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FEATURES PG 98 What’s October in Albuquerque without our beloved Balloon Fiesta? Well, we never had to wonder until now, with the COVID-related cancellation of the 49th annual event upon us. But just in time comes our Photo Contest, which asked readers last year to take their best shot of the Fiesta. Here are the winners, and perhaps a smile or two for you.
PG 51
COOL WAYS TO SPEND A WEEKEND
With distancing restrictions brought on by the pandemic, it’s been a little more challenging to find safe outings and adventures for the family. With that in mind, we pinpointed 11 fun activities that you can undertake to get out, stretch a little, and experience the outdoors—and maybe feel a little closer to normal for a day or two.
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DEPARTMENTS 22 Editor’s Note 25 Tapas
P. 25 P. 34
A fundraising effort helps out ABQ’s public schools; a North Albuquerque woman’s mission to kick hunger to the curb; the annual Day of the Tread charity bike ride rolls on.
34 Bucket List
La Luz Trail is so notorious, it has web and Wikipedia pages. We sent Staff Writer Zane Beal to see if the 8-mile, 3,750-foot climb to Sandia Crest is worthy of all the hype.
40 Faces and Places 75 Datebook
113 People
114 Albuquerque the Interview Think libraries are wilting in the age of the Internet? Don’t tell that to Dean Smith. The head of ABQ’s public libraries will assure you that the institution is stronger than ever.
120 Personality
ABQ’s own Daniel Abraham went from working as an IT services tech to being a key force behind The Expanse, the wildly popular book (and now TV) series that has sci-fi fans buzzing.
124 Behind the Scenes
Since his days at Del Norte High School, Sebastian Noel has been drawn to a microphone at sporting events. Today, his game calls (and interviews) are shaping how many of us view prep sports and local athletes.
P.120 16
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OCTOBER 2020 Volume XIX Number 6 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Taylor Hood taylor@abqthemag.com LEAD DESIGNER
Sheridan Young sheridan@abqthemag.com PHOTO DIRECTOR
Don James don@abqthemag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Candice Callado candice@abqthemag.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Michael Jacobs michael@abqthemag.com STAFF WRITER
Zane Beal zane@abqthemag.com DATEBOOK EDITOR
Denise Meyer datebook@abqthemag.com CONTRIBUTORS
Tristen Critchfield Ashley Biggers Mel Minter Kelli Trapnell EDITORIAL INTERNS
Renata Schmidt Albuquerque The Magazine (ISSN 1936-4350) is published monthly except January by Albuquerque The Media Corporation, 1550 Mercantile Ave. NE, Top Floor, Albuquerque, NM 87107. Periodicals Postage Paid at Albuquerque, NM 87101, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Albuquerque The Magazine, 1550 Mercantile Ave. NE, Top Floor, Albuquerque, NM 87107.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We welcome letters to the Editor. You may e-mail yours to editor@abqthemag.com, or submit it directly from our website, or via snail mail. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Our editorial calendar is available online at www.abqthemag.com/MediaKit.pdf. No phone calls, please. Unsolicited manuscripts require a SASE.
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DEPARTMENTS P. 132
P. 140
131 Culture 132 Creatives
P. 154
If you never thought to see the beauty in a painting of Frida Kahlo as a punk rocker girl, you’ve never experienced the colorful madness of ‘la Raza’ art by El Moises.
134 Shelflife
Stepping Stones: a Memoir of Addiction, Loss and Transformation by Marilea C. Rabasa; Shook: An Earthquake, a Legendary Mountain Guide, and Everest’s Deadliest Day by Jennifer Hull.
136 Tiempo
A monthly check-in with longtime Tiempo Editor Mel Minter on the new performers—and familiar faces—making waves in ABQ’s thriving local music scene.
P. 145
147 From the Vine
A monthly update to see what’s new with our city’s renowned craft breweries, wineries, distilleries, pubs and bars.
139 Dish
140 Eats Review
Using generous portions and an endless menu, Weck’s has grown from a single breakfast-and-lunch diner to a chain with nearly a dozen ABQ locations.
145 Eats, Etc.
Nagomi Restaurant; Taste of India; Toltec Brewing.
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154 My Favorite Recipe
Swarupa Watlington, the Executive Director of The Storehouse food pantry, and her version of Green Chile Chicken Soup.
156 Bites
Info-filled nuggets about the city’s restaurants, to take with you onthe-go.
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“The right company, at the right time.”
(505)897-2420 4901 McLeod Rd NE Ste B Albuquerque, NM 87109 OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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DEPARTMENTS 191 Fun
192 ‘Til You Drop
Experts tell us how to safely return to the routine of working out in public; a round-up of products to fight dry skin; the wonderful Farm Shop at Los Poblanos.
198 Paws Button
The pandemic means no in-person events, but the Doggie Dash & Dawdle promises to keep up it’s 38-year tradition of pet fun with a host of virtual activities.
200 Pet of the Month This month’s winner: Pig (who’s not a pig at all)
203 Piece of the Past The towering, 85-year-old Siberian elms at Roosevelt Park are still beautiful, but the city is also planting new trees as a way to look to the future.
204 Passenger Window
P. 198 P. 200
P. 203
The colorful mural that brightened an abandoned downtown building came about when artist Madeline McKenzie unexpectedly found some extra time on her hands.
208 25 Things You Didn’t Know About Me If you don’t know Stacy Sacco, you’re probably.... Wait, who are we kidding? EVERYONE knows Stacy. And now you’re about to know everything about him.
