menu. The variety of different items on the menu caters to just about anyone and provides a sense of comfort.

CORRECTIONS:

Please send corrections and suggestions to bites@abqthemag.com.

FUN

Green Thumbs Unite!

Repeat customers are the mainstay of Osuna Nursery, where advice is just part of the customer service experience they have built their business on. Plus, of course, the exceptional quality and diversity of plants (p. 246).

BY

PHOTO

DON JAMES/ATM

LOOKGOOD FEELGOOD

COMPILED BY ADDIE SIEMBIEDA

TIPS TO BE A BETTER YOU

WHAT ARE A FEW GOOD WAYS TO STAY ACTIVE WHEN IT IS TOO HOT TO EXERCISE

OUTSIDE?

A: Always remember your why – especially in summer. If you want to feel and look good, you have to move daily even in the heat! The power of your why will be the driving force behind you pushing through the element of heat in the first place.

Here are a couple of things to think of during the summer months when you wish to exercise: Make sure you are well hydrated before, during, and after your workout.

Wear clothing that allows you to sweat and breathe properly; the lighter, the better.

The workout doesn’t have to be done all at once – do it in 15-minute increments.

Take all the necessary precautions, such as sunscreen, and stay in shaded areas, if possible, but have a blast with exercises like outdoor swimming you can only do during these summer months.

Have an attitude of gratitude for the summer.

CURT “C.J.” CHAVEZ

LOOKGOODFEELGOOD

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE NEWEST HEALTHY NAIL PRODUCTS ON THE MARKET?

Q: Q:

505-480-3419

A:

The nail industry is fast paced and innovative with new products coming to market all the time.

Some of my favorite products are soft gels, like CND Plexigel, Light Elegance and Biosculpture.

These products are free from hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), which can be allergenic and destructive to the natural nail. Soft gels used with LED light can minimize damage.

For natural nails, one of my other favorites is Dazzle Dry, a nail polish system. I use Dazzle Dry on my five-year-old granddaughter, outlasting most other lacquers. It promotes the health of the natural nail and I feel good knowing that it is vegan, hypoallergenic and free from reactive ingredients. I think many of my clients would agree, having their nails done not only makes them feel beautiful, but they also couldn’t imagine their hands without them! Even in sweatpants and a baseball hat, they are still “dressed and polished!”

AWHAT CAN I DO TO HELP REPAIR MY HAIR FROM SUMMER DAMAGE?

YVONNE MEDINA Sebring International 505-884-5544

:

There are several things you can do to prevent sun and chemical damage (like chlorine) to your hair. Some of them are even available in your own home! For sun damage repair using things like argan, rosemary or coconut oil can help. It’s always smart to wear a hat or scarf when you are going to be in the sun for a long period of time; protecting your scalp is important too!  When getting out of the pool this summer remember to condition immediately. This is recommended for people who have bleached or naturally light-colored hair. Leave-in conditioners help protect your hair. When you’re going to be in the water and outside, saturate your hair, spray with a recommended oil then saturate again then put it up to help repel the water and protect from the sun. It’s always smart to turn down your hot tools as well!

Want to look good and feel good? Send us your questions, and we’ll ask the city’s experts, lookgoodfeelgood@abqthemag.com

LOCALSTUFF WELOVE

Your touchstone for ABQ’s cool, fun & eclectic retail goodies that will help you live life a bit happier and smarter. - BY

ADDIE SIEMBIEDA

A SIP OF THE SKIES

Each unique cup, handmade and painted by artists in Guatemala in the style of Ken Edwards, is perfect for a morning pick-me-up, an afternoon tea party, or any occasion in between.

ESPRESSO CUPS, $16 EACH SCOJO’S GIFTS AND CARDS

FLIGHT AND FLORALS

This gorgeous glass vase, made by local art ist Judy Moore is the ideal addition to any liv ing space. The sandblasted bird design makes this piece as lasting as it is lovely.

