Albuquerque The Magazine, May 2020

• $4.95 • MAY 2020 • ABQTHEMAG.COM

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

1

ACTUAL PATIENT

2

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

A perfect smile makes every day feel less everyday.

Dr. Byron Wall | 505.883.4488 cosmeticdentistryofnewmexico.com3

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

4

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

5

6

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

505.255.5200 • HOUSTONWHOLESALECARS.COM 4718 LOMAS BLVD. NE, ALBUQUERQUE

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

7

Plumbing, Heating &

Air Conditioning When you want it done right today,

GET IT DONE THE DANIELS WAY!

NEW ABQ

LOCATION! 8308 Washington St NE Albuquerque, NM 87113 8

(505) 898-8860

1536 Cerrillos Road Santa Fe, NM 87505

(505) 898-7860

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

Expert Workmanship

24/7 Emergency Service

Free Estimates

Excellent service

“Charles was very kind and professional...His customer service could not have been better! I will definitely call Daniels again if I have other heating and cooling issues...”

- Debbie T.

Fantastic service

“Our tech, Jason, was wonderful. He did a thorough inspection, took the time to explain the issue, and took the time to make sure the job was done right. Our radiant heating works better than it ever has! ”

- Ashley

Bravo!

“Daniels got it done at a fair price and did a fantastic job. I couldn’t be happier and I can’t recommend Daniels enough. For your big or small jobs, give them a call - you won’t be disappointed!!”

- Mari H.

Proud to be

NEW MEXICO

owned & operated @DanielsHeatingAndAC

Daniels_HVAC

@danielshvacnm

danielshvacnm.com

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

9

Providing peace of mind

Private Security & Investigations 505.897.2420 4901 McLeod Rd. Suite B Albuquerque, NM 87109

10

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

in an ever-changing world.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

11

12

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

FEATURES • 4X Stronger than Epoxy • Chip or Peel Resistant 1 Day Application • 15 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty • 100% Antimicrobial & Easy on the Feet

APPLICATIONS

Garage Floors Warehouses Laundry Rooms Patios Retail Areas Locker Rooms Storage Facilities Kennels, Laboratories Basements Restrooms, Hospitals Showrooms

The Truth About Concrete Coatings

For decades, homeowners have had two options for concrete coatings, paint and epoxy.

Traditional concrete floor coatings will crack over time because they are made with water-based epoxy systems. They cost less, but it won’t be long before you need to invest in a new coating.

At Mike’s Quality Painting we offer a product that consists of a polyurea base coat with a polyaspartic clear coat. The base coat binds down into the concrete instead of just on the surface. This penetrating base coat provides amazing adhesion.

Our product will NOT flake, peel, bubble, discolor, fade or fail in any way shape or form.

This confidence in the product is proven with a LIFETIME warranty against discoloration or fading, and a FIFTEEN year manufacturer warranty against chipping, flaking, or peeling.

If you want the best product on the market, with the longest warranty in the history of concrete coatings, choose Penntek.

To get a quote on your new PENNTEK FLOORING Call Us At:

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

(505) 508-5342 13

WHERE

TAKING CARE OF YOU IS OUR SPECIALTY

Robert W. Walters, M.D. - David Davis, M.D. - Matthew Thompson, M.D. - Michael B. Chang, M.D. Daniel A. Davis, M.D. - Natalie Mills, PA-C - Monica M. Romero, M.D. - Megan Pribyl, PA-C Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center of NM stands with New Mexico as we join in the fight against COVID-19 that is spreading widely in the U.S. and endangers the lives of many New Mexican’s. Our certified Dermatologists and Dermatology PA’s have implemented telemedicine to treat our patients without putting their health at risk.

Telemedicine may be of particular use for patients at higher risk of infection (the elderly and those with other health issues) and for non-urgent appointments. We are available to you, always, for your dermatologic concerns.

For a virtual or telephone call visit, call our office at 505-243-7546.

Monday through Friday from 8 AM until 4 PM Visit us online at nmdermcenter.com • 505-243-SKIN (7546) • 6200 Uptown Blvd. NE Ste. 410

14

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

Ever wish you had a personal expert on speed dial?

Someone to help with the challenges and uncertainty on the road ahead?

Upgrade NM is a coalition of trusted and proven business and technology experts in New Mexico— here to help when you need it the most! We’ll assist with all of your business needs ranging from technology and financial cost controls to systems designed to do more with less!

Take charge of your destiny. Don’t be caught off-guard by slowdowns, or worse, shutdowns!

We’re the coalition of experts you can trust!

Just the piece you were missing.

Learn more today! www.upgradenm.com

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

15

I

ABQ Kids at Home • page 97

n March, Albuquerque schools closed down for the rest of the semester. That left many local families stuck at home with their children and very little to do. But resourceful as always, Albuquerqueans are f inding ways to keep their kiddos active and engaged.

From playing board games, going for family walks, and baking, to homeschooling, reading, and arts and crafts, these 11 families are making the most of their extra family time.

F

Yes! We are open. • page 48

ew businesses have been hit harder by the pandemic than restaurants. As places built around people gathering together to break bread, eateries have a particularly challenging task when it comes to adaptation. However, many Albuquerque restaurants are f inding their new normal at this tough time. Many are offering take out, and many have even instituted new delivery services. They are keeping people employed and keeping Albuquerqueans fed. This month, we take a look at some of the local restaurants who are redef ining their business model.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

17

DEPARTMENTS 24 Publisher’s Note 27 Tapas

P. 32 P.36

A local scientist gets national recognition; Some ABQ distilleries are getting into the hand sanitizer game; Mayor Keller commits to helping revamp Albuquerque’s Little League fields; a look at the world’s hottest peppers; The Sunport rides low and gets noticed; A virtual tour of ABQ museums; A local restaurateur is pitching in to help students go to college; TenderLove Community Center helps those hit hardest by tough times; and much more…

36 Wine With ATM

Chris Goblet sits down with us over a glass of vino to talk about his journey to becoming the Executive Director of the New Mexico Wine and Grape Growers Association. Chris breaks down his career promoting spirits, his travels through Europe, his preparations for New Mexico’s 400th anniversary of winemaking, and tells us what makes New Mexico wines so special.

P.57

40 Faces and Places 57 Datebook

113 People

115 Personality

Television personality, author, teacher, and master chef Jane Butel is still going strong at 81 years young.

The prominent local personality has garnered a national reputation for her famous cooking classes. She has taught students from all over the world. Though retirement may seem logical at this point, Butel says she’s just having too much fun.

18

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

MAY 2020 Volume XVII Number 1

Bank Naked we won’t judge

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Taylor Hood taylor@abqthemag.com PHOTO DIRECTOR

Don James don@abqthemag.com HEAD DESIGNER

Erik Clevenger erik@abqthemag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Sheridan Young sheridan@abqthemag.com STAFF WRITER

Zane Beal zane@abqthemag.com CONTRIBUTORS

Tristen Critchfield tristen@abqthemag.com Ashley Biggers Mel Minter Kate Rodriguez Duran

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.

Sandia Area checking with Online and Mobile Banking, empowering you to bank...comfortable.

• • • •

Mobile Deposit Bill Pay Person to Person Transfers Apply for a Loan

Begin #nakedbanking today 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.

sandia.org/banknaked Sandia Area Is Federally Insured By NCUA. Accounts subject to approval. A Sandia Area Membership is required.

19

DEPARTMENTS

P. 124 124 Tiempo

P. 120 119 Culture 120 Creatives

Rob Weisberg and Chris Ranney took the helm at Sol Acting Academy two years. Since then, they have changed the name to Sol Acting Studio and expanded their offerings from teaching acting to kids, to a professional training center for career actors.

Both actors themselves, they are committed to giving thespians everything they need to succeed in New Mexico’s booming film and television industry.

122 Shelflife

Queen of Bones by Teresa Dovalpage; Who Speaks For Us Here by Leslie Contreras Schwartz

20

Singer, songwriter, guitarist, keyboardist, and all-around musical Renaissance man Dee Brown is finding career success with his unique mix of secular and religious music; Michael Moxey grew up listening to The Smiths but found his award-winning path in the world of alt-country. Now he is getting repeated airtime on SIRIUS XM and his star is rising.

127 Dish

128 From the Vine

Quarantining is a good time to get creative, try something new, and possibly have a few cocktails while you are at it. In that spirit, this month ATM is giving a list of unique cocktail recipes to get you through these times… with some help from local distilleries like Safe House Distilling and Taylor Garrett. Also, a look at what Albuquerque’s smaller brewers are doing to survive these tough times. Hint: the fermenters are still running, and the taprooms are open for pick up.

P. 132 132 My Favorite Recipe

Though she admits she is no foodie, Rio Grande Food Project Executive Director Ari Herring shares her recipe for Blue Corn Waffles, which involves a touch of nostalgia and a heap of New Mexico. She also gets a chance to discuss what the Rio Grande Food Project is doing to feed New Mexico.

134 Bites

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

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

experience NEW MEXICO’S FIRST FOOD HALL

now open blue door patisserie eldora chocolate hawt pizza co.

Botanic bar

estella flowers mercantile café

mr. powdrell’s barbeque House plata coffee

cacho’s bistro

simply olive oil

flora mexican restaurant mercantile wine bar

naruto ramen spur line

dr. field goods

paxton’s taproom

tulipani pasta

xo waffle

1909 bellamah ave. NW, Albuquerque | SaWmillmarket.com

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

21

DEPARTMENTS 163 Fun

168 ‘Til You Drop

Local hair stylists and beauticians come to the rescue during the quarantine with some at-home beauty tips; With so much information flying at us every day, getting a handle on testing for Covid-19 can be tricky. That’s why we have found the local testing sites for both Covid-19 and the antibody test; Lillie’s Handmade Soaps in Old Town has been making Albuquerque smell good for the last 17 years. This month we take a look at their journey and their plans for the future.

170 Paws Button

Lynda Liptak loves llamas. But that’s just the start of it. As the founder of Llamas del Sol, a local llama rescue organization, Liptak is spreading that love and helping these unique, goofy, and caring companions find their forever homes.

172 Pet of the Month

P. 168

This month’s winner: Elsa

174 25 Things

Things are changing fast in these worrisome times, and no industry is more aware of it than the food service industry. But Albuquerqueans aren’t going to be knocked down so easily. From new delivery service to grocery pickup at the restaurant, here is a partial list of what some local eateries are doing to weather the storm.

P. 174 22

P. 172 WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

We love being available to you in digital form.

MAY 2020 Volume XVII Number 1 PUBLISHER

Larryl Lynch larryl@abqthemag.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Gena Goodson gena@abqthemag.com

ADVERTISING MANAGERS

Philip Kjelland philip@abqthemag.com Megan Life megan@abqthemag.com BUSINESS MANAGER

The April, May, June and July, 2020 issues of Albuquerque The Magazine will be available free of charge at abqthemag.com. We will be back on newsstands with the print version in August of 2020.

Renee Martinez business@abqthemag.com PROJECT SPECIALIST

Nic Martinez nic@abqthemag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Scott Davis (1966–2004)

SUBSCRIBE!

Annual subscriptions to Albuquerque The Magazine are $19 for 11 issues. You may subscribe directly from our website.

Send check or money order to:

Albuquerque The Magazine 1550 Mercantile Ave. NE, Top Floor Albuquerque, NM 87107 phone: 505-842-1110 • fax: 505-842-1119 www.abqthemag.com

©2017 Albuquerque The Magazine All Rights Reserved

We love it here.

2 3

EDITOR'S NOTE

W

ell, needless to say, a lot has happened since I last wrote to you. The world is changing and it’s doing it faster than any of us thought possible. The pandemic has seemingly brought nothing but bad news. Even ATM has had to make some tough calls. We were forced to temporarily move to a digital format and minimize our staff. That, unfortunately, meant lay-offs and furloughs. I myself was furloughed for a month.

And that was just the beginning for yours truly. I have friends who have contracted COVID-19 (thank god they have all recovered,) my grandfather passed away, my mother has been hospitalized—perhaps permanently (non-coronavirus related)— my family has canceled birthdays, events, and vacations. But nobody close to me has died from the virus, so I am counting my blessing.

One of those blessings is my return to Albuquerque The Magazine. ATM, as you know, is a 100-percent positive magazine. As we all search for silver linings during this time, it is ATM’s pleasure to shine a light on some of the things to feel good about. Because pandemic or not, life goes on and all we can do is try to stay positive.

An obvious silver lining for many Albuquerqueans is spending more time with family. My beautiful wife, Rosemary, is a teacher and so she gets to spend the summers with my two little boys, but I don’t. The current situation has given me a chance to spend extra time with them… a lot of time with them… sometimes too much time with them (parents, you know what I’m talking about.) Being at home all day with the kiddos can test the nerves and try the patience. But, at least for me, they are also a constant source of positivity. Nothing seems to bring them down for long.

That’s why our first feature in this issue, ABQ Kids at Home, is a look at what some Albuquerque families are doing to keep their children active and engaged at this time. Some are doing arts and crafts, some are baking, a surprisingly large number of them are

playing board games (Clue seems to be the clubhouse leader for popularity.)

Of course, when you are at home all day playing with the kids and sneaking away to watch Tiger King in your bedroom, life tends to center around food. Meals at home have certainly seemed to skyrocket at this time, but that doesn’t mean Albuquerque’s restaurants aren’t out there serving up the world’s best cuisine.

Our second feature takes a look at how many Duke City restaurants are handling this crisis, from keeping their takeout options going to starting up new delivery programs.

All of this is to say that Albuquerqueans are a resilient bunch.

We are dealing with unprecedented tough times right now, but there are still a lot of smiling faces, a lot of gratitude to the heroes on the front lines, and a lot of positivity in everyday life. So, while things feel bleak right now, ATM is proud to give a reminder of why WE LOVE IT HERE. Remember, stay safe, wash your hands, support local business, and most of all, find little rays of sunshine every day.

Thank you for reading this issue of Albuquerque The Magazine.

We love it here and we know you do too.

Sincerely,

Taylor Hood Editor-In-Chief

CORRECTIONS In our December/January issue, we listed all the winners (from your votes) of our 15th Annual Best of the City Awards. With 5 finalists in each of 280 categories, that’s 1,000+ names, addresses, phone number and websites. And wouldn’t you know it, we were incorrect on a few of them (hey, it happens—sometimes businesses change addresses, or one of our interns gets lost in EDM music while editing…..and mistakes slip through to print). But we love accuracy, and making things right. So here is a corrected list of info from some of our winners. Our sincere apologies.The following corrections refer to the Best of the City feature in the December 2019/January 2020 issue: Best Diner - Top 5 – Central Grill and Coffeehouse – centralgrillandcoffeehouse.com

24

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

25

NO T A LL HER O E S WEA R A C AP E

IN ALBUQUERQUE PUBLIC SCHOOLS, THEY WEAR HAIRNETS AND BADGES. THEY DON MASKS AND GLOVES. THEY HAND OUT SANDWICHES AND LAPTOPS. THEY PUSH MOPS AND ANSWER PHONES AND ENTER DATA. THEY TEACH IN FRONT OF COMPUTER SC REENS AND CAMERAS.

A P S HE RO E S ARE NOT UNSUNG. THEY A R E APPR EC I A TED .

O N B E H ALF O F O UR STUDENTS AND FA M I LI ES, TH AN KS A PS H ER OES FOR A LL Y O U D O .

26

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

TINY BITES OF EVERYTHING TO SEE, DO AND BUY IN ALBUQUERQUE

SUNPORT RIDES LOW Lowriders have been around for decades. An outworking of Chicano culture, the first ones emerged in Los Angeles during the late 1940s and early ‘50s.

Since then the lowrider scene has expanded across the United States and even hopped across the Pacific, taking root in Japan.

The Albuquerque International Sunport is currently hosting an exhibiting showcasing lowrider culture.

Running from June 2019 to August 2020, Lowriders and Hot Rods: Car Culture of Northern New Mexico puts a spotlight on the skill, artistry, and craftsmanMAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

ship behind the world of custom lowrider cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.

The vehicles on display are true works of art, beautifully detailed, restored, and maintained—so much so that the exhibit has earned international recognition, listed by ArtDesk as one of the nine best Airport Art Exhibits in the world. ArtDesk’s rankings include exhibits at Paris’ Charles de Gualle Airport, Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, and New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport.

27

CHILE THROUGH THE YEARS Chile peppers are hot for a simple reason—to keep creatures like us from eating them. More specifically, they are hot to keep critters that use their molars to grind the seeds to useless pulp from eating them. Birds, no problem.

They swallow the seeds whole and, uh, disperse them. But mammals are dead ends for chile pepper seeds, which is why chile pepper plants evolved the capacity to produce chemical compounds called capsaicinoids to set mammalian palates on fire.

Unfortunately for chile peppers, humans eventually made their way to the Americas. A lot of us like masochistically chomping things that make us sweat and squirm. For us, capsaicin isn’t a deterrent. That’s rodent stuff. For us, it’s a source of appeal. Over the years, our collective chile pepper habit has translated into a kind of arms race, where people work to discover and breed hotter and hotter peppers.

Today, experts recognize a nasty beast called the Caroline Reaper as the hottest pepper. In Scoville heat units (SHU), the Carolina Reaper scores a rating of 2.2 million—the equivalent of low-grade

TAPA 1 CHILE

Play Ball! In ABQ0 Little League fields all over Albuquerque are getting a serious makeover.

“Play Ball,” an initiative spearheaded by Mayor Tim Keller, will spend more than $3.3 million to upgrade facilities—including fields, lighting, maintenance equipment, restrooms, concessions, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities) access—at 10 ball parks in the Duke City. The funding will come from grant s awarded to the state in 2018 and 2019 as well as funding approved in a recent legislative session.

The funds were freed up when the City Council approved decade-long lease agreements with nine little leagues that allow them to use the fields at no charge in exchange for facility maintenance.

“Little League is such a formative experience in the lives of so many Albuquerque kids.

At a young age it gets our kids outside, engaged in the community, and out of trouble,” says Keller, who grew up playing for Altamont Little League. “It’s an Albuquerque family institution, and we’re pleased to support it.”

The following Little Leagues are slated to receive renovations ranging in cost from $85,000 to $837,000: Mile High, Petroglyph, Roadrunner, Zia, Lobo, Eastdale, Westgate, Alameda, West Mesa and Thunderbird. —TH

28

pepper spray. Before the Reaper ascended to throne in 2013, New Mexico State University’s Chile Pepper Institute gave the title to the Trinidad Moruga Scorpion. Average plants clock in at 1.2 million SHUs, but some individual plants cross the 2 million mark. New Mexico itself has gotten in on the high capsaicin action with the super hot New Mexico Scorpion. Produced by New Mexico growers, this pepper consistently breaks the 1 million SHU mark.—ZB

START BR A GGING

ABQ

Emily K. Howard

Vice President of Corporate Strategy Indian Pueblo Cultural Center “ABQ has two degrees of separation. Since ‘everyone knows someone’ in this city, it’s very easy to get connected when you need help. Whether I need something professional or personal, it’s pretty easy to make a phone call and get connected quickly to the necessary resources.”

Start Bragging ABQ is a campaign to tell everyone what you love about our city.

Got a brag about ABQ? Send it to us at editor@abqthemag.com.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

29

A look at some of the strange, fun, and seldom-celebrated holidays coming our way this month!

MAY 4: FREE COMIC BOOK DAY

As everyone knows, the fourth of May is “May the Fourth Be With You” but people may not know it’s also Free Comic Book Day. Call your local comic book stores and demand your free loot.

According to mentalfloss.com, over 3 million comic books are given out nationally every year.

MAY 10: STAY UP ALL NIGHT NIGHT

Ah, the rare holiday that is exclusive to the nighttime. Binge Netflix, have a margarita, read a book, take a bath, drink a warm glass of milk, whatever it takes to find your holiday spirit and stay up all night.

MAY 11: EAT WHAT YOU WANT DAY

When the body is sleep deprived—as it will be after celebrating Stay Up All Night Night—it burns calories to give the body energy. So, take advantage of your tired day and forget the diet. Ice cream on pasta? A peanut butter and jelly and gummy bear sandwich? Go for it.

MAY 22: WORLD GOTH DAY

They say they don’t care or want a day to be recognized. In fact, “being Goth” is supposed to be about being an outsider and a rebel. So, celebrate this day and maybe we can get it changed to “Annoy Your Goth Friend Day.”

ATM DEFINITION Instabum (n.)

OF THE MONTH 30

MAY 25: TOWEL DAY

“A towel, [The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy] says, is about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can have.”

That’s according to author Douglas Adams. So today we celebrate Adams and his always useful advice.

30

A person who is constantly posting on Instagram and has no idea that their photos and Instagram Stories are excruciatingly bad.

Usage: “I had to block Reginald on Insta the other day. He just won’t stop with the videos of grass growing. What an Instabum.”

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

START FROM INTOXICANT TO DISINFECTANT For a lot of reasons— some of them at least partially indecipherable—a number of staple goods have suddenly become incredibly scarce. It is clear that somewhere, groups of deranged and frightened people are erecting colossal fortresses and huge monuments out of toilet paper.

But more understandably, folks have also been grabbing up unusual amounts of hand sanitizer—making it harder and harder to find on supermarket shelves.

Fortunately, many of Albuquerque’s local distillers have been keeping an eye on the problem. In response, they’ve started churning out high proof spirits, specifically tailored to the ruthless and efficient slaying of pathogens.

Vara Winery + Distillery, for instance, is distilling 160-proof spirits and giving away 2-ounce bottles of the stuff with every takeout order. That’s well above the CDC’s recommended germ-killing minimum of 60 percent alcohol by volume.

Likewise, Safe House Distilling has started churning out a line of 140-proof vodka to help bridge the gap between traditional hand sanitizer production and consumer demands. Teller High proof is available at several Albuquerque retail stores, including Jubilation Fine Wine and Spirits and Kelly’s on 4th Street. —ZB

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

BR A GGING

ABQ

Annemarie Ciepela Hinton

Vice President of Business Development & Marketing Albuquerque Economic Development “I love meeting my friends at the Michael Emery Trailhead in the Sandia foothills in the late afternoon, at that perfect time when the sun lights up the mountains. That’s when the air feels like magic. The trail system never gets old.

We make it a three-for-one experience: a little exercise, some friend time, and an outlet for innovation/problemsolving/human emotion.”

Start Bragging ABQ is a campaign to tell everyone what you love about our city.

Got a brag about ABQ? Send it to us at editor@abqthemag.com.

May is the second least humid month of the year in Albuquerque, with an average humidity of 32 percent, topped only by June at a 28 percent average.

31

KEEPING THE CONNECTION ALIVE Local scientist Khanh Pham has been singled out as the Department of Defense Laboratory Scientist of the Quarter. Dr. Pham received the honor for the third quarter of the 2019 fiscal year, recognizing his work in cognitive radio technology for protected satellite communications. What, you might reasonably ask, is that?

Well, beyond a mouthful, it’s an approach to radio communication, wherein radios are programmed to seek out the best available wireless channels. The aim is for the radio to identify and use the channels with the lowest amount of congestion and interference, then modify its own signal to make room for more wireless communications.

It’s heady, technical stuff—the sort of work that puts Pham’s background in electrical engineering to good use.

Pham emigrated to the United States from Vietnam with his parents in the early 1990s as part of the Special Release Reeducation Center Detainee Resettlement Program. Over the course of that decade, he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering, before going on to earn his PhD at the University of Notre Dame.

Going forward, Dr. Pham hopes to continue to use his talents and expertise to further the missions of the Air Force and Department of Defense, while working to stimulate small business innovation.

—ZB

MUSEUMS IN THE LIVING ROOM There’s something about a trip to the museum. In terms of pure personal edification, nothing beats it. There you are, face to face with the mineralized remains of a phytosaur, pieces of equipment from the Manhattan Project, or artifacts built by the people who called New Mexico home a thousand years before the Spanish showed up. It’s fascinating, deeply enriching stuff.

Unfortunately, Covid-19 has put a hold on museum trips. But that hasn’t stopped the people who run these institutions from continuing their important work, putting regular citizens in touch with otherwise unreachable pieces of science, history, and culture.

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is providing access to their “Indigenous Wisdom” K-12 curriculum, featuring easily followed lesson plans for math, language, social studies, and science, along with activities that can be performed with everyday household items.

The New Mexico Museum of Natural History is hosting a number of science and nature programs on their website, including a Backyard Biodiversity Challenge. The National Museum of Nuclear Science and Industry, meanwhile, has put historic interviews with key members of the Manhattan Project like General Leslie R. Groves and J. Robert Oppenheimer on their website, alongside at-home science experiments and virtual museum tours. —ZB

May The 4th Be With You. Every May 4th , the nation takes a day to celebrate Star Wars. ABQ is no exception with May 4th events happening all over the city at places like: Red Planet Books & Comics, Rio Bravo Brewing, city libraries, Bosque Brewing, and the Dyna Theatre.

32

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

WORD ON THE

Street AVENIDA DOLORES HUERTA

Bridge Boulevard is an old, wellknown roadway in Albuquerque. Well, last October, the Bernalillo County Commission approved renaming a portion of that boulevard Avenida Dolores Huerta. In February, the Albuquerque City Council approved similar legislation, making the new name official.

Dolores Huerta was born in Dawson, New Mexico and moved to California as a child. She was a famed champion for farmworkers, immigrants, and women in the 1960s and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama.

Though the city is still working on getting all of the road signs sporting

the new name, Avenida Dolores Huerta stretches from the city limits at the Rio Grande to the east and Isleta Boulevard to the west.

“It is important for residents and governments to honor the legacy of leaders like Dolores Huerta and Cesar Chavez and to bring their history of work to future generations,” County Commissioner Steven Michael Quezada told the Albuquerque Journal. Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta worked side-byside for years, so it is fitting that the two roads—Avenida Dolores Huerta and Avenida Cesar Chavez—will connect in Albuquerque, a first for road names in the United States. —TH

VIRTUAL NEW MEXICO Staying safe during the pandemic is all about staying home.

And that means staving off cabin fever; an especially tough task for active Albuquerqueans. But the City of Albuquerque and state agencies are stepping up to help you stay entertained from the comfort of your living room couch. Here’s a brief list of some of the virtual crafts, music, and shopping going on in the Land of Enchantment during quarantine: • Check out the Online Gift Guide from the Tourism Department. All local, all the time. Just head to newmexico.org.

• The New Mexico Museum of Art has moved their Spring Community Fun Day to the online realm. Check out their virtual scavenger hunts and online craft tutorials at nmartmuseum.org.

• Get your groove on with the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs weekly Friday night virtual concert series. View all the great shows happening at the National Hispanic Cultural Center by heading to nhccnm.org.

• Want to share your own experiences? The New Mexico History Museum invites all New Mexicans to send their stories, diaries, and memories of these quarantine days to historylibrary@ state.nm.us.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

• For the science-minded out there, the New Mexico Museum of Space History has “launched” their Virtual Rocketeer Academy.

From kitchen chemistry to homemade rocketry, this online classroom is fun for kids and adults. Just fly over to nmspacemuseum. org.

• The State Library has introduced free unlimited TumbleBooks access for all New Mexicans—no library card, download or apps required. The collection includes K-6 children’s books, young adults (grades 7-12), and audio books.

• Explore nine of the most popular folk exhibits in the state on the Museum of International Folk Art website: internationalfolkart. org.

• Visit the Tourism Department website for a complete list of virtual tours, online exhibits, virtual classrooms, live streams, and other engaging media. Plus, the site includes more than 360 videos in a YouTube playlist, which allows visitors to participate in activities from exploring Meow Wolf to flying in a hot air balloon.

• Lastly, visit the Tourism Department website to view an interactive map of all the locations near you that offer free wifi from the parking lot. —TH

33

TENDERLOVE SUPPORTS VULNERABLE WOMEN Some folks are dealt a rougher hand in life than others. This is true everywhere you go. Responses to this reality vary wildly. Obliviousness, indifference, negligent concern—you name it, people do it. Fortunately, there are also folks who respond with compassionate action, like Albuquerque’s TenderLove Community Center.

Originally opened in 2013 as a center for homeless and low-income womento learn the skills and techniques behind sewing and fashion design, TenderLove’s mission has since expanded.

After purchasing a building on Girard Boulevard, they’ve increased their capacity, providing a broader range of skills training to more women. More recently, they began offering housing solutions to vulnerable women, providing them a place to stay rent free while

enrolled in one or more of the Center’s training programs.

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Center has relaxed their housing standards. Whereas housing was previously available only to program enrollees in good standing, they have now opened their doors to other women who need a safe place to live.

It’s a bummer fact about the world, but circumstances sometimes conspire to make life extraordinarily difficult.

For women who have struggled with poverty, behavioral health issues, and substance abuse problems, the programs and opportunities TenderLove Community Center provides can prove invaluable. They are an example of another irrefutable truth about the world: good people can take action and make it a better place to live. —ZB

START BR A GGING

ABQ

KAPNISON SCHOLARSHIP FUND CULINARY EDUCATION Anyone fortunate enough to dip their toes into higher education over the last couple decades knows at least one basic truth: college, these days, is expensive. Getting that degree without accruing an impressive chunk of debt is a real feat.

For students interested in studying the culinary arts, Albuquerque businessman Nick Kapnison is offering just that opportunity. A lifelong restauranteur, Kapnison and his family have owned and co-owned 26 restaurants, including Nick & Jimmy’s, Kaps Coffee Shop & Diner, El Patron, and Mykonos Café & Taverna.

This past fall, Kapnison donated $50,000 to the CNM Foundation, thereby establishing the Kapnison Presiden-

tial Scholarship. Recipients are awarded $2,500 a year in pursuit of their associates in culinary arts at Central New Mexico Community College (CNM), divided between fall and spring semesters. According to CNM, the scholarship will cover tuition, registration, technology, tools, and course fees, along with textbook costs.

Interested students have until June 12 of this year to submit an application, including a personal essay expressing their personal goals for a career in the restaurant industry. Students who have spent six months or more working in the restaurant industry are given preference, so be sure to attach documents verifying your work experience and check the CNM website for complete details.—ZB

At the end of May in 2006, The Anderson School of Management MBA team from UNM won first place for the second year in a row at the Cadillac Case Study Competition in Detroit, MI. They are the first team ever to have achieved this honor.

34

Alexis Kerschner Tappan

Co-Founder The 2540 Group “Our cuisine is constantly surprising. Of course there’s the green chile, which goes with pretty much every meal — green chile cheddar apple pie, anyone? But there’s also incredible Vietnamese and Korean food, plus amazing boutique bakeries. And for veget ar ian/vegan/glutenfree options, Albuquerque has outstanding choices.”

Start Bragging ABQ is a campaign to tell everyone what you love about our city.

Got a brag about ABQ? Send it to us at editor@abqthemag.com.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

TWEET BEAT What the Twittersphere is saying about Albuquerque, 280 characters at a time.

Wes Henderson @WesHender It has to be said @UNMLoboSB uniforms are on fire. From the black to the white and absolutely love turquoise one. Keep working hard and good luck this season. Go @UNMLOBOS #Lobos #UNM #NewMexico #NMTrue #bos #softball

m o o R r u o Y e k a M w e w e N s N a s a d o d o o Go aass G M Maayy

$100 OFF DEEP CLEANING when you sign up for recurring service.

Expires May 31, 2020

Visit Visit mrscleanco.com mrscleanco.com

Dry Heat Photography @DryHeatBlog This Lioness at the @abqbiopark would like you to know that, despite having her little slab of ham hanging out, she is a fierce predator and is not cute. She will eat your face if you say she’s cute. #Lion #ABQBioPark #NewMexico

Mrs. Clean works hard to meet your needs. We are committed to providing you with a service that offers non-toxic solutions for cleaning your home.

· Residential Cleaning - One Time · Residential Cleaning - Recurring · Post-Construction Clean Up · Commercial

Tierra Del Encanto @MariachiTDE We were honored to perform for the One Albuquerque/505 Night/@ JacksonWinkMMA @UNMLoboMBB game tonight! #OneAlbuquerque #UNMLobos #MariachiTierraDelEncanto What do you have to say about #abq?

Follow us at twitter.com/abqthemag

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

35

Goblet at Gruet Winery to chat about his past (traveling through Europe), his present (promoting New Mexico wine), and his future (planning the state’s largest wine celebration.) He enjoyed a glass of Laurent Couvee 2016, a spar-

Wine With…

kling rose extended tirage (“tirage” is the time it spends in the bottle aging.)

ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE: New Mexico is the oldest grape growing region in the United States, right?

CHRISTOPHER GOBLET: Yes. 1629. We

just had our annual meeting with all of our members. I talked about the ten-year strategic plan. We are now 9 years away from our 400th anniversary. We are starting to do things like hold back cases of the 2019 vintage so that they are aged ten years, so we have some corks that we can pop for our 400-year anniversary. Otherwise we’ll just drink it all, right?

Chris Goblet

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE NEW MEXICO WINE AND GRAPE GROWERS ASSOCIATION

C

hristopher Goblet (pro-

ciders, and spirits.

nounced

But now he has landed what he

gōblay,

“it’s

French-Canadian”) wasn’t

always a wine expert. Of course, that change pretty quickly once he took over the New Mexico Wine and Grape Growers Association four years ago. That isn’t to say he’s not qualified. In fact, Goblet has spent his career involved with a number of different spirits.

Rebecca Latham, the former Cabinet Secretary of Tourism for the state of New Mexico even gave him the honorary title of “Liquid Liaison”. In his free time, he and his wife enjoy touring the country sampling regional wines, beers,

36

was born to do: promoting New Mexico wines. For Goblet, the job combines two of his favorite things: wine and New Mexico.

Not only does he get to travel the state trying amazing vino, but he is already preparing for New Mexico’s 400-year wine making anniversary (coming up in 2029). It

We talked about “what does the largest wine festival in the southwest look like?” It might be hard to say the largest in American history, but we don’t want to be accused of having missed the boat planning the big party for 400 years of New Mexico wine. We think of it as an opportunity to really get that story out to the masses. Because if we don’t toot our own horn, certainly nobody else will and I’m not going to be around for the 500th!

So, we should really drive home and solidify that fact by 2028 and say, “Hey! Come to New Mexico for 400 years of winemaking. It’s cultural, it’s artistic, it’s the oldest in the country.”

says he wants it to be the biggest

ATM: So, you are looking to get a good jump on it. That seems like a wise marketing strategy.

and best wine festival in the coun-

CG: Yeah. I have a marketing degree and

may still be a ways off, but Goblet

try. And no, he isn’t being hyperbolic. He means it.

We got a chance to sit down with

a foreign language degree. So, my background is in business marketing and European languages, and my last name is Goblet (it’s pronounced gōblay, but if you just see it in writing, it looks like anoth-

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MONTH 2020

er word for cup), so I am preordained for this job.