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OCTOBER 2020 Volume XIX Number 6 PUBLISHER
E N JOY WOR L D - C L A S S C OM PL I M E N TA R Y I N T E R IOR DE S IGN S E R V IC E
Larryl Lynch larryl@abqthemag.com
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Gena Goodson gena@abqthemag.com
SENIOR ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES
Philip Kjelland philip@abqthemag.com Megan Life megan@abqthemag.com BUSINESS MANAGER
Renee Martinez business@abqthemag.com PROJECT SPECIALIST
Nic Martinez nic@abqthemag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER EMERITUS
Scott Davis (1966–2004)
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EDITOR'S NOTE
B
ack in simpler, more innocent times (in this case, Fall of 2019), we realized something. We’re the city magazine in the ballooning capital of the world—and we had never done an October balloon cover of Albuquerque The Magazine. What?! Well, we decided to remedy that, but we wanted to do it right. If it’s balloons in Albuquerque, it’s a sacred thing. So, we sent out the call before last year’s event and asked readers to take their best Fiesta photos for a Cover Contest. Our plan was to unveil the winner and the cover in the issue you hold in your hands. Well, our beloved event was postponed because, you know. So that leaves us with balloon pics with no Fiesta. But knowing our readers would be missing the iconic sights from the annual October balloon armada across our city, we pressed forward with the plan. We’re not about to let coronavirus take something else from us. So here it is: Our first ever hot air balloon October cover of ATM! For all of the wonderful photographers, both amateur and professional, who submitted photos, we want to send out a huge “Thank You!” We couldn’t include every photo submitted, but trust us, they were all fantastic, including the 53 pics we chose to print. And congrats to Marie Straughan for her winning cover shot (details below)! Check out the rest of the colorful collection on page 98. For our other feature this month, we went out into the city and found some fun activities that you can still do, despite the quarantine. Want to spend the day renting someone’s private pool? We got the solution for that (I tried it with my family, and it was fantastic.) Want to have a fancy meal overlooking the city lights? We got you covered there, also. Ballooning, ice skating, raspberry picking, even a night at the movies, all the information you need is right here. Flip to page 51 for our “11 Cool ABQ Things to Do This Weekend” story. As a huge science fiction fan, I am super excited this month
to direct you to page 121 where we got a chance to talk to local writer Daniel Abraham. If the name doesn’t jump out at you, that may be because his most famous work, The Expanse, is written under the pen name James S. A. Corey (which is actually two authors, Abraham and Ty Franck.) I can’t encourage you enough to read about his journey, which has recently landed him an Amazon Prime Video series based on his The Expanse series. Speaking of books, can you guess which generation uses public libraries the most? Give up? Millennials! I couldn’t believe it either. That is until I spoke with Dean Smith, the Director of Albuquerque Public Libraries. He had all the research. That includes this little nugget: for every $1 a community spends on public libraries; they get $4 back in the form of higher literacy rates and better employment levels. Pretty cool, right? Dean is just full of these wonderful little factoids and he shares them starting on page 114. Thank you for reading this issue of Albuquerque The Magazine. Stay safe out there, and remember, we are all in this together, because we all love it here. Sincerely,
Taylor Hood Editor-In-Chief
On The Cover
Marie Straughan bought a camera a few years ago when she and her husband, Alan, decided to take their own family pics instead of paying a photographer. Turns out, her first place photo in our 2019 Balloon Fiesta reader contest happens to be a family pic of sorts: that’s Alan on the bicycle, executing a high-flying stunt known as a ‘tabletop,’ as Fiesta balloons float past. “We decided to take a camera with all the balloons in the area that day,” says Alan, who says he and Marie often venture to North Valley Bike Park, where the image was taken. “She spotted a good opportunity to get the balloons in the background, and got a great shot.” Marie, a nurse at Lovelace Women’s Hospital, is self-taught as a photographer, and regularly takes photos and portraits of friends and family, including the couple’s two young children, says Alan.
CORRECTIONS In the Start Bragging section of Tapas in September, Carlos Contreras’s business was misidentified. Contreras works for Homewise. In the September Tiempo section, the Prism Bitch photo was shot by Johnny Gomez. In the Top Dentists feature story in the September issue, Dr. Monica Boehmer’s information was listed incorrectly. Dr. Boehmer is a born and raised Albuquerquean who has been in practice here for nearly 30 years. Also, in the Top Dentists feature, the name of Dr. Charles Schlesinger’s business was misidentified. Dr. Schlesinger’s practice is Comfortable Dentistry 4 U. We sincerely apologize for the errors and promise to do better going forward.
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TINY BITES OF EVERYTHING TO SEE, DO AND BUY IN ALBUQUERQUE
RIDING WITH GHOSTS COVID may have thrown the entire city for a loop, but that’s not going to stop one of Albuquerque’s favorite annual charity bike rides. Day of the Tread is a citywide bicycle ride that takes place annually around Halloween (and the Day of the Dead) and benefits the Carrie Tingley Hospital Foundation, Pegasus Legal Services for Children, and other New Mexico charities. The ride is a great chance to paint your face (and your bicycle) in magnificent Day of the Dead-style imagery and tool around the Duke City with likeminded folks.