GLASS VASE, $36

SCOJO’S GIFTS AND CARDS

8000 PASEO DEL NORTE BLVD NE, C8 (505) 828-0360

SCOJOSGIFTS.COM

LOCALSTUFFWELOVE

HUMMING WITH GRATITUDE

Say “thank you” to the special people in your life with these beautiful watercolor cards. These handsome hummingbirds are guaranteed to make your loved ones smile.

THANK YOU CARDS, $16

SCOJO’S GIFTS AND CARDS

8000 PASEO DEL NORTE BLVD NE, C8 (505) 828-0360

SCOJOSGIFTS.COM

WOOD AND WINGS

Handcrafted by local artists Ron & Krisann Quintana from local and domestic woods, this one-of-a-kind conversation starter is eye-catching in its own right, and has the space to hold small flowers.

BUD VASE, $56

SCOJO’S GIFTS AND CARDS

8000 PASEO DEL NORTE BLVD NE, C8 (505) 828-0360

SCOJOSGIFTS.COM

SHOP TALK

OSUNA NURSERY

501 Osuna Rd NE

(505) 345-6644

osunanursery.com

Osuna Nursery emerged from the vision of original owner Chang An, who purchased a half-acre lot in 1980 and began selling houseplants and shrubs to customers in Albuquerque’s North Valley.

An, who learned the trade while working as a custodian at a flower shop, was good with plants. But more importantly, he was able to connect with people.

“He’s an immigrant from South Korea, just like me,” says general manager Jason Seo, who is An’s nephew. “He started with a very tiny, tiny greenhouse. But his exceptional customer service and helping customers to find variety helped build his following. Then he began getting bigger and bigger. We just follow his legacy of

A PLANT HAVEN BUILT FOR THE INQUISITIVE GARDENER. ANY QUESTIONS?

customer service.”

Osuna Nursery remains a family owned and operated business, but it has grown considerably since its inception. Today, its space spans more than six acres with a vast selection of annuals, perennials, natives, xeriscape, trees and shrubs on site. It’s about more than just the plants, however, as Osuna Nursery also offers a variety of seeds, tools, fertilizer and home decor. The product is obtained from all over the United States, as Osuna Nursery builds relationships with a variety of growers in order to secure rare plants not seen at other nurseries.

“We have a pretty good relationship with the growers,” Seo says. “Sometimes they grow very unique stuff…and they just let us know first. It’s good communi-

cation with the grower.”

Even without a specific purchase in mind, one could easily spend hours just browsing — one Yelp user referred to it as “Plant Heaven” — but Osuna Nursery is as much about information as it is about sales. For example, a customer struggling with their home garden can bring their issues to the nursery, where potential solutions will be explored.

“I think the way that we really stand out is our pharmacy department,” says marketing manager Amity Moon. “We allow people to bring in specimens. If they’re having a bug issue or something, they can bring that in. We can evaluate and kind of give them next steps to remediate.”

According to its website, part of Osuna Nursery’s mission is “offer exceptional

BY

PHOTOS

DON JAMES/ATM

service with the widest selection of quality products and accurate advice leading to success in growing.” The educational aspect is taken quite seriously, beginning with a knowledgeable staff and extending to informative courses that are offered at the nursery consistently through the

spring and fall months.

SHOPTALK

“We like to be a hub for gardening information,” Seo says. “You can Google or you can find out just general information on the internet, but it’s not specific for New Mexico.”

The classes, known as Osuna University, are free and open to the public, typically running from 11 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. A snapshot of the offerings this past spring saw courses with titles such as “The Dirt on Local Soil,” “Besting Pests,” “Water Smart” and “Planting for Pollinators,” to name a few. Each lecture is led by a local expert and is chosen primarily through customer input.

“A lot of the time we’re guided by the questions that we’re hearing from our customers. We try to make them as relevant to the season that we’re doing them in and what customers are looking at purchasing to try to give them the most options as possible,” Moon says. “We want to kind of dismantle any obstacles that are in the way of them reaching their aspirations.”