I really think New Mexico is poised to do something creative and different with the wine industry that other states, they just don’t have the origin story.

ATM: What languages do you speak?

CG: I studied German for 15 years. I stud-

ied French, I studied French in Germany actually, which is really difficult. But I mainly studied French women. And so that is my third language which I’m very rusty at.

ATM: When were you in Germany?

CG: The first time I was there was when

I was 8 years old. That was back in the 1980’s. I spent two weeks there during my junior year of high school. Then in college, I spent my freshman summer there and I spent my entire junior year studying in Munich. I’ve been there a number of times and I lived there for about a year and a half.

ATM: Everybody knows about German beer, but is Germany known to have good wines?

CG: Yeah, they are known for sweet, white

wines like Rieslings. They’re known for beer, but they have a wine industry that

is just not recognized in America. But on the European scene, they are appreciated way more than we give them credit for here.

ATM: Did you get much of a chance to travel Europe when you were in Germany in college?

I think New Mexico is the new, old-world wine.

CG: When I was studying my junior year

in Munich, I went to Bordeaux. I went to Italy nine or ten times also. I had a friend who lived in Florence, so I went down and drank in Chianti. So, by the time I was 21, I had already been drinking in France, Italy, and Germany. But I never thought about wine, other than for its intoxicating purposes. I was in my 20s, so I guess I wasn’t really thinking about anything all that much.

And then I got familiar with German beer styles. So, I think I had an understanding of what good beer and good wine were about before America got onto craft beer.

I lived in England for a while and I was a bartender at a pub, pulling pints of bitter.

I just had an interesting introduction to it, there was no prohibition to it in my family. When you’re in Europe, you drink.

Now all that pays back dividends because I’ve been to many of the major wine origin points in the world, which is cool.

ATM: How did you end up in New Mexico?

CG: Well, I’m originally from Ohio, but

my family moved to England when I was little. In 1999, we moved back to Ohio.

My mom wasn’t happy about it. You can’t go back to the farm after you’ve been in the big city. So, we drove out to Santa Fe later that year and it felt very European.

My mom said, “Go back and get the furniture.” We have been in Santa Fe since August of 1999. I did a little stint in New York City working for a German industrial design firm, cut my teeth doing sales and marketing. But after September 11 (2001), that all fell apart and I came back to New Mexico.

ATM: How did you get into the wine industry?

MONTH 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

CG: I was skeptical of the New Mexico wine industry when I had my interview. I walked into it not intending to take the job. What convinced me as I went through the interview for the hour and a half that we sat and talked was, first of all as I looked around the room, I saw young people my age who looked like brewers. If it had been a roomful of stuffy, former lawyers, doctors and lab professionals, I would have said, “Guys, I can’t help you. You’re stuck in your old ways and there is nothing I can do if you’re not willing to change and be modern.” But I looked around the room, I talked to the people and I could see that there was a generational shift that was starting to happen. Older winemakers that were passing down their winery to the next generation, or they were start-up wineries that were younger people who were looking to be first-career winemakers, not third-career retiree projects. So, I saw hope that there was going to be some youth and vitality and energy.

The second thing is that they had a $250,000 USDA marketing grant, and there is not a non-profit in New Mexico that has a $250,000 starting budget for doing branding and marketing.

ATM: You were the Director of the New Mexico Brewers Guild for a bit, and now you’ve moved over to wine. Are there major differences in how the two are marketed and the strategy for continued growth in the different fields?

CG: Oddly, they are very different. With

beer, there are trends. You have to be innovative, evolving recipes, pushing the

37

boundaries. A lot of it is based on traditional European methodologies, but then there are all of these newfangled, this-isbrewed-with-yeast-from-the-brewer’sbeard sort of things. I’ve seen some really off-the-wall, zany stuff in the beer world.

But wine has just always been a very focused, traditional path. I think wine knowledge has grown in America and things have changed, but it is still sort of an old-world talent. I think New Mexico is the new, old-world wine. I always come up with these new-old things because to say, “The oldest wineries in America” sounds like an old folks’ home. We just don’t see the fluctuations that you see in beer.

“I think being uniquely New Mexico is perfectly fine if the consumer understands that it is not supposed to taste like something else.”

ATM: The common story here in New Mexico is that our wines aren’t like other wines in other places. They are very unique. Is that true?

CG: I would definitely agree that New

Mexico wines are uniquely New Mexican, they are uniquely high desert, high elevation wines. Our highest vineyard is at 7,000 feet, which is mind-blowing to some wine people. So, you are not going to taste a New Mexican cabernet that tastes anything like a Napa cabernet. But it’s also not going to taste like a New York cabernet. I think being uniquely New Mexico is perfectly fine if the consumer understands that it is not supposed to taste like something else.

38

ATM: And what makes New Mexico wine so unique? Is it just the elevation?

CG: The thing that I think is most interest-

ing is that we don’t have a single varietal that dominates us. Because we have these Europeans who came over in the 1980s and the French planted French grapes, the Italians planted Italian grapes, the Germans planted German grapes. Because of that, you’ve got 30 to 40 year-old vineyards of established Pinot Noir, chardonnay, cabernet, sauvignon blanc varietals, but you also have unique Italian varietals.

California certainly dominates American winemaking. But there are some varietals in New Mexico where a single vineyard has more of that particular grape than the entire state of California. So, the New Mexico wine experience should be about experimentation and trying things you have never heard of, trying wines you don’t even know how to pronounce.

We are now starting to grow Romanian grapes. We are starting to grow Carignan, things that, even in California, where you would think, “Oh, they have everything,” they don’t have what we’re growing, and we have been growing it for 30 or 40 years.

When we take our wines to California, people don’t come over asking for chardonnay and cabernet. That’s all they make. They want to see that, “Wow, you guys made a Vino Verde in a Portuguese style or a Bougelet Nouveau Pinot Noir.”

They’re not even doing those kinds of experiments.

ATM: So are we growing these obscure grapes because of our environment or because we are looking to fill a niche?

CG: A little of both. We’ve got a very

high-altitude grape-growing region. Every one of New Mexico’s vineyards is above the highest vineyard in California. High elevation for California is 900 to 1,500 feet above sea level. Our lowest vineyard is at 3,800 feet above sea level.

One of the things they talk about in California is diurnal shift from hot days to cold nights. We get that. Our soils are a bit sandier. Theirs are a bit more volcanic.

So, when you talk about the different elements here, New Mexico may not have

the perfect soil, but grapes like to struggle, they like to search for water. We do have drip irrigation, thankfully. We can’t dry farm, but you have tons of intensity from the sun. On the east coast what happens is you never get that full ripeness because you have cloudy days, you don’t have the intensity, they have to spray, and they have to use far more pesticides. We just had a viticulturalist from Oregon come, walked around Corrales where a vineyard manager said, “I don’t use any pesticides, I haven’t sprayed in two years.” He said, “We can’t do zero pesticide farming, we HAVE to spray in Oregon.” So, this dry climate actually helps us to have fewer inputs.

ATM: And you go to some of these smaller California wineries to show them what New Mexico is doing?

CG: Yes. This year we went to a place

called Rhine Cellars that specializes in aglianico and we have about five wineries that do aglianico here in New Mexico. So they wanted to taste all of our aglianico.

They already had three or four aglianicos and their owners were in Italy, where they make aglianico, doing research, while we were tasting it there.

I have another great story about Matthiasson, which is a winery in Napa. The owner was here at the Taos Winter Wine Festival doing a tasting and skiing, while we were at his winery with his wife, Jennifer, tasting his wines. When you go to California people are curious about us, probably more so than they are, even here, because it’s so strange for them to think, “New Mexico makes wine? Wait, New Mexico is the oldest wine region? You’re older than we are? How have I never heard or known this fact?” So, we are the state of discovery, people are curious.

ATM: So, in a way, New Mexico is a trailblazer, a trendsetter?

CG: Absolutely. And I think that is a New

Mexico characteristic. It certainly is the case in the wine industry. There’s tons of collaboration. So, you have a grower working with a winemaker, you have this interesting dynamic relationship, whereas brewers, they just order their ingredients and they make their stuff. We have to do all the heavy lifting on our end and if we get frost or if we get hail, there’s lots of factors that come in, and if you get lucky, you WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

produce a great vintage. But you can’t replicate, it’s not the IPA recipe. You get just one shot. Does it taste good or does it not taste good? That’s the part that is exciting for me. I don’t know if it gets anybody else excited besides my wife.

“The New Mexico wine experience should be about experimentation and trying things you have never heard of, trying wines you don’t even know how to pronounce.”

ATM: Is your wife a wine lover?

CG: The minute the beer job was done, she

cleared out the wine fridge of all the beer that I had in there and immediately said, “We are going to stock up on wines.” So now we have two wine fridges. We travel every year out to California. It is a continuing education project for New Mexico wine growers. This year I took 11 wine growers out to Sonoma, last year I took 28 wine growers to Sonoma. We go out and taste their wines, and we bring our wine to pour and have them taste. In California, they are equally as curious about what we’re doing as we are to what they’re doing. We usually go to smaller producers, more eclectic producers. That’s why we avoid Napa, which is homogenous and high priced. We go to Sonoma, which is very diverse and you get interesting varietals, and you get the same price points that we charge here in New Mexico. So, it’s a bit more apples to apples.

ATM: Your wife knows something about history, right? Does she help with wine at all?

CG: My wife is actually an archaeologist;

she works for the Office of Archaeology here in the state. So, she digs in the dirt, I play in the dirt. She brings up artifacts, we make art in liquid form. I really think New Mexico is poised to do something creative and different with the wine industry that other states, they just don’t have the origin story.

ATM: Have you and your wife thought at all about growing your own grapes?

CG: It’s interesting that you ask. We just

plowed our acreage and I’m going to a fruit growers’ workshop in Santa Fe with New Mexico State University Extensions.

It’s a day to learn about apples from Doctor Shengrui Yao of China. Doctor Bill Giese, our state Viticulturalist, will be talking about grape-growing. There’s also going to be blackberries and other things.

My wife and I are interested in planting apples, and then a couple of rows of grapes. I am one of those people who live at 6,800 feet so I can’t pick from the broad universe of grapes. I have to be very narrowly focused.

But I want to grow grapes because I want to understand what our growers go through, the difficulties. I will probably kill as many grapes as I buy the first few years, but I think it’s a really healthy experiment. I’ve got the land, I’ve got the water, now I’m just excited to figure out what to plant and how it’s done. But it’s not an inexpensive hobby. We are getting into it, not with the intention of making wine or cider, yet. Just with the intention of being growers because it all starts, New Mexico wine starts with growing New Mexico grapes. The best example of that you see on the road between here and Albuquerque and Santa Fe is the Santa Ana vineyard on pueblo land, which is the very first pueblo-private partnership for grape-growing in America. Santa Ana Pueblo grows for Gruet, then Gruet makes a wine they sell back to Tamaya that they serve at their restaurant.

So it is another uniquely New Mexico business built around the wine industry.

—TAYLOR HOOD

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

39

1

2

3

4

6

5

7

LifeROOTS 6th Annual Pi(e) Day Normally this event happens on March 14 (3.14= Pi‌ get it?) but the folks at LifeROOTS, an organization that helps the needy and disabled in our community, decided to kick things off a little early with a family-friendly all-you-can-eat bash at Vara Wines. Pies were purchased, wine was consumed, and fun was had, all for a good cause.

1. Richard Bruce, Barbara Bruce, Kelly Wainwright, Jenny Schulte-Riedl 2. Molly Montano, Chef Javier Montano 3. Dot Cook-Simmons, Sherri Wells 4. Tim Sheahan, Kathleen Holmes Cates 5. Andrea Garcia, Anita Roybal, Paula Valdez 6. Back row: Jeff Kramer, Larry Ashby. Front row: Dawn Dal Porto, Jeanne Vigil 7. Clarence M. Hughes, Allison Hughes, Erika Hughes, Clarence H. Hughes

40

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

41

3

Start

5

Voting June 1, 2020 ABQTHEMAG.COM

42

7

Go Red Luncheon On February 19, Albuquerqueans gathered for the annual Go Red Luncheon at Hotel Albuquerque. The event, a cornerstone of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women program, featured a catered lunch, plenty of health facts, and a chance to raise awareness of heart disease in women. But it wasn’t all about heart disease awareness. The event also focuses on helping create opportunities for women in STEM and helping women find equal access to healthcare.

1. Sara Hardwood, Bryan Gibb, Sherri Wells 2. Shawn Wilbur, Rachelle Spencer 3. Janice Schmitt, Morgan Gaco, Rosella Chisolm 4. Davida Gallegos, Tony Watt 5. Melissa Sanchez, Joshua Martinez, Theresa Clay 6. Steve Chavez, Season Elliot 7. Danny Gonzales, Eddie Nunez

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

43

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

Souper Bowl 2020 Albuquerqueans loosened their belts and pulled their baggy pants out of the closet for Souper Bowl 2020. 30 restaurants competed in one of Albuquerque’s premier food competitions, with proceeds going to help Roadrunner Food Bank, the state’s largest nonprofit dedicated to solving food insecurity. This year’s winner: Ohana Hut. 1. Tom Shoemaker, Nancy Shoemaker, Mag Strittmatter 2. John Hansen, Shawna Gonzales, Maddie Cowan 3. Kristen Kinzer, Roadie the Roadrunner, Andrea Nash 4. Carmen Kavelman, Cara Chavez, Janice Lucero, John Chavez 5. Senator William Tallman, Juan Velasco, Steve Stucker, Bobbie Gutierrez 6. Jacob Chavez, Bryan Romero, Jacy Goad 7. Chris Copeland, Cizon Copeland, Breanna Riley, Dominic Alderete

44

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

WHY IS THE CENSUS IMPORTANT FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES?

1

Money for services and programs

Everyone needs to be counted to make sure the government has the right information to make decisions about these important services. Having enough money for programs and services for people with disabilities depends on having the right information. That is one reason why it is important for all people with disabilities to be counted in the census.

2

Representatives in Congress

Remember, the census counts how many people live in the whole country and in each state. The government uses that number to figure out how many Representatives the state should have.

If people don’t fill out the census, a state might get less Representatives.

HOW DO I FILL OUT THE CENSUS?

There are three ways to fill out the census: ONLINE

PHONE

ON PAPER

There are guides to help people with disabilities fill out the census. There are large print guides. There are also guides in braille. If you have questions, you can call 1-800-923-8282 or go to 2020census.gov.

For More Resources, Visit TheArc.org/Census ¿POR QUÉ ES IMPORTANTE EL CENSO PARA LAS PERSONAS CON DISCAPACIDADES?

1

Dinero para servicios y programas

Todos deben ser contados para garantizar que el gobierno tenga la información correcta para tomar decisiones sobre estos importantes servicios. Contar con suficiente dinero para programas y servicios para personas con discapacidades depende de tener la información correcta. Esa es una de las razones por las que es importante que todas las personas con discapacidades sean contadas en el censo.

2

Representantes en el Congreso

Recuerde, el censo cuenta cuántas personas viven en todo el país y en cada estado. El gobierno utiliza este numero para calcular cuántos Representantes debe tener un estado en particular. Si las personas no llenan el censo, un estado podría tener menos Representantes.

¿CÓMO LLENO EL CENSO?

Hay tres maneras de llenar el censo: EN LÍNEA

TELÉFONO

EN PAPEL

Hay guías para ayudar a las personas con discapacidades a llenar el censo. Hay guías con letras grandes. También hay guías en braille. Si tiene preguntas, puede llamar al 1-800-923-8282 o visitar 2020census.gov.

Para más recursos visite thearc.org/census YOU COUNT! BE COUNTED!

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

45

1

Start

2

3

4

5

6

7

Voting June 1, 2020

NMMRO Bike Day

ABQTHEMAG.COM

The Annual New Mexico Motorcyclist Rights Organization Bike Day started with raffles and a donation-only free breakfast at Thunderbird Harley-Davidson on February 1. Then it was time to rev those engines for a ride from Thunderbird to Santa Fe Harley-Davidson. 100 percent of all donations went to benefit the NMMRO “Rider Down” Program, which helps motorcyclists injured in accidents.

1. Raymond Gallegos, Kitti Gallegos, Doug “Bishop” Anaya, Tug Nethery 2. Hellfighter Probationary “Rogue,” Steel Gypsyz V.P. “Loca,” Hellfighter “Klutch,” Hellfighter “Sparks” 3. “Nez From the Rez,” Secretary “Ironhide,” “Shutup” 4. Jacqui Gordon, Walt Kojdecki, Logan Cajete, George Doyle 5. “Wizard,” “Moose,” “Gypsy,” “Smiley” 6. John “Hitman” Taylor, Tomas “Rooster” Salas, Daniel “Pops” Van Court 7. Alex Maestas, Mauricio Rosetti, Elena Chevere, Amber Haines

46

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

Get Your Associate’s Degree From CNM Online Start a new career from the comfort and safety of your own home!

CNM Online offers associate degrees in just 17 months. A fast degree, no hidden fees, books are included, all at an affordable price!

Find out more at online.cnm.edu Central New Mexico Community College

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

47

E R ’ !

E s W e Y

N E P O

Running a restaurant isn’t easy, under any conditions. It involves long hours, occasional encounters with prickly customers, and a whole mess of uncertainty. Mostly, it’s the sort of work people only persist in if they really love doing it.

Albuquerque, fortunately, is full of people who really love making food. Thanks to them, the Duke City overflows with culinary delights. They log the long hours needed to hone their skills and press the craft of transforming raw ingredients into savory brisket tacos, top-notch fish and chips, and Neapolitan pizzas into delicious new territory. It’s hard work, and we’re glad they do it.

During a pandemic, those realities—tough work and taxing uncertainty—zip right past eleven. They straight out break the dial. Cooking and serving food suddenly become a long-distance affair, laden with a host of health-conscious protocols for keeping people safe—sterile gloves and face masks for every step of the process, hard caps on restaurant occupancy, and a temporary moratorium on dine-in options.

All of this has unfolded incredibly quickly. One week, coronavirus was something you read about. It happened somewhere overseas, sometimes on a cruise ship. The next week it was here in the United States. People were feeling the tension. Worry was starting to set in. Another week and everything was shut down, the basic nature of daily life fundamentally altered.

This has been a bizarre time to be alive—and that’s putting things mildly. Throughout it all, dozens of Duke City restaurants, staffed by thousands of Albuquerque citizens, have been steadily working. By no means has it been business as usual, but they’ve all been doing their best to keep the wheels turning and engines running.

It’s uncharted territory for us all. This is the story of how the people who feed us have been navigating it.

By: Zane Beal

48

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

49

A Brief Sketch of Trying Times Like any story worth telling, this one requires a bit of exposition. We’ve got to understand who the key players are and how they relate to one another—what they’re after and how those interests come into conflict. Fortunately, a lot of this has already been laid out in an endless barrage of headlines.

Sadly, the most prominent player here is also the antagonist. At least, that is, in terms of attention. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, otherwise known as the coronavirus, is an infectious agent that was first identified in December 2019. It causes a respiratory disease called COVID-19 (the “19” refers to the year of its discovery, not the number of its iteration).

Being a virus, you can’t really say the coronavirus wants anything in terms that would make sense to humans. It’s just a weird little machine. To say a virus “wants” something is to speak in metaphor. And in that sense, all any virus wants is to make more copies of itself. To do this, it needs to take up residence inside the cells of some other organism.

Unfortunately, they don’t do so harmlessly. When viruses take root inside an organism’s cells, they often cause all sorts of side-effects. Some of these—like coughing and sneezing—broadcast the infection everywhere within range. This spreads the virus around, allowing it to make more and more copies of itself. As a result, viruses that

50

cause these kinds of symptoms can be pretty successful in achieving their copy-making dreams.

For many viruses, the byproducts of infection run well past coughing and sneezing. This is the case with coronavirus. While still not entirely well understood, it’s clear that coronavirus can cause a host of nasty symptoms. These include headache, sore throat, coughing, shortness of breath, chills, fever, and fatigue. This collection of symptoms is COVID-19, and it can be fatal.

“

These are the people who garnish and enrich the business of living…

”

In a live animal market sometime in late 2019, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 managed to make the leap from a critter like a pangolin or a bat to a human. And that gets us to our protagonists: us. The entire human population.

Humans, obviously, are a diverse lot. We all have our own idiosyncratic tastes and interests. But broadly speaking, we all want to live healthy lives, for as long as possible, and have as many of our material fancies satisfied along the way as we can manage. When the novel coronavirus gained

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

the ability to use humans as hosts for its pursuit of endless replication, conflict ensued.

The problem here is that the coronavirus and the disease it causes, COVID-19, are still a bit of cypher. Important details like the case fatality rate and infection rate are still up for debate among experts. And critically, we don’t yet have a way to kill it. That leaves us with a lot of uncertainty and only one reliable tool: social distancing.

That’s right—the only good way to slow the spread of COVID-19 is to stay away from other people. Far, far easier said than done for an intrinsically—nay, instinctively—social species like Homo sapiens. Everything about our lives revolves around being in touch with other people. Absent those social instincts, our ancestors would have been gobbled up by giant birds and saber-toothed cats long before any of them migrated out of Africa.

This inheritance makes social distancing hard. Really hard. Given the nature of the society we’ve built for the 21st century and the economy that runs it, it has been a lot harder for some than others. Lots of people have lost jobs and income. As of this writing, 30 million Americans have filed unemployment claims over a six-week period.

Few sectors have been harder hit than the service industry. These are the people who garnish and enrich the business of living, providing us with delicious food to eat, comfortable places to stay when we’re travelling, style us to help us look our best, and altogether make life an easier, more pleasurable experience. For many local restauranteurs, it’s been a trying time. But they’ve taken steps to adapt to the situation and weather the storm, all the while keeping the doors open, as many staff as possible working, and food on our plates.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

Local Restaurants Respond with Resilience & Innovation It’s hard to say what, precisely, counts as essential. If we wanted to strip things down to the barest ingredients— the things we absolutely cannot survive without—we could probably all get by on some sort of flavorless, vitamin-enhanced protein slurry. But what’s essential is rarely so starkly cast. In reality, it’s a matter of context, setting, and expectations.

Eating is, of course, a necessity. That fact alone imbues restaurant work with a whole lot of value. Yet it only captures a fragment of the larger picture. Restaurants are in the business of making food that people enjoy eating.

They elevate the raw, life sustaining work of importing caloric energy into something dynamic and pleasurable, even thrilling.

By staying open, restaurants don’t just keep us fed.

They help shave the jagged edges off a time that is already pretty difficult. That’s meant making some tough calls and, in many cases, completely altering how they do business. “With our dining room closed due to COVID-19, we’ve shifted our focus to providing takeout and delivery to our customers while limiting contact,” says Chuck Ruiz of Richie B’s Pizza. This strategy—stepping away from casual, in-house dining—has been implemented by restaurants across the city.

Of course, takeout and delivery have long been staple methods of getting pizza. That means a lot of local pizza joints already had some systems in place to help manage the transition. For other restaurants, the process has

51

involved a lot more innovation and improvisation.

“We’re doing delivery ourselves,” explains El Patron owner Jimmy Daskalos. “Free delivery.” That’s a fairly monumental transition for a restaurant primarily built around the dine-in experience.

The same is true of outfits like Two Fools Tavern and Nick and Jimmy’s Restaurant and Bar. These establishments offer distinctive atmospheres and experiences, but both revolve around localized, in-person, sitdown interactions. “We offer take away from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. every day,” says Russell Reid at Two Fools Tavern. “Gives people the chance to still enjoy our fish and chips.”

“It’s been slow, but we’re adapting,” Annamarie Kapnison, owner and manager at Nick and Jimmy’s, explains. That’s meant modifying their menu a bit, placing attention on take out, and expanding into the realm of third-party food delivery apps like Grubhub and Selflane.

But even for restaurants that had long ago incorporated takeout and delivery as part of their existing service model, the current situation has called for an adjusted approach. Universally, this has meant pulling on latex or nitrile gloves for every aspect of customer interaction. For a number of restaurants, this was already pretty typical of direct food handling. Now, it’s

“

It’s a job for people who love making food and serving people.

”

a necessity every step of the way—even if that just means handing someone a box that contains cooked food.

For customers, takeout is no longer a matter of crowding eagerly around the service desk. Places like Rudy’s BBQ—who already had a pretty strong takeout game—have implemented strict protocols to minimize both the number of people in their establishments at any given moment and the amount of time those people spend there. And, as you may have guessed, lines are now staggered to keep everyone six feet apart at all times.

“We’ve always offered online ordering,” says Jean Vargas, co-owner of Two Boys Donuts. “But now, we strongly encourage our guests to either place an online order or call ahead and we’ll bring it out to your car.” That doesn’t mean they won’t serve walk-in customers—it just means walk-in customers have to observe distancing guidelines, staying six feet away from one another with no more than five people in the shop at time. “People are generally happy when buying donuts,” says Vargas. “So this has worked well and guests have been very respectful of one another.”

Social distancing has demanded changes to internal procedures as well. For many restaurants, this has meant laying off or furloughing staff, something

52

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

most restauranteurs have only been willing to do with heavy-hearted reluctance. “[We’re] trying to rotate around who’s getting hours,” says Jimmy Daskalos, explaining El Patron’s strategy for minimizing the economic impact of COVID-19 by making sure as many employees can get a chance to clock in as many hours as possible.

Those changes extend beyond internal, on-the-clock operations. Recognizing that maintaining a clean, healthy work environment during a pandemic demands constant vigilance, restauranteurs and restaurant staff labor to adhere to social distancing guidelines even at home. “We’re in agreement that when we’re not at the restaurant, we try to limit the number of people we’re around,” explains Annamarie Kapnison Other outfits, like Tully’s Italian Meats and Deli, have changed the way they do business while simultaneously expanding their repertoire. They can only operate at 20 percent capacity but have managed to maintain regular hours of operation and expand their grocery offerings into the realm of produce. Meanwhile, their to-go options—wholesome, Italian-style meals like eggplant parmesan and chicken marsala that you just need to pop in the oven for a bit—have received renewed attention. “We always sell a lot of to-go stuff,” says co-owner Johnny Camuglia, “but we’ve had an uptick.”

Indeed, the coronavirus lockdown has yielded a number of surprising success stories. Naturally, no one is happy about the current situation. Everyone is eager for it to be over. But plenty of restauranteurs have found a silver lining.

When an unrelated Village Pizza, about 2,000 miles away in Pennsylvania, started trending on social media for selling at home pizza kits, the operation of the same name here in Albuquerque and Corrales started receiving phone calls. They’d done something like that in the past and decided now was the time to do it again. In fact, business overall has been good, all things considered. “We had a line from our walk-up window deep into our parking lot,” says Village Pizza’s Kitt Davidson. “Granted,” she laughs, “they were six feet apart.”

Even with business limited to takeout and delivery, Casa Taco has also managed to weather the storm fairly well. “[The Academy Road location] started doing crazy better than usual,” says owner James Pecherski.

“The last week of March, sales were back to normal.”

Given the obvious difficulties involved in running a restaurant or eatery at a time when people are well advised to stay away from one another, the people behind the local food industry have been taking everything in stride. “Our hours haven’t changed, thank God, and we’re still serving Albuquerque,” says Tully’s Johnny Camuglia.

Clearly, none of it has been easy. But even during ordinary times, nothing about running a restaurant is.

It’s a job for people who love making food and serving people. And that is precisely the sort of spirit and passion that helps people pull through when things turn unusually tough. “I’m remaining 100-percent positive,” says James Pecherski. “I know we’re going to get through this.”

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

53

Why It’s Worth It The only way to concretely pin down the effects of a treatment is to run a controlled experiment. This is the best method we have for figuring out what causes what.

The thing is, controlled experiments are only feasible under certain circumstances. You’ve got to be able to toy with variables without causing irrevocable harm. We’ve only got one society and one economy. And more importantly, we’ve each only got one life.

That means we can never know for sure if furloughing or laying off millions of workers and shuttering huge segments of the economy was the best way to fight COVID-19.

All we can do is imagine what might have been, had things been otherwise.

Critical decisions about how to deal with COVID-19 have hinged largely on two things: hospital bed and medical resource shortages. The medical system in the United States is shockingly precarious. Facing a threat blindly bent on using our bodies as a breeding ground—and thereby damaging or destroying them in the process—forced all of us to make some difficult choices. Lest the system be overwhelmed and the physical, economic, moral, and existential costs spiral uncontrollably, we were all going to have to dig deep and sacrifice in a way few people had been asked to sacrifice in generations.

Whether or not things would have gotten as bad as forecasted in the direst predictions, had we decided to respond to the coronavirus by preceding as normal, will never be known for sure. There are, however, positive signs that lockdown measures are working. More recent forecasts, updated with the freshest available data, have revised the potential death toll substantially downward. This is a strong indication that all this trouble has, in fact, been worth it. By staying home, people are helping save lives.

Likewise, for the businesses that have altered their way of doing things to slow the virus’ spread. The restaurant owners and staff who have taken a hit to their pocketbooks by radically reshaping the way they operate have,

54

through prudent, compassionate action, made themselves heroes in the fight against COVID-19.

Most of them would brush off such lofty praise. The real heroes, they’ll say, are the first responders and medical professionals on the front lines. Fair enough. But let’s not sell short the true nature of the work involved in slowing the transmission of a deadly pathogen. This has been a collaborative affair. A team effort, as it were. That means that, while the burden surely hasn’t been evenly distributed and some people clearly make more of a contribution than others, everyone has a critical part to play.

In battling COVID-19, many Albuquerque restaurants have gone above and beyond the already tricky business of merely keeping the doors open in some way or other. A lot of them have tried to make eating out more affordable.

Obviously, this benefits them by drawing in business, but it also helps customers hit by sudden economic hardship take a break from cooking and enjoy a meal without all the hassle and mess.

Places like Casa Taco and Rudy’s have started offering family packs, allowing people to get large amounts of tasty vittles for a fair sum less than they’d have paid in ordinary times. With a clear nod to the rough business of 24/7 parenting, Village Pizza has been offering coloring pages to help keep kids entertained.

El Patron, meanwhile, has been taking food to local hospitals. “Once a week, we’ll go down to the ER and drop of some breakfast burritos,” says Daskalos. Likewise, Nick and Jimmy’s has been working on putting together a system for feeding first responders—police, doctors, firefighters, medical workers—entirely free of charge.

Would we all dry out, crumple up, and blow away if restaurants shut down? Probably not. But would it make our own private quarantines that much less tolerable, pressing our already strained psyches that much closer to some invisible rupture point? Absolutely. By staying open, local restaurants not only keep feeding money back into the local economy and delicious food into our bellies, they also make this crazy situation that much more survivable.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

Americans like to eat out. As a percentage of total household expenditures, we spend about 1 out of every 18 dollars on takeout and restaurants, or about 5.6 percent of our incomes. At first glance, that might not seem like a whole lot, but it’s more than we spent on entertainment (5.5 percent), clothes and personal care (4.3 percent), gasoline (3.4 percent), furniture and appliances (3.3 percent), education (2.3 percent), or booze (1 percent).

NM CONSUMER SPENDING

In New Mexico, eating out takes a particularly big bite out of our spending. During 2018, New Mexicans spent over 5.6 billion on food we didn’t cook, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. In terms of per capita spending, we’re number 12 in the United States. Per head, we spend just shy of $2700 a year dining out or ordering in. On average, that rolls out to 7.42 percent of total household spending.

That means about 1 out of every 14 dollars we’re spending goes to getting a tasty meal someplace other than home. We’re forking out more for housing, healthcare, financial services, and groceries, but that’s about it.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

55

WEEKDAYS

ERIC

TODD ROYALE

56

4:30 - 7am

SASHA

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

THE BUZZ AROUND ALBUQUERQUE: YOUR GUIDE TO EVERYTHING HAPPENING THIS MONTH

TOP PICK friday 1 | 11:15 am–1 pm 2020 Great Grant Giveaway. This 8th annual non-profit giveaway is hosted by the Albuquerque Community Foundation. Nonprofit organizations in Albuquerque have been selected to present their amazing work. A $500 check on every table will be awarded to one of the nonprofits. Info: Hotel Albuquerque, 800 Rio Grande Blvd.

NW, albuquerquefoundation.org, 883-6240.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

57

4

friday 1 | 7 pm

Bard Crawl. Duke City Repertory Theatre presents their imaginative take on Shakespeare’s Othello, each performance held in a different brewery. Smartphones, appetites and catcalls are welcome. Also held on May 5, 6, and 7, see website for locations.

Info: Dialogue Brewing, 1501 1st Street NW, dukecityrep.com, 7977081. No admission fee; $10 donation is suggested.

58

sunday 3 | 8 am–3 pm

Route 66 Auto Parts Swap Meet, Car Show and Art Festival. The Wheels Museum (located at 1100 Second Street SW) raises funds at this annual event which includes fabulous cars, an art festival, music, and a raffle with loads of great prizes.

Info: Balloon Fiesta Park, 4401 Alameda Ave. NE, 239-4543. Admission, raffle tickets: $5 each.

5

monday 4 | 10–11 am

Bringing Nature Home How To Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants.

Xeric Garden Club docent Kathy Burnett gives a tour of the club’s Habitat Garden.

She will describe ways to reverse the loss of wildlife populations and create an beautiful oasis for them. Info: The Albuquerque Garden Center, 10120 Lomas Blvd.

NE, xericgardenclub.org.

Free.

sunday 10 | 7:30 pm

Engine. Two guitars.

One harmonica. Three voices in harmony.

These elements weave Afro-Latin rhythms, blue notes, rock attitude, and flamenco spirit, fusing together performances that invite audience members to surrender to their inner joy. All ages.

Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd. SE. Tickets: holdmyticket.com, $22 in advance, $27 day of show.

wednesday 13 | 7:30 pm

Brian Culbertson: The XX Tour. Multiinstrumentalist, songwriter and producer Culbertson describes his tour as “a lot of funky instrumentals, some pop-sounding tracks, a couple slow jams, straight-ahead jazz, gospel, some vocals, lots of horns and some straight-up funk!” All ages welcome.

Info: KiMo Theatre, 423 Central Ave. NW, holdmyticket.com, 8861251.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

Trust us, these are but a few ABQ events YOU CAN'T MISS. 8

friday 15 | 7:30 pm

Pierre Bensusan.

FrenchAlgerian guitarist, singer and composer Pierre Bensusan’s music defies classification, crossing world music, classical, jazz, traditional, and folk, and fusing cultures together in ways never before experienced.

Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd. SE, outpostspace.org, 268-0044.

Tickets: $25, $20 Outpost Members and students.

10

sunday 17 | 10 am–3:30 pm

NMCCC Classic Auto Show.

Albuquerque Museum and the New Mexico Council of Car Clubs host the 36th annual show. This year’s theme features pre-WWII vehicles; vehicles of all imported makes are included. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NE, cabq.gov, 243-7255.