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
As of print time, organizers had a “tentative ‘yes’ from the City” to hold the ride live this year, according to spokesperson Joannie Griffin. However, if the City says no, Griffin says the ride will take place virtually. Whether the City gives approval for a live event or not, attendees are welcome to participate virtually. The live ride is scheduled to take place on October 25 in the Sawmill District. Riders can choose between a 7, 18, 25, 47, 60, or 100 mile ride. Register at dayofthetread. com. —TH
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The BIGGEST little pantry
START BR A GGING
ABQ
When her handyman began digging a hole in front of Rachel Cohen’s North Albuquerque home, the neighborhood was abuzz. What was she doing to her beautiful yard? Was there a plumbing problem? And why now? (Neighbors tend to get a little nosier during a quarantine.) But when it was revealed the project was a community pantry, the neighborhood’s questions were answered—and there was an outpouring of support. Cohen built the Little Community Pantry to help feed needy Albuquerqueans, and placed it in her frontyard with a sign encouraging people to leave what they can and take what they need. The pantry, roughly the size of a dorm refrigerator, has a glass door and several internal shelves. “It took a local handyman, Shawn Reynolds, about two weeks of working on it in
Albuquerque Probably when you think of airships, the first thing that springs to mind isn’t a company pushing the frontiers of 21st century technology. No, you’re likely picturing something black and white, captured almost a century ago on grainy, jittery celluloid. Well, prepare to update that mental image. Sceye, a technology company founded by Mikkel Vestergaard, is in the airship business, and they’re bringing their manufacturing operations to New Mexico. Sceye isn’t exactly new to the Land of Enchantment—they’ve been doing R&D at Roswell and Moriarty airports for three
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his spare time [to build the cabinet,]” says Cohen. “I sent him a photo of the kind of cabinet I wanted, and he worked from the photo to design and build it.” Cohen is a new transplant in the Duke City, having just moved here last year and says she was looking for a way to help her new community. “Creating the pantry started out as a way for me to contribute, but I’m helping others to contribute, too. I think it’s important that people have as many outlets as possible for their generosity right now,” she says. If you are interested in contributing to the pantry, drop your goods at the cabinet at 7320 Tricia Rd. NE. If you want to build a Little Community Pantry of your own, contact Shawn Reynolds at 259-4730. — TH
Genieve Posen
Marketing Director NAI Maestas & Ward Commercial Real Estate “I love rambling around local farmers markets in Los Ranchos and Corrales, enjoying fresh produce, crafts and music. In the summers you can find me running at Los Poblanos Open Space and attending Isotopes baseball games enjoying my favorite locally brewed beer, Elephants on Parade.” 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.
flying high years—but this will mark a significant expansion of their operations. The sleek, glistening airships will cruise through the stratosphere at 65,000 feet— above the flight paths of planes, beneath the orbits of satellites. From there, they will provide broadband coverage to rural and underserved areas, while simultaneously engaging in real-time methane emissions monitoring. Sceye will continue to test and refine their airship designs in Roswell in the months ahead. The official site of their manufacturing plant is still being finalized. —ZB
On October 19, 1957 Corrales was hit by its only tornado on record. The record goes back to 1883. Nobody was harmed and the tornado registered an F0 (on a scale of 0-5, with 5 being the strongest.)
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ABQ: The Walking City
Albuquerque pushes up to the foothills of the Sandia’s, which offer incredible hikes for all levels, and New Mexico is riddled with well-known hikes and hidden gems. However, locals know that Albuquerque has some of the best spots to walk within the city, now confirmed by a study by CommercialCafe, an online commercial real estate brokerage site. The study looked at public parks and the walkability of 53 cities across the United States, with Albuquerque placing fourth overall, and “Best in the West.” The Duke City beat out other western cities like Portland, Oregon, San Francisco, California, and Seattle, Washington. New Orleans, Louisiana took the overall number one spot and Santa Ana, California slid in at 53. OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
The study looked at the percentage of land used by public parks, average walk time to work, total length of trails, and other variables. Public parks make up 23.3 percent of the city’s total area, with a ratio of 47 acres for every 1,000 people. The Albuquerque arroyo system provides miles of wideopen trails to bike, run, walk, or horseback ride along. Additionally, the Paseo del Bosque trail has 16 miles of public trails, according to the City of Albuquerque. With access to gyms, sports, and structured activities limited by the pandemic, public parks and walking have become an important mental and physical outlet for people. —RS
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A BIG BOOST
for Albuquerque Public Schools $12,000 $10,000
DONATIONS Collected
START
TARGET GOAL
$5,000
BR A GGING
$1,000
Though back-to-school shopping is looking a bit different this year, the virtual classroom still puts a financial burden on families and teachers. That’s why the One Albuquerque Fund, in partnership with the Corporate Volunteer Council of New Mexico, have raised over $12,000 for the Albuquerque Public School system. Additionally, though students may not be in class using glue sticks and protractors, kids still require physical supplies as well as ever-increasing access to technology. “Having basic school supplies for their students is a relief for many families experiencing economic uncertainty right now,” said Vaisu Bronk, Manager, Volunteer Programs, and Special Projects and APS CVCNM Member. “The supply drive em-
ATM DEFINITION OF THE MONTH 28
October marks the beginning of the “regulated air” season in Albuquerque. The season lasts (roughly) through March. To see if tonight is a “burn” or “no-burn” night, call 768-BURN.
powers our students to show up ready to learn and thrive with the necessary tools for the classroom and for working on assignments at home.” The CVCNM has hosted school supply drives in the past, but given the pandemic, changed their approach from collecting a bus-load of supplies to collecting donations. By partnering with the One Albuquerque Fund, whose mission is to support essential programs, the fundraiser was a huge success. According to the civic engagement manager of Albuquerque, David Chene, the CVCNM’s school supply drive is their “big signature service project” and they “exceeded [their] goal of $10,000.” —RS
Corona-Kiss (n.)