Osuna Nursery is well known for its

annual Rose Open House, which usually occurs during the third week of April. It’s an extravaganza that has customers lining up outside of the nursery in anticipation. The nursery also holds special events for the spring and holiday seasons, but the Rose Open House is the signature.

“We have over 3,000 roses at the same time,” Seo says. “We make it an open house so people can pick and choose what they want — colors, different sizes, different smells of rose.”

With more than four decades in the business, Osuna Nursery has cemented its place in the Duke City while expanding on its founder’s original vision.

“I can say over 60 percent of our clients are regular customers,” Seo says. “Some people come once a week, some people a couple times a month. Not like a big box store relationship, you don’t know the customer, you don’t know the employees. I love my job because you’re happy to see a lot of happy gardeners coming in.”

—Tristen Critchfield

PAWS BUTTON

KEEPING TABS ON ABQ’S FURRY FRIENDS

PACA PETS

FOSTERING FUNDAMENTAL FOR FINDING FOREVER HOMES

Founded in 1973, the People’s Anti-Cruelty Association/Albuquerque Animal Rescue (PACA) is New Mexico’s oldest no-kill cat and dog rescue group. Their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and rehouse animals that have been abandoned or neglected. PACA is also devoted to rehabilitating and socializing animals with physical or behavioral issues. With the help of trained volunteers, they have had great success helping traumatized or feral dogs that are fearful or aggressive toward people or other animals become better adjusted pets.

Lanya Androlewicz, the president of PACA, has been with the group since 1999. She describes what PACA does simply, “We are doing quality, not quantity, work.” That work is distinct from shelters and manifests in several forms.

First, PACA has no shelter facility but rather relies on a network of volunteers who foster pets in their own homes. “One of the highlights that you’re going to get with any small, private rescue group that

is foster-based is that these animals are actively living in normal people’s homes,” says Androlewicz. It is this fostering experience that is at the heart of their success in placing animals in forever homes.

Fostering allows these animals to recuperate in a home environment and acclimate to people and other animals with foster caregivers instead of in shelters. The result is a far higher success rate of placing dogs and cats with families. “We have

a very low return rate,” says Androlewicz. “Maybe 5% of our animals are returned after adoption.”

Another thing that sets PACA apart is their commitment to the medical needs of the individual animal. “Whatever that medical need is, it is provided,” says Androlewicz. “It’s never put on to the next adopter.” Costly medical care is absorbed by the organization and isn’t reflected in their flat adoption fees. “We take on really hard medical cases. We do hip surgeries. We do mass removals. We do dental on a very regular basis.” Androlewicz adds, “We don’t have any paid employees, everything goes to the animals.” PACA adoption fees are $250 for dogs and $120 for cats.

Dogs get a lot of attention at PACA because of the training and socialization work, but cats are a big part of what they do as well. One aspect of PACA’s work that often gets overlooked is their trap, neuter and release program for feral cat colonies in partnership with the city of Albuquerque. The group traps hundreds of feral cats each year, placing those that are good candidates for adoption in homes, but spaying or neutering, then returning

Lanya Androlewicz and her dog Bit

many feral cats to their colonies to live out their lives.

Androlewicz says the program can be controversial, with many people objecting to any support for feral cat colonies but she points to the alternative. Before, people would trap stray cats and take them to the pound where these unsocialized cats would frequently be euthanized. She says that because of this program, PACA often finds cats with kittens that are young enough to be socialized. The kittens are scooped up and quickly adopted out while the moms are spayed and returned to the colony. Eventually, without new cats being born, the feral cat colony ages out.

Adopting a dog or cat from PACA is also different from that of a shelter. “The good thing about being foster-based is that we really know the animal and we’re very selective about where our animals go,” says Androlewicz.

The adoption process for cats is simpler than for dogs given their nearly twenty-year partnership with PetSmart on Acadamy Road. Here, PetSmart houses and adopts cats directly out of their store. “Adoption rates are three to four times that on the dog side, just because we have that relationship with PetSmart.”