Free spectator admission; $10 vehicle registration fee to participate.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

sunday 24 | 3–6 pm

ABQ Blues & Brews and ABQ Beer Week. This is NM’s favorite beer fest and it is the kickoff celebration for ABQ Beer Week. Bands play the blues and over 70 producers serve their brews, including beers, ciders and spirits. There is unlimited sampling, along with the NM cocktail challenge. 21 and over only. Info: Sandia Resort and Casino, 30 Rainbow Road.

Tickets: abqbluesandbrews. com.

saturday 30 | 8 am–4 pm

Special Olympics New Mexico State Summer Games. Special Olympics athletes from around the state will compete in track and field events, bocce, flag football, skills events, and volleyball. Info: The University of New Mexico Track and Soccer Complex, 1800 Avenida Cesar Chavez SE, sonm.org, 856-0342. Free for spectators.

Register online to volunteer.

59

PLEASE NOTE:

At the time this listing was produced, many events were being cancelled due to the COVID-19 virus. Please be sure to check the status of any event and venue to ensure that the event is still being held as scheduled.

friday 1 | 11:15 am–1 pm

2020 Great Grant Giveaway. This 8th annual non-profit giveaway is hosted by the Albuquerque Community Foundation.

Nonprofit organizations in Albuquerque have been selected to present their amazing work. A $500 check on every table will be awarded to one of the nonprofits. Info: Hotel Albuquerque, 800 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, albuquerquefoundation.org, 883-6240.

friday 1 | 5:30–7 pm

Teen Science Café. This offers informal teen-friendly presentations and activities with local scientists, engineers, and other professionals, with hands-on demos or activities that may spark interest in STEM career options. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 224-8300. Free admission and snacks.

60

friday 1–saturday 2 | friday 5:30 pm–saturday 8:30 pm

saturday 2 | 8 am–12 noon

friday 1 | 7 pm

saturday 2 | 9 am–4 pm

Nomadic Yoga Festival. Nomadic brings together the yoga and fitness community during this two-day festival. Together we explore something new, revisit some favorite instructors, shop from local vendors, and raise funds for our community. Info: The Railyards, 777 First Street SW. Tickets: nomadicyogafestival.com.

Bard Crawl. Duke City Repertory Theatre presents their imaginative take on Shakespeare’s Othello, each performance held in a different brewery. Smartphones, appetites and catcalls are welcome. Also on May 5, 6, and 7, see website for location.

Info: Dialogue Brewing, 1501 1st Street NW, dukecityrep.com, 797-7081. No admission fee; $10 donation is suggested.

friday 1–sunday 3 | tbd

Rio Rancho Players present Our Town.

Rio Rancho Players is a community theater group. We invite everyone to attend our production of Thornton Wilder’s Our Town during the first 3 weekends of May. Info: St. Francis Episcopal Church, 2903 Cabezon Road, Rio Rancho, rr-yc.org. Tickets: $15 (with discounts for under 13, over 65, and military).

NAMI Walks. National Alliance on Mental Illness events combat stigma, raise funds and promote awareness of mental illness.

Our event includes balloons, classic cars, climbing wall, and community solutions fair.

Info: Albuquerque International Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE, nami.org. Register: namiwalks. org/newmexico. Free; participants are encouraged to raise funds for NAMI. La Cueva High School Band Spring Craft Show. The show features a variety of vendors, silent auction, and food available for purchase. Proceeds benefit the La Cueva High School Band program. Info: La Cueva High School, 7801 Wilshire Blvd. NE, bigbadbearband.com. Free parking and admission.

saturday 2 | 1–4 pm

Celebrate “May the 4th Be With You” at Explora. Investigate space forces, make a cardboard spacecraft, meet local space scientists, take photos with space characters from 501st Legion. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 2248300. Included with paid Explora admission; Explora members and under 1 year old, free.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

REDEFINE YOUR GETAWAY.

NEW MEXICO’S PREMIER MOUNTAIN RESORT F U L L C A S I N O | LU X U R Y R E S O R T | Z I P L I N E | C H A M P I O N S H I P G O L F | F U L L-S E R V I C E S PA | S P O R T S B O O K TO P G O L F S W I N G S U I T E | I N N O F T H E M O U N TA I N G O D S.C O M | | 1-800-545-9011 | M E S C A L E R O, N M

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

61

FOUNDED 2014

ADVENTURE AWAITS

saturday 2 | 1–6 pm

Kentucky Derby Party. Please join us to support Sophia’s Foundation for Autism.

Info: Vintage 423, 8000 Paseo del Norte Blvd. NE. Tickets: sophiasfoundation.com, 343-3540. Tickets: $100, VIP tickets $200, VIP couple tickets $300.

saturday 2 | 3–5:30 pm

Derby Day Fundraiser by EWI Albuqueruque. These funds support our literacy programs – Reading Rally at a Title 1 elementary school, and scholarships at UNM and CNM. There will be a silent auction, horserace themed activities, refreshments, and a best derby hat contest. Info: Hotel Andaluz, 125 Second Street NW. Tickets: Rachel at rlj0101@comcast.net, $40.

saturday 2 | 4 pm

Author Event at Page One Books. Author Ashley M. Biggers will talk about and sign her new non-fiction effort, “Secret Albuquerque: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure.” Info: Page One Books, 5850 Eubank Blvd. NE, Suite B-41, page1book. com, 294-2026. Free to all attendees.

saturday 2 | 4 pm

Spring Dance Concert-Kiwis. The 24th Annual Spring Community Dance Concert highlights the work of kiwi dancers young and young-at-heart within all of Keshet’s varied education programs. For this performance, tickets are available by donation at the door.

Info: Keshet Center for the Arts, 4121 Cutler Ave. NE, keshetarts.org, 224-9808.

saturday 2 | 5 and 7 pm

Robin Hood. This NMYA play features the hero of Sherwood Forest taking on wicked Prince John and Lady Merle of Cornwall.

Cheer for Robin and his merry band as they rescue Maid Marian and secure Nottingham for the King’s return. Info: North 4th Theater, 4904 4th Street NW, vsartsnm.org, 3444542. Tickets: holdmyticket.com, $6, $8 at the door.

saturday 2 | 6 pm

Carmina Burana. The NM Symphonic Chorus, in the NM Philharmonic’s Classical Series Concert, performs “Carmina Burana,” a scenic cantata composed in 1935-6 by Carl Orff, based on 24 poems from the medieval collection. Conducted by Roberto Minczuk.

Info: Popejoy Hall, 203 Cornell Drive NE. Tickets and details: nmphil.org.

saturday 2 | 7:30 pm

505-595-4565 HEARTSTRINGSTHEATRECOMPANY.COM

62

ABQ Grand Slam Poetry Slam Championship. Outpost, with ABQ Slam, presents high-level performance poetry with ten of the top stage poets in the Duke City. Poetry Slam is the art of competitive spoken word. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd. SE, outpostspace. org, 268-0044. Tickets: $15, $10 Outpost Members and students.

sunday 3 | 8 am–3 pm

Route 66 Auto Parts Swap Meet, Car Show and Art Festival. The Wheels Museum (located at 1100 Second Street SW) raises funds at this annual event which includes fabulous cars, an art festival, music, and a raffle with loads of great prizes. Info: Balloon Fiesta Park, 4401 Alameda Ave. NE, 2394543. Admission, raffle tickets: $5 each.

sunday 3 | 1–3:30 pm

Focus on Youth Opening and Awards Ceremony. This annual juried exhibition of high school photography and film produced in partnership with the Albuquerque Public School Fine Arts Program celebrates the exceptional work produced by student film makers and photographers across the district. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NE, cabq.gov, 243-7255.

sunday 3 | 1–5 pm

Studio Tour Sneak Preview. May is the start of the Studio Tour season for our artists.

Come in and get a sneak preview of their creations. Info: Corrales Bosque Gallery, 4685 Corrales Road, corralesbosquegallery. com, 898-7203. Open to the public.

sunday 3 | 3 pm

Canadian Brass. With an international reputation as one of the most popular ensembles today, Canadian Brass has earned the distinction of “the world’s most famous brass group.” The ensemble’s imagination and consummate musicianship ranges from trademark Baroque and Dixieland tunes to their own new works. Info: Popejoy Hall, 203 Cornell Drive NE, popejoypresents.com, 277-9771.

monday 4 | 8 am

The Unforgettable Golf Classic.

The Alzheimer’s Association’s charity tournament is great golf for a great cause.

Admission includes breakfast, lunch, cart rental, prizes and more, and you’ll be helping families in New Mexico facing Alzheimer’s disease. Info: Tanoan Country Club, 10801 Academy Road NE. Reserve tickets now: Amber Jaramillo, 266-4473, asjaramillo@ alz.org, $150.

monday 4 | 9–11 am

Toddler Time at Explora. Explora opens an hour early Mondays for toddlers and their adults. Enjoy music jam, storytime, explore exhibits. Also on May 11, 18 and 25. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 224-8300. Admission: $6-$10 per person; free under 1 year, Explora members.

monday 4 | 10–11 am

Bringing Nature Home - How To Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants. Xeric Garden Club docent Kathy Burnett gives a tour of the club’s Habitat Garden. Learn to reverse the loss of wildlife populations. Info: The Albuquerque Garden Center, 10120 Lomas Blvd. NE, xericgardenclub.org. Free.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

monday 4 | 1–2:30 pm

Introduction to Support Groups. Explore the importance of support groups for families who are facing Alzheimer’s disease, presented by Barbara Michels, author of “The Alzheimer’s Journey.” Info: Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter, 6731 Academy Road NE, 266-4473. Free.

tuesday 5 | 10 am

Albuquerque Newcomers’ Club Welcome Coffee. Come learn of the club’s varied activities. Membership is open to residents of Albuquerque for less than five years or residents experiencing major changes in their lives. The club is not affiliated with the church. Info: Sandia Presbyterian Church, 10704 Paseo del Norte NE, albuquerquenewcomersclub.org, 321-6970.

tuesdays, may 5–june 9 | 10 am–12 noon or 5:30–7:30 pm

Skills for Dementia Caregiving. This evidence-based program trains family and friends caring for a loved one with dementia, presenting practical techniques for interacting, understanding and managing their behavior. Info: Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter, 6731 Academy Road NE, 2664473. Free.

wednesday 6 | 9 am–5 pm

Free First Wednesday at Albuquerque Museum. Enjoy free admission to the Museum and take a sculpture garden tour at 11 am. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NE, cabq.gov, 243-7255.

Free general admission.

wednesday 6 | 1–2:30 pm

Basics of Alzheimer’s Disease. Presented by Barbara Michels, author of “The Alzheimer’s Journey,” this overview is for those families who may be facing Alzheimer’s disease. Info: Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter, 6731 Academy Road NE, 266-4473. Free.

wednesday 6 | 9:30 pm

Surfer Blood Concert. Surfer Blood, an American indie rock band from West Palm Beach, Florida is touring in support of their fifth studio album “Carefree Theatre.”

Info: Launchpad, 618 Central Ave SW, launchpadrocks.com, 764-8887.

thursdays, may 7–june 11 | 10 am–12 noon

Skills for Dementia Caregiving. See description on Tuesday, May 5. Info: Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter, 6731 Academy Road NE, 266-4473. Free.

thursday 7 | 5:30–7 pm

Science on Tap at O’Niell’s Pub in Nob Hill. This is a free science talk sponsored by UNM, Explora, and the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. For this month’s presenter and topic, visit scienceontapnm. blogspot.com. Info: O’Niell’s Pub, 4310 Central Ave. SE, 255-6782.

505-207-8990 | AbqAx.COM 2809 Broadbent Pkwy NE Suite C

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

@ABQAX 63

save the date to celebrate

this year’s class of

thursday 7 and saturday 9 | thursday 7 pm, saturday 3 pm

Quintessence Jazz Hands. May will bring a concert of music for chorus and jazz trio featuring local favorite Jim Ahrend. Info: St. John’s United Methodist Church, 2626 Arizona Street NE, quintessence-abq.com.

thursday 7 | 7:30 pm

Arlen Asher Birthday Concert. Outpost hosts this concert for NM woodwind maestro, Arlen Asher, aged 91. He is joined

by Christine Fawson, trumpet; Bob Fox, piano; Terry Burns, bass; John Trentacosta, drums, 90-year-old Souren Baronian and Jazz ensemble, Taksim. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd. SE, outpostspace.org, 268-0044. Tickets: $30, $25 Outpost Members and students.

friday 8 | 10 am–2 pm

THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2020 | 6:00–9:00PM SANDIA RESORT & CASINO PRESENTING SPONSORS

EVENT PARTNERS

National Public Gardens Day. Celebrate public gardens and learn how our staff and partners promote education, stewardship, and plant and water conservation. Info: ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. NW, abqbiopark.com, 848-7180. Tickets: included with regular admission.

friday 8–sunday 10 | friday and saturday 7 pm, sunday 2 pm

Spring Dance Concert. The 24th Annual Spring Community Dance Concert highlights the work of dancers young and young-atheart within all of Keshet’s varied education programs. Info: Keshet Center for the Arts, 4121 Cutler Ave. NE, keshetarts.org, 2249808. Tickets: keshetarts.org, 227-8583.

friday 8 | 7:30 pm

Richard Smith. Fingerstyle Guitar Champion and Thumbpicker Richard Smith has performed alongside Eric Clapton and Chet Atkins. Playing classical, jazz, bluegrass, ragtime, blues, et cetera, Atkins remarked, “He can play anything I know, only better.” Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd.

SE, outpostspace.org, 268-0044. Tickets: $30, $25 Outpost Members and students.

friday 8 | 7:30 pm

Albuquerque Science Fiction Society Meeting. Film reviewer Devin O’Leary of the Weekly Alibi will comment on upcoming science fiction, fantasy and horror films as movie trailers are screened. This club has author readings, science talks, and discussions. Info: Activity Room, St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 5301 Ponderosa Ave. NE, bubonicon.com, 266-8905. $1 for newcomers.

saturday 9 | 10 am–12 noon

Teddy Bear Clinic. Bring your kids and their favorite stuffed animal to this free community event. Our providers will show you and your children what happens when you visit the doctor to help take the scare out of medical care. Info: Lovelace Westside Hospital, 10501 Golf Course Road NW.

64

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

Albuquerque’s German Auto Specialists

Specializing in BMW EXPERTLY SERVICING ALL MAKES AND MODELS

Expertise Audi, Volvo, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Mini Cooper, Porsche, Volkswagen, and more!

Two Locations

Services Diagnostics, Engine Repair Tires & Alignment, Transmission Repair, Exhaust Repair, Tune-ups, Oil Changes

Call Us At

5701 Wilshire Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113

505-294-7684

121 Elizabeth St NE,

Or Visit

Albuquerque, NM 87123

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

hanswittlerautogroup.com

65

saturday 9 | 10 am–3 pm

Asian Pacific Islander American Heritage Festival. Celebrate the cultural traditions, ancestry, native languages and unique experiences of ethnic groups from Asia and the Pacific. Enjoy beautiful dancing, calligraphy and origami demonstrations, and food samples. Info: National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank Blvd.

SE, nuclearmuseum.org, 245-2137. Included with Museum admission.

saturday 9 | 10 am–3 pm

Visionary Arts & Crafts Guild Arts and Crafts Show. Need a unique handmade gift for Mother’s Day, graduation, birthday or anniversary? Shop local, juried artists at this show. Michoacanaria Mexican food truck will be there. Info: Pongal Event Center, 1101 Golf Course Road, Suite 102, Rio Rancho, vacgnm.com. Free admission.

saturday 9 and sunday 10 | 10 am–5 pm

23rd Placitas Studio Tour. Join us Mother’s Day weekend for the Placitas Studio Tour.

Over fifty artists will open their studios, allowing visitors an inside peek at their unique artistic processes. Info: Signs will guide you to the studios, maps available in the gazebo, Homestead Village, Highway 165, Placitas.

saturday 9 | 1 pm

Outpost Kids Variety Show. The Kids Variety Shows are for and by kids of all ages and levels, and feature dance, music, comedy, and theater in a relaxed performance environment. This show is KG-Rated. Adults must be accompanied by a child. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd.

SE, outpostspace.org, 268-0044. Free.

saturday 9 and sunday 10 | 2 pm

Rio Rancho Youth Chorus Goodwill Spring Concerts. Treat yourself to a beautiful variety of music to celebrate the planet and how we take care of it. All ages are welcome to this wonderful Mother’s Day treat. Info: Rio Rancho Presbyterian Church, 1004 24th Street SE, Rio Rancho, rr-yc.org. Tickets: $15; military/65+/under 13, $10.

saturday 9 | 4 pm

Author Event at Page One Books. Firsttime author Loriel Ryon talks about and signs her young-adult novel, “Into the Tall, Tall Grass.” Info: Page One Books, 5850 Eubank Blvd. NE, Suite B-41, page1book. com, 294-2026. Free to all attendees.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

sunday 10 | 1–3:30 pm

Mother’s Day at the Zoo. The New Mexico Philharmonic performs a special Mother’s Day concert. The concert begins at 2 pm.

Info: ABQ BioPark Zoo, 903 10th Street SW, abqbiopark.com, 848-7180. Tickets: included with regular admission.

sunday 10 | 1–5 pm

Mother’s Day in Old Town. Enjoy shopping, food trucks, local restaurants, and music.

Free face painting for the kids, dance to the music of Lara Manzanares, Soul Kitchen with Chris Dracup and Hillary Smith at the gazebo, and Albuquerque’s Lucky Paws Van will offer pet adoptions. Info: Historic Old Town, 200 N. Plaza Street NW.

sunday 10 | 2:30–3:30 pm

Frontiers for Young Minds at Explora.

This free ongoing project is for ages 8–15 who are curious about science. Meetings occur once per month to learn about editing neuroscience articles and doing research.

Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 224-8385.

Pre-registration required.

67

sunday 10–saturday, july 4 | various times

Cloud Dancers Therapeutic Horsemanship.

This organization provides equine-assisted activities for children, teens and adults in the Albuquerque and surrounding area with physical, cognitive, emotional and/or social needs through eight-week, innovative riding, vaulting and ground programs. Info: clouddancersthp.org, 926-1426. Register at clouddancersthp.org.

sunday 10 | 7:30 pm

Engine. Two guitars. One harmonica.

Three voices in harmony. These elements weave Afro-Latin rhythms, blue notes, rock attitude, and flamenco spirit, fusing together performances that invite audience members to surrender to their inner joy. All ages. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd. SE. Tickets: holdmyticket.com, $22 in advance, $27 day of show.

wednesday 13 | 7:30 pm

Brian Culbertson: The XX Tour. Multiinstrumentalist, songwriter and producer Culbertson describes his tour as “a lot of funky instrumentals, some pop-sounding tracks, a couple slow jams, straight-ahead jazz, gospel, some vocals, lots of horns and some straight-up funk!” All ages welcome.

Info: KiMo Theatre, 423 Central Ave. NW, holdmyticket.com, 886-1251.

thursday 14 | 1:30–2:30 pm

Legal Issues for Caregivers-What You Should Know. Early legal and financial planning is critical for families facing the journey of Alzheimer’s disease. This important information is presented by retired attorney, Don Pinnock, JD. Info: Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter, 6731 Academy Road NE, 266-4473. Free.

thursday 14 | 5:30–6:30 pm

OPENING I M A G I N AT I O N S FOR OPEN REGISTER NOW! MINDS

Challenging Education

Bosque Summer challenges the imaginations of students in grades K-12. Check out the exciting programs in each age group and sign up for one week or all eight weeks. Register for half-day or full-day programs.

The choice is yours!

BOSQUESCHOOL.ORG (505) 898-6388

Common Time Concert Series. Join us for another of our free happy hour concerts, this one entitled “Brahms and Birthday Cake.”

Info: St. John’s United Methodist Church, 2626 Arizona Street NE, musicatstjohns.org, 883-9717. Donations are accepted and 50% of the proceeds will go to Feed New Mexico Kids.

thursday 14 | 7:30 pm

SuperSax. SuperSax New Mexico performs with Alex Murzyn and Scott Jacobsen, altosax; Aaron Lovato and Lee Taylor, tenor-sax; and Glenn Kostur, baritone-sax; Robert Lah, piano; Colin Deuble, bass; and Cal Haines, drums, with trumpeter Bobby Shew. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd.

SE, outpostspace.org, 268-0044. Tickets: $25, $20 Outpost Members and students.

friday 15 | 10 am–2 pm

Endangered Species Day. Learn what the ABQ BioPark is doing to help keep species off the extinction list and what you can do to help. Info: ABQ BioPark Zoo, 903 10th Street SW, abqbiopark.com, 848-7180. Tickets: included with regular admission.

friday 15–saturday 16 | 6:30 pm–8 am

Aquarium Overnight. Pack your pajamas and pillow for the ultimate sleepover. Explore the Aquarium at night and learn about ocean animals. Info: ABQ BioPark Aquarium, 2601 Central Ave. NW, abqbiopark.com, 8487180. Tickets: $30.

friday 15 | 7–10 pm

SUMMER

Adult Night: Sensational Science. Enjoy sensational experiences targeted at using all of your senses. Explore all of Explora’s hands-on exhibits while enjoying live music.

Food and coffee also for sale. Ages 18 and over. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 224-8300. Admission $7-$10, Members free.

creativity • fitness • discovery 68

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

friday 15 | 7:30 pm

saturday 16 | 10 am–4 pm

saturday 16 | 7:30 pm

saturday 16 | 9–11 am

saturday 16 | 5 pm

sunday 17 | 10 am–3:30 pm

Purple Carpet Gala. “In Old Hollywood, Everyone’s a Star.” At this black-tie formal event you can relive the glitz and spectacle of Hollywood’s golden era, all to help families facing Alzheimer’s. Proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. Info: Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown, 2600 Louisiana Blvd.

NE, bit.ly/2020purplecarpetgala, asjaramillo@alz.org, 404-9846.Tickets: $130.

NMCCC Classic Auto Show. Albuquerque Museum and the New Mexico Council of Car Clubs host the 36th annual show. This year’s theme features pre-WWII vehicles; vehicles of all imported makes are included. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NE, cabq.gov, 243-7255. Free spectator admission; $10 vehicle registration fee to participate.

saturday 16 and sunday 17 | saturday 7 pm, sunday 3 pm

sunday 17 | 12 noon–4 pm

Pierre Bensusan. French-Algerian guitarist, singer and composer Pierre Bensusan’s music defies classification, crossing world music, classical, jazz, traditional, and folk, and fusing cultures together in ways never before experienced. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd. SE, outpostspace.org, 268-0044. Tickets: $25, $20 Outpost Members and students.

Rio Grande Valley Blue Star Mothers Monthly Meeting. The public is invited to learn about our chapter and mission to serve active duty military and veterans. Info: NM Veterans Memorial, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE, rgvnmbsm.org, 345-6724.

saturday 16 | 10 am–2 pm

Raptor Wing Ding. Discover raptors that are found in New Mexico, learn about some of the amazing adaptations they have for their lifestyles and investigate ways to protect them. Info: ABQ BioPark Zoo, 903 10th Street SW, abqbiopark.com, 848-7180.

Tickets: included with regular admission.

saturday 16 | 10 am–4 pm

CHS Heritage Day. Corrales celebrates its history. See displays of digital photographs and agricultural history. Family-fun activities include building popsicle stick bridges, making butter, planting historic Corrales crop seeds, interacting with local goats and learning about goat milk products. Info: Old San Ysidro Church, 966 Old Church Road, Corrales, corraleshistory.org, free.

Heritage Day at Casa San Ysidro. Casa San Ysidro partners with the Corrales Historical Society to highlight the area’s history. Enjoy family-friendly activities that celebrate aspects of local history and culture such as wool production, blacksmithing, traditional music and art.

Info: Casa San Ysidro, 973 Old Church Road, Corrales, 898-3915, cabq.gov. Free.

Westward Ho! The Albuquerque Civic Chorus spring concert celebrates the American West through the music of the pioneers, cowboys and Native Americans along with Western themes from Broadway and Hollywood. Info: Central United Methodist Church, 201 University Blvd.

NE. Tickets: $15, kids under 6 free. Info:

Roust The House Teen Performance Night.

These performances feature teen bands and soloists, from punk rock to classical piano, singer-songwriters, hip hoppers, and spoken word artists. Shows are coordinated

by TeamRoust: Luke Dierks, Leili Shafie, Scott Wilson, and Zoe Kurtz. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd. SE, outpostspace.org, 268-0044. $3 at door.

Painting With a Twist. Kids, come to “Paint with a Hero.” We want to introduce kids to our local heroes from the fire and police departments. See police cars and fire trucks, kids enjoy free painting. Funds raised support Ronald McDonald House Charities of NM. Info: 8510 Montgomery Blvd. NE, A5, paintingwithatwist.com, 867-2468.

abqchorus.org.

Celebrating 6 Years

ITALIAN Coors & Montaño

505.503.7327 MODERNO Rio Rancho

505.891.2432

@LAVA ROCK BREWERY 505.836.1022 M’TUCCIS TWENTY FIVE Now Open

w w w. m t u c c i s . c o m

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

69

tuesday 19 | 7–11:30 pm

Elder and Bask Concert. These two bands display their unique heavy psychedelic sounds on this nation-wide tour, part of the Season of Mist record label. Info: Sister Bar, 407 Central Ave. NW. Tickets: $15, eventbrite.com.

wednesday 20 | 12 noon–1 pm

Coping with Late Stage Alzheimer’s Disease. For families facing Alzheimer’s, each stage in the progression of the disease presents its own challenges. This presentation by Dr. Janice Knoefel, MD is recommended for families and caregivers whose loved one has entered the later stages. Info: Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter, 6731 Academy Road NE, 266-4473.

Free.

wednesday 20–saturday, June 6 | various times

ABQ Hear Here Festival. Keshet Ideas and Innovation Community with City of Albuquerque “Tipping Points for Creatives” present this Festival, partnering choreographers with musicians or spokenword artists to create a collaborative work in 2 weeks. Public showing on June 6th at 7:30 pm. Info: Keshet Center for the Arts. Tickets and details: keshetarts.org, 227-8583.

wednesday 20 | 12 noon

Marimbas of the World. The New Mexican Marimba Band performs on an authentic Mexican Marimba featuring the music of Steve Chavez, who is a prolific composer/ arranger, teacher, screenwriter, and collector of 38 Marimbas from around the world. Info: Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE. Tickets: free, holdmyticket.com.

thursday 21 | 12 noon

Marimbas of the World. See description on Wednesday 20. Info: Central & Unser Library, 8081 Central Ave. NW. Tickets: free, holdmyticket.com.

thursday 21 | 5–8:30 pm

Let the Sunshine In. Swing by for music, fun programs, art making for all ages, and a cash bar and small plates at our cafe.

Discover Albuquerque architecture and street photography from the late 1960s.

Join Modern Albuquerque for a screening of “Bunny O’Hare.” Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NE, cabq.gov, 2437255. Free.

Everything for Your Garden

Veggies, Fruit Trees, Flowers, Shrubs & Perennials On the SW Corner of 4 St & Alameda Blvd Open Daily 9 AM–5:30PM th

505.898.3562 AlamedaGreenhouseABQ.com

thursday 21–sunday 31 | various times

Beer Week. The 10th Annual Albuquerque Beer Week is a barley-filled celebration with something for everyone during its 11day celebration, including local microbrew tastings, exciting tours, incredible food events, and some of the best bands that Albuquerque has to offer. Info: various locations, abqbeerweek.com.

9515 4th St NW Albuquerque, NM 87114 ■

70

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

thursday 21 | 7:30 pm

saturday 23 | 9 am–3 pm

friday 22 | 7:30 pm

saturday 23–sunday, october 18 | 9 am–5 pm

Greg Ruggiero Trio. Outpost and Santa Fe Music Collective present jazz guitarist and NM native, Greg Ruggiero, performing swing and jazz standards with his trio featuring drum legend Albert “Tootie” Heath and bassist Terry Burns. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd. SE, outpostspace.org, 268-0044. Tickets: $25, $20 Outpost Members and students.

Four Giants of Jazz. Drummer Peter Erskine, tenor-saxophonist George Garzone, pianist Alan Pasqua, and bassist Darek Oles are “… the epitome of live improvisational jazz, played with both freedom of expression and with pure joy.” Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd. SE, outpostspace. org, 268-0044. Tickets: $30, $25 Outpost Members and students.

saturday 23–monday 25 | tbd

Alex Bregman/AB for Autism Baseball Tournament. Sophia’s Foundation for Autism teamed up with Alex Bregman of the Houston Astros and his nonprofit, AB for Autism, to put on this new, annual baseball tournament over Memorial Day Weekend. Info: Albuquerque Regional Sports Complex, 1801 Arroyo Vista Blvd.

NW, sophiasfoundation.com for details.

Artists of Mariposa Art Show and Sale.

Over 20 artists reside in the Community of Mariposa and they will be displaying and selling their beautiful work, including paintings, ceramics, jewelry, lapidary and fiber art, during our event. Info: Mariposa Community Center, 2501 Mariposa Parkway NE, Rio Rancho.

FDR: His Vision, Our Freedoms Still Alive.

This special exhibit highlight’s FDR’s enduring achievements, using historic photographs, documents, cartoons, and posters from the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum collections. Info: National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank Blvd. SE, nuclearmuseum.org, 2452137. Included with Museum admission.

saturday 23 | 1–3 pm

Opening of Trinity: Reflections on the Bomb. Join us for a panel discussion exploring perspectives on the lasting impacts of the bomb with artists Tom Joyce, Eve Laramie and Yukiyo Kawano, followed by a performance in the gallery by Kawano.

Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NE, cabq.gov, 243-7255. Free.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

saturday 23 | 1:30–3:30 pm

Heritage Spinning and Weaving: Dying Techniques and Uses. This class features techniques used for dyeing wool with indigo and other dyes. Info: Casa San Ysidro, 973 Old Church Road, Corrales, 898-3915, cabq. gov/casasanysidro. Free with Museum admission. Call to register.

sunday 24 | 2 pm

CHS Speaker Series. Mary Davis, CHS Archives, will interview a panel of four people who grew up in Corrales in the 1960s.

They will share their memories of Corrales before it started becoming a suburb. Info: Old San Ysidro Church, 966 Old Church Road, Corrales, corraleshistory.org. Free.

sunday 24 | 3–6 pm

ABQ Blues & Brews. This is NM’s favorite beer fest and the kickoff celebration for ABQ Beer Week. Hear blues music and enjoy brews from over 70 producers, including beers, ciders and spirits, unlimited sampling, and the NM cocktail challenge. 21 and over only. Info: Sandia Resort and Casino, 30 Rainbow Road. Tickets: abqbluesandbrews. com.

71

tuesday 26–friday, august 7 | 9 am–4 pm

“Science is Everywhere” Summer Camp.

These week-long learning adventures are for students Pre-K and Kindergarten through 7th grade. Campers experience sessions that include “Grossology,” “Rocket Science” and “Ocean Odyssey.” Info: National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank Blvd.

SE, nuclearmuseum.org, 245-2137. Online registration required, see pricing online.

tuesday 26 | 9 am–2 pm

Explora Sensory-Friendly Camps for ages 4-7 and 8-12. This 4-day camp runs May 2629, offering children with autism spectrum and other sensory processing disorders a safe, supportive, fun environment. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us.

Pre-registration and fee: campcoordinator@ explora.us, 224-8381.

tuesday 26–saturday, august 1 | 10 am–4 pm

Catch and Release: Recent Prints from Tamarind’s Collaborative Workshop. This is an exhibition of lithographs created at Tamarind in 2018 and 2019, with a focus on prints by recipients of the Frederick Hammersley Artist Residency. Info: Tamarind Institute, 2500 Central Ave. SE, 453-2159.

72

saturday 30 | 8 am–4 pm

Special Olympics New Mexico State Summer Games. Special Olympics athletes from around the state will compete in track and field events, bocce, flag football, skills events, and volleyball. Info: The University of New Mexico Track and Soccer Complex, 1800 Avenida Cesar Chavez SE, sonm.org, 856-0342. Free for spectators. Register online to volunteer.

saturday 30 | 10 am–3 pm

Animal Humane New Mexico’s Caturday Cat Café & Meow-ketplace. We will have a silent auction, kitten yoga, artisan vendors, purr-sentations, kids Kitty Corral, live radioremote with Big 98.5’s Chaz Malibu, a live performance by local talent WholeHearted, and more. Info: 615 Virginia Street SE, animalhumanenm.org, 255-5523.

Free admission.

saturday 30 | 7–11 pm

Shaken, Not Stirred. Join us for a special diamond anniversary celebration and have a fun-filled evening with great food, delicious martinis, and Passport to Belgium Raffle.

Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NE, albuquerquemuseumfoundation. org, 842-0111. Tickets: $75.

saturday 30 and sunday 31 | saturday 7:30 pm, sunday 2 pm

Keshet Dance Company presents the Movement for Mercy Project. This live dance performance centers around the themes of community, relationships, shared history, and intersections of experiences, created inside and outside of prison walls.

Info: Keshet Center for the Arts, 4121 Cutler Ave. NE. Tickets: keshetarts.org, 227-8583.

sunday 31 | 10 am–2 pm

World Otter Day. Come celebrate river otters at the Aquarium. Learn about these amazing animals that are native to New Mexico. Info: ABQ BioPark Aquarium, 2601 Central Ave. NW, abqbiopark.com, 848-7180.

Tickets: included with regular admission.

sunday 31 | 3–4:30 pm

Chamber works. Members of the Albuquerque Philharmonic Orchestra perform selections from intimate chamber works, such as trios, quartets, quintets and more. Program will be announced at the concert. Children are welcome. Info: Las Puertas Event Center, 1512 First Street NW, abqphilharmonic.org, 433-7445. Free, open seating, donations appreciated.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

73

ONGOING: daily | various times

Al-Anon Family Groups and Alateen– Meetings. An anonymous fellowship of relatives and friends of problem drinkers, meetings are held on various days, times and locations throughout 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: Al-Anon Information Service, 9004 Menaul Blvd. NE, Suite #12, aisnm.org, 262-2177.

daily |

Albuquerque Apparel Center and AAC School of Fashion Design. Melissa Lea, president and founder of AAC and awardwinning fashion designer, offers a variety of industry-based fashion design classes, seminars, retreats, and more. Couture, costume, and custom clothing design services, alterations, and patternmaking services are also available.

Info: abqapparelcenter.com, 803-6966.