ABQ
Rhiannon Samuel
Executive Director of Viante New Mexico “As a 6th generation New Mexican, I find that my love for this state and my hometown of Albuquerque grows every day. Everyone talks about our sunsets, weather, food, and the Balloon Fiesta. But what is hard to put into words is how being here makes you feel. New Mexico offers a generous welcome, warmth, humility, excitement, inspiration, and greatness.” 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.
A smooch between loved ones during the coronavirus pandemic in which both parties are wearing facemasks.
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ALBUQUERQUE’S Car Love
The citizens of the Albuquerque-Santa Fe metropolitan area like their new cars from across the Pacific. That, in any case, is the finding of a study from ISeeCars, a car-centric search engine. By analyzing over 9.2 million car sales in late 2019 and the first half of 2020, they were able to identify the fastest selling new and used cars. For the United States as a whole, the fastest
selling new car is the Chevrolet Trailblazer. But in the metropolitan center of the Land of Enchantment, that title falls to the Subaru Crosstrek (number 9, nationwide), lasting an average 22.5 days on the market. Among used cars, the fastest seller in the study period was the Nissan Armada, averaging 27 days on the market. —ZB
New Cars
Used Cars
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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WORD ON THE
Street 4TH STREET
For one of Albuquerque’s main arteries, its name is possibly the least interesting thing about it. 4th Street is actually one of the Duke City’s most historically significant roads. Originally built in the early part of the 20th century, 4th Street linked the farmlands that were popping up in the North Valley to the Downtown and Old Town areas. It is a common misconception that 4th Street is the historic El Camino Real. It is not. El Camino Real took two routes through the North Valley (which at the time was still swampy and undeveloped), neither of which were on 4th Street. It
wasn’t until the expansion of the state highway system in the first decades of the 1900s that 4th Street became associated with El Camino Real. In order to tie the road expansions into New Mexico history, the Santa Fe Trail was attached to North Fourth Street, which was then connected to 2nd Street south of Bridge Street and the whole thing was nicknamed (the new) El Camino Real. The actual name was Route 1. And that was just the first of 4th Street’s long and confusing history with names. In its life it has been named Route 1, State Highway 1, U.S. Highway 85, and even-
tually it was even considered a part of the famed Route 66. The constant changes in title were due mostly to the quickly shifting nature of city layouts as the automobile began to dominate the American lifestyle. 4th Street was the first road in Albuquerque that was built because of and to accommodate the automobile and the changes the invention brought with it. In 1910, Albuquerque had 32 registered cars, with only 470 statewide. By 1920, there were 17,720 cars registered in New Mexico and nearly 84,000 by 1930. —TH
Affordable
ABQ
According to business insurance resource AdvisorSmith, Albuquerque is the most affordable large metropolitan area in the West. That means that, among cities with 500,000 or more people living in them, Albuquerque is the place with the lowest living costs. AdvisorSmith ran the numbers on major cities in every state west of the Plains, tracking the average costs of food, housing, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and consumer discretionary
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spending. These costs were then indexed, so the average for all cities fell at 100, with deviations below indicating a cheaper place to live and deviations above indicating more expensive communities. Albuquerque earned a score of 94.5, making it the cheapest large city in the American West by a substantial margin. The next cheapest large city, Boise, Idaho, received a score of 99.7. —ZB
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START BR A GGING
ABQ
LOOKING TO GROW YOUR CAREER? We’ve got what you need on tap. Fill up on must-read business news and exclusive interviews crafted by expert reporters in our free daily newsletters.
Sam Baca
Business Development Manager AUI Inc. “I love supporting our Lobos! #GoLobos. We love to tailgate! We tailgate mainly at football games, but nonetheless we go all out when we do. I have a giant grill that hooks up to my truck and I love to take it out to the games.”
SUBSCRIBE AND TOAST TO YOUR FUTURE SUCCESS! Go to bizjournals.com/register/albuquerque to sign up today!
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.
On September 16, the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum re-opened to visitors. However, all tickets must be purchased online in advance at balloonmuseum.com.
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ABQ GIVES MINORITY-OWNED BIZ A HAND As the nation pushes towards a more just and equal society, the City of Albuquerque has announced that a new Minority Business Development Center will be opening this winter. Located at the offices of the Hispano Chamber of Commerce, the new MBDC is the fruit of a $300,000 federal grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency. “Focusing on supporting small businesses and leveling the playing field for minority-owned businesses has been a key component in our economic development strategy,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “This grant will help us open this Center in the heart of Barelas and continue our efforts to lift up minority-owned businesses across Albuquerque.” —TH
The Albuquerque MBDA Business Center will offer services including:
• Client bid opportunity sourcing • Help with certifications and registrations • Lending and equity proposal packaging • Capital lending access • Strategic planning consultation • International trade assistance • Training
HOLIDAY HIJINX A look at some of the wacky, weird, under-the-radar, and outside-the-box holidays on tap this month. OCTOBER 4: TEN-FOUR DAY It’s the 10th month and the 4th day… get it? It’s also a day tailor-made for the pandemic. Make sure your best bud has a walkie-talkie and take the day to chat back and forth. Go ahead and call in to work and tell them you can’t make it in. We are sure their answer will be a resounding, “Ten-Four, Good Buddy.” OCTOBER 9: BRING YOUR TEDDY BEAR TO WORK/SCHOOL DAY Okay. Admit it. You still have a Teddy Bear somewhere. So, go ahead and pull it out of that moldy box in the garage, or out of your child’s bedroom, or off of its usual spot on top of your pillow and bring it to work with you. Nobody will point and laugh… we promise. OCTOBER 21: PETS FOR VETERANS DAY This holiday combines two things we adore at ATM: animals and our troops. Might we recommend celebrating this day by giving our friends at Animal Humane New Mexico a ring, adopting an animal, and surprising a veteran with a new best friend. OCTOBER 28: NATIONAL CHOCOLATE DAY Halloween might be just around the corner at this point, but all that means is your house is filled with chocolate and candy you can’t eat. Well, now you have an excuse to dig into that oversized bowl of individually wrapped mini-Snickers bars. You aren’t pigging out; you are just filled with holiday spirit. —TH
TWEET BEAT What the Twittersphere is saying about Albuquerque, 280 characters at a time.