For dogs, that process begins with an application. “We have an application process, then we have a house visit that needs to be done,” she says. While it may seem onerous compared to that of a shelter, Androlewicz credits the process for its high success rate in the long-term pairing of dogs with families. “Then we do a trial period, which you don’t get at the shelter, to make sure that this is going to be a good fit for your family. If it’s not, we pick up the dog, no questions asked.”

One great way to find a PACA dog is to attend one of their adoption events held every first and third Saturday of the month in the parking lot of Sprouts Market on Academy Road NE from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., weather permitting. Foster caregivers are on hand with their foster dogs to answer any questions and to begin the process of finding forever homes for these lucky dogs. Because, as Androlewicz says, “Every person that loves dogs, I believe, should have a dog in their home. Maybe two.” -

Clarke Condé

ABQ’SAMAZINGPETS Merlin

Bowie

Every now and then, a furry companion enters our lives and captures our heart in an instant, and this was exactly the case for Sara Lunsford and her Persian cat, Bowie. Sara adopted Bowie from a woman who, despite her best intentions, was unable to keep him. “Bowie is a superb cuddler,” says Sara. “He is everyone’s best friend, and will gladly follow you from room to room just so he can find a comfy spot near you.” Although Bowie is three years-old, Sara notes that he is still very much kitten-like. He is inquisitive, playful, and his willingness to go to great lengths for a treat knows no bounds.

Pee Wee

Meet Pee Wee, the charming 10 month-old cat who was adopted from Catopia Café when he was just five monthsold. Named after the iconic character portrayed by Paul Reubens, Pee Wee Herman, this cat embodies just as much mischief and joy as his namesake. His owner, Heather Pillman, says he can turn just about anything into entertainment. “He loves stealing things from around the house— pens, paperclips, lipstick, etc.” says Pillman. To Pee Wee, everything is a potential toy waiting to be explored. His curiosity doesn’t stop there; unlike most cats, Pee Wee actually loves water.

“He also wakes me up every morning with a lick on my nose,” Heather says.

Although Chantal Pottier’s heart was heavy after losing her two beloved senior dogs last August, as the months passed, she found herself missing the pitter-patter of paws on the ground. “I decided to volunteer at Watermelon Mountain Ranch to get my furry fix,” says Chantal. Volunteering her time seemed like the perfect way to ease the ache in her heart and find joy in caring for animals in need. After only two sessions, Chantal fell in love with a one-year-old Alaskan Husky mix named Merlin and decided to bring him home on January 13, 2024. Chantal says Merlin is full of playful energy and needs a lot of love and, of course, belly scratches. Despite his Husky lineage, Merlin is rarely vocal, preferring to instead express himself with a gentle howl whenever excitement strikes.

Rhapsody

Introducing Rhapsody in White, also known by her many nicknames: Rap,  Rapscallion, and Miracle Dog. This now 11 year-old Bichon Frise and Miniature Poodle mix was adopted when she was four, but her owner, Rada Potts, says it was really she who was rescued. Not long after her adoption, Rhapsody was attacked by a larger dog that had escaped its yard. “After nine days in the hospital she came home, but it took months more for her wounds to heal, her neck to regain the strength to support her head, and for her gait to return to normal — earning the moniker “Miracle Dog,” recalls Rada. Nowadays, Rap enjoys hiking, making special appearances during zoom meetings, and meeting new friends. With a heartfelt gaze, Rhapsody melts the hearts of everyone she meets, insisting on regular rounds of petting, ear scratching, and belly rubs. – Allie Doty

Is your pet ATM’s next Pet of the Month? Send a photo and short story about why you think your pet belongs in these pages to petofthemonth@abqthemag.com.

An Indigenous Mexican Myth Takes Shape in Martineztown SOUTHWEST PIETA

Driving slowly down Edith Boulevard over the street’s ample speed bumps, it’s impossible for the very big and very blue sculpture “Southwest Pieta” at the intersection of Roma Avenue on the edge of Martineztown Park not to draw your eye. The sculpture’s massive azure base and intertwined figures invite further investigation into the history of the neighborhood, the sculpture and the artist who created it.