Roadrunner Food Bank. Volunteers are needed to help prep food for distribution, repack and sort items, and other activities while helping New Mexico’s hungry. The gift of your precious time helps solve hunger for so many people. Volunteers must register in advance. Shifts are available in two-hour increments, Mondays–Saturdays. Info: 5840 Office Blvd. NE, 349-5358, givetime@rrfb. org.

daily |

Ronald McDonald House. Ronald McDonald House Charities of New Mexico provides a home-away-from-home for families with ill children. Operating the 30-bedroom house and the Ronald McDonald Family Room on the sixth floor of the UNM Children’s Hospital, volunteers make a vital difference in the lives of the people they serve. Info: Traci, 8428960, volunteer7@comcast.net, rmhc-nm.org.

daily |

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 a part of a rewarding organization. Info: Agora Crisis Center, agoracares.org.

Explora. The museum brings out new activities in the “Working Together to Build a Village” exhibit area in its Rotary Pavilion, offering hands-on activities related to construction, architecture, and engineering, and Sketch Aquarium and Curious Bubbles in the Explora Theater. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 224-8300.

Cost: Included in admission.

daily |

daily |

daily |

Animal Humane’s Free Behavioral Helpline.

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

daily |

Donate Blood. Someone needs it every day.

Info: 843-6227, unitedbloodservices.org.

daily |

Epilepsy Support and Education Services—Meeting. For meeting time and place, please contact the office at 243-9119 or check the website for more details. Info: epilepsysupportnm.org.

daily |

Rattlesnakes. See different species of live rattlesnakes displayed in recreated natural landscapes. We are dedicated to conservation and preservation through education. Info: American International Rattlesnake Museum, 202 San Felipe Road NW, rattlesnakes.com. Tickets: adults, $6; seniors, military, students, teachers $5; children, $4.

74

daily |

“We Are of This Place: The Pueblo Story” Art Exhibit. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center celebrates its 40th anniversary with this permanent museum exhibit that represents all 19 Pueblos and builds upon the IPCC’s 40-year history of telling the story of Pueblo people in their own voices.

Hear stories in Pueblo languages from artists and elders, interact with art and artifacts, learn about the Pueblo people’s history of resilience, and experience traditions that have been passed down for generations.

Info: Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th Street NW, indianpueblo.org, 843-7270.

Free with museum admission: adults, $8.40; seniors and NM residents, $6.40; students and children, $5.40.

daily |

Watermelon Mountain Ranch Animal Center. New Mexico’s largest no-kill animal shelter seeks loving homes for rescued dogs and cats. Adoptions are at select Petsmart locations and Watermelon Mountain Ranch on various days from 10 am–8 pm. Donations, fosters, and volunteers are always welcome.

Info: wmranch.org, 771-0140, wmranchnm@ aol.com.

daily | 9 am–3 pm

Veterans Presentation. Listen to veterans tell about historical events or their personal experience in the service to our country.

Speakers represent WWII, Korean, Vietnam, and War on Terror experiences. Also tour the museum, gardens and amphitheater.

Info: New Mexico Veterans Memorial Park, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE, 256-2042. Free admission. Donations requested.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

daily | 9 am–5 pm

“The Original Instructions: Pueblo Sovereignty and Governance” Exhibit.

This Indian Pueblo Cultural Center exhibit re-examines the role and symbolism of the Lincoln canes in the history of Pueblo people, within a larger discussion about sovereignty, governance, and leadership from a Pueblo perspective. Info: Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th Street NW, indianpueblo.org, 843-7270. Free with museum admission: adults, $8.40; seniors, military, NM residents, $6.40; students and children 5-18, $5.40.

daily | 10 am–5 pm

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

Info: 615 Virginia Street SE, 10141 Coors Blvd. NW, animalhumanenm.org.

daily | various times

Explora’s Experiment Bar. Fruit and veggie batteries, thaumatropes, invisible writing, electromagnetics, DNA extraction or spin art? Visit Explora’s website to see which of our hands-on activities are happening.

Activities change weekly. Mondays through Saturdays at 10 am and Sundays at noon.

Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 224-8300. Free with general admission.

mondays | 5–6 pm

Geeks Who Drink. Test your knowledge while enjoying a unique evening’s experience.

Free of charge and open to anyone 21 and older. Prizes awarded to winning teams.

Only one table allowed per team. Warning: this quiz contains adult themes and adult language. Info: O’Niell’s Heights, 3301 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, oniells.com, 293-1122.

every second monday | 6:30–8 pm

Outcomes, Inc. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Discussion/Support Groups.

Info: Heights Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 8600 Academy Road NE, 243-2551 to reserve a space. Free childcare provided. Free.

mondays | 5:30 pm

every third monday | 6–7:30 pm

every second monday | 6:30 pm

every fourth monday | 6:30–8:30 pm

The Red Bucket Book Club. Join this group and dive into Fun-tastic fiction discussing and reading a variety of fabulous books. Info: Barnes & Noble Coronado Center, 6600 Menaul Blvd. NE, bn.com, 883-8200. Free.

“The Lyin’ Dog” Interactive Game Show.

Aux Dog Theatre Nob Hill, in association with Empire Board Game Library, presents “The Lyin’ Dog,” an interactive game show. Three storytellers—two are real, one’s a liar—can the audience tell the difference? Info: Empire Board Game Library, 3503 Central Ave. NE, auxdog.com, 254-7716. Admission: $5 cash, food and beverages also available.

Outcomes, Inc. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Discussion/Support Groups.

Info: West Mesa Community Center, 5500 Glenrio NW, 243-2551 to reserve a space.

Free childcare provided. Free.

Bead Society of New Mexico Monthly Membership Meeting. The BSNM’s purpose is to promote the members’ and the public education, appreciation, and involvement in the field of beads and bead-related subjects.

No meeting in July or December. Info: North Domingo Baca Multigenerational Center, 7521 Carmel Drive NE, beadsocietynm.org.

Aged Wine.

FreshFood.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

75

siarza.com 505.234.6900

76

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

mondays–fridays | various times

Feel The hisTory. love The Place.

Ninja Park Obstacle Course Fitness Center.

TAK Fit is Ninja Park’s fun and functional fitness style that utilizes calisthenics exercise, dynamic lifts, and obstacles to create a unique and balanced workout that you will not find anywhere else. Join and have fun getting fit. Ages 16 and older.

Classes are 6:30 to 7 am, 12:30 am to 1 pm, and 6:30 to 7 pm. Info: ninjaparkabq.com, 883-9203.

mondays–saturdays | 10 am–5 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 silver smithing. Info: The Turquoise Museum, 400 2nd Street SW, turquoisemuseum.com, 433-3684. Tickets: $16, discounts for AAA, over 55 and military.

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. Preregistration required by calling 348-4451. Free.

tuesdays | 6 pm

ABQ Scrabble Club. We have been playing weekly for over 30 years. Come join us. Info: Chili’s, 6909 Menaul Blvd. NE.

tuesdays | 6:30–7:30 pm

Alateen Meetings. For families and friends of alcoholics, Alateen groups for ages 6 to 19 years old. Info: Corrales Senior Center, 4320 Corrales Road, Corrales, 262-2177.

tuesdays | 6:30–9:30 pm

Beginning Square Dance Lessons. Lessons are available for singles, couples, and families. Dress is casual and no experience is required; offered by the Crazy Eights Square Dance Club. Info: Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4915 Hawkins Street NE, 881-0137, hornytoad@q.com.

tuesdays | 6:30–9:30 pm

Open Drawing with the Model. Info: Harwood Art Studio, 1029 6th Street NW, harwoodartcenter.org. Admission: $10 per session; five sessions for $35.

tuesdays | 7:30–10 pm

Tango Club of Albuquerque’s Weekly Milonga. Argentine Tango social dance party. Info: Lloyd Shaw Dance Center, 5506 Coal Ave. SE, abqtango.org. Guided Practica, 7:30 to 8 pm; Milonga 8 to 10:30 pm. Tickets: $3-$5.

tuesday and thursdays | 9–10:30 am

4541 Corrales Rd. • 505-363-5176

CasaViejaEvents.com Photo By: Kate The Photographer

Fine Wine Dance Classes: Moving FWD. Classes specifically for ages 55 and over,

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

77

exploring movement and choreography as a community. No experience necessary. Dropin class $7.50 with discount; Session package discounts available. Registration is ongoing.

Info: Keshet Center for the Arts, 4121 Cutler Ave. NE, keshetarts.org, 224-9808.

tuesdays–saturdays | 9 am–5 pm

Art and History Exhibitions at Albuquerque Museum. See our website for the current listing of exhibitions. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, cabq. gov, 243-7255. General Museum admission: $3-$6. $5 exhibition surcharge applies.

tuesdays–saturdays | tues–fri 9:30 am, 1:30 pm, sat 10:30 am, 12 noon, 1:30 pm

Casa San Ysidro Tours. Take a tour of this late 19th century building in Corrales filled with an exuberant collection of New Mexico vernacular art. Info: Casa San Ysidro, 973 Old Church Road, Corrales, cabq.fov/ casasanysidro, 898-3915. General admission $4-$6.

tuesdays–sundays | 10 am–5 pm

National Hispanic Cultural Center Exhibits.

See our website for the current listing of exhibitions. Info: National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 Fourth Street SW, 246-2261, nhccnm.org.

78

tuesdays, thursdays, fridays, sundays | 11 am

Historic Old Town Tours. Explore historic Old Town on foot with our informative docents who will provide insight into the people and places that shaped our early community. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, cabq.gov, 2437255. Tour included with paid Museum admission, $4-$6, Sundays free.

tuesdays–sundays | 11:30 am–8 pm, sundays 11:30 am–4 pm

Catopia Fun Events. Come to relax, have snacks and drinks, and play with our wonderful adoptable cats. We also offer events like Painting with Cats, Henna Cattoos, Cat Photography, Music Nights, and “Ask the Vet.” Info: catopiacatcafe.com, 5084278.

tuesdays–sundays | 11:30 am–8 pm, sundays 11:30 am–4 pm

Cat adoptions. Come enjoy some drinks, snacks, and time with adorable adoptable cats at Catopia Cat Cafe. Your visit will support their foster home and keep them company until they find their permanent homes, maybe with you. Info: catopiacatcafe. com, 508-4278.

tuesdays, thursdays, and saturdays | various times

Ninja Park Obstacle Course Fitness Center. First place winner of the 2015 Women’s Area Qualifier in the Ultimate Ninja Athlete Association (UNAA) competition, Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor Jessica Lucero teaches fun and challenging back-to-back classes every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday: Body Blast, 6 to 7 pm; Obstacle Technique and Efficiency, 7 to 7:30 pm; and Foam Rolling and Stretching, 7 to 7:30. Try one, two, or all three classes for free (first-time participants only).

Info: 883-9203, ninjaparkabq. com.every

1–2:30 pm

first

tuesday

|

Spanish Language Alzheimer’s Support Group. This meeting is for Spanish-speaking individuals caring for a family member with dementia. Info: Alamosa Community Center, 6900 Gonzales Road SW, Suite C, 363-8499 or (800) 272-3900.

every first and fourth tuesday | 10 am–2 pm

Rug Hookers Demonstration. Join the Adobe Wool Arts Guild for a monthly demonstration of rug hooking in the Heritage Farmhouse. Info: ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. NW, 8487180, abqbiopark.com. Tickets: Included with admission.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

every second tuesday | 11 am–1 pm

Stitching Group. Knitting, crocheting, embroidering, tatting, spinning, crossstitching and more. Join in the fun, share ideas, patterns, and experiences. All ages and experience levels welcome. Info: Wyoming/Hillerman Library, 8205 Apache Ave. NE, 291-6264.

every second tuesday | 6–7 pm

Outcomes, Inc. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Discussion/Support Groups.

Info: Tijeras-East Mountains, Los Vecinos Community Center, 478 1/2 Old Highway 66, Tijeras, 243-2551 to reserve a space.

Free childcare provided. Free.

every last tuesday | 6–7 pm

Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE, 768-6020. Admission is free for the children and an adult.

FIGHTING FOR

wednesdays | 6–9 pm

Albuquerque Dance Club. ADC offers social dancing every Wednesday to a variety of music mix including swing, country, Latin, ballroom, and tango. No partner needed, over 21 only, ID required. Info: The Dirty Bourbon, 9800 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 2993737. $5 cover.

YOUR BEST

every first wednesday | 9 am–5 pm

Free First Wednesday. Start your month off right with free admission to Albuquerque Museum and sculpture garden tour. $5 additional special exhibit surcharge may apply. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NE, cabq.gov, 243-7255.

Free general admission.

INTEREST

wednesdays | 9 pm

Geeks Who Drink. Join the best Pub Quiz in town. Bring your friends and create a team of up to six people. Info: O’Niell’s Nob Hill, 4310 Central Ave. SE, 256-0564, geekswhodrink. com/blog, oniells.com.

Murderinos Book Club. This free true crime book club monthly and Book Club purchases get 10% discount at Bookworks.

Info: Bookworks, 4022 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, bkwrks.com, 344-8139. Free to attend.

wednesdays | 9:30 and 11 am

Stories in the Sky: Weekly Story Time.

Activities for toddlers and parents include stories about science, flight, geography, the seasons, the environment, astronomy and more. For toddlers through age 6. Info: Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE, 768-6020. Admission is free for the children and an adult.

wednesdays | 10 and 11 am

Japanese Garden Tours. Hanami Flower Tours at the Japanese Garden. Info: ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. NW, abqbiopark.com, 311.

wednesdays | 10:30 am

Good Morning Storytime with Ms. Dakota.

Join for a story, a snack and a fun activity.

For toddlers and preschoolers. Info: Barnes and Noble Coronado Center, 6600 Menaul Blvd. NE, bn.com, 883-8200. Free.

wednesdays and saturdays | 11 am

Sculpture Garden Tours at Albuquerque Museum. Enjoy a pleasant stroll in our sculpture garden with a friendly docent who will share stories on the artists and their works. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, cabq.gov, 243-7255.

Tour included with paid general admission, $4-$6.

wednesdays | 12 noon–1 pm

Kiwanis Club of Sandia. Join in for lunch, listen to interesting speakers, and learn how you, too, can help the children of Albuquerque and surrounding communities live better lives. Info: Wecks, 3913 Louisiana Blvd. NE, facebook.com/sandiakiwanis.

wednesdays | 12:30 and 1:30 pm

Music in the Sky: Weekly Music Time.

Activities for toddlers and parents include music and movements. Info: Balloon

We provide legal services to our local community.

Our lawfirm seeks justice and the best possible outcome for clients and their families.

(505) 433-4953

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

714 Tijeras Ave NW, Albuquerque NM

79

every second wednesday | 6:30–7:30 pm

every first thursday | 6:30–8:30 pm

thursdays | 10 am–12 noon

every second thursday | 6–8 pm

Bookworks Book Club.

Bookworks Book Club meets monthly and Book Club purchases receive a 10% discount at Bookworks. Info: Bookworks, 4022 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, bkwrks.com, 344-8139.

Free and open to the public.

Prehistoric Preschool for Families.

Explore the most dynamic dinosaurs that roamed New Mexico. Learn to balance like Seismosaurus, hunt like Coelophysis, and stomp like Tyrannosaurus through imaginative play. Info: New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, 1801 Mountain Road NW, nmnaturalhistory.org, 841-2848. Tickets: see cost information online.

thursdays | 10:30 am

Story Time at the Zoo. Info: ABQ BioPark Zoo, 903 10th Street SW, abqbiopark.com, 764-6200. Included in admission.

thursdays | 3–5 pm

Class with Explora Maker-in-Residence.

Explore the science of sound and make a musical instrument with Daveed Korup.

Most Thursdays 3-5 pm; call to confirm.

Limited places, first-come first-served at class time. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 224-8300. Included with general admission $6-$10.

every thursday | 6 pm

Stand-up Comedy at The Stage. This is a fun date night. Enjoy great food and drinks, and the nation’s best comics. Seating is first come, first served. Doors open at 6 pm, comedy starts at 7:30 pm. 21 and over.

Info: Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel, 54 Jemez Canyon Dam Road, Santa Ana Pueblo, 7715680. Tickets: $10.

every thursday | 6–9 pm

Dance Club. Albuquerque Dance Club offers social dance classes in two-step, waltz, country western swing and a few other styles to country western music. No partner needed, space is limited. Info: Lloyd Shaw Dance Center, 5506 Coal Ave. SE. Preregistration is required: glkello@nmia.com or 299-3737.

every first thursday | 9:30 am–12 noon

Colcheras Demonstration. Learn to appreciate this Hispanic art form by watching El Arco Iris: Sociedad de Colcheras members at work in the Heritage Farmhouse. Info: ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. NW, 848-7180, abqbiopark.com.

Tickets: Included with admission.

Albuquerque Modern Quilt Guild. Explore modern quilting, charity work and a working modern quilting group. Info: 7001 San Antonio Drive NE, 821-2739, hipstitchabq. com. Cost: membership, $10/year; guests, may attend one meeting for free, then up to two more meetings for $3 per meeting.

Visionary Arts and Crafts Guild Membership Meeting. VACG’s mission is to develop fellowship among craftspeople and facilitate a market for crafts through exhibitions, education, promoting the development and appreciation of craftspeople and their work. Meet monthly except Oct, Nov, Dec. Info: FBCRR Adult Ed Center, 1909 Grande Ave., Rio Rancho, facebook.com/vacgnm, 948-3132.

every fourth thursday | 10 am–2 pm

Quilters Demonstration. The New Mexico Quilters will be working on their Botanic Garden quilt and other projects in the Heritage Farmhouse. Info: ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. NW, 8487180, abqbiopark.com. Tickets: Included with admission.

every fourth thursday | 7–9 pm

Duke City Story Slam. This monthly storytelling event is where people tell truelife stories, without notes, on that month’s theme. Attendees can reserve a 5-min Open Mic slot between the featured storytellers.

A friendly panel of judges scores each story; the winner takes home a prize. Info: Red Door Brewery Downtown Taproom, 400 Gold Ave. SW, storytellersofnewmexico. com, facebook.com/newmexicostorytellers.

every thursday, friday and saturday | 6–9:30 pm

Party in the Fireroom on the Patio. Pueblo Harvest Café hosts live music in its cozy Fireroom or on the patio. While you listen and dance, enjoy a taco bar, all-you-can-eat horno-baked pizza, handcrafted cocktails, local craft beer, and a creative menu of appetizers from our acclaimed culinary team. Info: Pueblo Harvest Café, 2401 12th Street NW, puebloharvestcafe.com, 7243510. No cover.

fridays | 10:30 am

Story Time at the Botanic Garden. Info: ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. NW, abqbiopark.com or dial 311.

fridays | 12 noon–1:30 pm

Grief and Loss Support Group. Grief is a natural process that can often be eased through sharing with others who have experienced the loss of a loved one or any other significant loss. Info: Jewish Community Center, 5520 Wyoming Blvd. NE. Preregistration required by calling 348-4451. Free.

80

fridays | 1 pm

Mural Discovery Tour. The IPCC houses 19 murals by Pueblo artists. Our guided tour provides an introduction to the art, traditions, and core values of Pueblo culture, and a who’s who of Pueblo artists, such as Pablita Velarde, Helen Hardin, and Jose Rey Toledo.

Reflect upon the murals and uncover layers of meaning in each, with representations of traditional Pueblo life, including dance, the seasons and our connection to animals, as well as the contemporary vision of emerging artists. Tours can be scheduled for groups in advance by calling 212-7052. Info: Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th Street NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org. Free with museum admission: adults, $8.40; seniors and military, $6.40; New Mexico residents, $6.40; students and children, $5.40; children under 5, free.

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-of-the-art floating dance floors. Enjoy refreshments and an introductory dance class from 7–8 pm. Info: Holiday Dance Studio, 5200 Eubank Blvd. NE, 508-4020, holidaydancestudio.com. $10.

fridays–sundays | fridays and saturdays 7–9 pm, sundays 1-3 pm

Summertime in Old Town. Every weekend from May through August, Old Town is the best place to be for beautiful plazas, great cuisine, unique local shops, and free, live music on the gazebo performed by local musicians. Enjoy one of Albuquerque’s most treasured locales. Info: Historic Old Town, 200 N. Plaza Street NW.

every first friday |

Free Admission Day at Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum. Check out this award-winning, world-class facility highlighting the art, culture, history, science and sport of ballooning and other lighter-than-air craft.

Info: 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE (North of Alameda), 768-6020, cabq.gov/balloon.

every first friday | 1:30 pm

Tamarind Institute First Friday Tours. 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), a collaborative process video, and a printing demonstration.

Reservations: tamarind.unm.edu.

Info: Tamarind Institute, 2500 Central Ave. SE, 453-2159. Free.

every first friday | 8–10 pm

Cristel’s Variety Dance Party. Join us on this large wooden dance floor for social dancing to a variety of music - country, ballroom, Latin, and swing. Singles and couples are welcome. Great wood dance floor, music requests taken. Info: Lloyd Shaw Dance Center, 5506 Coal Ave. SE. $5 cover per person.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

every other friday | 7–9 pm

Albuquerque Spanish Meetup. Practice conversational Spanish with a mix of native Spanish speakers and folks learning Spanish. Info: 553-3008, spanish.meetup. com/700/calendar.

every third friday | 7–9 pm

Cactus and Succulent Society of New Mexico. Discuss cacti and succulents; enjoy a program presented on a particular subject relevant to these plants. Program usually involves a slideshow. Not necessary to be a member to attend. Info: Albuquerque Garden Center, 10120 Lomas Blvd. NE, 2966020 new-mexico.cactus-society.org.

saturdays | 8 am–12 noon

Los Ranchos Growers’ Market. Fresh local produce and products, plants, arts and crafts, music, and more. Handicapped accessible, family and pet friendly. Info: 6718 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, losranchosgrowersmarket.com, 610-9591. Free admission.

saturdays | 10 am

Downtown Walking Tour. Learn about our diverse settlers who arrived with the railroad in 1880. Hear stories about the merchants, politicians and pioneers who shaped our city. Allow 2 hours and wear comfortable shoes. Every Saturday through November.

Info: Meet Trudy Merriman at the SW corner of Central and 1st Street, albuqhistsoc.org, 289-0586. Free.

saturdays | 10:30 am

Story Time at the Aquarium. Info: ABQ BioPark Aquarium, 2601 Central Ave. NW, abqbiopark.com, 768-2000. Included in admission.

saturdays | 12 noon–2 pm

Acting for Writers. Award-winning director and Meisner acting teacher Lois Hall, teaches Acting for Writers in a supportive environment. The class is devoted to writers breathing life into their characters by learning the actors’ secrets. Info: 715-2801, actingforwritersloishall.com. RSVP required.

saturdays | 12 noon–3 pm

Class with Explora Maker-in-Residence.

See description above on Thursdays 3–5 pm.

Most Saturdays. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 224-8300. Included with general admission $6-$10.

saturdays | 1–2:30 pm

Family Art Workshops. Families create a work of art inspired by what they see at Albuquerque Museum. A different project every week. Try your hand working with a variety of art mediums. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov. Free with Museum admission of $4-$6.

saturdays | 2–5 pm

Art in the Afternoon. Wrap up your shopping in Historic Old Town with free admission into the museum, live local music, and great food and drink specials amid a wealth of cultural and historical artifacts and works of art. Info: Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, 2000 Mountain Road NW, call 311, cabq.gov. Free.

saturdays | 2:30–4:30 pm

Tango Club of Albuquerque’s Weekly Practica. Argentine Tango practice. No partner necessary. Info: Lloyd Shaw Dance Center, 5506 Coal Ave. SE, abqtango.org.

Tickets: $2.

saturdays | 3:30 pm

Saturday Storytime. Join Miss Caitlen for new and exciting adventures. Fun for young children and those young at heart. Info: Barnes and Noble, Coronado Center, 6600 Menaul Blvd. NE, 883-8200, bn.com. Free.

We love being available to you in digital form.

The April, May, June and July, 2020 issues of Albuquerque The Magazine will be available free of charge at abqthemag.com. We will be back on newsstands with the print version in August of 2020.

We love it here.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

81

saturdays | 5–8 pm

Cooking Classes at Cinnamon Sugar and Spice Café. Try a fun and exciting hands-on cooking class. Enjoy a meal prepared by you in a commercial kitchen with the guidance of a chef, sip wine, and top it off with dessert.

Info: 5809 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, 492-2119, cinnamoncafeabq.com.

saturdays | various times

Prehistoric Preschool for Families. See description on Thursdays 10–12 am. Info: New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, 1801 Mountain Road NW, 8412848, nmnaturalhistory.org. Tickets: see cost information online.

every saturday and sunday | 12 noon and 2 pm

Traditional Native Dance Performances.

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is the only place in North America to offer traditional Native American dances every week year-round. Performances outdoor or indoor depending on weather. Info: Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th Street NW, indianpueblo.org, 843-7270. Free with museum admission.

every saturday and sunday | various times

Albuquerque Garden Center. Our events include the Cactus and Succulent Society Show and Sale, the African Violet Show and Sale, and the Annual Spring Plant Sale, and the Aril and Iris Show. The Shop features local artists all month. Info: Albuquerque Garden Center, 10120 Lomas Blvd. NE. Free.

every first saturday | 10–11:30 am

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

every first saturday | 10 am–12 noon

Military History Lecture. Listen to an interesting presentation of military history events and activities that affected New Mexico. Lectures include the History of the NM National Guard, Bataan Death March, WWII Army Air Corp bases in New Mexico, and others. Info: New Mexico Veterans Memorial, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE, 2562042. Admission: Free. Donations requested.

every first saturday | 12 noon–3 pm

First Saturday of the Month Shot Clinic For Your Dogs And Cats. No appointment needed. Info: 3251 Westphalia Road SE, wmranch.org.

82

every second saturday | 10–11:30 am

Outcomes, Inc. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Discussion/Support Groups.

Info: St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 2701 American Road, Rio Rancho, 243-2551 to reserve a space. Free childcare provided. Free.

every second saturday | 10 am–12 noon

Free Fishing Clinic. Instruction available on basic fly-tying methods, fly-rod casting techniques, fishing etiquette, effective catchand-release practices and enhancement of advanced skills. Equipment and supplies are available free of charge on a first-comefirst-served basis for use during the clinic, or you may bring your own. Tingley Outfitters provides basic equipment for purchase inside the train station. Info: Tingley Beach, 1800 Tingley Drive SW, call 311 or 768-2000.

every second saturday | 1 pm

Read to the Dogs. Registered therapy dogs sit calmly and quietly for a story so children can practice reading out loud without fear of judgment. It’s a great way for children to gain confidence in their reading. Several libraries.

Please register in advance. Info: Southwest Canine Corps of Volunteers, 768-5136.

second and fourth saturday | 12 noon–1 pm

Watermelon Mountain Ranch Volunteer Orientation. Come out 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. Near V. Sue Cleveland Highschool.

every second and fourth saturday | 7–10:30 pm

ABQ Dance Club. This non-profit dance club provides dancing to a variety of music - swing, country, ballroom, Latin.

Couples and singles are welcome, no partner or experience needed. Lessons and refreshments included. Info: Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4915 Hawkins Street NE, asdc.org, 299-3737. Fee $8.

every last saturday | 7–9 pm

Saturday Night Swing. Good listening and dancing music of live tunes from the ’40s and ’50s. Remember to wear your dancing shoes. Info: New Mexico Veterans Memorial, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE, 256-2042. Free admission. Donations requested.

sundays | 9 am–1 pm

Free Sunday Mornings at Albuquerque Museum. Admission is free every Sunday morning. View the latest exhibition, try out interactive displays, stroll through the sculpture garden, and stop by the cafe for brunch. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, cabq.gov, 243-7255.

Free. $5 exhibition surcharge applies during free days at Albuquerque Museum.

sundays | 9 am–1 pm

Free Admission Day. Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum.

Check out this award-winning, world-class facility highlighting the art, culture, history, science and sport of ballooning and other lighter-than-air craft. Info: 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE, 768-6020, cabq.gov/ balloon.

sundays | 10:30 am

Chatter Sunday. These Sunday morning concerts include readings and refreshments.

Info: Las Puertas, 1512 First Street NW, chatterabq.com. Cost: regular, $15; 30 and under and students, $9; children under 13, $5.

sundays | 12 noon–5 pm

Save Lucky Paws Information Table at Lucky Paws Adoption Site. T-shirts and wristbands for sale. Info: Coronado Mall, saveluckypaws.org.

sundays | 1–4 pm

Old San Ysidro Church Tours. See the beauty and learn the history of one of Corrales’ most significant historic buildings.

Historical Society Docents are on hand to welcome guests, give tours, and answer questions. Watch the Old Church video, view historical artifacts, and take home souvenirs ranging from local flavor cookbooks to church retablos, jewelry, and more. Info: 966 Old Church Road, Corrales, 890-3846, corraleshistory.org. Free.

sundays | 8 pm

Geeks Who Drink. Join in best Pub Quiz in town. Bring your friends and create a team of up to six people. Info: O’Niell’s Nob Hill, 4310 Central Ave. SE, 256-0564, geekswhodrink. com/blog, oniells.com.

every first, third and fifth sunday | 6–9 pm

Ballroom, Latin and Swing Dancing. Join USA Ballroom Dance. Free beginner lessons start at 5:30 pm. Info: Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4915 Hawkins Street NE, 2880313. Cost: members, $5; non-member, $8.

every second and fourth sunday | 10–11 am

Yoga with Cats. Enjoy cats frolicking and lounging as you participate in a yoga class for all skill levels. Info: Catopia Cat Cafe, 8001 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Suite C-5, call 5084278 to reserve your spot. $14 per class.

every second and fourth sunday | 2–4 pm

Stitching Group. Knitting, crocheting, embroidering, tatting, spinning, crossstitching and more. Join in the fun, share ideas, patterns, experiences and more. All ages and experience levels welcome. Info: Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo Blvd. NE, 888-8100.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

various days | various times

Albuquerque Dolls. We have ongoing social events for women, including dinners, dancing, movies, volunteering, crafts and trips, and we are having a blast. We encourage women to join together to support each other and learn more about New Mexico. Join: Meet Ups/Albuquerque.

Also, on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

CALL TODAY for your FREE Consultation 505.299.4458 | WWW.HALTOMORTHO.COM Braces or Invisalign for your entire family.

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED BUSINESS

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

of creating world class smiles throughout New Mexico.

VOTED ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE’S 2019 TOP ORTHODONTIST

PLEASE NOTE: At the time this listing was produced, many events were being cancelled due to the COVID-19 virus. Please be sure to check the status of any event and venue to ensure that the event is still being held as scheduled.

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.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

Invisalign

As low as $100 d

own and $100 p

ALBUQUERQUE

10433 Lagrima de Oro NE 505.299.4458

er month.

LOS LUNAS

725 Main St 505.866.9296

GRANTS

1209 Bonita St, Ste B 505.285.9833

Most Insurances Accepted | Interest Free, Flexible Financing

83

We love being available to you in digital form.

The April, May, June and July, 2020 issues of Albuquerque The Magazine will be available free of charge at abqthemag.com. We will be back on newsstands with the print version in August of 2020.

We love it here.

So many reasons to DANCE this Summer!

DANCE CAMPS (AGES 4 - 18) • Full day or half-day options

Learn more: KeshetArts.org/dance/youth-camps

DANCE CLASSES (AGES 2 THRU ADULT) • Including Fine Wine Dance (age 55+) and Mixed-Ability/ Adaptive Dance options • Weekly classes for the Summer session are held Tues/Thurs/Sat

Learn more: KeshetArts.org/dance

84

505.224.9808 | 4121 Cutler Ave NE, ABQ 87110

KeshetArts.org

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

ATM KIDS S P E C I A L A DV E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE MAY

85

ATM KIDS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

2020 Summer Camp 8 :00 a - 5: 30 p d a i l y Children’s Campus

F R E E S u mme r C amp Ge ar A ll M eals In c lu d e d

School-Age Ages 5 -1 1

Nature Unleashed J un e 1 - 1 2

Bases Loaded J un e 1 5 -2 6

The Great Escape J uly 6 - 1 7

Take the Plunge J uly 2 0 - 31

Summer Camp Mash-Up June 29, 3 0 & Ju ly 1 , 2

Middle School Age s 11-14 Unplugged!

June 1 - 1 2

Adventure Seekers June 1 5 - 26

The Ripple Effect Jul y 6 - 1 7

Grand Slam!

Jul y 20 - 31 Re g ist ration Opens to the Co m m uni t y A pri l 6 t h, 2020

C a l l 5 0 5 . 2 7 7. 3 3 6 5 o r Vi s i t c h i l d c a re . u n m .e d u

86

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

ATM KIDS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

@therealhummingbirdmusiccamp @hummingbirdmusiccamp

Music

FOR MORE INFORMATION

visit our website:

hummingbirdmusiccamp.com 104 Hummingbird Road • Jemez Springs, NM 87025 575-829-3060

All Weeks 1-9

Art

All Weeks 1,2,4,5,7 & 8

Chess Week 3

Wh beg ere inn get ers a gre at s tart .

MAY 31ST - AUGUST 2ND 2020 MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

87

ATM KIDS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

“LOVING TO LEARN - LEARNING TO LOVE” Call For A Tour Today!

INFANT • TODDLER • PRESCHOOL

BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL Over 35 Years Serving Albuquerque Nationally Accredited • NECPA • 5 Star State Licensed Centers

ALL SEASONS

ALVARADO

DAY SCHOOL

DAY SCHOOL

266-3000

266-5846

7700 Zuni, SE

Low Child/Teacher Ratio State Assistance Accepted Bus Transport to Local Schools Professionally Planned Curriculum

Open Monday-Friday 6:30am-6:00pm

CHILDCO

LITTLE CORRAL

DAY SCHOOL

DAY SCHOOL

881-3611 3901 San Mateo, NE

300 Alvarado, SE

299-0633

10111 Constitution, NE

www.ABQCHILDCARE.com

88

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

ATM KIDS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

nn

holic School t a C n io t a i u nc

Annunciation Catholic School’s mission is to provide a Christ-like and learner friendly environment to better serve God and community.

For over 60 years Annunciation Catholic School has provided a strong spiritual, academic and social foundation for students in grades Junior Kindergarten - 8th grade. www.acsabq.org

505-299-6783 2610 Utah NE

FAMILY OWNED & LOCALLY GROWN FISHFACTORYSWIM.COM

3707 EUBANK BLVD NE, ABQ, NM | 1801 WELLSPRING AVE SE, RIO RANCHO, NM

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

89

ATM KIDS

90

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

MEDICA L CANNA BIS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

91

Albuquerque’s Premier Westside Cannabis Clinic Now Open!!!

NORTHEAST HEIGHTS 9821 Montgomery Blvd. NE, ABQ

MIDTOWN 4414 Menaul Blvd. NE, ABQ

NORTH COORS 9421 Coors Blvd. NW, ABQ

NOB HILL 4014 Central Ave. SE, ABQ

WESTSIDE 5201 Ouray Rd. NW, ABQ

GRANTS 899 E. Roosevelt Ave. Grants

Opening soon in Roswell and Las Cruces!

(505) 510-1717 • WWW.RGREENLEAF.COM ©2020 All rights reserved. R. Greenleaf Organics, Inc.