Car”Los” Jose Ramirez @claimwatsurs Life is about P E R S P E C T I V E #Albuquerque|#NMTrue
Johnrobertson @jrobertsonNM The rest of the world might be topsy-turvy but Cabezon looks pretty level-headed.
Anne McKinney @annemck653 The next time I come home from #camping and back my #PopUpCamper up my driveway and into my garage, I am selling tickets to watch, lining up chairs and serving popcorn. I think it must be that entertaining to those watching me attempt it. #nmtrue What do you have to say about #abq? Follow us at twitter.com/abqthemag
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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Each month, we go out into the city to observe an activity that perhaps we (or you) have always wanted to try. Then we talk to the people who did it.
Meet The STAFFER
NAME: Zane Beal, Staff Writer STRENGTHS: Once lived for two months in a tent in the Alaska bush. WEAKNESSES: Spent most of 2020 in suspended animation.
PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
HIKING AT LA LUZ TRAIL
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PRIOR EXPERIENCE: Hiker dude with global trail experience (Idaho, Utah, Costa Rica, Cambodia). KNOWING ZANE, WE TOLD HIM: You’re our best outdoorsman, so don’t let us down. And have fun!
Most weekends, I like to sleep in a little. This weekend, however, I was on assignment. It was early August and we’d had a late-week editorial meeting, where I spontaneously volunteered to spend a chunk of my weekend hiking up the western face of the Sandias. For a person whose ancestors spent the bulk of the last several millennia fleeing the sun above the 50th parallel, that meant an early start. And hiking La Luz, that means sunrise. Of course, dozens of people had the same idea. Scattered across a two-thirds full parking lot, hikers tied on boots and strapped on backpacks as my wife (Becky) and I pulled in at 6:40 am. Becky’s and my plan was to hike the first two miles or so of the trail together. She would then go back home to take care of our foster puppy and I would continue on to the top, meeting her at the Crest House in the afternoon. Switchbacking up through those initial miles offers a nice tour of the local high desert ecosystem, where hummingbirds zip around among the juniper and cholla while Chihuahuan spotted whiptails forage among the prickly pear and sage. We took it slow, chatting about nonsense, making way for swifter hikers to pass, pausing periodically so Becky could snap a shot or two of me looking like a granite-hewn master of the wilderness. Becky turned back for civilization a little before 9 am. Meanwhile, I forged ahead, powered by a surly gruel of manly grit and rugged individualism. The first rays of sunlight were just beginning to WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
spill down the western face of the mountains, the air temperature was still somewhere in the middle 70s, and I’d barely touched the 108 ounces of water in my pack. Things were looking pretty rosy at that point. But here’s the thing. La Luz is a difficult trail. According to the US Forest Service, it ascends 3,638 feet over the course of 7.5 miles. That’s a slope of around 9.2 percent or 5.25 degrees, depending on how you prefer to measure these things. It doesn’t seem like a lot, but depending on your level of fitness, it can be excruciating. And that’s where my personal experience demands a bit of context. Like any
sensible person, I greeted the COVID-19 lockdown by quickly stacking on an extra 15 pounds in case of famine. And, while I walk between two and five miles a day, most of my work is done at a desk, stabbing keys and clicking mouses. Which is to say, my fitness level wasn’t quite compatible with La Luz. Granted, there’s a bit of sampling bias at work here. Most people who enjoy walking along nearly eight miles of trail 3,600 feet up the side of a mountain are probably in the upper fifth or so of the fitness distribution. A few of them—obvious lunatics—even do it running. But for those of us languid hedonists who rank
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ice cream and beer among life’s finest offerings, La Luz can be a bit of a crucible. By the time I’d put the first five miles of trail behind (and beneath) me, I was feeling pretty tired. Another mile on, I was
Zane’s Reaction RECOMMENDATION: “Pack as much water as you think you’ll need and then a little more.” BIGGEST SURPRISE: “My favorite kind of hike is one where I see no one else. The trail was pretty empty.” DO IT AGAIN?: “Definitely. Preferably in the late fall or early spring.”