The Martineztown neighborhood was settled in the early 19th century when it developed as a stopping point for travelers along the El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro. Having fallen into disrepair and out of favor with the city government, Martineztown was slated for demolition in the name of urban renewal in 1970 until the residents banded together and stopped the condemnation. Today Martineztown residents continue to show their pride throughout this neighborhood of well-kept older homes and mature trees. Martineztown Park itself is a quiet spot in this historic neighborhood. With a playground and more than its share of public art, it is a favorite spot to stroll for

visitors to the adjacent Lovelace Medical Center and locals alike.

“Southwest Pieta” was created by Mexican American artist Luis Jiménez in 1987 as part of the City of Albuquerque’s 1% for the Arts program, with additional funding from the National Endowment for the Arts. For this piece, Jiménez wanted to pay homage to pre-Hispanic Mexican culture. For inspiration, Jiménez turned to the Indigenous Mexican view of the duality of light and dark, the male and female. The man and woman in “Southwest Pieta” refer to two large volcanoes that loom large outside of Mexico City, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, the male and female, respectively, that are the focus of many varied pre-Columbian myths.

visitors can read the story of the sculpture in the description at the base of the statue written by none other than the legendary New Mexican author Rudolfo Anaya.

In Christian art, the Pietà depicts the Virgin Mary holding and mourning the body of Jesus on her lap after the crucifixion. In “Southwest Pieta” the male warrior Popocatépetl is holding and mourning his dead love, the woman Iztaccíhuatl. Here, the two figures are perched on an eagle that rests on the blue base of the sculpture which resembles a volcano. As a bonus,

Tragically, Jiménez passed away in 2006 in his Hondo, NM home when a portion of the sculpture he was building, the infamous “Blue Mustang” that greets visitors to the Denver International Airport, fell on him during fabrication. Fortunately for those of us in Albuquerque, we have to go no further than Martineztown Park to see Jiménez’s enduring work. In “Southwest Pieta,” we find a prime example of the brightly colored fiberglass work and interpretations of Mexican themes sculptor Jiménez was known for. In “Southwest Pieta” we also find a sculpture in remarkably good condition despite being exposed to the occasionally challenging elements that surround it, much like the Martineztown neighborhood itself. —EDMUNDO CARRILLO

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

ADVERTISING REGISTRY

ADVERTISING REGISTRY (CONT)

YOURBESTSHOT

ELDERS, MOVEMENT, GATHERING, COMMUNITY

By Francisco Salgado

When Francisco Salgado entered the Gathering of Nations this past April, he was looking for a good vantage point to take the kind of photograph he wanted. Pushed up toward the top of the stands at Tingley Coliseum, Salgado waited for his moment, his Panasonic LUMIX S5 in hand. He had been to the Gathering of Nations twice before and had a sense of the photograph he wanted to make, but as with most photography, timing is everything.

Salgado arrived at the Coliseum about half an hour before the Grand Entry to stake out his position. “I was almost to the very far end of the Coliseum,” he says. Salgado wanted to move in closer but by that time the place was packed. “I wanted to

capture the movement,” he says. “I wanted to capture the bigness of it, but from a close perspective.” For Salgado, that moment came when he captured both the stillness of three elders and the motion of the dancers around them.

Salgado says he has been taking pictures as an enthusiast for about a decade, recently focusing on events around Albuquerque. “I truly enjoy my time when I go to the Gathering of Nations,” says Salgado. “This is also a good opportunity for me to show something about Albuquerque that’s unique and big.” Salgado says it is the serendipity that he values. “I think it captured exactly the kind of photography I’m looking for. Something that is spontaneous, non-staged, but still delivers a message.” Clark Condé Enter ATM’s photo contest and see your photo featured in YOUR BEST SHOT!

I wanted to capture the bigness of it, but from a close perspective.

Submissions should include one high-resolution digital file sent by email. All photos sent to ATM will be property of the magazine and will not be mailed back to sender. All entries should include your name and phone number. Please include a bio and a brief description of how the photo was taken. Email entries to: photocontest@abqthemag.com