92

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

Sacred.Garden 3600 Cutler Ave NE Ste. 12, Albuquerque, NM 87110 • (505) 348-5599 616 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Ste. B, Albuquerque, NM 87108 • (505) 257-3748

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

642 S. Alameda Blvd., Las Cruces, NM 88005 • (575) 300-0154 1300 Luisa St. #1, Santa Fe, NM 87505 • (505) 216-9686

93

We love being available to you in digital form.

The April, May, June and July, 2020 issues of Albuquerque The Magazine will be available free of charge at abqthemag.com. We will be back on newsstands with the print version in August of 2020.

94

We love it here.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

ABQ KidBsy: at Home Taylor Hood

M

ost parents in Albuquerque right now are finding new respect for their children’s teachers. After all, with school canceled and everyone isolating, keeping the kids safe means keeping them at home, all day, with only Zoom and Facetime contact with their friends. It’s enough to make most parents scream. But it’s also enough for most parents to realize how wonderful their kiddos are and how much they appreciate this time.

That said, keeping kids occupied all day is yet another challenge in these particularly challenging times. As it so often is, the solution is in community.

Social media is blowing up, with new groups forming over games they are playing, projects they are working on, Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) distance learning programs they are sharing, or even a certain tiger-owner-centric documentary series.

We are reaching out in ways and volumes never before seen. But we are also reaching for our families in ways never before afforded to us. We are finding resilience, innovation, and a new appreciation for the time we spend together.

So, in that spirit, here are what some of the families in our community are doing to keep their kiddos active and engaged during this trying time.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

95

The Keller Family

Tim, Liz, Maya, and Jack

MAYOR TIM KELLER TRIES TO WRANGLE THE KIDDOS FOR A NICE FAMILY PHOTO, BUT JACK IS JUST TOO EXCITED.

B

eing the mayor of a city can be a tough job under normal circumstances, but it’s especially difficult now. That’s why Mayor Tim Keller always makes room for family time. “I spend weekends taking my kids to the most random and remote ‘fun’ things I can think of,” says Mayor Keller. “Sometimes it’s sledding on what snow remains in the mountains, or it’s watching airplanes land from an empty parking lot, or tons of bike rides in the Bosque.”

When they are at home, which is most of the time right now, Mayor Keller and his wife Liz keep the kiddos active and engaged using a daily routine. “We have been trying to develop a daily schedule that blends our work schedule—conference calls and such—with some structured time for the kids,” he says. “We are doing our best to participate in the APS online programming in the mornings, then have some arts and crafts, and then exercise/outside play time.”

The Mayor also says he and Liz feel fortunate that the kids are old enough to play with one another and not require “helicopter surveillance.”

While the Kellers say they are all going a bit stir crazy, they are making sure to focus on some of the silver linings. “We are blessed with lots of tiny moments of laughter and joy that happen when both of us would previously have been at work.”

96

The Montoya Family

Adrian, Stephanie, an d Kailyn

A

drian Montoya has spent his life in the hospitality industry. As General Manager of Hotel Albuquerque, he is constantly busy, running from one duty to the next. So the quarantine has hit him a little hard. But he has refocused that energy towards his family, and he is grateful for the time.

“The Covid-19 Pandemic and the stay-at-home restrictions have definitely made us grateful for everything we have,” he says. “We are also very grateful for the technology that allows us to communicate with our friends and family during these difficult times.”

To stay busy, Adrian, his wife Stephanie, and his daughter Kailyn are learning some new skills. “Our daughter has become quite the baker, TikTok video maker, chalk artist, and Rubik’s Cube expert during our time at home,” Montoya says. “She baked a cake for Stephanie’s ‘Quarantined Birthday’, created several TikTok videos, went through an entire case of chalk to create a SpongeBob masterpiece in our backyard, and figured out a way to solve the Rubik’s Cube in a record time.”

While the time at home has had its challenges, Montoya and his family are remembering to stay positive and keep smiling. After all, Adrian has had a lifetime of practice with smiling and treating his guests (or, in this case, his family) like royalty.

97

School on Screen

The Corcoran Family

A

s one of the largest school districts in the country (34th out of over 13,600 total districts according to the National Center for Education Statistics) Albuquerque Public Schools was faced with an immense challenge when Covid-19 hit New Mexico. “The biggest challenge would be the speed with which we were hit,” says Monica Armenta, Public Information Officer for APS. “Redirecting every piece of business that APS is involved in was a difficult task to handle.”

But “handle” the crisis is exactly what APS did. After shutting down schools in mid-March, the district redirected its resources and began mobilizing its staff. “From meals, to distance learning, to meeting payroll expectations, there wasn’t a thing that wasn’t impacted by Covid-19,” Armenta says.

The district began with food, distributing Grab-and-Go meals around the city. One month after schools closed, APS had given out 420,000 meals to Albuquerque students. Next, they shifted focus to education, partnering with KNME to air lessons for K-5 students every weekday morning from 8 a.m. to noon. APS quickly put together more than 14,000 learning packets and 5,000 supply packages for students in need.

Lastly, they rolled out a Continuous Learning Plan (CLP), bringing students back together with their teachers in the safety of cyberspace. In order to make sure students had the devices necessary for learning online, the district distributed more than 18,000 Chromebooks. “We don’t have enough for every student in the city,” Armenta says. “But we want to make sure we get a Chromebook to every household that needs one.” The CLP includes virtual classroom time, oneon-one office time, and even counseling.

For the teachers and administrators on the ground, this has been a difficult time, but many say they will continue to put their passion into their work, regardless of the format. “A good friend of mine always says, ‘We do hard things’— so each day I wake up and tackle whatever the day brings,” says Ashley Keilbarth, an Assistant Principal at La Cueva High School.

Keilbarth says she is pleased with the job APS has done. “There are many factors outside of the control of APS that contribute to the academic success of students during this time. But, in the areas that it can support, APS has done its very best to address the needs of the community.”

A longtime educator, Keilbarth feels there are some silver linings to the current situation. “I often think about what education would’ve looked like if this happened when I was in high school… My education would have come to halt,” she says. “[I am] so grateful for the technological access we have [now]. At the end of the day, I truly believe this situation will make me a better educator.”

98

Yvonne, Scarlett, and Silas

Y

vonne Corcoran is a doctor of eastern medicine, which means she is acutely aware of the stresses that impact the mind and body. “Our biggest challenges in staying home are the feelings of isolation and the lack of social interactions. Both kids really enjoy school and are missing their friends and a sense of normalcy,” she says.

But that doesn’t mean she and her two children aren’t doing everything in their power to stay active, stay engaged, and stay sane while at home. “We play a lot of board games to pass the time. Kids Monopoly is a favorite and is good for math skills,” Corcoran says. “The kids have started taking a blanket out on the driveway with snacks and board games and playing out there.”

As far as physical activity goes, Corcoran says the kiddos are spending a lot of time climbing trees, hunting for lizards, and finding new and creative ways to use their backyard.

Though times are hard right now—Dr. Corcoran had to close her practice when the stay-at-home order went into effect—she says her family is learning to slow down and enjoy what they have. “There is a simplicity in these days, which I’m grateful for,” she says. “I miss working and they miss school, but we do find some grace in this slower, less scheduled life.”

The Shaw Family

Ben, Amanda, Justyn, and Molly

A

s a business owner (Archetype Tattoo Studio) and an avid Crossfit devotee, the stay-at-home order has taken its toll on Ben Shaw and his family. But it’ll take more than that to bring down their spirits. “We educated the kids pretty early about what was happening,” says Shaw. “So there is some disappointment around things being canceled, but really the kids are doing great. Plus, I have an at-home gym.”

Shaw says that distance learning with APS is taking up most of his kids’ morning and early afternoon. But after that, they have ways of filling the time. “We play board games. We just got Game of Thrones Monopoly, so there’s that,” he says. “We have a trampoline in the backyard and a soccer net, plus we are going on walks everyday.

Actually, my daughter learned how to ride a bike during this time, so that’s definitely a positive.”

As a professional artist, Shaw has also taken this time to teach his children the family art form.

“I’ve been giving them [drawing] pointers and teaching them some tricks. I even pulled out my old art books.”

99

y l i m a F y m a l l The Be Hakim, Kaylem, and Max

B

eing stuck inside with a preteen and a full blown teenager may seem like a rough situation for some, but not for Hakim Bellamy. The Poet Laureate and Deputy Director of Cultural Services for the City of Albuquerque is loving every second. “We literally see each other more,” he says. “And you can hug and touch and wrestle the ones you live with because they already got what you got.”

He is still working 40 hours a week (two days from home and the rest in the office every week), but that is only helping him stay active with the kids at home. “My Department at the City, Cultural Services, has been developing so much digital engagement content for families and educators that I have literally been swimming in streaming. If [anyone would] like to join, go to CultureABQ.com.”

As far as activities go, Bellamy is staying busy. “Me and Kay have been making sure he does his virtual school, Zooming with family in New Jersey, reading Booked by Kwame Alexander, kicking soccer balls, making music, going for runs, doing our father-son diary, shooting hoops, playing FIFA on Playstation, and remembering to shower.”

His 17-year-old is a bit easier to entertain. Bellamy says the two make music and “eat way too much.”

100

The Hendricks Family

Kevin, Jennifer, Brody and Jaxson

W

hat does a sports writer do when all of the sports are canceled? Well, in the case of Albuquerque Journal sports writer Kevin Hendricks, the answer is play board games and exercise with his children and his wife, Jennifer.

“We are playing tons of board games,” Hendricks says. “The kids are really into Clue right now. They won’t stop. And, of course we have to watch the movie everytime we play, so I’ve watched it about 50 times by now. I can quote every line.”

Hendricks says that the APS Distance Learning Program has been a lifesaver, giving his kids some much-needed structure. “Before [the Distance Learning Program] my kids were living like college students: up all night and sleep all day. Now they have to get up and go to school.”

Kevin and Jennifer are also fascinated by their children’s love of video games. “They don’t just play, they watch YouTube videos of other people playing the same games they are playing. It’s weird,” Kevin says.

But life isn’t all games for the Hendricks clan. Hendricks says he makes sure the kids are exercising every day. “We do about an hour in the garage every morning, doing jumping jacks and things like that,” he says. “We are also very lucky to live across from a school yard with a walking track.”

Though sports are canceled right now, Hendricks says he is fortunate that he is still employed and sees the positives of the current situation. “It’s nice because, with my work schedule [weeknights from 4 p.m. through midnight], normally I go to work when the kids get out of school, so I hardly see them. But now I get to actually spend some time with them.”

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

101

The Narducci Family

August, Staci, Evelyn, Lucca, and Mina

F

or Staci Narducci, the recent stay-at-home order wasn’t much of a change at first. She homeschools her three children. But it wasn’t long before she realized that things were changing faster than she thought.

Without the ability to go out and do all the things they love, the house was starting to feel like a cage. But then Staci had a revelation that made all the difference. “I like the slow life and I realized, and I keep reminding my family, this is a time to find our roots. This is a time to nurture what we love and appreciate it,” she says.

Her husband, August, works in telecommunications and goes into work twice a week, but otherwise he is at home, so the family is together more. But that’s okay with Staci. “They are a handful and a half,” she says.

“But they are really cool people, so I’m very lucky.”

Despite having a homeschool setup, Staci has actually cut back slightly on the school schedule. “There is just so much anxiety and fear right now, I figure, let’s spend this time doing things that bring us joy.” That means jumping on the backyard trampoline with a sprinkler, taking trips to the mountains, playing board games (Staci says the kiddos are obsessed with Clue right now), and just sitting on the front porch watching the world go by.

Oh, and don’t forget the video games. “Evelyn has been playing a lot of video games online with friends,” says Staci. “It’s actually a great way for her to socialize and feel some normalcy.”

102

The Jones Family

Jesse, Susan, and Oliver

S

usan and Jesse Jones are currently facing a unique challenge. They have a one-year-old little boy, Oliver, at home with them. But they are embracing this time and using it to enjoy their new little family member. “We might actually have it easier than my friends with older kids,” says Susan. “Because we just get to have fun and play games all day. It’s all about reading and naptime over here. Plus, he is too young to understand the seriousness of what’s going on, so there isn’t that mental health aspect.”

For the Jones’, getting through this time is all about routine. They maintain a strict schedule that revolves around Oliver’s meals and includes plenty of games, reading, naps, and outside time. (Susan is also working full time from home, so she gets a little break in the day-to-day routine.)

Jesse says Oliver is obsessed with “big trucks and the mailman” right now, so the family is focusing on that in terms of fun and education.

Of course, that can quickly change.

“All the books and experts say kids thrive with consistency. Everything needs to be consistent and the same. But the kids change constantly, so how are we supposed to do that?” she asks.

103

Building Community During Social Distancing

T

here’s no denying it. The current crisis can make children feel a bit lonely.

Social distancing means the temporary end of sports, clubs, and classes. But Albuquerqueans, resilient and inventive as ever, are still finding ways to build community and even have a little fun.

Music and Movement

The Hunt is on

E

mily Adkins, a local Zumbini teacher, isn’t letting the quarantine get in the way of teaching kids the joy of music and dance. Zumbini, an arm of the popular Zumba classes, is a program of movement and music designed for small children. “The class combines a love of music and movement with teaching babies and young kids about the importance of dance,” says Adkins. “We sing and dance and play with drums and scarves. It’s as much for the caregivers as for the kids.”

Adkins hosts four live stream programs a week and even gives the participants “homework.” To find out more, look for Adkins on Facebook or Instagram, or visit zumbini.com.

F

inding ways for the kids to have fun outside during a quarantine is a little tricky. That’s why some neighborhoods are making a simple walk around the block into an exciting game. One Northeast Heights neighborhood started “The Bear Hunt”. Families place teddy bears in their front windows and encourage neighborhood kids to spot as many as they can. Several Albuquerque neighborhoods even adapted the game for Easter, placing colored egg drawings in their front yards for neighborhood kids to find on Easter Sunday.

I

The LEGO Quarantine Survival Challenge

nspired by the hit show Lego Masters (with a little help from Facebook), local teacher Casey Soto started an Albuquerque chapter of the LEGO Quarantine Survival Challenge. Members get weekly scenarios, like “Aliens land near your house and ask you to come on board…” Then, the kiddos build their best LEGO story. Parents film a short video of their child explaining the finished product and send it in. There are no winners or losers here, just a bunch of kids sharing their creativity. “I send the instructions out to roughly 10 families,” says Soto.

“It’s just a way to have fun.”

104

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

The Latham Family

Rebecca, Scott, Joshua, and Alana

A

stay-at-home order can be tough on just about anyone. But for someone whose livelihood is centered around socializing and getting outdoors, like CEO of Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails Rebecca Latham, it can be an extra hard time. So Latham is focusing on enjoying her time with her kids. How does the head Girl Scout do something like that?

“We’re trying to spend more time together outside by taking walks and riding bikes around the neighborhood, and we’ve made family movie night more of a regular thing,” she says.

Home school has been a challenge, especially because Latham is still working, but she is making sure to use “mom pressure” to keep the kids on track from an educational perspective. That includes school time and making sure their daily fun activities have an educational aspect. “If they’re bored I have to find an educational way of keeping them entertained,” she says.

It’s the small things that are helping the Latham’s get through this and help beat the “stupid coronavirus,” as Joshua calls it. “We all got to watch my daughter give her Flat Stanley presentation to her classmates virtually and stream it for our family members who contributed to her project,”says Latham. “We never would have been able to do that if she was in the classroom. We’re trying to find moments like those to focus our energy instead of everything we’re missing out on.”

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

105

The Hernandez/Wall Family Cindy, Byron, Cameron, and Elaine

I

t’s not just families with small children who are enjoying some extra quality time with loved ones. Cindy Hernandez and her husband Byron Wall are finding a nice silver lining to the current situation in extra time with their college-age son, Cameron, and their soon-to-beoff-to-college daughter, Elaine. “It’s really a different kind of quality time,” says Hernandez. “Normally, kids [Cameron’s age], when they come home, there is a short amount of time and a lot to do. There is a lot of socializing and things like that. Now, being forced to stay home, it’s really, truly a lot of quality time.”

Considering that their daughter is attending college and Career High School (a hybrid of CNM and APS) and is always on the go, Hernandez is enjoying having her home as well. And that isn’t just because she has enlisted her kids’ help to clean out the garage. “We are spending a lot of time in the kitchen, cooking together,” Hernandez says.

“Cameron and I are baking a cake a day. And Elaine is at an age where she is really interested in learning the family recipes.”

The Hernandez/Wall family also got a chance to spend a special Easter together. “We found a couple of boxes of Byron’s old vinyl records in the garage and we surprised him with a turntable on Easter. He teared up a bit. And the kids are really liking hearing the music their dad grew up with.”

106

The Mentus Family

Tessa, Brandon, Annabelle, and Rhett

I

f anyone has a reason to be stressed with the cur-

rent situation, it’s a reporter like Tessa Mentus. She is plugged in on every development, every bit of news, and always has to consider best and worst case scenarios.

But she isn’t letting that get in the way of enjoying the extra time with her family and feeling grateful for the little blessings. “Without a doubt I’m cherishing this extra time with my family,” she says. “Being a mom and working full time, I get little ‘day time’ with the kids when everything is normal. During a normal week, my husband and I barely see each other because he works days and I work nights. We’ve really been able to just enjoy each other and our family.”

Having two young children in the house doesn’t seem to be a problem for Brandon and Tessa, despite the fact that their oldest, Annabelle, is as inquisitive as her mother. “Annie has a lot of questions,” Tessa says. “We explained to her that life is different right now because there are a lot of germs in the world. She’s actually been the hand-washing police around our house.”

Both “Annie” and her brother, Rhett, are spending their days painting and playing in the backyard, but Mentus says they also pretend to do office time when Brandon, a teacher, is having virtual classroom time.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

107

108

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

109

HOME SERVICE AGREEMENTS VIP Treatment 24/7 Services Seasonal Changeovers Service Discounts Important Reminders

Albuquerque Plumbing proudly & exclusively presents Luxury Bath!

One Call Solves it All!

PLUMBING

HEATING

COOLING

ELECTRICAL

Visit our website for all our services

Residential & Commercial

24-Hour Emergency Service

www.ABQPlumb.com

505-373-3494

Locally Owned | Licensed • Bonded • Insured | NM Lic #380656

110

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

PHOTO BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM

STORIES BEHIND INDIVIDUALS WHO MAKE ALBUQUERQUE GREAT

STILL COOKIN’ Famed celebrity chef Jane Butel has been on television and radio, written numerous books, and taught hundreds of home chefs to love cooking. And at 81 years old she still loves what she does.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

111

112

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

A LOOK AT THE LIFE & WORK OF ALBUQUERQUEANS WHO DESERVE A TOAST

Jane Butel After 81 years, several successful books, television shows, and an established national profile,the local master chef isn’t done yet; she’s having too much fun.

J PHOTOS BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM

ane Butel has had a long and varied career. Raised on a Kansas farm, she nursed dreams of stardom and big city life before embarking on a career that touched on home economics and marketing communications. Ever drawn back to the world of the culinary arts, Butel has published dozens of cookbooks, hosted TV and radio shows, and even taken the reins of her own packaged spice company. With deep New Mexico roots (her grandfather worked for the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway), she celebrates the culture and cuisine of the Land of Enchantment through participatory classes throughout the year.

“I keep thinking I’ll quit, but I don’t think about it for very long,” Jane Butel says. “People just keep coming.” At age 81, Butel could easily hang up her spatula.

However, her noteworthy cooking classes, which have been featured in publications such as Travel + Leisure Magazine, The New York Times, and Food Network magazine, keep drawing attendees from around the globe to her Corrales home. She’s also authored 32 cookbooks, including many best sellers, hosted several TV and radio shows, and helms a packaged spice company. And she’s showing no signs of slowing down.

Butel has “mountains of experience,” in

cooking, though her career led her outside of the kitchen as well. She grew up in a foodie family on a Kansas farm. She recalls standing on a stool at the stove at age 3 when her dad taught her how to make scrambled eggs. As she grew up, she earned spending money with blue-ribbon-winning cakes at county fairs. She graduated from high school at age 16, and went on to college at Kansas State University. Butel secretly dreamed of being an actress—“I was stricken with being a movie star,” she says—but pursued dual degrees in journalism and home economics.

Following the traditions of the time, she married between her sophomore

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

and junior years of college. Although she dreamed of living in New York, she followed her then-husband to Albuquerque where he’d earned an engineering job at Sandia National Laboratories. “I could only watch soap operas at home for one day, then I had to get a job,” she says. She became a home economist for the Public Service Company of New Mexico in 1959.

By 22, she was running the department.

Drawing upon recipes her grandmother had first learned when Butel’s grandfather was stationed in New Mexico during his work with the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway, Butel began offering free New Mexican cooking classes as a marketing ploy for the company. She also drafted recipes for the bill inserts. Eventually those recipes evolved into Cocinas de New Mexico, her first cookbook. Her prowess for presenting and passion for food landed her on local TV shows teaching cooking segments.

113

By 1969, her work had attracted the attention of a much bigger company. She moved to the Big Apple for a position with Consolidated Edison of New York, where she developed an energy conservation and consumer relations program. For the next decade, she did similar work as an executive for Fortune 500 companies, including General Electric and American Express. In 1979, she left corporate America and created her own marketing communications consulting company.

Her clients remained high-powered. She worked with the likes of AT&T, Nabisco, Bloomingdales, and Bristol Meyers.

All the while, in her spare time, she continued working on recipes and cooking.

She published her first book with a New York publisher, Jane Butel’s Tex-Mex Cookbook, in the late 1970s. Although the book is called Tex-Mex, it brims with classic New Mexican recipes. “It was originally called Blue Corn and Green Chile, but my publisher told me people don’t want to eat blue and green food. Even though it’s popular here, people outside New Mexico don’t know the food,” Butel says. The book is now in its second edition. Writing cookbooks, which require intensive recipe writing and testing in addition to the actual writing, “give me a sense of accomplishment. I just like sharing,” she says.

“I’ve just always enjoyed creating.”

She founded Pecos Valley Spice Co. as a source for New Mexican chiles, spices, and ingredients in 1978. The company provided ingredients to specialty groceries and upscale department stores. Now, the company exclusively sells online. Her culinary and consulting work also collided. For example, she did a complete menu overhaul for the Del Taco and El Torrito menus for W. R. Grace.

In 1983, she founded her eponymous cooking school, which Gayout.com and Bon Appetit magazine have called one of the best in the U.S. She welcomes people of any experience level to her classes. “Cooking is an approachable creative form,” she says. “You don’t have to be a tremendous artist to cook. You can just please yourself. And if you cook, it’s

114

healthier and thriftier.”

At first, she taught classes in bed and breakfasts, and hotels in both Albuquerque and Scottsdale.

Matters of the heart brought her back to New Mexico permanently in 1991. Today, she teaches exclusively outside of her Corrales home, with students gathering in her home kitchen. A commercial kitchen stove and a two-dozen-strong collection of copper pots hanging over the island is a giveaway that this isn’t a standard home kitchen; however, it’s still an intimate environment.

Students from all over the world, including Pakistan, Nigeria, and Mexico, have come to the full-participation classes. Classes usually begin with Butel giving a bit of history on the ingredients and the dish—a topic she’s developed a particular affinity for. This year, for example, she’s presenting classes that include making sopaipillas. It’s a timely inclusion since she tracked down a passage from an early Spanish settler in Albuquerque that pinpoints the first time sopaipillas were made in the Duke City as April 1620.

Butel has always had an affinity for entertaining and makes her classes an occasion. “I’ve never been into plastic and paper. I always pull out the china. It’s a joyful thing,” she says.

This summer, Butel will continue her day-, weekend-, and week-long classes.

Day-long classes in May and June will cover party appetizers and barbecue. Weekend classes in August and November focus on New Mexican cuisine. A week-long class in July will delve into fundamentals of good culinary techniques, such as knife skills, sauce making, sautéing, and grilling. Butel will also lead a culinary tour to Oaxaca, as she does many years, in June.

“We have so much fun at classes,” she says. “That’s what keeps me going.”

—ASHLEY M. BIGGERS

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

PHOTO BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM

Transforming Lives • strengthening Community An All Volunteer (501c3) Charitable organization that typically returns 80% of Thrift Shop income and donations to our local community through 8 philanthropic programs.

• Operation School Bell

• Buddy Bear Patrol

• Assault Survivor Kits (ASK)

• Hungry and Homeless

• Kids Are Pretty Special (KAPS)

• Tender Loving Care (TLC)

• Blue Portal

• Sharing

LEARN MORE ABOUT US AT ASSISTANCELEAGUEABQ.ORG MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

115

New Mexico, Now Available!

116

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

CREATIVES P. 120 | SHELFLIFE P. 122 | TIEMPO P. 124

CULTURE

PHOTO BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM

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

SCREEN TIME Experienced actors, Rob Weisberg and Chris Ranney opened Sol Acting Studio to teach people of all ages how to succeded in the world of stage and screen.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

117

DIP INTO THE PERFECTLY MIXED PALETTE OF ABQ’S ART AND ARTISTS

ALL THE CITY’S A STAGE

W

h e t h e r you’re a novice actor looking to get your feet wet or a grizzled film veteran simply looking to hone your craft, Sol Acting Studios has something to suit your needs.

Known as Sol Acting Academy as recently as two years ago, the focus shifted dramatically when current co-owners Ron Weisberg and Chris Ranney assumed control of the business. The slight change from “academy” to “studios” might not seem like a big deal at first glance, but in reality, it reflects a major update in philosophy.

“I think it was more known for theater style acting as well as theater programming for children. It was like this sort of like a kid-campy brand,” Weisberg says.

“And we’re really flipping it around to

118

make everybody understand that it’s very serious. The film industry is very serious, and we take it very seriously. But we have a lot of love and a lot of fun with what we do. It’s just a very interesting place to be right now. No one’s really doing what we do.”

Weisberg has roots firmly entrenched in the industry. He was initially drawn to acting as a young boy while watching his grandmother, Gloria, on stage in the Santa Fe theater. After studying acting, writing and directing at the University of Texas, Weisberg scored numerous roles in the Land of Enchantment on films and shows such as Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, Longmire and The Night Shift, to name a few. He currently splits time between Albuquerque and Los Angeles while working and teachings.

Ranney, who boasts more than 300 films, TV shows and radio productions on his resumé as an actor and producer, cast Weisberg in his first project, and

from there a bond was forged. The two began teaching together in 2011 and a few years later, the opportunity to spread their knowledge together arose.

Sol Acting Studios has only been up and running for approximately two years, and Weisberg believes he and the rest of his staff can really help bolster the skills and credentials of the Albuquerque acting community. Not all the available training will amount to blockbuster, bigscreen roles, but those with the right blend of drive and willingness to learn will be able to build a resume and remain consistently employed. That’s not always easy in a field where “starving artists” are plentiful.

“If you’re fitting the part, you can get an opportunity. If you’ve been training and you’ve trained on camera and you’ve trained with real professionals that really help, then you have a much greater chance in getting a part,” Weisberg explains. “I can guarantee that if you work WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

course is $335, while the eight-week 101 class is $425.

The payoff is well worth it, as Sol Acting Studios partners with the University of New Mexico’s screenwriting professor to produce a short film with all the actors who participate in the intensive program.

The first film was released last year.

“That’s when we officially became a studio,” Weisberg says.

Kids also have the opportunity to write, film, direct and act in their own short films as part of the studios’ spring and summer movie camps. The culmination is a red-carpet premiere for family and friends. It’s essentially how the adults do it in Hollywood — just on a smaller scale.

“We develop it, learn on camera acting and write the script together and then we shoot it at the very end,” Weisberg says.

“Then I have a professional editor complete it.”

Through it all, Weisberg and Ranney must balance their own outside endeavors. The studios are growing, but their owners still have their own scripts to write and auditions to attend. The beauty of it all is that everything is thriving.

“I think that our success is in the fact that we can’t keep track of our students, all the bookings that are going on with our students,” Weisberg says. “It might not be the guy here who’s booking these big TV shows and that’s paying thousands of dollars, but everybody is getting

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

into the industry and people are actually getting agents.”

Weisberg believes that Sol Acting Studio’s curriculum can be valuable even to those without serious acting aspirations.

“Acting awakens you in a way to a new quality of living,” he says. “It’s more satisfying to be able to communicate on a higher level and to be able to understand the listening aspect of everything. It does change people’s lives”.

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM

hard as an actor and train, you can start getting into these short independent films that come around here.

“That’s part of the business is to build a resume and a paper trail, a demo reel.

We offer this dynamic programming that includes the technical aspects of acting as well as the artistic aspects of acting as well as the business aspects of acting.”

The Sol Acting Studios website boasts that it offers essential skills for students ages 3 to 103, and given the wide variety of classes available — that claim holds true. Students can learn from professional coaches — including special guests who frequently fly in from L.A. — through classes and private lessons for adults, youth and children.

A beginner, for example, might dive into a Foundations of Acting course, which teaches how characters are built, or Acting for Film and Television 101, which Weisberg says is something akin to “intro to on-camera auditioning, on camera scene study, a little bit about the business and transitioning from background or theater into film.”

Those who want to take a deeper dive can take a six-month acting intensive course, which includes 22 weeks of class work, on-camera training, movement and voice training, character study, screen writing, pitching, body work/ personal care, agent feedback and more for a little more than $2,700. For comparison’s sake, the foundational six-week

—TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

119

SHELFLIFE

TURN A PAGE WITH OUR LOCAL AUTHORS

SKELETONS IN HAVANA S

ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE: You grew up speaking Spanish in Havana and lived there until you were 30 years old. Is it very challenging to write in English now?

TERESA DOVALPAGE: I learned English

in Cuba, first with a private tutor and then at the University of Havana, where I obtained a BA in English Literature. I also read a lot, in English and Spanish, while growing up. My friends used to call me a library mouse, and later, a nerdita. I have an accent, but I always tell people in book signings that I don’t have an accent when I write. And yes, it’s more challenging than writing in Spanish, but a challenge that I enjoy.

ATM: Without giving away too much, why did you choose the title “Queen of Bones” for your latest book?

TD: The novel has many references to

Santería, a syncretic religion that combines African and Catholic beliefs. Oyá (a Santería deity or orisha identified with the Virgin of Candlemas and Saint Thérèse of Lisieux) reigns over the cemeteries and is often called “the queen of bones.” And the Havana cemetery plays an important part in the story since several key scenes happen there.

ATM: How would you describe Queen of Bones? Did you draw inspiration from other writers or work?

120

QUEEN OF BONES

By Teresa Dovalpage Soho Press 274 pages $26.95 (Hardcover)

COURTESY PHOTO

elected by NBC News as one of the 10 best Latino books of 2019, Queen of Bones tells the story of Juan, a construction worker who makes an interesting return home to Cuba some 20 years after fleeing the country by raft.

Author Teresa Dovalpage, herself a Havana native who now resides in the Land of Enchantment, weaves an intriguing tale as Juan returns home with his American wife to reconnect with his best friend, Victor, and two ex-girlfriends, Elsa and Rosita. As it turns out, Victor has become Victoria and runs a popular local drag show, Elsa has married a wealthy foreigner and the still-single Rosita works at the Havana cemetery. When one of the women is found dead, it is up to Santeria priest and ex-detective Padrino to unravel the mystery behind the death.

TD: Queen of Bones is a mystery nov-

el with cultural elements weaved into it. Santería, mentioned above, and Cuban-Chinese religious beliefs are part of the story. I used several quotes from El Monte (The Wilderness), a comprehensive book about Santería by Cuban ethnologist Lydia Cabrera that I consulted while writing the novel. There are also references to movies. In a way, the whole book is an homage to Pedro Almodóvar —his movies were the soundtrack of my generation.

ATM: One of your main characters, Juan, fled Cuba for Albuquerque some 20 years ago. Why did he choose the Duke City as his landing spot?

TD: Juan goes to Albuquerque because he

can’t make a living as a musician in Miami.

There is a thriving Cuban community in the Duke City and many people from the area speak Spanish, so it makes sense that Juan ends up there, where he gets a job in construction…and a gig giving salsa lessons at The Cooperage.

ATM: How has Juan’s homeland changed in the 20 years he’s been gone and how does he react to these changes?

TD: There are many businesses that didn’t

(small, family-owned restaurants), casas particulares (similar to Airbnb) and the ubiquitous almendrones (vintage American cars that are now private taxis). There are foreign investors too, many of them from Spain. In fact, Juan’s former girlfriend has married a Spanish businessman and is now an entrepreneur herself. Juan is also shocked by how much more visible the LGBT community has become. There is one chapter about a gay pride parade in Havana, which was a real event. Juan hasn’t kept up with the news about Cuba and is rather surprised by what he sees.

ATM: What do you hope readers will learn about your homeland?

TD: My mystery novels (and maybe all my

books) can be considered, in a way, travelogues. The action always takes place in a city where I spent the first thirty years of my life. I have seen hundreds of movies at the Yara Movie Theater, watched the sun go down from the Malecón seawall and visited the Colón cemetery, where many of my ancestors are buried. I have had first-hand experiences in all the places described and can offer my readers very specific details that only “insiders” know. —TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

exist twenty years before like paladares

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

SHELFLIFE

VERSES FOR VICTIMS I

ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE: As a Houston-based author, what led you to connect with New Mexico publisher Skull + Wind Press?

LESLIE CONTRERAS SCHWARTZ:

Their press specifically focuses on promoting the work of indigenous and Latinx writers. So I was interested in them because of how daunting and competitive the publishing world can be when you’re trying to get a new book out. I also thought I’ve liked working with smaller presses because I’ve found that I have more input into the editorial process. I have definitely developed a good relationship with the editor. I think I made the best choice.

ATM: How does this collection of poetry compare your first two works, Fuego and Nightbloom & Cenote?

LCS: This collection differs in terms of

what I was thinking about creatively when I wrote the book. The second book dealt more with reacting to events in a crisis, and the first one dealt with illness and motherhood. This book dealt more with the aftereffects of living with trauma — continuing to live in an environment that constantly re-triggers you and how to thrive within that environment. A lot of the poems are persona poems, so they’re in the voices of different women or girls, some who have been trafficked, others

WHO SPEAKS FOR US HERE

By Leslie Contreras Schwartz Skull + Wind Press 83 pages $17.50 (Paperback)

who are sex workers. I did a lot of research, but I did not use any person’s particular story because it was important for me to not appropriate anyone’s experiences.

ATM: You utilize a variety of different voices and perspectives — sex workers, missing children, border detainees, family members, to name a few — in this collection. What inspired to draw upon these particular voices in your writing?