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g n i n a le C o D e W ! n o s a e R a r fo
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exhausted. The last mile or so, up above 9,000 feet, was a trudge. My legs were weak enough under me that I began to understand how a trip up the mountain could turn dangerous. There are scores of places where an incautious step could send you tumbling down the mountainside. And in some of these spots, “tumble” should be understood euphemistically: we’re talking about bouncing off boulders and tree trunks until you come to a rest several hundred feet downslope, seriously injured or dead. Taking that into full account, the experience was enormously rewarding. The landscape is extraordinary. And the higher you climb, the more beautiful it gets. Even under full sun, much of the trail is regularly shaded by towering pines and stands of aspen, offering pleasant respite after hiking through an open field of granite talus. I reached the Crest House at around 3:30 in the afternoon, hot, tired, and ready for a hamburger. I’d poured just shy of three quarts worth of water down my throat, most of which I’d sweated out along the trail. Still, I felt pretty great. I’d gone from couch to crest in the space of a day. True, La Luz was a challenge. But packing plenty of water and going at my own pace, I found it a worthy trip. —ZANE BEAL
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United Metro Relay For Life of New Mexico The Relay for Life at the Veterans’ Memorial kicked off on August 9 with Albuquerqueans coming out to walk laps and raise money for the fight against cancer. The day was filled with fun, games, music, food, and a raffle. That evening the crowd lit luminarias as a remembrance of those lost to the disease. 1. Charles Benns, Ro Torres Faces & Places celebrates gatherings for charity and other events. 2. Stacey McPherson, Amanda Heredia, Marie Plant, Adria Padilla Lovette Since the COVID-19 crisis currently 3. Kristin McLoughlin, Brooke Perea, Adrian Ontiveros prevents such gatherings, please en4. Sarah Wise, Richard Pellecchia joy some of our favorite F&P events from the past year. As soon as these 5. Ed Kelso, Jackie Kelso events begin again, we promise to 6. Dillan McCullough, Dujuan McCoy, Ethan Van be there. 7. Emily Stake, Stephanie McCullough
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Ambercare Health Fair and Blood Drive Held at Ambercare on August 10, the 2019 Ambercare Health Fair and Blood Drive gave Albuquerqueans a chance to come out and donate blood, speak with healthcare professionals about year-round health, and eat some good food. 1. Harold Anderson, Julio Jaramillo, Johanna Arvizo, Jenny Carian Faces & Places celebrates gatherings 2. Lorry Zaman, Wendy Solme, Scott Geyer for charity and other events. Since the 3. Leandra Preciado, Charity Zamora, Amandine Pasco COVID-19 crisis currently prevents such 4. Lynn Yami, Cindy Flores, Melissa Orozco, Luis Lopez gatherings, please enjoy some of our favor5. Alberta Jones, Ron Ruybal ite F&P events from the past year. As soon 6. Raymond Salazar, Joyce Carabajal, Tony Nichols as these events begin again, we promise to be there. 7. Priscilla Belvin, Daisy Sanchez
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STUDY THE HUMANITIES Expand Your Knowledge for a Better World Register Now at cnm.edu OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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Reimagining Charity On August 23, the Sid Cutter Pavilion was packed with non-profit directors, social progam developers, ministry coordinators and other leaders to participate in this nationally touring interactive seminar that promotes new ideas, research, and techniques for raising money for charitable organizations. 1. Lisa Fuller, Birga Alden Faces & Places celebrates gatherings 2. Nick Vottero, Keith Bauman for charity and other events. Since the 3. Valerie Griego, Anna Bellum COVID-19 crisis currently prevents such 4. Officer Andrew Della Longa, Lieutenant Ferris Simmons gatherings, please enjoy some of our 5. Hannah Town, Ashley Martinez favorite F&P events from the past year. 6. Penelope Buschardt, Peggy Candelaria As soon as these events begin again, we 7. Taeler Larsen, Corinne Rios, Shawn Duncan promise to be there.
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Get Your Free High Efficiency Showerhead and Water Savings Kit. nmgcfreeshowerhead.com OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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Tenderlove Community Center Grand Opening
We love it here.
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Tenderlove Community Center has been helping Albuquerque’s low income and undereducated women for more than six years by teaching them sewing and other marketable skills. On October 19, the community got to celebrate the Grand Opening of their new building. 1. Tammie Bedford, Mayor Gregg Hull, Dr. Bill Miller, City Councilor Isaac Benton Faces & Places celebrates gatherings 2. Adeyemi Johnson, Debbie Johnson, Rodney Prunty, Erica Barreiro for charity and other events. Since 3. Jo-Lynn Herbert, Nina Martinez, Renae King, Charles King the COVID-19 crisis currently prevents such gatherings, please enjoy 4. Janet Ortega, Mary Ade, Rebekah Najar, Anna Garcia some of our favorite F&P events from 5. Valarie Maestas, Dennis Beard, Michelle Villegas the past year. As soon as these events 6. Diale Fomukong, Karen Navarro, Ellen Braden, Mike Parmelee begin again, we promise to be there. 7. Celina Lopez, Lisa Chavez
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LifeROOTS Pi Day The 6th annual Pi(e) Day celebration at Vara Wines, hosted by LifeROOTS, kicked off a little early this year. On March 10 (official Pi Day is 3.14‌ obviously) Albuquerqueans gathered at Vara for all-you-can-eat pie samples. They also got a chance to throw some pies, and all to benefit LifeROOTS in their mission to help Albuquerqueans with disabilities. 1. Richard Bruce, Barbara Bruce, Kelly Wainwright, Jenny Schulte-Riedl Faces & Places celebrates gatherings 2. Molly Montano, Chef Javier Montano for charity and other events. Since 3. Dot Cook-Simmons, Sherri Wells the COVID-19 crisis currently prevents 4. Tim Sheahan, Kathleen Holmes Cates such gatherings, please enjoy some of 5. Andrea Garcia, Anita Roybal, Paula Valdez our favorite F&P events from the past 6. Back row: Jeff Kramer, Larry Ashby. Front row: Dawn Dal Porto, Jeanne Vigil year. As soon as these events begin 7. Clarence M. Hughes, Allison Hughes, Erika Hughes, Clarence H. Hughes again, we promise to be there.
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11 COOL ABQ THINGS TO DO THIS WEEKEND It’s been a tough year, that’s for sure. But there is still so much fun and adventure to be had out there! It’s important to stay safe and stay sane these days. With that in mind, here are 11 family-friendly, socially-distant activies right here in the Albuquerque area. Horseback riding under the desert sky, berry picking on a Corrales farm, even a night out for dinner and a show; it’s all right here.
by Taylor Hood
Photos by Don James and Michael Jacobs
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Sling an Ax ABQ Ax
207-8990, abqax.com
It’s important during this time of coronavirus to remember that we all need to see to our mental and emotional health, not just our physical health. Might we recommend getting a few friends together and throwing some axes at some stuff? ABQ Ax, a local business that opened in 2017 (with a second location that opened in early 2020, right before quarantine kicked in), offers just that. Decked out with various lanes ending in large wooden targets, ABQ Ax offers a variety of axe throwing games and even provides instructors to teach the game rules and, more importantly, teach customers how to throw an axe. “We usually say it takes roughly 10 to 20 throws [to get the hang of it,]” says co-owner Angela Romero. “Some are more natural than others and they get it really quick, within five throws or so.” Romero adds that axe throwing is a game of finesse, not strength. Romero and her business partner Diana Montoya happened on the idea during a trip to Poland where a happy accident led them to discover the game in a random restaurant basement. “The people were just having a ball,” Romero says. That’s when the pair decided to export it back to the Land of Enchantment. Though the pandemic did shut down business for a bit, Romero says they are back up and running and they’ve even added a couple of attractions. At the original Broadbent location, customers can enjoy Football Bowling, in which you throw footballs at pins and try to outscore your opponent. At the new Osuna location, there is Street Curling. It’s the same action-packed Olympic sport, but without the ice. For their part, Romero and Montoya have taken a number of health precautions for customers and staff, including hand sanitizer stations, face mask requirements (they will provide masks if needed), and socially distant lanes. “Axe throwing is already kind of socially distant,” says Romero. “The lanes are already six feet apart.”
Traditionally an event in lumberjack competitions, Axe Throwing has steadily grown in popularity since the first throwing locations began opening in 2006. Today, there are axe throwing businesses in Canada, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and Poland. The International Axe Throwing Federation began in 2016 and is dedicated to promoting the sport around the world and judging throwing competitions.
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Locations and Axe Throwing Lanes: • 2809 Broadbent Pkwy. NE STE C – 4 lanes • 5505 Osuna Rd. NE – 8 lanes AXE THROWING PRICE: • $20 per person per hour – walk-in • $35 per person per hour – group rate • $15 per week per person – 8-week league GAMES: • Axe Throwing (both locations) • Street Curling (Osuna location) • Football Bowling (Broadbent location)
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Super Fruit •
Raspberries are low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
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Raspberries may protect against diabetes, cancer, obesity, arthritis and other conditions and may even provide anti-aging effects.
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The vitamin C and antioxidants in raspberries can reduce the signs of aging such as black spots or wrinkles. The antioxidants and ellagic acid in raspberries can keep the skin healthy and rejuvenate it.
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One cup of raspberries contains only 5 grams of sugar. With 8 grams of fiber, they're more likely to leave you feeling full than other fruit.
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They reduce the risk of heart disease. Raspberries have a high potassium content which helps regulate blood pressure and heartbeat.
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They enhance eye health: the vitamins A and C in raspberries fights eye disease by cleaning the eye membranes and preventing them from drying out.
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Pick Your Own Raspberries Heidi’s Raspberry Farm 600 Andrews Lane, Corrales heidisraspberryfarm.com
U-Pick Info: • • • • • Sitting inside for weeks on end can get depressing and boring, no matter how many documentary series Netflix puts out. That’s due, in part, to a lack of Vitamin D, which is usually gained from being in the sun. With that in mind, Albuquerque does offer plenty of fun activities for families to do out in the sun. One of those activities is berry picking with the U-Pick program from Heidi’s Raspberry Farm. Heidi’s Raspberry Farm is known for being the source behind the popular locally-made Heidi’s Jam. So yes, Albuquerqueans are able to pick the same fruit that goes into Heidi’s terrific jam. “The kids love it,” says owner Heidi Eleft-
Saturdays from 9 am-11 am (or until the berries are all gone) Running August until “Mother Nature decides.” 5 acres of picking $5 Parking fee $6 Pint cartons
heriou. “We run out of fruit sometimes because so many people show up and they pick it out. And I say, ‘so sorry we ran out of fruit.’ And they are like, ‘Oh, we don’t care. We just had such a good time getting out of the house.’” Heidi’s is, of course, following all COVID safety measures, including hand sanitizer, one-way rows, and a new reservation system (make a reservation at heidisraspberry farm.com.) Heidi’s Raspberry Farm offers five acres of berry picking. Despite the name, they also offer blackberries for picking, in addition to raspberries. “The blackberries come on before the raspberries,” says Eleftheri-
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ou. “We open [blackberries] for picking in July. They are huge! Some of them are two inches long.” Though the blackberries open earlier, raspberries are where people really start coming out, according to Eleftheriou. U-Pick is open for two hours every Saturday and customers are allowed to stay and pick as long as they like. Heidi’s Raspberry Farm sells pint sized cartons and people are welcome to fill them until the fruit is all gone, or the clock strikes 11. “You only pay for what you pick,” says Eleftheriou, though she notes there is a $5 parking fee.