LCS: Initially I had hoped to write a

non-fiction book about sex trafficking in Houston since Houston is the hub of the sex industry. But as I continued to get more information and hear more stories, I started to think about my own experience with trauma. Writing a book always comes from me asking questions and me trying to think a problem out. The problem I had that I was trying to address in this book is, ‘How do we keep living if so much that we carry from our past can haunt us?’ When I came to think about the women and children involved in sex trafficking, I tried to think from that perspective. How do they keep living even if they are never pulled away from that situation?

ATM: How much of this book is autobiographical, and how much is based on knowledge through research

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

and other life experiences?

LCS: That’s a tough question. It’s not

COURTESY PHOTO

n her third book of poems, Leslie Contreras channels those who so often cannot speak for themselves. Taking on a number of different voices through a combination of personal perspective and research, the Houston Poet Laureate uses her collection in Who Speaks for Us Here to examine the stories of those victimized by society, including missing children, sex workers, border detainees and the mentally ill. She also explores how a traumatized individual can persevere.

“I hope that people can read it and find a greater understanding of the amount of work it takes to keep living or to find ways to survive,” Contreras says. “And also, that creativity is a very important tool that all of us have at our disposal to survive.

Creativity is something that cannot be taken away from us.”

something I can go through and say, ‘OK 10 percent of this is based on personal experience. Or this poem is 100 percent based on research.’ A better way of understanding it is that I did take my experiences and struggles in dealing with my own mental health as well as imagining a possible life for myself that is different than the one I have now. I grew up in a predominantly Latinx and African American community where there is less middle class.

Also, I was surrounded by crime and was more vulnerable than other people and could have easily been caught up in that.

ATM: What does the title, Who Speaks for Us Here, mean to you?

LCS: It’s centered around this idea of frag-

mented identity. Some people who have experienced numerous traumas, a way that people survive this is by disassociating and creating different parts or fragmented identities of themselves. A lot of us do this, maybe not to that extent. We have compartmentalized our personality to behave a certain way in different situations. That poem is exploring this phenomenon of someone who has experienced extreme trauma and is trying to find how to survive with the survivor tolls that came out of that.—Tristen Critchfield

121

by mel minter

ABQ’S THRIVING LOCAL MUSIC SCENE

GETTING THERE

“

MAKING IT MEANINGFUL

122

A musical Jack-of-all-trades, Dee Brown’s new release “Good Time” is cultivating a sound for audiences around the world.

ting #23 on the British soul charts. While “Good Time” functions for now as a fun introduction, it is actually the culminating song on the album, which will address the thorny subjects of race relations, police brutality, and related topics. The song’s message is that “there’s a lot of things going on, and we’ve got to keep working, we’ve got to keep fighting—but let’s not forget that there’s still beauty in the world, there’s still love,” says Brown.

In the album’s songs, which will include some rap numbers as well as old school soul, Brown seeks to take a blameless approach in the discussion of these subjects in order to find common ground. “Dealing with some touchy, polarizing subjects, but in a way that brings out the humanity and not so much the anger, the frustration,” he says. That approach comes directly from Brown’s experience in church, where he’s been asked to speak on these subjects.

COURTESY PHOTO

As far as music is concerned, I made a decision maybe five years ago that if I was going to do music that didn’t mean anything to me, I might as well get another job,” says Dee Brown, singer, songwriter, keyboardist, and more. “So we’re on the journey of trying to do something fulfilling musically and pay bills with that. So far, so good.”

Good for Brown and his family, and good for anyone with ears to hear. With his latest, irresistible release in January, “Good Time,” Brown is fulfilling his commitment and finding an audience that reaches from Albuquerque to Europe.

Born and raised in Oklahoma City, Brown’s earliest musical experiences were centered in the Pentecostal Church (both his parents are pastors). Under the leadership of his oldest sister, Deyonka, he sang in a gospel quartet with his three siblings, and by sixth grade, he was studying music formally at an arts magnet school. The family moved to Albuquerque during his senior year in high school. Graduating from Sandia High, he continued his musical studies at both UNM and Santa Fe University of Art and Design.

Brown’s music, both religious and secular, has been shaped by his faith. In 2011, he formed the gospel group Dee Brown and Breakthrough, which released an album of his original music, Jesus Never Fails (deebrown.bandcamp.com), and toured the following year. Back in Albuquerque, he worked in several bands as keyboardist and vocalist, and he is currently music director for Cloud and Bridge, at Heights Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and musical director and organist at Phillips Chapel. His soul/funk group Dee Brown Situation gives him a vehicle to get his music heard locally.

For a while now, Brown has been writing and plotting the release of a major project, which comprises three albums: Life, Love, and Faith. “Good Time” serves as a sort of introduction to the first album, Life—and what an introduction it is, hit-

“It sort of led to me having a lot of great conversations . . . and learning how to talk about it in a way that’s more effective. . . .

So it’s in the music now, too.”

Brown is particularly proud that “topto-bottom this is a New Mexico product.”

In addition to Brown (vocals, keyboard, mixing, mastering), there’s Steve Peace Williams (lead guitar), Mike Wood (second guitar), Ryan Montaño (trumpet), Chris Cushman (sax), Artha Meadors (bass), and Paul Palmer III (drums). The album was recorded by Matthew Tobias at Empty House Studio, with additional recording at what Brown laughingly refers to as “the famous My House Recording Studio—with a trademark.”

Catch Brown at the Thursday open mic at Monte Vista Fire Station, and at Marble Brewery with Dee Brown Situation.

Follow him on Instagram (@deethemusician), and connect through his website WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

GETTING COMFORTABLE WITH COUNTRY Blame it on Don Mickey. He’d been a schoolmate of singer/songwriter Michael Moxey in high school, and in the late ’90s, when Moxey was the popular morning radio host on 104.7 the Edge, Mickey invited the Santa Fe native to help start up a country band. “I had always played guitar, and he wanted it to be like a comedy thing, and I was like, Well, yeah, country music.

That’s comedy,” says Moxey, who related the genre to the TV show Hee Haw. Jane’s Addiction and the Smiths were more Moxey’s bag. But about the time the band, Breaker 19, got started, he was getting into Gram Parsons and tuning in to country’s possibilities, and Breaker 19, which started out as a joke, turned into

an outlaw country band. Along the way, Moxey had found similarities between the classic country that his dad favored and the punk rock that appealed to him: the songs of both addressed everyday reality. “So I kind of backed into country that way,” he says.

He’s face forward these days, with two full-length alt-country albums under his belt, along with nominations for 2019 Best Country Band in Alibi and for Best Country Album (2017’s Luck) at the New Mexico Music Awards. His most recent release, 2019’s Heartbreakers Rodeo, will likely win him additional kudos, with its gritty stories of love, loss, and hard times, leavened with hope and humor.

It was a winding road to get there, starting with an award-winning career as a radio host, first in Albuquerque and then Austin. A change in the Austin format forced a move back here in 2007, where Moxey parlayed his skills into communications and community relations positions. Today, he is director of communications and government advocacy for the nonprofit New Mexico Dental Associa-

Michael Moxey took a winding road to find himself in the world of alt-country.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

tion.

Three or four years ago, back in the music scene in Albuquerque, he felt it was time to record his own material. “I have all these songs that I wrote. I poured my heart into them. Lots of them were 10, 12 years old, and I hadn’t recorded them, and I had never made an album by myself,” says Moxey.

Introduced to Matthew Tobias of Empty House Studio, Moxey found the guy who “gave me the path on how to do it and how to visualize it,” he says. Moxey put some acoustic demos together and sent them off to players that Tobias helped him connect with. They got in the studio together and hammered out the songs for Moxey’s first album.

“It was a really great experience to do a first album like that,” says Moxey, “and I was happy with the songwriting and stuff.

But as soon as you do one, you’re I know how to do one better the next time.”

The albums have been well received.

Legendary Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers drummer Steve Ferrone played Luck’s “Faded Waylon T-Shirt” on his SIRIUS XM Tom Petty Network show, and he did the same for “Shining for Me” off the latest album. Heartbreakers Rodeo has also been getting play by Ameripolitan Award–nominated DJ Jimi Palacios on WHIV in New Orleans, as well as on stations in France and Canada.

Moxey continues to write, building songs from snippets of things he’s read or heard and from personal experiences.

“Sometimes I write down ideas and they don’t seem to go together,” he says. “But I’ll have notebooks and pieces of paper, and six months later, I’ll be like, Wait!

That goes with this piece! And I’ll put them together, and instead of having two halfway decent songs, you’ll have a much stronger song. It’s just a constant process of building and finding ideas and just digging deep to reveal what you want to reveal about yourself.”

He’s got 12 or 14 songs ready for the next revelation, but no time line for that project yet. You can stay up to date on his goings-on at michaelmoxey.com.

Be sure to check out Musically Speaking, Mel’s online music journal, at www.melminter.com.

If you’d like to share something with “¡tiempo!” readers, e-mail tiempo@abqthemag.com.

PHOTO BY JESSICA INMAN

(deethemusician.com), where you can listen and purchase “Good Time,” also available on streaming platforms and YouTube (youtube.com/watch?v=oBf Pdg6Zpqo).

Look for the full album this summer, and possibly another single before that.

123

NEW

124

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

FROM THE VINE P. 128 | MY FAVORITE RECIPE P. 132 | BITES P. 134

DISH

KEEPING THE BREWS TAPPED Local brewers like Steel Bender Brewyard are supplying Albuquerqueans with their favorite brews while keeping the community safe and healthy (p. 130).

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

A TASTE OF WHAT’S HAPPENING IN ABQ’S WORLD OF WINE, SPIRITS, AND CULINARY DELIGHTS

125

FROM

THE

VINE

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN ABQ’S BEER, WINE, AND SPIRITS SCENE

Safe House distillings spirits are available at package stores throughout ABQ.

CRAFT COCKTAILS AND TAKEOUT BREWS CRAFT COCKTAILS FOR CURIOUS TIMES

For good reason, people have been asked to stay home and keep their distance from others. This might well save millions of lives. But that doesn’t make it easy, or, for that matter, cheap. Social distancing has its own costs, a lot of them measured in the relative weights of our pocketbooks.

As tends to be the case, the toll of proactive, civic-minded isolation hasn’t been evenly distributed. Overall, the booze industry has weathered the situation remarkably well. In fact, with so many folks sitting at home without much to do, alcohol sales are actually up. For the third week of March, market research group Nielson puts alcohol sales 55% above previous numbers for the same time last year.

Thing is, a lot of those sales are going to national brands. Nothing wrong with that, strictly speaking, but in the places like Albuquerque you can satisfy your thirst for a stiff drink while pumping money directly back into the local economy. And that, frankly speaking, is the operational directive here: to remind everyone that the Duke City’s booze scene is pretty on point.

On the spirit front, local distillers produce excellent examples of bourbon, whiskey, vodka, gin, and tequila. With that in mind, we’ve reached out to a few of them to get some cocktail ideas that you can make at home without searching far and wide for crazy ingredients. Next time you feel the need to ease the tension of our increasingly strange forms of modern living, give one of these a shot.

126

Safe House Distilling —Perfect Martini Let’s kick things off with a simple classic. Safe House Distilling’s Perfect Martini is set in a foundation of Teller Genuine Vodka. This is a 100 proof corn spirit, distilled 10 times for clarity and quality. The martini comes together as follows: · Shake or stir 2 ounces of Teller Vodka with ice, according to preference. · Add that to a chilled martini glass with half an ounce of dry vermouth. · Serve the drink with a twist of lemon or an olive. · Enjoy.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

THE

VINE

Safe House Distilling —Blueberry Lavender Lemonade Safe House Distilling’s head distiller Chris Leurig has a habit of taking the strong base provided by Teller Genuine Vodka and taking it to interesting new heights. Early this spring, they launched a line of vodka infused with blueberry and lavender, lending the spirit earthy floral notes and refreshing sweetness. For a Blueberry Lavender Lemonade do as follows: · Fill a glass with 6 ounces of fresh lemonade, over rocks. The lemonade can be infused with rosemary, if you’ve got some on hand and are feeling appropriately fancy. · Float about an ounce and a half of the Teller Blueberry Lavender Vodka over the lemonade and ice. · Find a sunny spot to sit and enjoy.

Safe House’s offerings are widely available in retail stores throughout Albuquerque. These include Jubilation Wine and Spirits, Kelly’s Liquor on 4th Street, Lowe’s Market on 11th Street, Silver Street Market, El Rey Liquor Store, Paradise Liquors, and the Stone Face Package Store.

Taylor Garrett —Final Approach Taylor Garrett launched in February of this year, bringing Scott Feuille’s brand of fast whiskey to the Albuquerque spirit scene. This is a 95-proof, grain-to-bottle corn whiskey. Shockingly, through a careful combination of scientific know-how and ingenuity, it’s aged over the course of 6 days. The result is a smooth, flavorful whiskey that you’ve really got to try to believe. To make a Final Approach in the comfort of your own home, try this: · Add an ounce and a half of Taylor Garrett Whiskey, an ounce and a half of lemon juice, an ounce of lime juice, and just under an ounce of simpler syrup to a shaker with ice. · Shake the thing. · Strain the contents into a glass, over ice. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary. · Sit back and relish your Final Approach.

Taylor Garrett Whiskey is available at Quarters Discount Liquor, Jubilation Wine and Spirits, and two Kelly’s Liquor locations, Juan Tabo and Wyoming. You can also get it direct from the source with curbside service at Vara Winery + Distillery on Alameda, Monday through Sunday.

Safe House’s Blueberry Lavender Vodka, a recent addition to their spirit lineup.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

PHOTO COURTESY OF SAFE HOUSE DISTILLING

FROM

127

THE

VINE

Favorites like Irish Red Ale are still available at Red Door.

Drinking is a cardinally social affair.

That’s not to say privately tipping back a couple fingers of amber spirits doesn’t have it’s own merits. But alcohol is best enjoyed in company. So much so that humans have enjoyed the occasional social drink together for more than 10,000 years.

In fact, it can even be argued that alcohol is fundamental to our social nature. It’s role as social lubricant goes well past analogy. People like socializing because it triggers the flow of endorphins in our brains.

Alcohol increases that flow, and thereby makes an evening out with friends that much more pleasurable.

128

Little surprise then that a sudden lockdown has taken a sizable bite out of the brewery business. While booze sales across the board are up, particularly for spirits, those dollars aren’t making their way to the places that give us a space to employ alcohol to its proper ends—helping us enjoy the company of others.

That reality hasn’t stopped a lot of local breweries from forging ahead. “We’re still brewing as needed,” says Andrew Kalemba of High and Dry Brewing. “Keeping the fermenter full and the beer flowing.”

For smaller outfits that don’t have a firm presence in local grocery stores, the going has been particularly tough. “If you

think about smaller places that aren’t doing a lot of packaged beer, people have to come to the taproom to buy,” explains Ali Cattin, operations manager at Red Door Brewing.

Sales at some of Albuquerque’s most prized local establishments are down to 25 percent of normal. In the face of such trying odds, they’ve shown incredible resilience. It’s the sort of thing that comes from a dedication to and passion for the work of turning yeast and grains into delicious brews.

Their perseverance gives those of us whose favorite flavors flow from local taps a lot to be thankful for, allowing us to WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

PHOTO COURTESY OF RED DOOR BREWING

FROM

Thirsty?

Fill a growler with Black Hole’s Sun stout at High and Dry.

PHOTO BY ZANE BEAL/ATM

stop by to fill a growler or two with something unique to Albuquerque. Plenty of local beer aficionados and loyal customers have shown their support, opting for hometown brews over national brands. At Red Door Brewing, some have even gone the extra mile, tipping 30, 50, or even 100 percent on their orders.

Universally, breweries that have managed to stay open for curbside or takeout services have implemented new strategies to get people beer without forcing them to risk their necks. “We’ve implemented frequent and enhanced cleaning regimens that meet or exceed CDC guidelines,” says Barbie Gonzalez, COO at Marble Brewery. “Taprooms have clearly marked designated waiting areas for customer pick up that are six feet apart.”

“Through all of this, I have to believe that we’re building a stronger community with deeper connections having gone through this together,” says Steel Bender Brewyard’s marketing director and co-owner Shelby Chant. “Hopefully, we’ll all hold onto that elevated level of strength, compassion, collaboration, and ingenuity, on the flip side of this.”

These businesses are performing some incredible gymnastics in order to keep doing what they love while keeping the community safe. Doubtlessly, it’s a struggle. But it’s also an inspiration, and a good reminder that Albuquerque affords us some distinct opportunities. We can do more than just drink at home to fight COVID-19—we can make sure that the beer we’re drinking was made by someone in our community.

—ZANE BEAL

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

129

DISH

My

Favorite

with

Ari Herring

A

ri Herring will be the first one to admit she is no foodie, which is an interesting revelation coming from someone whose business it is to think about food on a near-constant basis.

As executive director of the Rio Grande Food Project, Herring works for an non-profit organization hat strives to end hunger in the community by reducing local food waste and providing low-income households with groceries.

“The food project responds six days a week year-round to our community’s serious food insecurity problem,” Herring says. “When I say food insecurity, I mean people not having reliable access to affordable, nutritious food to maintain good health. New Mexicans have a higher hunger rate, we have a higher food insecurity rate, we have a higher supplemental nutrition assistance program usage rate than the national average.”

According to Herring, those concerns are directly related to other issues such as education and employment. In short, if people can’t think beyond the rumbling in their stomachs, it’s going to be extremely difficult to focus on the other areas in life they need to achieve success.

“If we can even the playing field by ensuring that everybody has enough food, then we can think hard about educational success and employment rates, some of those longer-term problems that can really only be addressed once basic needs are addressed,” Herring says.

That wasn’t an issue in Herring’s household growing up. Though she is no gourmet chef herself, Herring has fond memories of how food brings people together.

Blue Corn waffles, a recipe invented by her mom out of necessity — a condition called celiac mandates that she maintains

130

a gluten-free diet — and modified by her dad in the kitchen. He stumbled upon olive oil as a secret ingredient by accident and it was a unifying force for Herring’s family.

“This was my favorite breakfast growing up,” Herring says. “It reminds me of weekend mornings spent relaxing in pajamas, listening to Tom Petty albums, laughing with my sister, my mom and dad. If you top those with butter and syrup or cream cheese and fruit, they are delicious.” Herring still utilizes the recipe to this day, and gluten-free fare has become en vogue. Now more than ever, Herring recognizes that not every family has the same opportunity to bond over a meal as hers did.

“Food has always been about what it does for a family and friends,” Herring says. “It brings us together, keeps us healthy and happy. But that is only if we have enough.” Herring has always veered toward a path that involved assisting the less fortunate. She entered college as a self-described “idealistic kid,” a social justice warrior with designs on reducing the inequities around the world. Herring attended grad school at the University of Washington, where she developed a Master’s thesis that focused on young females who lived on the streets of Bamako, the capital city of Mali, the eighth-largest country in Africa. Through a Seattle-based organization, Herring was able to partner with Mali community leaders to put young, homeless girls into a school to learn potential career skills. During her

month there, she saw a significant contrast between the girls in the program and the ones who continued to live on the streets.

“The difference in terms of how kids were kind of navigating the streets, living minute to minute, always looking for food, always looking over their shoulder for the next danger that might be approaching versus the girls who were in this program, were able to go to a safe place all day, were able to relax and learn and be well fed was astonishing,” Herring says. “The kids in the program who were well fed, had been in the program for a little while, whose stress had been alleviated…could dream.

The kids who are still on the streets could not think about 10 minutes from the present. They were very focused on the immediate dangers and then basic needs that weren’t being met.”

As a third-generation Albuquerquean, Herring fell in love with the RGFP upon her return to the Duke City in 2012.

Currently the largest food pantry on Albuquerque’s West Side, the organization serves approximately 3,600 people each month and moves 1.3 million pounds of free groceries on an annual basis, according to Herring. Struggling families can visit the RGFP once a month and receive a week’s worth of health-conscious groceries for an entire household.

—TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

PHOTOS BY DON JAMES/ATM

Executive Director, Rio Grande Food Project

DISH

Blue Corn Waffles Ingredients

(dry ingredients) • 1 ¾ cups of blue corn flour • 2 teaspoons of double-acting baking powder • ½ teaspoon of salt • 1 tablespoon of sugar (or Splenda) (wet ingredients) • 3 eggs • 2 tablespoons of olive oil • 5 tablespoons of melted butter or salad oil • ¾ cup of yogurt • ¾ to 1 cup of low-fat milk

MAY 2020 MONTH 20XX | ALBUQUERQUE | ALBUQUERQUE THETHE MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

Directions

• •

• •

Plug in and warm up waffle iron.

Mix dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl.

Mix the wet ingredients in a separate bowl.

Combine them and mix until batter is thick. (If the batter is too thick, add another ¼ cup of low-fat milk.)

Place a blob of the batter in the waffle iron and cook. When you stop seeing steam rising from the waffle, it is probably done.

Place the waffle in the oven to keep it warm while the others are cooking. Do not stack the waffles while you are making them, or the bottom ones will become soggy.

131

BITES

OUR EATS ALUMNI, CONDENSED INTO PERFECTLY SIZED SNACKS TO TAKE WITH YOU ON THE GO AL’S BIG DIPPER

“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.

ALDO’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZERIA $

Two Locations, 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.

CORRECTIONS:

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

5 STAR BURGERS

$

5901 Wyoming Blvd. NE, 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. Handformed patties or vegetarian options paired with wine from St. Clair Winery or beer from Marble Brewery are a match made in heaven.

66 DINER

$$

1405 Central Ave. NE, 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 Drive NE, 255-5080, abccakeshop.com Specializing in custom cakes and cakes 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.

THE ACRE

$$

4410 Wyoming Blvd NE, 299-6973, theacrerestaurant.com The Acre Restaurant specializes in comfort vegetarian cuisine with a goal to challenge meateaters and question what vegetarian food is, all while creating healthy, sustainable dishes.

ABUELITA’S NEW MEXICAN KITCHEN $

6083 Isleta Blvd. SW, 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.

AJIACO COLOMBIAN BISTRO

$$

3216 Silver Ave. SE, 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, 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.

132

$

501 Copper Ave. NW, 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.

POLICY:

ALICEA’S NY BAGELS & SUBS

$

1009 Golf Course Road SE, Suite 103, 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

$

Three locations, 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, 247.1619 / 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 dumplings, pork and ginger potstickers, or scallion pancakes.

AMORE NEAPOLITAN PIZZERIA

$$

Two locations, 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.

ANATOLIA TURKISH MEDITERRANEAN GRILL

$

2132 Central Ave SE Suite C, 242-6718 The specialty is the Doner Kebab, seasoned meat in the shape of an inverted cone, slow-cooked to perfection rotisserie style, and always freshly prepared. Whether you choose the Adana Spicy Ground Lamb or the ‘Burque Kebab, try the “baklove-ah” for dessert.

AN HY QUAN VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

$$

1450 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, 332-8565 This vegetarian Vietnamese spot is also veganfriendly. Pho fans don’t fret; Thai and wonton soup will satisfy any meat eater.

ANNAPURNA’S WORLD VEGETARIAN CAFÉ

$

Various locations, chaishoppe.com 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, 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 topped with melted cheese, chile and eggs, Annie’s specializes in comfort.

ANTIQUITY RESTAURANT

$$$$

112 Romero St. NW, 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 CAFÉ

$$$

424 Central Ave. SE, 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 evening out. Innovative dishes and European aperitifs served by staff that takes ownership of the experience, the location is also an ideal launchpad for downtown adventures.

ASIAN NOODLE BAR

$$

AZUMA SUSHI & TEPPAN

$$

318 Central Ave. SW, 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.

Two locations, 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.

B2B BISTRONOMY

$

3118 Central Ave. SE, 262-2222, bistronomyb2b.com Highlighting all-local ingredients (including New Mexico beef and Hatch green chile), B2B serves up a wide variety of tasty burgers—including plenty of veggie options.

BACKSTREET GRILL

$$

1919 Old Town Road NW, 842-5434, backstreetgrillot.com/home Originally a test outlet for local palates in a tourist mecca (Old Town), word spread fast about the Baja-inspired tacos and creative New Mexicanpeppered dishes (check out the gumbo). This locale is expansive, great for families, and the patio hosts music and dancing on weekends.

BACON JAM

$

2930 Candelaria Rd NE 916-0864, baconjamrestaurant.com A bacon-inspired 50s diner, Bacon Jam has a menu packed with both classic diner fare and bold, innovative takes on traditional staples—often, as the name implies, with bacon playing a pivotal supporting role.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

BITES BARELAS COFFEE HOUSE

$

1502 4th St. SW, 843-7577 This legendary neighborhood restaurant serves New Mexican dishes from the Gonzales family cookbook: menudo, posole, chicharrone burritos, huevos rancheros, all smothered with its famous red or green chile.

THE BARLEY ROOM

$$

5200 Eubank Blvd. NE, 332-0800, barleyroom.com All sorts of mouth-watering pub fare come to life here, from potato skins to mini shrimp cocktails.

Check the menu for food and drink specials aplenty.

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.

BLEU CAFÉ

$

At Del Norte Sports and Wellness, 7120 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Suite 8B This in-gym café offers fresh food from scratch— paninis, burgers, wraps, burritos, protein shakes– to both gym-goers and the general public. Healthy and tasty? Check!

BLUE GRASSHOPPER

$

Two locations, bluegrasshopper.freesite.website Somewhere along the craft brew evolutionary line, beer snobs were born and hipsters took over. Not so at Blue Grasshopper. The pours are indeed solid, but the ambiance is better: welcoming, warm, and loaded with live music virtually every night of the week. Great pub food, too.

BASIL LEAF VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT $$

1225 Eubank Blvd. NE, 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!

BEN MICHAEL’S RESTAURANT

$$

2404 Pueblo Bonito Court NW, 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

$

BLACK BIRD SALOON

$

1675 Bosque Farms Blvd., Bosque Farms, 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.

28 Main St., Los Cerrillos, NM 438-1821, blackbirdsaloon.com Black Bird Saloon is not just a popular Northern New Mexico eatery (located in Cerillos, NM), it’s also a time warp back through the building’s long and varied history. Items like the Miner’s Hand Warmer Breakfast Burrito or the Tumbleweed Salad stick out like a turquoise on a tourist.

BLACK MESA COFFEE COMPANY

BEST CHICKEN WINGS 2 YEARS IN A ROW

$

Albuquerque International Sunport, 220 Sunport Blvd. SE, 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 preflight. 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 Highway 165, Suite L, Placitas, 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

$

Various locations, lotaburger.com Blake’s became an Albuquerque establishment more than 30 years ago, and almost immediately garnered kudos for its out-of-this-world green chile cheeseburgers (the restaurant has since

2003 Southern Blvd. SE, Suite 139 | Rio Rancho

5 0 5.994 .0363 | SLA TESTREETBILLIA RDS . C O M

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

133

BITES BOCADILLOS $

200 Lomas Blvd. NW, Suite 110, 243-3995, bocadillos505.com Slow-roasted meats are the highlight of the Food Network “Chopped” winner, Marie Yniguez. Open for breakfast, lunch, or dinner on Wednesdays– Saturdays, pop in for a burrito or sandwich filled to the brim with pork, chicken, turkey or corned beef.

BOSQUE BREWING CO.

$

Various locations, 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.

BRICKYARD PIZZA

$$

2216 Central Ave. SE, 262-2216, brickyardpizza.com Three very important pizza points rule supreme here: quantity, quality, and value. Enjoy handtossed, homemade pizza with fresh sauce in a spic-and-span, laid-back atmosphere.

BRIXENS $$$

400 Central Ave. SW 242-2400, brixens.com A creative spin on American bar fare inspired by New Mexican culture, the restaurant serves 99 bottles of beer, literally on the wall, and a range of food items. Brixens has many unique qualities, but a couple notable qualities include their all-day happy hour on Sundays and 3-6pm daily.

BUDAI GOURMET CHINESE

$$

6300 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Suite H-1, 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

$

THE BURRITO LADY

$

12023 New Mexico 14, Cedar Crest, 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.

938 Eubank Blvd. NE, 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.

CAFE 6855

$$

6855 4th St NW, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque 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 Road SE, Rio Rancho 306-6974, 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.

CAFÉ CUBANO

$$

CAFÉ LAUREL

$$

At Laru Ni Hati Salon, 3413 Central Ave. NE, 255-1575, larunihati.com Who would guess that an upscale hair salon such as Laru Ni Hati would also be home to delicious Cuban food—platanos, Cuban sandwiches, dirty rice, and even espresso and hand-rolled cigars?

1433 Central Ave. NW, 259-2331, cafe-laurel.weebly.com The casual American café, open for breakfast and lunch, serves soups, sandwiches, burgers, salads, New Mexican favorites, and breakfast items in a bright airy atmosphere complete with local beers on tap. Peruse the daily selection of sweets and the full coffee bar for dessert (or breakfast).

CAFÉ LUSH

$

700 Tijeras Ave. NW, 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.

134

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

LA BAREN RESTAURANT

$

CAKE FETISH

$

230 Louisiana Blvd. SE Suite A, 232-6764, labarenrestaurant.com The pho and spring rolls have a die-hard following of Kirtland Airforce Base employees. Located across the parking lot from Talin Market, experience an extensive menu of traditional Vietnamese cuisine inside this dine-in and takeout eatery.

2665 Louisiana Blvd. NE, 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-Out German Chocolate Cake (coconut and pecans and crowned with chocolate French buttercream).

CAMPO AT LOS POBLANOS

$$$

4803 Rio Grande Blvd NW 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 topof-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

$$

CASA DE BENAVIDEZ

$$

CASA TACO

$$

3120 Central Ave. SE, 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.

8032 4th St. NW, 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.

2 locations casa-taco.com Both Casa Taco locations offer a window into owner John 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

$

CENTRAL GRILL & COFFEE HOUSE

$

230 6th St. SW,243-7070 Recognized on the Food Network’s “Diners, DriveIns & 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.

2056 Central Ave. SW, 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.

CERVANTES NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT $$

5801 Gibson Blvd. SE, 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.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

135

BITES CESAR’S MEXICAN & GREEK

CHEF JOSH KENNON

$

5300 Lomas Blvd. NE, 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

Owner of Fork & Fig, and The Jealous Fork 6904 Menaul Blvd NE C, D 881-5293, 312-5506 forkfig.com

$

Two locations, 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

$$

Two locations, cheeseandcoffee.com 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.

CHEZ AXEL

$$$

CHOCGLITZ & CREAM

$

CHRISTY MAE’S RESTAURANT

$

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHEF JOSH KENNON

6209 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 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.

10660 Unser Blvd. NW, 898-4589, chocglitzandcream.com Certified fair-trade chocolate and a chocolatier with 45 years of experience means you’ll find some of the best sweet-tooth satisfying offerings (including ice cream flavors such as raspberry red chile and Mexican coffee).

1400 San Pedro Drive NE, 255-4740, christymaes.com “Hearty” and “homestyle” are the key words here, a hands-down favorite of early-dinner lovers. Oldfashioned 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, 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

$

COCINA AZUL

$

CODA BAKERY

$

Two locations, cinnamoncafeabq.com Featuring breakfast and lunch options, endless baked goodies, friendly staff and regular cooking classes, this place puts the “everything nice” in the well-worn phrase.

Three locations, cocinaazul.com The newest location of the Old Town favorite serves up the same tried and true home-cooked recipes you’ve come to love. Don’t miss location specific specials and local brews amid New Mexican staples.

230 Louisiana Blvd. SE Suite C, 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.

136

Albuquerque restaurant owners have had a lot on their plates in these pandemic times. They’re trying to serve customers while being restricted to only takeout or delivery. They’re juggling shifts to keep as many staff members employed as possible. All while trying to create a small profit to pay bills and stay afloat. “This current unprecedented time has created a number of challenges for restaurants,” says Josh Kennon, the owner of two ABQ restaurants (Fork & Fig, and The Jealous Fork). “We as restaurants must adapt and take on the challenge.”

Luckily for Kennon, he’s had plenty of experience in overcoming challenges. After college, he went to work in construction. But after seeing the hardships of labor up close, he decided to try something different, and enrolled in culinary school.

His cooking experience has included meal prepping for former Major League baseball player Jaime Moyer (and his eight kids), and being the personal chef for the billionaire founder of GoDaddy, Robert Parsons.

Looking to explore his dream of opening his own restaurant, Kennon moved to Albuquerque, where the Deming native launched Fork & Fig in Uptown in 2015.

The eatery’s success led him last year to open The Jealous Fork right next door.

And then came the biggest challenge to date: COVID-19 and the stay-at-home order, which has affected the global dining community. But Kennon says even though he is working with minimal staff, his team is still “managing takeout orders and executing them efficiently, all while maintaining the restaurant’s needs and obligations.” Like most ABQ eateries, both of Kennon’s dining spots are operating right now with limited hours (the restaurants are open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day, but closed on Sundays).

But he sees these hardships as a way to prepare for better days ahead. “This will only make the restaurant world stronger, and educate us for the circumstances that may arise in the future,” says Kennon. The curbside menus and order process for both restaurants can be found on Facebook and Instagram.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

BITES CONCHITA’S CAFÉ

$

400 Gold Ave. SW, Suite 119, 339-6774, conchitascafe.com What began as the food truck, Conchita’s Creations became a downtown café with breakfast, sandwiches, and salads. New Mexican favorites shine here, just like abuela made them—including tacos, Frito pie, and burritos.

THE COOPERAGE

$$$

CORN MAIDEN

$$$

7220 Lomas Blvd. NE, 255-1657, cooperageabq.com Consistently fabulous prime rib, steak and seafood—plus unlimited trips to the soup and salad bar—make this restaurant a local favorite.

1300 Tuyuna Trail, Santa Ana Pueblo, 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.

CORRALES BISTRO BREWERY

$

4908 Corrales Road NW, Corrales, 897-1036, cbbistro.com Brews from all over the region make this Corrales bistro a must-visit for the affordable fare, killer atmosphere, and music seven days a week.

THE COUNTY LINE BBQ

$$

CRACKIN’ CRAB

$$

9600 Tramway Blvd. NE, 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, green-chile stuffed pork loin, live music, and two stepping, and at The County Line, everybody wins.

We’re here for you.

While the world today is clouded in uncertainty, we believe in the allure of travel.

Whether you have an upcoming trip, you’ve postponed plans, or you’re thinking about a future journey, it’s okay to dream.

Travel allows the joy of dreaming, the excitement of the experience, and a lifetime of memories that grow more valuable each day.

g n i m a e r d p ee k

Your All World Travel advisor is ready to fulfill your dreams when you are.

Three locations, 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, 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 dine-in 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, 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, 767-7171, abqdowns.com/crown-room 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.

We’re here for you. Call 505.294.5031 or email info@awtravel.com.

awtravel.com 5200 Eubank Blvd NE, Ste C-1 Albuquerque

137

Albuquerque,

CURRY LEAF

$

THE DAILY GRIND

$

DELICIAS CAFÉ

$

DG’S DELI

$

6910-C Montgomery Blvd NE 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.

4360a Cutler Ave. NE, 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.

6001 San Mateo Blvd. NE, 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.

1418 Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. NE, 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, 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 $

Various locations, 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

$

DONUT MART

$

1216 Central Ave. SW, 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 chilicheese fries and a thick shake.

Various locations, 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 Street NW, 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.

138

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

BITES DUGGAN’S $

227 Lead Ave. SE, 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, 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.

EAST OCEAN CHINESE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT $$

3601 Carlisle Blvd. NE, 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, 897-0444, elbrunos.com El Bruno’s got its start in Cuba, NM, in 1975. At the Albuquerque location, the tried-and-true 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

$

EL COTORRO

$

EL PATIO DE ALBUQUERQUE

$

EL SABOR DE JUAREZ

$

3527 Gibson Blvd. SE, 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

$$

Two locations, 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.

Restaurant’s claim to fame is their consistent food and service, offering the same recipes that made them famous all those years ago. Try the No. 1 Eloy’s Deluxe Dinner, with a little bit of everything.

EMBER’S STEAK & SEAFOOD

$$$

11000 Broadway Blvd. SE 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.

ELOY’S NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT $

1508 Wyoming Blvd. NE, 293-6018 Opening 36 years ago, Eloy’s New Mexican

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED BY THE SAMS FAMILY

4801 ALAMEDA BLVD NE SUITE E-2, ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87113 505-554-3264 8101 SAN PEDRO DR NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87113 505-821-0047

6800 4th St NW, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, 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.

111 Carlisle Blvd. NE, 503-6202, elcotorroabq.com Made to order gourmet tacos are on full display among classic Mexican street food like elotes and ceviche. A full salsa bar lets you spice up your meat, fish, vegetarian, or vegan tacos. Taco Tuesdays feature $2 tacos and bottled Mexican beers.

142 Harvard Drive SE, 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 #10 Green Chicken Enchiladas have won rave reviews for years, as have the tasty salsa and pillow-soft sopaipillas.

EL PATRON

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU. OPEN FOR TAKEOUT AND DELIVERY.

$$

Two locations, 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, 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.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

139

BITES FANO BREAD COMPANY

$

4605 McLeod Road NE, 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, 266-3566, fan-tang.com With authentic family recipes that include coffee chicken (rubbed in Satellite coffee, then stirfried 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, 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, 298-0035, farinaalto.com The Northeast Heights version of Farina offers the same urban atmosphere as the East Downtown (EDo) Farina, minus the elbow-to-elbow 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 Oven-Roasted Chicken Wings. Alto’s wine room is stocked with more than 300 bottles of wine.

140

FARINA PIZZERIA

$$

510 Central Ave. SE, 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.

FARM & TABLE

$$$

8917 4th St. NW, 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-alfalfa-fed steaks and produce-focused dishes that use local kale, chard, okra, chile, and tomatoes.

THE FARMACY

$$

3718 Central Ave SE, 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 AND CANTINA

$

4400 Carlisle Blvd. NE, 881-0478 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.

FLAMEZ BISTRO

$

9821 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 275-0522, flamezabq.com There’s a lot more to this burger joint than the beef. High-end, artistically inspired bistro fare, delightful appetizers, and burger bowls (with greens, sans buns) are only some of the fun finds at this neighborhood fave. Buffalo, salmon, turkey, lamb, get your protein boost here.

FLIX BREWHOUSE

$$

FLYING STAR CAFÉ

$$

FORQUE KITCHEN AND BAR

$$

3258 La Orilla Rd NW B-1 445-8500, 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.

Various locations, flyingstarcafe.com With handmade desserts to die for, artisan breads, and a menu filled with everything from eggs to enchiladas, the Flying Star offers plenty of options for every meal (and snack time) of the day.

330 Tijeras Ave. NW, 842-1234, albuquerque.hyatt.com Forque’s multi-level, tastefully decorated dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows and makes it easy to forget you’re dining at a Downtown hotel.

The elegant presentation extends to the regional cuisine, which is prepared in the restaurant’s open kitchen by executive chef Eli White and his staff.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

BITES FORK & FIG

$$

6904 Menaul Blvd. NE, Suite C, 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?

FOURTH AND ROMA CAFÉ

$

FRANK’S FAMOUS CHICKEN AND WAFFLES

$

500 4th St. NW, #106, 245-7662 Delicious chai, coffee, sandwiches, salads, and occasional East-Indian specials conveniently located in the old Bank of America building downtown.

400 Washington St. SE, 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.

FRENCH-ISH $$$

3509 Central Ave NE, 433-5911, frenchish.co Envisioned as a casual neighborhood restaurant, French-ish’s menu draws inspiration from an eclectic mix of French and Midwestern US cuisines, with an active focus on clean, simple foods.

FREIGHT HOUSE KITCHEN + TAP

$$

200 S Camino del Pueblo, 588-2143, fr8house.com Sister restaurant to Range Café and Standard Diner, Freight House offers smoky sweet menu items from the smoker with a homemade touch.

Expect pub food with a unique twist and a rotating selection of local beers.

FRIENDS COFFEE & SANDWICH SHOP $

200 3rd St. NW, 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, 266-0550, frontierrestaurant.com Famous for its legendary Frontier Rolls, hot-off-theiron 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.

FU YUANG KOREAN & CHINESE RESTAURANT $

3107 Eubank Blvd. NE, Suite 16, 298-8989 Fu Yuang breaks away from tradition with its take on Korean and Chinese cuisine, but keeps it simple.

Freshly made with high-quality meats, you’ll get perfectly-portioned dishes made without MSG, less oil, and all natural ingredients.

GARCIA’S KITCHEN

$

Various locations, 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.

141

BITES GARDUÑO’S OF MEXICO RESTAURANT AND CANTINA $$ Various Locations, 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

$$

Two locations, geckosbar.com Plenty of tasty tapas—including Southwestern Krab Taquitos and Red Molé Grilled Sirloin Tacos— and hearty salads and sandwiches, too.

GINO’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA

$

Two locations, 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 Drive SE, 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 Yorkstyle 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 Road NW, 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-

GYROS MEDITERRANEAN

$

HADLEY’S TEA

$

3300 San Mateo Blvd. NE, 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.

HANNAH & NATE’S MARKET CAFÉ

$

THE GROVE CAFÉ AND MARKET

HARTFORD SQUARE

218 Gold Ave. SW, 265-4933, hartfordsq.com Perhaps the only Albuquerque establishment that changes the menu weekly based on local produce options, this is a clean, smart, urban café that feeds suits and millennials in droves. Also serving up local coffees from Michael Thomas roasters, dine anytime and support the farm-to-table movement.

$

free versions. Don’t miss out on homemade green chile bread, pizza, and creative bread sculptures.

GRASSBURGER $

Two locations, eatgrassburger.com There’s a lot that sets the burger joint apart— including their community involvement, their vegan and gluten-free burger options, and their commitment to a no-corn syrup menu.

GREENSIDE CAFÉ

$$$

12165 North Highway 14, Cedar Crest, 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, Monte Cristo sandwich with green chile.

THE GRILL ON SAN MATEO

$

$$

600 Central Ave. SE, Suite A, 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.

106 Cornell Drive SE, 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, Patates, and, of course, sweet baklava, served in a friendly, laid-back collegial atmosphere.

7600 Jefferson St. NE, Suite 9, 821-4832 With about 200 different teas—half of them available in loose-leaf form—Hadley’s Tea is a tea lover’s oasis. Every tea that lines Hadley’s shelves is made with all-natural ingredients. A cucumber and cream cheese sandwich, otherwise known as the “tea sandwich,” is the perfect companion for your Lady Londonderry or strawberry green tea.

4512 Corrales Road, 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.

12 MONTH , NO PAYME NO MONEY NT, NO INT DOWN RES EREST, IDENTIAL R OOF FINAN CING.

ROOFING

SOLAR

EVERGUARDROOFING.COM 505-821-9543

EVERGUARDSOLAR.COM 505-242-6511

512 Veranda Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107

142

220 Menaul Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

BITES

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

143

BITES HELLO DELI

$$

HIGH POINT GRILL

$$

CHEF MARC QUIÑONES

Mas Tapas y Vino (inside Hotel Andaluz) 125 2nd St NW 242-9090, hotelandaluz.com

7600 Jefferson St. NE, 797-3354, hellodeliabq.com Home to one of the most delicious breakfast burritos around, Hello Deli serves sandwiches and even Frontier’s sweet rolls.

9780 Coors Blvd NW 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. Their Southwest burger, for instance, features a red chile crusted patty, extra hot local green chile and cheddar cheese.

$$$

425 San Felipe St. NW, 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, 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

$$

HOT PINK THAI

$$

HOT TAMALES

$

HURRICANE’S CAFE

$

I SCREAM ICE CREAM

$

5809 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, 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.

2626 San Pedro Drive NE, 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.

1520 Rio Rancho Blvd. SE, 962-0123, hottamalesnmrestaurant.com This Rio Rancho restaurant serves bona fide New Mexican with hand-blended red chile and fireroasted green chile: Green Chile Stew Omelet, Hot Tamale Bowl, and Fajitas are just a few of the spicy dishes.

4330 Lomas Blvd. NE, 255-4248 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 hearty Disaster Burrito, but you’d better make plenty of room if that’s on your agenda.

2000 Carlisle Blvd. NE, 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.

144

Marc Quiñones is no stranger to hard times. The executive chef of downtown restaurant Mas Tapas y Vino grew up modestly in the Bronx and in Central Albuquerque. After high school, the teenager hopped a bus back to New York City, got a job washing dishes, and set about learning the culinary business. But even by his standards, life in these times of the coronavirus has delivered a big blow.

“I’ve felt numb before, certainly we all have at one juncture or another in life.

But the numbing I feel currently is significantly painful,” says Quiñones. “It’s akin to feeling sad, scared, alert and, dare I say, angry at the same time.” Like most of the city’s restaurants, Mas has scaled back to a limited menu for carry-out orders only.

But in this climate, things could have been worse—many eateries have closed during the pandemic, and there are fears that some among those may never re-open.

“We’re continuing to fight the good fight,” says Quiñones.

Fighting his way to success is nothing new for this chef. His first kitchen job was flipping hamburgers at Wendy’s on Central Avenue near the University of New Mexico. After his dishwashing turn in NYC, he

knew he had to find formal training to attain his dream of running a kitchen. He enrolled in Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in Arizona—and graduated with a 4.0 grade point average. After running several high-end restaurants in ABQ and Santa Fe, he joined Mas in 2017, and has ascended to become arguably ABQ’s most recognized and decorated chef.

But the simple things of kitchen life are what he’s been missing lately, says Quiñones. “I miss my team. I miss the beautiful sounds of a busy dinner rush,” he says, noting that Mas also provides room service to Andaluz’ guests. “Treating each guest with love and care will remain our focus, while trying to lift each other’s spirits.”

For now, the fine dining influence still exists in Mas’ carry-out menu, which still includes dishes like the Short Rib-Brisket Blend Burger, and a charcuterie plate featuring the restaurant’s signature Spanish cured meats. The menu can be seen at the Mas website, and dinner service runs through 7:30 p.m. each night.

Quiñones, whose positive and upbeat persona are equal to his culinary skills, has a typical message to send out: “Stay strong, New Mexico,” he says. “We love you all.”

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHEF MARC QUIÑONES

HIGH NOON RESTAURANT AND SALOON

IL VICINO

$$

Various locations, 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.

INDIGO CROW CAFÉ

$$$

4515 Corrales Road, Corrales, 898-7000, 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 Road NW, Suite 250, 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 freshly-ground chuck, topped with fresh vegetables and roasted green chile.

JAPANESE KITCHEN

$$$

Two Locations, 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, 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, Suite B, 766-6973, jcnypd.com New York-style pizza, pasta, salads, and fully loaded pasta and calzone dishes, all in a laid-back lounge. During lunch hour, the line goes out the door.

JIMMY’S CAFÉ ON JEFFERSON

$

7007 Jefferson St. NE, 341-2546, jimmyscafeonjefferson.com The menu here lists more than 100 items, most of them mouthwatering comfort foods: sandwiches, burgers, New Mexican dishes, handmade pizza, and breakfast served all day long.

JINJA BAR AND BISTRO

$$

JOE’S PASTA HOUSE

$$

Various locations, 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.

3201 Southern Blvd. SE, 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.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

145

BITES KABAB HOUSE: AUTHENTIC PERSIAN CUISINE $

301 Cornell Drive SE, 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 South Hill Road, Bernalillo, 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.

KATHY’S CARRY OUT

$

823 Isleta Blvd. SW, 873-3472 This carry out has been a South Valley favorite for 38 years. Look for the chicharron burrito with egg, fresh hand-cut fries, and the daily special—you just might land on a seems-too-good-to-be-true deal, such as three tacos for $3.

KATRINAH’S EAST MOUNTAIN GRILL $$

150 State Road 344, Edgewood, 281-9111, eastmountaingrill.com This contemporary diner specializes in homemade dishes, such as gyros, hand-cut steaks and burgers, and the best-selling Southern Salad (with fried green beans, bacon, cheddar cheese, tomato, and fried or grilled chicken or steak).

KELLYS PUB

$

3222 Central Ave. SE, 262-2739, kellyspubabq.com On any given night, the patio at Kellys, converted from an old gas station, is filled with a diverse array of customers. Kids eat free on weekends, and dogs are welcome, too. It’s sporting a new brick oven pizza menu you should definitely check out.

KIMO’S HAWAIIAN BBQ

$

LA QUICHE PARISIENNE BISTRO

$

LE PEEP

LA SALITA

$

LE TROQUET

LAGUNA BURGER

$

LEVEL 5 AT HOTEL CHACO

$$$

THE LIBRARY BAR & GRILL

$$

LIMONATA ITALIAN STREET CAFÉ

$$

5850 Eubank Blvd. NE, Suite 17, 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.

1950 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, 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.

Various locations, 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.

LAS RISTRAS

$$$

4940 Corrales Rd. #400, Corrales 433-4192, lasristras.com Though New Mexican fare is a huge part of Las Ristras’ menu–all the usual suspects from tacos and chile rellenos to burritos and bowls of fresh posole are in evidence–they are joined by some of the most dynamic steaks on the Rio Grande.

THE LAST CALL

$

Various locations, lastcallabq.com This late-night eatery specializes in freshly-made Baja Mexican street cuisine (think: carne asada fries). If you’re lucky, you just might run into the “Taco Box” while out on the town: a mobile extension of the restaurant that brings the food to you.

LAVA ROCK BREWING COMPANY $$

3239 Girard Blvd. NE kimosabq.com, 582-2797 Hawaii comes home. What began as a food truck is now a brick-and-mortar location also. Try freshfrom-the-isles Kalua Pork and Huli Huli Chicken plates served with sides like steamed cabbage, rice, and macaroni salad.

2220 Unser Blvd. NE 836-1022, lavarockbrewpub.com The casual brewpub on Unser currently has 7 of their own beers available on tap, with several other local guest taps as well. Standard bar fare gets gussied up here, like the housemade hot sauces on the wings and the fries loaded with green chile and queso.

KOLACHE FACTORY

LAZY LIZARD GRILL

$

8001 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Suite B3 856-3430, locations.kolachefactory.com The Kolache Factory franchise out of Texas focuses on Czech style Kolaches that were traditionally a warm, semi-sweet pastry filled with sausage, cheese, or fruit and originated in Eastern Europe dating as far back as the 1700s.

LA CRÊPE MICHEL

$$

400 San Felipe St. NW, Suite C2, 242-1251, lacrepemichel.com Heavenly soups, sandwiches, and crêpes await you at this charming French restaurant: whether filled with salmon, asparagus and Swiss cheese or zucchini, eggplant, and tomato, you’ll find a crêpe to whet your appetite. Reservations are recommended.

LA OJA RESTAURANT

$$

201 Marquette Ave. NW, inside DoubleTree Hotel, 247-3344 La Oja Restaurant blends New Mexico and California cuisines, resulting in unique tastes that combine fresh seafood with local flavor. It’s MexiCali cuisine with a twist.

146

$

12480 North Highway 14, Sandia Park 281-9122, lazylizardgrill.com From the King Cobra Pizza and made-from-scratch 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, 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, 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.

$

2125 Louisiana Blvd. NE, 881-7272, lepeepabq.com With a menu spanning breakfast skillets, omelets, and flapjacks to a comprehensive and creative selection of lunch sammies, soups, and otherwise, Le Peep offers an enlightened take on American staples with a New Mexican twist.

$$

228 Gold Ave. SW 508-1166, www.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.

2000 Bellamah Ave. NW 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.

312 Central Ave. SW, 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.

3222 Silver Av SE, 266-0607, limonatanobhill.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.

LITTLE BEAR COFFEE

$

LOS COMPADRES RESTAURANT

$

2632 Pennsylvania St. NE 917-8902, littlebearcoffeeco.com Located near Uptown, Little Bear is not just serving up quality brew, but also providing an outpost for the neighborhood and coffee community.

2437 Central Ave. NW 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

$$

LOYOLA’S FAMILY RESTAURANT

$$

Various locations loscuatesrestaurants.com 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.

4500 Central Ave. SE, 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, 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.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

“ABOVE & BEYOND” WE DO MORE THAN CATERING, TO MAKE IT EASY AND CONVENIENT FOR YOU!

670 JUAN TABO BLVD. NE STE. E , ALBUQUERQUE, NM, 87123

505.508.5638 • ABOVEANDBEYONDNM.COM • SALES@ABOVEANDBEYONDNM.COM MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

147

BITES LUNA MANSION

$$$

110 W. Main St., Los Lunas, 865-7333, lunamansion.com Said to be haunted, the Luna Mansion is an adventure in dining, featuring a wide selection of steak and seafood in a unique, historic atmosphere in Los Lunas.

M’TUCCI’S ITALIAN

$$

Various locations, 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 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

$

Two locations, macsnm.com Taquitas, 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 $$

911 Four Hills Road SE, 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

$$

Various locations, 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

$$

Two locations, 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, 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.

MATANZA CRAFT BEER KITCHEN

$$

3225 Central Ave. NE, 312-7305, matanzanm.com The New Mexican classic feast gets a sophisticated touch at the eatery serving up favorites such as carne adovada, to a wide range of salads, flatbreads and a cult-favorite brunch. One hundred taps feature local beer and wine.

MAY CAFÉ

$

111 Louisiana Blvd. SE, 265-4448, maycafenm.com Traditional Vietnamese cuisine is easily customizable, fresh and healthy. The café’s spring

148

rolls, made fresh to order, are popular with diners new and old. Try the pho or the bún.

MAZAYA CAFÉ

$

120 Harvard Dr. SE 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, freshgrilled kebabs, a half-dozen wraps, shawarma, and three kinds of fried or steamed dumpling plates headline the restaurant’s entrée menu.

MICHAEL THOMAS COFFEE ROASTERS $

Two locations, 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 Candelaira Rd NE Suite A, 881-2233, mickschilefix.com One of the city’s true spots for getting something hot: try The Shocker (an eight-pound breakfast burrito), huevos rancheros, or the Frito pie, all with homemade red or green chile.

MILLY’S $

MONTE VISTA FIRE STATION

$

3201 Central Ave. NE, 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, 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, 275-4477 Perfect for anyone shopping at the Rich Ford car dealership—or anyone at all—is this auto-themed restaurant, which serves up homemade breakfast burritos, papitas, enchiladas, rellenos, tamales, and the Dennis Snyder Favorite: a 16-oz. sirloin patty with cheese and chile.

NARUTO $

2110 Central Ave. SE 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.

Two locations, 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.

NAMASTE

MIMMO’S RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA $$

NEXUS BREWERY

$$

NICK AND JIMMY’S RESTAURANT AND BAR

$$

3301 Coors Blvd. NW 831-4191, mimmosabq.com Mimmo’s serves authentic Italian food in a casual family atmosphere, with everything made on premise: the sauces, pizza dough, lasagna, noodles and meatballs. An all-you-can-eat lunch buffet is offered every day of the week.

MODEL PHARMACY

$$

3636 Monte Vista Blvd. NE 255-8686, modelpharmacy.com Fill a prescription, buy some jewelry, then tuck into old-fashioned fountain classics like rickeys, ades, milkshakes, phosphates, and egg creams. Leave room for lunch: Model has grilled sandwiches and homemade soups.

$

Two locations, 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.

Two locations, 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.

5021 Pan American Freeway NE, 344-9169, nickandjimmysrestaurant.com Nick and Jimmy’s vision was a comfortable atmosphere with comfortable food. They blend traditional foods with new twists and serve everything from enchiladas to green chile meatloaf.

NOB HILL BAR AND GRILL

$$$

321 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, 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 their own green chile, makes biscochitos from scratch and offers red chile straight from the pod.

3128 Central Ave. SE, 266-4455, upscalejoint.com This restaurant manages to be simultaneously upscale and laid back, gourmet and downhome, visionary and traditional. Not to mention delicious: the Buffalo Calamari, Dirty “Kobe” Burger, Pineapple Chipotle BBQ Baby Back Ribs, and a slew of amazing cocktails make every visit exceptional.

MONROE’S RESTAURANT

NOMAD’S BBQ FOOD TRUCK

MONICA’S EL PORTAL RESTAURANT $

$

Two locations, monroeschile.com More than 50 years after they opened their 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, 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.

$

206-7654 Authentic, smoky goodness, Nomad’s BBQ sammies—including pulled pork and hotlink varieties—are succulent and feature its homemade sauce. This roving BBQ hut definitely knows how to do a quality turkey leg and rib tips, too.

OAK TREE CAFÉ

$$$

4545 Alameda Blvd. NE, 830-2233, cafeoaktree.com This hometown café has served a lot of locales over the past 30 years, and the current venue on Alameda is great at the basics, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, made fresh, in-house every day.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

BITES OHANA HUT

$

5740 Night Whisper Rd NW, 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

Our mission is to help, support and grow the shooting sports.

We provide a safe, knowledgeable and friendly environment for all guests.

$$

108 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, 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 YOGURT STUDIO IN NOB HILL

$

3339 Central Ave. NE, Suite C, 718-4656, oloyogurt.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

•HOME & SELF DEFENSE

$$

•HUNTING BASICS

4100 Southern Blvd. SE, 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.

O’NIELL’S PUB

•TARGET SHOOTING

$$

Two locations, 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

$

ORCHID THAI CUISINE

$

ORTEGA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

$

2114 Central Ave. SE, 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.

4300 Central Ave. SE, 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.

3617 Wyoming Blvd. NE, 298-0223 Rudy and Edna Ortega were never selfish with their old family recipes—they’re all over the menu at Ortega’s. The green chile relleno and when in season, red chile relleno, please palates year round. Of course, don’t leave without ending your meal with a delectable dessert, like the ice-creamstuffed strawberry sopaipilla.

THE OWL CAFÉ

$$

800 Eubank Blvd. NE, 291-4900, owlcafealbuquerque.com World-famous green chile cheeseburgers, milkshakes, fajitas, quesadillas, meatloaf, burritos, fries… the list of drool-worthy dishes goes on and on.

6542 4th St NW Albuquerque, NM 87107 (505) 345–4276 | LOSRANCHOSGUNS.COM

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

149

BITES

150

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

BITES P’TIT LOUIS BISTRO NOB HILL

$$

3218 Silver Ave. SE, 314-1110, ptitlouisbistro.com The quaint French bistro features a small patio, yellow umbrellas, and white tablecloths—it’s pure Paris fashion, circa 1920, with the authentic French cuisine to match it.

PACIFIC PARADISE TROPICAL GRILL AND SUSHI BAR $$

3000 San Pedro Drive NE, 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, 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, 298-7541, paisanosabq.com Family recipes have kept Paisano’s going for more than 35 years, but the hand-rolled pasta, handstuffed 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

$

Various locations, 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 $$

cooked 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 $

Various locations, 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, 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 $$

Two locations, 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.

PIZZA 9

$$

Various locations, 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, 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

$$

9800 Menaul Blvd. NE, 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).

2506 Washington St NE 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.

PAPA NACHOS

POKI POKI CEVICHERIA

$$

7648 Louisiana Blvd. NE, 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, 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

$$$

Two locations, 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 prime rib.

PEREA’S TIJUANA BAR

$$

4590 Corrales Road, Corrales, 898-2442 Open for lunch only, the family-owned and -operated business specializes in real, home-

$$

Two locations, 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, twelve sauces, and 22 toppings make for endless combinations atop rice, chips, or a salad.

POLLITO CON PAPAS

$$

Two Locations, 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, 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.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

POP FIZZ

$

Two locations, pop-fizz.net Made in-house from all natural ingredients, kids can’t miss the Mexican paletas (popsicles) and ice cream tacos. For adults, boozy pops, shakes, and beer compliment the small but substantial menu of sandwiches, burritos, and the coveted carne asada fries. Located at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, the patio is dog-friendly, and you might see its ice cream truck around the city at summer events.

PRAIRIE STAR RESTAURANT

$$

PRISMATIC COFFEE

$$

288 Prairie Star Road, Santa Ana Pueblo, 867-3327, mynewmexicogolf.com Taking a drive past Bernalillo is a pleasure when you know the visit will include amazing made-fromscratch dishes such as herb-grilled ribeye with chipotle cheddar gratin and New Mexico bisonraised tenderloin. Reservations are recommended.

1761 Bellamah Ave. NW, 205-1590, prismatic.coffee This third-wave coffee shop in the sawmill district features a small menu of expertly crafted coffee and the perfect coffee companion, stroopwafels.

Beans are roasted and sold in-house with a rotating selection of stroopwafel fillings made fresh.

PUEBLO HARVEST CAFÉ AND BAKERY

$$$

2401 12th St. NW, 724-3510, puebloharvestcafe.com 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.

PUPUSERIA Y RESTAURANTE SALVADOREÑO $

1701 Bridge Blvd. SW, 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

$$

QUARTERS BBQ

$$

Two locations, 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.

801 Yale Blvd. SE, 843-6949, thequartersonyaleblvd.com Feeling hungry? How about 187,000 pounds of ribs and 15,000 pounds of Alaskan King Crab a year, an attached packaged liquor store, a secret sauce recipe, and customers hungry for more? Try the pork spare ribs or hot links.

RANCHERS CLUB OF NEW MEXICO $$$

1901 University Blvd. NE, 889-8071, theranchersclubofnm.com With more fine dining awards on their wall than years they’re been in business, the Ranchers Club of New Mexico inside the Crowne Plaza Albuquerque is a meat lovers’ paradise and wine connoisseurs’ promised land. Reservations are recommended.

THE RANGE CAFÉ

$$

Various locations, 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.

151

BITES REBEL DONUT

$

Two locations, rebeldonut.com Not only can you find their set flavors, including their raised glazed, chocolate cake glazed, rebel red velvet, birthday cake, and toasted coconut, but you can also order custom-made donuts or choose to experiment with their daily creations.

RELISH GOURMET SANDWICHES

$$

8019 Menaul Blvd. NE, 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.

RICHARD’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT $$

3301 Menaul Blvd. NE, 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.

RICHIE B’S PIZZA

$$

7200 Montgomery Blvd. NE, Suite A-2, 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

THE SMALLEST BEAUTY

can

brighten

up

every

day

its signature Viper sauce, or tempt your sweet tooth with traditional cannoli or New York-style cheesecake.

RIO BRAVO BREWING COMPANY

$

ROCKIN’ TACO

$

ROMA BAKERY & DELI

$

1912 2nd St. NW, 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.

3600 Cutler Ave NE, 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.

501 Roma Ave. NW, 843-9418, romabakeryanddeli.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.

ROSEMARY $$

4565 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Suite A 361-1842, rosemaryabq.com This plant-forward restaurant offers a soothing atmosphere, creative menu, and amazing food.

Any menu item can be adapted to meet personal preferences and dietary restrictions.

RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q

$$

Two locations, rudys.com Texas-style slow cooking over oak is what makes Rudy’s brisket, ribs and sausage so mouthwatering—not to mention the “sause.” Every serving comes with paper towels, unlimited sliced onions and pickles, and bread to mop up the leftover BBQ.

RUSTIC BUBBLE TEA CAFE

$

RUSTIC ON THE GREEN

$

RUTILIO’S NEW MEXICAN FOODS

$

840 Juan Tabo Blvd Suite B, 505-1813, rusticbubbleteacafe.com Rustic Bubble Tea Café has all of the fundamentals of a bubble tea shop down, of course–the hint is in the name, after all–but what sets the independent Albuquerque startup apart is the Vietnameseinspired menu that accompanies their decadent beverages.

3600 Cutler Ave NE, 315-1148, rusticburger505.com Rustic simplicity is the key for this burger joint at Green Jeans Farmery, serving up five equallycraveable 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 has 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.

455 N. Main St., Belen, 864-0093 Belen Mayor Rudy Jaramillo’s carne adovada is what put Rutilio’s 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 Rutilio’s breakfast burritos and classic New Mexican combos, and guests are sure to find something worth campaigning for.

3121 SAN MATEO NE • 505.881.3336 | 1416 JUAN TABO NE • 505.338.0038

152

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

BITES SADIE’S OF NEW MEXICO

$$

Various locations, sadiesofnewmexico.com 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.

SAHARA MIDDLE EASTERN EATERY

$

2622 Central Ave. SE, 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

$

SALATHAI $

3619 Copper Ave. NE, 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.

SAL-E-BOY’S PIZZERIA

$$

THE SALT YARD

$$

1706 Southern Blvd. SE, 892-5454 Whole-milk mozzarella paired with homemade pizza dough and fresh tomato sauce… Brooklyn would be proud. This neighborhood pizza joint is a casual in-and-out; you don’t sit and eat here, just take it with you. Don’t forget to try a calzone.

Two locations, 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.

Two locations, thesaltyardnm.com A multi-concept bar and restaurant, The Salt Yard 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 (Blue Agave Republic is now a part of it), or just watching the game.

SAKURA SUSHI & GRILL

SAMURAI GRILL AND SUSHI BAR

$$

6241 Riverside Plaza NW, 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.

$$$

9500 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 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.

SANDIAGO’S MEXICAN GRILL AT THE TRAM

40 Tramway Road NE, 856-6692,

$$

sandiagos.com As if the view from Sandiago’s wasn’t enough— at the base of the tram, it offers a view of the city like no other—the restaurant has the food to match: unique coastal Mexican cuisine, New Mexican favorites, and blood orange margaritas.

Reservations are recommended.

SANTA FE BITE-ABQ

$

SANTIAGO’S NEW MEXICAN GRILL

$

3407 Central Ave NE 369-1621, santafebite-abq.com At Santa Fe Bite-ABQ, the green chile cheeseburger is treated with the reverence it deserves, presenting a precision crafted recipe.

The details, in fact, are so carefully crafted that even the grilling surface needs to meet certain criteria. Absent a turn on the surface of a custom cast iron grill, it’s just not a Santa Fe Bite burger.

1911 Eubank Blvd. NE, 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, 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.

SUNCARE spray tan and skin care salon

KYSS by Mystic Tan. Worlds most advanced spray tan in minutes.

9370 Coors Blvd. NW 897-7520 5555 Montgomery Blvd. NE 883-8090 111 Rio Rancho Blvd. NW 899-5205

suncareabq.com MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

153

BITES

SCARPAS BRICK OVEN PIZZA

$$

Two locations, 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 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.

THE SEASONAL PALATE

$$

7600 Jefferson St. NE, Suite 2, 369-1046, theseasonalpalate.com From a food truck to a brick-and-mortar location, The Seasonal Palate specializes in simple, yet artful creations, including crowd favorites like the Buffalo Burger, Shrimp Po’ Boy, and Asian Salad.

Now with an expanded menu, expect beer and wine options in the future, along with prepared togo dinner options.

SEASONS ROTISSERIE AND GRILL $$$

2031 Mountain Road NW, 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 LA DOLCE VITA

$

SHARK REEF CAFÉ

$

SHARKY’S FISH & SHRIMP

$

2740 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Suite 8, 554-2602 Fresh, made-from-scratch cookies, donuts, breads, pastries, cakes, and cannoli are on the mouthwatering menu at this Italian bakery.

2601 Central Ave. NW, 848-7182 To conclude your tour of the Albuquerque Aquarium, grab a seat at this full-service restaurant whose 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.

5420 Central Ave. SW, 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, 265-9166 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).

THE SHOP BREAKFAST & LUNCH

$

2933 Monte Vista Blvd. NE, 433-2795 Breakfast and lunch at The Shop guarantees a plethora of flavors and textures that are tough to find in the Duke City. Combining down-home Southern staples with Mexican and New Mexican traditions, you’re bound to discover a new appreciation for bacon and eggs.

154

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

SIAM CAFÉ

BITES

$$

5500 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Suite 101, 883-7334, siamcafeabq.com With its array of freshly-made curries—all made with coconut milk and a wide variety of luscious spices—this restaurant scores high marks with Albuquerqueans who love Thai food.

SIXTY-SIX ACRES

CHEF DANIEL JOHN

Owner of Farmhouse 21 Modern Italian 7600 Jefferson St NE #21 797-4491, farmhouse21.com

$$

2400 12th St. NW 243-2230, sixtysixacres.com If you had to boil Sixty-Six Acres down to two words, they would be “casual” and “classy.”

Featuring craft cocktails and a wealth of locally sourced, globally-inspired dishes, Sixty-Six Acres is the ideal spot to grab a relaxed, refined meal.

SLAPFISH $$

Two locations, slapfishrestaurant.com Have you ever had fish so fresh that it jumped up and tail slapped you in the face? Well, that’s the joke behind the very popular eatery, Slapfish, located in Holly Square. This fast casual gem has gained a great reputation for efficiency, service, flavor combos, and the freshness of their seafood.

$

PHOTO COURTESY OFCHEF DANIEL JOHN

SLATE STREET BILLIARDS

2003 Southern Blvd SE #139, Rio Rancho 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 offers has great Happy Hour pricing and plenty of special events.

SLATE STREET CAFÉ

$$

515 Slate Ave. NW, 243-2210, slatestreetcafe.com Slate Street Cafe is a sleek, contemporary eatery that combines big city ambience 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 PARLOR

$

SOO BAK

$

SPINN’S BURGER & BEER

$

SQUEEZED JUICE BAR

$

Two locations, sliceparlor.com Made-from-scratch pizza dough that is hand stretched daily and cooked on a pizza stone. Have a slice of the old faithful pepperoni pizza; try the Pesto Pizza or the House Calzone. Don’t forget to enjoy the local artwork hanging on the walls.

111 Hermosa Dr SE 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 kimichi. Try the Soy Crunch Kimichi, which comes with pickled chayote squash, onions, some jalapenos, and fish sauce, apple juice, soy sauce, and vinegar.

4411 Montaño Road NW, 899-6180, spinnsrestaurant.com Every burger served at Spinn’s is made with never-frozen, fresh-ground Angus beef. Try the restaurant’s signature Armadillo Burger. Spinn’s fries are cut and fried when you order them.

Various locations, squeezedjuicebars.com 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.

STEEL BENDER BREWYARD

$$

8305 2nd St. NW 433-3537, steelbenderbrewyard.com 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.

“This pandemic forces us to change daily, if not hourly,” says Chef Daniel John.

Thankfully, he knows a thing or two about change—the ABQ restaurant owned by John and his wife, Jenna, since 2016 was set to re-brand with a new name and menu when COVID-19 entered all our lives.

And so Farmhouse 21 Modern Italian is instead opening not to packed houses of diners, but rather a daily slew of takeout family dinner meals from their location in Journal Center. John’s signature upbeat attitude, however, is unwavering. “We’re focusing on nourishment and that ‘comfort’ feeling that food provides,” he says, adding that his team is happy to prepare meals requiring dietary restrictions, or sell dry goods to those who are finding grocery shelves bare.

Growing up in Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts, John says he learned plenty about farm-to-table techniques, as well as how to cook ethnic and regional

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

cuisine—both of which have suited him well in his creation of Farmhouse 21. He laughs when he tells the story of learning about New Mexico chile. “The first time I ordered chile here, it was in a burger. I was expecting it to be meat and beans,” he says. “I cooked a lot of chile before moving to New Mexico, but not that kind of chile. I loved it right away, and the great culture behind it.”

Even though the vision for his new Italian eatery is on hold, John isn’t letting this challenge get the best of him. “People in the restaurant industry are some of the toughest people I have ever been around,” he says. “Day in and day out, we face challenges around the kitchen, and within the business itself. Yet somehow we seem to adapt to both micro and macro economic challenges.”

Customers can go to farmhouse21.com for menu options, and pickup hours at the restaurant are 4 to 7 p.m. daily.

155

BITES ST. JAMES TEAROOM

$$$

320 Osuna Road NE, Suite D, 242-3752, stjamestearoom.com Albuquerque’s long-standing, go-to teahouse, this enveloping, intricately detailed, and authentically British tearoom provides old-fashioned conversation and honest service.

STANDARD DINER

$$

320 Central Ave. SE, 243-1440, standarddiner.com There’s nothing standard about this diner. With a gourmet twist to many of your favorites, Standard Diner offers appetizers, daily entrée specials, and desserts by an in-house pastry chef, as well as their special Standard Burger made with Snake River Farms Kobe beef.

STARR BROS. BREWING

$

5700 San Antonio Dr. NE, Suite B1 492-2752, starrbrothersbrewing.com With dishes ranging from American favorites to Southern fare, Starr Bros. Brewing is more than an award-winning brewery. It’s turned heads with Poutine Burqueño, 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.

STEVE’S ICE CREAM AND JAVA

$

323 Romero St. NW # 16, 242-8445 In addition to a dozen ice cream flavors and an array of sherbets, the ‘chill’ side of the menu boasts delightfully smooth malts and fountain drinks. For those looking for a good cup of Joe, Steve’s also delivers–offering a broad selection of coffees and a full set of espressos.

STICKY RICE

$

7600 Jefferson St. SE, Suite 5, 797-1288 Likely the only authentic Laotian sticky rice to be found anywhere in ABQ, this simple 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.

STRAIGHT UP PIZZA

$$

2801 Eubank Blvd. NE, Suite G, 796-9343, straightuppizza.com Offering New York style pizza with a New Mexican edge, Straight Up Pizza serves the Northeast Heights with specialty pizzas, unique toppings, and a plethora of options for any pizza connoisseur.

STUFYS $

Three locations, stufys.com Tasty stuffed sopaipillas are on the menu of this customer favorite, which has been around since 1968. Each sopaipilla is made with a custom machine invented by the owners, then stuffed with savory fillings.

SUSHI & SAKE

$$

4214 Central Ave. SE 797-8000, abqsushiandsake.com With specialty sushi rolls, select Korean favorites, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Sushi & Sake specializes in Asian food with a Korean flair.

Also look for non-sushi options, such as teriyaki chicken.

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.

Siam Café. Thai Kitchen is his very own venture, featuring his takes on authentic dishes that taste “just like they do back home.”

SUSHIYA $$

7441 Paseo Del Norte NE, 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.

2906 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, Suite D, 275-4777, nmsushiya.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 sashimi in the city.

SWISS ALPS BAKERY

$

3000 San Pedro Drive NE, 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.

TACO SAL

$

9621 Menaul Blvd. NE, 298-2210 This family-owned and operated restaurant offers tasty, traditional New Mexican (burritos, chile rellenos, enchiladas, tacos, huevos rancheros and more) with its very own chunky salsa, made with real green chile.

TAJ MAHAL CUISINE OF INDIA

$$

1430 Carlisle Blvd. NE, 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.

TALKING DRUMS

$$

1606 Central Ave. SE 792-3221, talkingdrumsabq.com Talking Drums restaurant is serving up some unique African and Caribbean fair inspired by a form of communication expressed through specific drumbeats. Though most of the items are traditional, keep an eye out for some New Mexican flare.

TEOFILOS $$

144 Main St. NW, Los Lunas, 865-5511, teofilos.com The 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.

THAI BORAN

$$

3236 La Orilla Rd. NW, 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 2

$

SUSHI KING

Various locations, sushikingnm.com With three locations around Albuquerque, Sushi King proves day-after-day that it is king of the sea, boasting a large variety of specialty sushi rolls, Japanese curry dishes, and monthly menu revisions to keep the options fresh and appealing.

Reservations are recommended.

$$

4201 Central Ave. NE, 232-3200, thaicuisinenm.com thaicuisinenm.com/home2 Housed in perhaps the most curious A-frame along Route 66, this is the second-coming of a muchbeloved 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.

SUSHI XUAN

$$

THAI KITCHEN

417 Tramway Blvd NE #3, 200-2477, sushixuannm.com You’ll find more than tasty sushi here. Diners dig

156

$

THAI SPICE

$$

THAI TIP RESTAURANT

$$

THAI VEGAN

$$

1512 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Suite E, 323-7447 The folks at Thai Tip make grocery store runs three times a day to ensure they have enough fresh ingredients for their delicious rice, Thai-style noodle dishes, stir-fries, and salads.

Two locations, 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, 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 hand-crafted and produced on-site.

THUNDER ROAD STEAKHOUSE AND CANTINA AT ROUTE 66 CASINO HOTEL

$$

14500 Central Ave. SW, Laguna Pueblo 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 BETTY BLUE’S

$

TIA B’S LA WAFFLERIA

$

TIA JUANITA’S

$

1248 San Mateo Blvd. SE, 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.

3710 Campus Blvd. NE, 492-2007, lawaffleriaabq.com You’ve never experienced waffles of this magnitude. A residential home-turned-restaurant, anticipate artisan flare (lavender whipped cream, goat cheese, and caramel apple toppings) and plenty of goods for vegans and celiacs.

Albuquerque International Sunport, 2200 Sunport Blvd. SE, 842-4280, fresquezcompanies.com Headed on a flight out of ABQ? Stop here for your New Mexican food fix: breakfast burritos, green chile chicken enchiladas, carne adovada.

You can even take your green chile to go with the restaurant’s special “thermal bags” for travel.

10701 Corrales Road NW, 890-0059, thaikitchenabq.com Art Xaiyasiha is one of two siblings who crafted one of the Duke City’s first great Thai restaurants,

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

BITES TINGLEY BEACH CAFÉ

$

1800 Tingley Drive SW, 248-8524, cabq.gov For runners and bikers along the Bosque Trail, or for the fishermen that frequent Tingley Beach lakes, the Tingley Beach Café is a well-kept secret for snack seekers, offering fare such as hamburgers, hot dogs, French fries, pickles, and more.

TOMASITA’S $$

4949 Pan American Fwy NE, 344-1204, tomasitas.com Serving family recipes and making traditional dishes with local ingredients, Tomasita’s has been one of the state’s most popular local spots since Georgia Maryol opened it in Santa Fe in 1974.

TOMATO CAFÉ

$$

TORINOS’ @ HOME

$$

TROMBINO’S BISTRO ITALIANO

$$

TSAI’S CHINESE BISTRO

$$

TULLY’S ITALIAN DELI

$$

7900 San Pedro NE, 821-9300, tomatocafe.com A buffet-style, all-you-can-eat, sit-down restaurant where you create the menu: thin-crust pizzas, pastas, meatballs, steamed broccoli, and Italian green beans cooked over an open flame are just some of the treats.

TWO FOOLS TAVERN

$$

3211 Central Ave. NE, 265-7447, 2foolstavern.com A taste of the Emerald Isle: fish and chips, bangers and mash, bread pudding, Guinness on tap, and live Celtic music on Sunday afternoons.

UPTOWN SPORTS BAR

$

URBAN HOTDOG COMPANY

$

6601 Uptown Blvd. NE, 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.

Various locations, urbanhotdogcompany.com With about 20 choices—and even a vegetarian option—this restaurant has become a dog-lover’s go-to. Look for Chicago and NYC classics, plus adventurous temptations like the Crafty Dog (topped with mac ‘n’ cheese and bacon).

7600 Jefferson St. NE, 797-4491, torinostrattoria.com Now under the ownership of Daniel and Jenna John, Torinos’ still offers fresh Italian favorites— and you can look forward to the addition of new seasonal specialties to the menu, too.

5415 Academy Road NE, 821-5974, bistroitaliano.com The former Trattoria Trombino cooks up Italiano autentico, with huge dishes of pasta with homemade sauces, grilled meats and fish, and veal marsala. The cool atmosphere lends relaxation, turning any meal into a vacation. Reservations are recommended.

2325 San Pedro Drive NE Ste 1E, 508-2925, tsaischinese.com Tsai’s offerings range wide across the traditional (diners especially recommend favorites like the Shrimp Kung Pao or Orange Beef) but those looking for something new to try should make for the Chef’s Specials.

1425 San Mateo Blvd. NE, 255-5370, tullysdeli.com This Italian deli serves two-dozen subs for dine-in or pick-up lunch. A fully stocked market features Italian pantry goods from pasta to olive oil. Don’t forget a box of pastries, cookies, biscotti, cake, or a famous cannoli on your way out.

TURTLE MOUNTAIN BREWING COMPANY $$

905 36th Place SE, Rio Rancho, 994-9497, turtlemountainbrewing.com turtlemountainbrewing.com Known for its handcrafted ales and lagers, which are brewed on the premises, this is more than just a place to enjoy a few drinks. It’s also a great place to enjoy wood-fired pizzas and calzones in a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.

TWO BOYS DONUTS

$

6400 Holly Ave NE, Ste H 302-0102, twoboysdonuts.com Regularly stocking more than 30 flavors of donut, Two Boys has particular favorites—like their blueberry cake donut with maple icing and cinnamon sugar—and also brews up Villa Myriam coffee, giving you everything you need for a fullcourse wake-up.

157

BITES

158

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

BITES VERNON’S HIDDEN VALLEY STEAKHOUSE $$$

6855 4th St. NW, 341-0831, thehiddensteakhouse.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 Road NE, 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 $

favorites on the bag and await a sammie that edges the competition. The UNM location is a student mainstay.

WHOLE HOG CAFÉ

$

Two locations, 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.

WISEPIES PIZZA AND SALAD

$

Various locations, wisepiespizza.com WisePies serves up steaming hot pizza pies for wise guys and gals throughout New Mexico with plans for future expansion into other states. Their pizza and salads are fast and inexpensive… not to mention delicious.

8810 Central Ave. SE, 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. Country comfort meets southwestern flair in an environment that welcomes suits and cowboys alike. Prepare to be stuffed.

YANNI’S MODERN MEDITERRANEAN $$

VIET TASTE

YASMINE’S CAFÉ

$

5721 Menaul Blvd. NE, 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

$$

3109 Central Ave. SE, 268-9250, yannisabq.com Impeccable Mediterranean cuisine paired with a fresh atmosphere that whisks you away to Grecian shores, you can always count on Yanni’s for savory spanakopita, perfect pasta, and other delicious treats. Reservations are recommended.

THE YELLER SUB

$

7200 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 888-9784, yellersub.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.

ZINC WINE BAR AND BISTRO

$$$

3009 Central Ave. NE, 254-9462, zincabq.com Imaginative, gourmet cuisine (think: duck confit eggrolls, chicken skewer salad, and pine nut spanakopita) and an out-of-this-world wine list meets a friendly, laid-back atmosphere at this Nob Hill favorite. Reservations are recommended.

ZORBA’S FINE GREEK CUISINE

$

11225 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 323-2695, zorbasabq.com The family behind University area favorite, Olympia Café, have relocated their tasty homemade Greek food to the Northeast Heights. Try the Southwestern Gyros or the enduring customer favorite, the pork, chicken, or lamb kebob.

$

1600 Central Ave. SE, 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.

4208 Menaul Blvd. NE, 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.

VILLAGE PIZZA

$

Two locations, 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.

We love being available to you in digital form.

VINAIGRETTE $$

The April, May, June and July, 2020 issues of Albuquerque The Magazine will be available free of charge at abqthemag.com. We will be back on newsstands with the print version in August of 2020.

1828 Central Ave. SW, 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, 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.

WECK’S $$

Various locations, 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.

WHICH WICH

We love it here.

$

Various locations, whichwich.com A national brand with local twists, list your

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

159

160

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

‘TIL YOU DROP P. 162 | THE PAWS BUTTON P.168 | 25 THINGS P. 172

PHOTO COURTESY OF LILLIE'S HANDMADE SOAPS

OUT AND ABOUT: YOUR GUIDE TO SHOPPING IN THE DUKE CITY

THE SWEET SCENT For 17 years, Lillie’s Handmade Soaps has been the sweetest smelling little shop in Old Town. They are now expanding their offerings and attracting new clientele (p. 166).

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

161

Look good Feel good

‘TIL YOU DROP

YOUR INSIDER’S GUIDE TO ABQ’S SHOPPING SCENE

Tips to be a better you...

“IN LIGHT OF MANY PEOPLE CHOOSING TO PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING AND NOT GOING OUT TO HAIR AND NAIL SALONS, WHAT ARE SOME HOME BEAUTY TIPS?”

T ER P X

OUR E

OU R

E

Q:

Conrad Sanchez, Owner Conrad Sanchez Skin Care Three locations, conradsanchezskincare.com

A:

Implementing a home care beauty routine is essential between visits to your beauty professionals—in fact, it’s key to a fully rounded beauty regime. Home care plus professional treatments equals success. In these days of social distancing, some may have to forego a few scheduled professional treatments and seek alternative home treatments. First rule, always seek council before you practice ANY home care routines. You definitely want to be on the same page with your beauty professional when you restart your treatments. If you choose to color your hair at home, you want your stylist to be able to work with it when you return. If you add a retinol to your home skin care, you want it to work with the facial treatments you have been receiving. The key to success is communicating with professionals: call, text, email, social media...we are here for you, to guide you, to plan for your success. We know what is best for you and what products are best suited to use at home— we can map out the perfect home care routine for you.

162

By WRITER

XP ER T

Kristie Bair, Owner Bair Medical Spa bairmedicalspa.com

A:

For many of us in Albuquerque, social distancing means hitting our wonderful walking trails in and around the city, so remember to wear sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 50, preferably with a barrier of zinc or titanium oxide. This is also a great time to give your skin a break from daily makeup. Consider starting a new skincare regimen when you have this time for your skin to adjust to new products. We will get through this together and come out of it with healthier, more beautiful skin. We have limited phone and e-mail access for clients who would like to leave a voicemail at 505.881.1532 or e-mail info@bairmedicalspa. com to schedule an appointment for after May 17, arrange a no-contact purchase of a product or gift certificate, or request a product be shipped to them.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

E OU R

X

RT PE

‘TIL YOU DROP

The Team M & Company Hair and Color Lounge 10701 Montgomery Blvd.

NE, Suite K

OUR E

XP ER T

Mark Pardo, President Mark Pardo SalonSpa Six locations, markpardo.com

A:

I would suggest that they take advantage of all natural ingredients that they can find at home (natural ingredients will produce shiny bounce, and they are detoxifying, moisturizing, and promoting of hair growth). Don’t wash your hair as often as usual, and when tying hair up in high ponytail knots do not use bands that are too tight (also, use cloth ties).

Avoid washing hair with hot water. Hair is at its weakest when wet, so avoid brushing hair when wet, and use a detangling brush or wide tooth comb. Avoid too much heat on the hair by letting the hair air-dry. And at all costs, try to avoid coloring your own hair—please leave that to us professionals.

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

A:

The best advice I have is to make sure you’re using professional grade, cruelty free, organic non-petroleum products on your hair and skin until you’re able to revisit our professionals. Our AVEDA line meets that criteria. Maintenance of your hair and skin with quality products will provide the professionals an advantage on regaining your confidence to re-establish your hair and skin goals. Once again, having a strong foundation to work with guarantees better long lasting results.

163

‘TIL YOU DROP

We Find It FOR YOU QUESTION

ANSWER

It’s a scary time right now. Are there places in Albuquerque where I can get tested for coronavirus, or for antibodies to help develop a vaccine?

Absolutely. Here is a listing of all the places to get both the COVID-19 test and the antibody test.

COVID-19 TESTING CENTERS MIDTOWN PUBLIC HEALTH OFFICE

TRAMWAY FAMILY PRACTICE

PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL

2400 Wellesley Ave NE 841-4100, nmhealth.org Instructions: Drive-thru testing. Call for

13701 Encantado Rd.

Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Drive-Thru at Balloon Fiesta Park 5000 Balloon Fiesta Pkwy NE 923-7747 Instructions: Go to the Presbyterian

appointment and additional instructions.

Time: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

NEXTCARE URGENT CARE 5504 Menaul Blvd NE, Suite F 348-2868 Instructions: Drive-thru testing. Ap-

pointment required.

Time: Daily, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

8201 Golf Course Rd NW 800-7070 Instructions: Drive-thru testing. Ap-

pointment required.

Time: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

1800 Unser Blvd NW 205-1271 Time: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

1630 Rio Rancho Blvd SE 395-5520 Time: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

OPTUM URGENT CARE JOURNAL CENTER URGENT CARE 5150 Journal Center Blvd.

Time: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. and

RIO RANCHO FAMILY PRACTICE

UNM HOSPITAL

Health Services (pres.today/covid) to set up an appointment for screening by video/telemedicine or to talk to a nurse.

The city has specific directions for people who plan to go to Balloon Fiesta Park to get tested.

Time: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

2211 Lomas Blvd NE 272-2111, hsc.unm.edu Instructions: Walk-ins available no ap-

SANDOVAL COUNTY HEALTH COMMONS

1721 Rio Rancho Blvd., SE, Rio Rancho

Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Instructions: Open to entire community, people with symptoms.

pointment or screening needed. Located next to patient parking garage in the Barbara and Bill Richardson Pavilion (BBRP). Directions to the Respiratory Care Center will be provide at the building entrance.

Time: Call the hotline 24 hours a day to schedule an appointment: 1-855-600-3453

LOVELACE MEDICAL CENTER 601 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Ave NE 727-8000, lovelace.com Instructions: Patients will remain in

1500 Idalia Rd, Suite B, Bernalillo 867-2291 Instructions: Offering drive thru testing.

Referral from physician required.

Time: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

WALMART

(IN PARTNERSHIP WITH QUESDIAGNOSTICS) 8000 Academy Rd. NE Instructions: Drive-thru testing available

at the north end of the parking lot.

Time: Daily, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

their car and a nasal swab would be taken.

The tests will then be sent to TriCore Reference Laboratories.

Time: Available by appointment 24 hours a day

Saturday-Sunday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.

164

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

COVID-19 ANTIBODY TESTING A statement from the City of Albuquerque website:

“With the continued global outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the community should be warned that some test kits becoming commercially available to consumers are not licensed or validated for at-home use, and are not a substitute for official swab tests performed by medical providers. These tests may not be reliable in determining whether a person is, or has been, infected with the coronavirus. At-home tests may also provide a false sense of security as they cannot always detect antibodies that haven’t had time to develop yet.”

SOUTHWEST LABS Cost: $100 4261 Balloon Park Rd NE 433-3985

WELL LIFE ABQ Cost: $110 (without insurance), $35

(with insurance)

8400 Osuna Road NE, Suite 5C 585-2345

TRICORE LABS Cost: $XXX Atrisco Patient Care Center 3901 Atrisco NW 462-7549 Time: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday, 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

Kaseman POB Patient Care Center 8300 Constitution Avenue Time: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

Las Estancias Patient Care Center 3630 Las Estancias DR SW 462-7852 Time: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday, 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

Paradise Hills Patient Care Center 4588 Paradise Boulevard NW 998-1191 Time: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

San Mateo Patient Care Center 401 San Mateo SE 462-7492 Time: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

165

Lillie’s Handmade Soaps 323 Romero St NW #5 243-7627 lillieshandmadesoap.com

O

ld Town Albuquerque has never smelled better, and it has a biochemistry major with a nose— and mind—for soap making to thank.

For the past 17 years, Lillie’s Handmade Soaps has been supplying the Duke City with a wide selection of all-natural soaps, lotions, bath bombs — and more.

The shop is owned by Brian East and his wife, Kate and is named after Brian’s teenage daughter.

“My husband’s a genius,” Kate says.

“He’s the one who started this all. He’s just amazing. He can market anything and sell it to you.”

Kate met Brian while working as a server at The Range in February 2017, and they were married eight months later. For Kate, it made sense to help Brian with the business once they got together.

166

Shop Talk

For nearly two decades, this small Old Town shop has been making Albuquerque smell like sweet roses.

“I’ve always been into natural, holistic approaches to all areas of life,” she says. “I thought it was a pretty natural fit in that regard. I didn’t think I’d ever end up in soap.”

For whoever enters the store, it’s always the scent that makes a strong first impression.

“The first reaction usually is, ‘Wow that smells amazing.’ Even the mailmen and the UPS people are like, ‘Oh it smells so great,’” Kate says. “Of course, the look of the store is really beautiful. It’s in Old Town in this Adobe building. It’s got art all over…It’s visually stimulating. There’s a lot to look at.

“You get to the product and it’s an amazing — it’s soap, you know — but it’s just packaged well, it smells great, it’s good for you. There’s a lot to choose from.

And then they find out they can get a lot of it for a really good price and it’s a really great product. It sells itself pretty easy.

You’ve just got to be here.”

At any given time, Lillie’s has 100 to 150 soaps in stock. The top seller is a blend entitled Heavenly Honey, but shoppers will find a plethora of options available, including lavender blueberry, honeysuckle, almond coconut, black raspberry vanilla, candy cane, cucumber, pumpkin spice — and the list goes on. Approximately 40 to 50 of the soaps come with matching bath bombs and lotions, and with a five items for $20 deal in place, the mix-and-match possibilities abound.

“I don’t even have a favorite because they’re all so wonderful,” Kate says.

Some of the product is made in New Mexico, but the majority is produced at a WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LILLIE'S HANDMADE SOAPS

‘TIL YOU DROP

Chicago facility owned by one of Brian’s college buddies, where the curing process can take place. Usually, Kate says, soap can be finished within two weeks’ time, sometimes less. The end result is something a little different than what you might find on the shelf of a big retailer.

“For sure the fact that it’s handmade (makes it special), but more importantly that it’s made with really high-quality good ingredients, no chemicals, no additives,” Kate says. “It’s just natural oils and soap…It’s mixed with olive oil, coconut oil, shea butter. sunflower oil. So all those oils mixed in make it really nourishing for skin.

“A lot of people who react harshly to generic soaps do really well with our soap because it’s not made with bad ingredients, additives, sulfates. High quality ingredients is really the key.”

While soap is the featured attraction at Lillie’s, the store boasts a variety of interesting products, including a headache remedy and foot cream that are popular shipping items for out-of-state shoppers.

More recently, a line of shaving supplies that features razors, exotic shaving cream, beard creams and oils, grooming tools and combs was added to the inventory.

“We’re always kind of adding little knick-knacks here and there,” Kate adds.

“We’re trying to provide more variety.”

The formula seems to be working. Customers keep coming back — and it’s for more than just the smell, although that certainly doesn’t hurt.

“We have so many people in Albuquerque that come on a regular basis,” Kate says. “We have a lot of locals that love our soap. It’s the only soap they can use, a lot of them say. Any sensitive skin issue, when people find something that works, it helps them in their lives. We use soap every day and it’s on our bodies.

“You think how soap impacts the community. It’s a wonderful product that we’re providing. We just keep people coming back all the time. It works for them.” — TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

167

THE

KEEPING TABS ON ABQ’S FURRY FRIENDS

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LINDA LIPTAK

PAWS BUTTON

SUNNY LLAMAS

Lynda Liptak was initially drawn to llamas for a most unusual reason.

In 2009, Liptak agreed to help rescue a pair of the animals who had been abandoned at a family member’s property in Colorado. At the time, Liptak knew a little bit about horses but nothing about llamas, a domesticated member of the camelid family – which also includes camels and alpacas -- that were imported from South America to the United States and Canada in the late 20th century.

One key discovery allowed Liptak to stay the course with her mission.

“What made me really decide to keep them was the fact that they poop in one spot,” Liptak recalls.

Over time, Liptak fell in love with Daisy and Dalai for more than just their sanitation habits. In fact, those two llamas served as the impetus for the creation of Llamas del Sol, an organization which rescues the animals in hopes of a future adoption while also educating the public through meet-and-greet events on a small llama farm in the Rio Grande Valley (605 El Dorado Dr. NW).

Cleanliness remains a plus, but these days Liptak is a llama advocate for many more reasons.

168

“They’re very smart. They have personalities. They’re low key. They’re not startled as easily as other large animals. For their size, they’re very low maintenance,” Liptak says. “A few years after I started rescuing, they became the ‘in’ animal. There’s a resurgence of llamas. They’re pretty popular.”

Today, Liptak also sits on the board for Southwest Llama Rescue, where she serves as a coordinator to help facilitate adoptions. Llamas del Sol can often serve as a catalyst for that process.

“Llamas del Sol is my own little way to share with the public, educate the public about llamas and people can come take them for a picnic, lunch with a llama, walks. I’ve done some weddings where we dress them up and they’re part of a wedding ceremony. They can be decorated with authentic Peruvian pouches and blankets,” Liptak says. “This way I can share with people the friendship and all the things that they’re good for.

“If I run into people who have property and facilities and they fall in love with llamas as I do, they can become candidates for adopting.

Then I put on my Southwest Llama Rescue hat and go through the adoption process for people who are interested in adopting.”

At any given time, Liptak can have more than 10 llamas as part of her herd on the farm. Four of those are not under consideration for adoption, as Liptak refers to them as her “PR llamas.” Pregnant females won’t be put up for adoption until the sex of the baby llama, or cria, is known. If it’s a male, a potential adopter must agree to a non-breeding contract. According to Liptak, there are already enough abandoned llamas in need of homes without someone adding to their population. In many cases, people simply aren’t aware of all the responsibilities that come with caring for these creatures.

“People don’t realize how long they live or they become in financial situations where they can’t care for their llamas.

They have to move or due to aging, a lot of people get to a point in their life where they don’t have the energy or the health to maintain their llamas,” she says. “So then they call us.”

But even if you’re not in the market for a llama, a visit to the farm can be a memorable and enjoyable occasion. The most popular experience at Llamas del Sol is the meet-and-greet. For $25 ($15 for kids), a visitor will get an hour with the llamas for feeding, petting, walking and picture takWWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

ing. Those who want more can sign up for a llama trek, which is a two to four-hour hike through locales such as the Guadalupe Trail Acequia, Rio Grande Bosque or the Sandia Mountains. The llamas are great companions for these journeys.

“They’ll carry your lunch and your pack and water and they’ll carry their own little nibbles,” Liptak says. “You carry your weight and they’ll carry your stuff. In Peru, they call them ‘our brothers’ because your brothers will carry your burden for you.”

Liptak is proud to be able to host these events, especially because it allows her to tidy up the reputations of the llamas, which she says are often misunderstood.

One popular misconception is that they are a nasty breed with a tendency to spit in the direction of strangers.

According to Liptak, these instances generally only occur in extreme situations.

“Unless they have been abused or mistreated previously, they do not want to spit,” she explains. “When they do spit, it is a bad taste in their mouth. They get a sour mouth. They can’t eat. It is akin to the feeling you would have after vomiting. It’s not a pleasant thing for them, and they do it in self-defense.”

Those who visit Llamas del Sol will learn to respect the boundaries of the animals while learning about all their different personalities and quirks. Some are instantly friendly and social. Others might be on the shy side. The most vocal llamas in a given herd can often make a sound that is comparable to humming. In the past, Liptak has seen them singing along in the background of a wedding ceremony.

It should come as no surprise, then, that Llamas del Sol has many repeat visitors. Like Liptak did years ago, guests fall in love with the animals – even if they can’t take them home.

“The only experience that I have seen from any of our guests is that they have been very pleased and that’s why they don’t pay until it’s over because I want to make sure everybody is satisfied with their llama experience,” Liptak says. “People who come from out of town will come back. Even from out of state, they’ll come back again and again.” —TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

169

PET OF T H E MONTH

PET OF THE MONTH ATM readers’ furry, fuzzy, feathered, or scaly best friends. This month's winner: Elsa.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHIRLEY MCCAUGHEY

A

s soon as Elsa arrived in the McCaughey household, the Schnauzer formed an instant connection with Shirley and her late husband, Ev. “From the minute of her arrival, she chose to sit with my husband as he read books each day. I really thought that this was odd behavior for a puppy,” Shirley says. “I did not know just how bad my husband was feeling his last year, but Elsa knew and she stayed with him throughout this year until he passed.”

Elsa’s sense of compassion carried on, as she later passed her therapy dog test and frequented Montebello Nursing Home with Shirley for some six years to help bring joy into the lives of many of the facilities’ patients.

Today, Elsa remains a loyal companion for Shirley. Although they are no longer running buddies — that ended when Shirley’s knees gave out at age 82 — they are rarely, if ever, apart.

“She enjoys two to three walks each day and looks forward to playtime and treats,” Shirley says. “She is a great dog, although we have both slowed down now — she is 11 years old and I..let’s just say am over 90. She is my constant companion, and I don’t go many places without her.”

—TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

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.

170

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

MAY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

171

With

Albuquerque’s Takeout Restaurant Scene Few areas of day-to-day life in this COVID-19 climate have been altered more than the way we get our meals. With in-house dining in restaurants banned, local eateries have had to resort to takeout (and delivery) service to stay afloat. And though the menus naturally had to face limitations, most of Albuquerque’s dining establishments have provided us with amazing fare in what can only be described as uncertain times. Here’s a trip around the city to uncover some of the takeout tips and insider info that will surely help make your next dinner a bit more enjoyable.

1. Flying Star offers to-go

family meals, including Mac & Cheese and the Buddha Bowl.

2.

Mas Tapas y Vino takeout menu includes their signature Iberico Pork Ribs.

3. Monroe’s Restaurant offers

free delivery from both their locations.

4. Delivery options from

Mariscos Altamar even include the famed Seafood Ceviche.

5. If you order $40 or more directly from M’Tucci’s Italian, they deliver for free.

6. Satellite now offers

house-roasted coffee for $9.95 per pound (a 38 percent pandemic discount).

7. From their website, El Pin-

to offers a 25 percent discount on items like the Famous Red Chile Ribs.

172

8. Farina Pizzeria in East Downtown re-opens for curbside pick-up on May 18.

9. There’s no limited menu at ChocGlitz & Cream—all chocolates, candies, ice cream, caramel apples are available for takeout.

10.

14. Frontier offers frozen 6-packs of their famous cinnamon rolls, with directions to thaw and microwave at home.

(Or you can still walk in and get them hot.)

15. To keep sushi cold for the

ride home, Tamashi puts the freshly-made orders into the freezer before customers arrive for pick-up.

16. For those who prefer to

re-heat their takeout food at home, The Grill will pack your burger meat in separate containers (buns, toppings, etc.).

You can use video FaceTime for orders 17. When you order takeout to Cocina Azul with food from local breweries, you one click from your can also add take-home craft beer to your order (usually computer.

11. Dion’s Pizza experiment-

ed with delivery, but decided that quality was better served with drive-through and curbside service.

12. Takeout at Duran’s Cen-

tral Pharmacy includes their renowned in-house tortillas, which are still being made fresh to order.

13. Thanks to giant Styro-

foam cups, all of the milkshakes at 66 Diner (including the peanut butter-and-banana Elvis Shake) are available for takeout.

served in growlers or cans).

18. Lescombes Winery &

Bistro also offers some grocery items for takeout, such as avocadoes, onions, milk, eggs and meat, plus household supplies like bleach and cleaning gloves.

19.

For more formal takeout, Frenchish offers 3-course dinners of a salad, entrée and dessert.

20. Punchy’s, a pizza food

truck in Rio Rancho, will deliver a make-at-home, kid-friendly ‘pizza kit,’ complete with dough, sauce and toppings.

21. While Electric Play-

house’s interactive fun is closed, their bistro is still open, and is offering a 20 percent discount on online takeout orders from their website.

22. Barela’s Coffee House

has their full menu available, including red chile, beans and candy in bulk.

23. Artichoke Café is offering

Mother’s Day meal specials, with selections like glazed ham, poached salmon, antipasto salad and fresh focaccia.

24.

Nick & Jimmy’s restaurant has been providing healthcare workers and first responders with free takeout meals—including a recent meal for Albuquerque police officers of beef and chicken enchiladas.

25. McDonald’s is offering

free drive-through meals for healthcare workers and first responders through May 5.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | MAY 2020

Reliability comes in all sizes.

Rugged versatility is what makes Kubota tractors the perfect choice for getting Rugged versatility is what makes Kubota tractors the perfect choice for getting every job done right. Visit us today for a test drive. every job done right. Visit us today for a test drive.

BX Series BX Series

B Series B Series

L Series L Series

MX Series MX Series

Mesa Mesa Tractor, Tractor, Inc. Inc. 3826 4th St NW 3826 4th St NW Albuquerque, New Mexico 87107 Albuquerque, New Mexico 87107 505-344-1631 505-344-1631

KubotaUSA.com KubotaUSA.com

Š Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2020. This material is for descriptive purposes only. Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from Š Corporation, 2020. This material is for descriptive purposes only.

Kubota all representations warranties, express or KubotaUSA.com/disclaimers implied, or any liability from theKubota use of Tractor this material.

For complete warranty, safety and product information, consult yourdisclaims local Kubota dealer. For the and complete disclaimer, go to the ofthethis For complete warranty, safety and product information, consult your local Kubota dealer. For the complete disclaimer, go to KubotaUSA.com/disclaimers anduse see posted disclaimer.

MAY 2020 |material.

ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE and see the posted disclaimer.

173