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Watch a Big-Screen Movie Albuquerque Film and Music Experience afmx.com
We may have, for the time being, lost the experience of going into that surprisingly chilly movie theatre and munching down on some pricey (and delicious) popcorn in a new recliner seat, but we can still get out for a night at the movies. Albuquerque Film and Music Experience (AFMX), in partnership with O’Niell’s Pub and Cottonwood Mall, is bringing back a classic form of entertainment in the Duke City; the drive-in movies. “We opened these events during the pandemic, but we had been planning them for a while now,” says Ivan Wiener, executive director of AFMX. Wiener says that once the pandemic hit, it seemed like a good time to swap out AFMX’s popular Dinner and a Movie events—which take
place inside restaurants—for the more quarantine-friendly drive-in option. And Albuquerqueans have been loving it. AFMX has sold out every screening. “The community has really taken to it,” says Wiener. “It’s been a really great thing for people to get out of the house.” Wiener—who helped write the official health guidelines for all New Mexico drive-in movie events—is making sure that all of the screenings adhere to state guidelines and COVID safety measures. Though he says it helps that drive-in movies were always a fairly socially distant activity. The events themselves feature a wide variety of films. No, you won’t get early releases of Tenet or Black Widow, but you will get beloved classics. “It basically
came down to showing movies that everybody loves and throwback movies from the 80s and 90s and it’s turned out really great,” says Wiener. Titles range from family-friendly flicks like Hotel Transylvania and Jurassic Park, to more grownup classics like Alien and Friday the 13th. All of the drive-in movies from AFMX are projected onto a large screen. In the case of O’Niell’s, the screen sits on top of a 20foot truck; at Cottonwood it is projected onto the wall of Home Life Furniture. The price of admission is $20 per vehicle (and no packing all of your friends into the trunk!) and there is a 54-vehicle capacity. However, AFMX does do private screenings.
Info:
• 54 vehicle capacity • $20 per vehicle
Public and private screenings: • O’Niell’s Pub screen: 22 x 12.5 • Cottonwood Mall: 35 x 18
Schedule:
• Wednesdays at 8:30 p.m. O’Niell’s Pub (4310 Central Ave SE, 255-6782) • Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. Cottonwood Mall (Home Life, 10000 Coors Bypass NW, 792-8300)
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• • • • • • •
Saturday, October 3 | Hotel Transylvania Wednesday, October 7 | Twister Wednesday, October 14 | Alien Wednesday, October 21 | The Addams Family Saturday, October 24 | Edward Scissorhands Wednesday, October 28 | Halloween (1978) Saturday, October 31 | Beetlejuice
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Paint With Wineglass in Hand Painting With a Twist
8510 Montgomery Blvd NE #A5 867-2468, paintingwithatwist.com
Everything is just a little better with a glass of wine in hand. That includes painting. Though the idea behind Painting With a Twist—drinking wine while you learn how to paint—is designed for adults to have a fun and unique date night, Painting With a Twist does offer fun for the whole family. “Fridays and Saturdays are for the grownups,” says owner Kim Berg. “Because that’s when there are a lot of date nights and stuff like that. So 15 (years old) is the age limit, but we can make exceptions.” COVID may have shut down much of the nation, but Berg and Painting With a Twist have not been resting on their laurels. They offer classes throughout the week, though capacity is significantly decreased. Berg recommends making a reservation on the website far in advance. After making a reservation, Berg says to show up a half hour before the class to get settled in. Then the artist takes the stage. “The finished painting is on the right side and a blank canvas is on the left side and the artist teaches you how to paint the painting in the time allowed,” says Berg. Though there is some slight variation on the difficulty level of the paintings, they are ordinarily fairly simple. ““We are not an art
class,” says Berg. “We are supposed to be fun art. You come to relax.” The classes typically run two hours, but Painting With a Twist does offer a once-amonth “SOS Class” where any customer can bring in their painting and an artist will help fix it. Another very popular offering from Painting With a Twist is their Blacklight Painting classes. The back room is set up with blacklights and customers are provided the specialty paint. “We add not only UV light, which is really cool, but we have glow paint also. So whether you have a blacklight or not, some of it is still going to glow,” says Berg. One of the things that sets Painting With a Twist apart is the opportunity to have a glass of wine while you paint. Berg offers local wines and beers for sale, as well as non-alcoholic drinks. They also allow customers to bring their own snacks. Lastly, Berg is offering virtual painting as well. “Some of my customers do feel like they just can’t go out yet. And that’s fine. We do offer the (to-go painting) kits. You can sign up, pick up a kit (there are over 200) and take it home. Then, some of the kits come with a video and some are just instructions.”
Painting With a Twist Events (check website for details): • • • • • • • •
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Paint Your Pet Zombie Yourself Trivia Night Date Night Girls Night Private Parties Blacklight Painting SOS Class
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Included in a typical to-go Painting Kits: • • • • • • • • • • •
10x26 board Complete Step-By-Step instruction Video complement (only with paintings marked “Video Available”) Paint Brand new paint brushes (yours to keep!) Disposable water cup Palette plate Napkin Table covering Disposable apron Distraction and escape!
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Trails from the Peak: • • • • • •
Domingo Baca Trail South Peak Trail Pino Trail Kiwanis Cabin Trail Peak Nature Trail La Luz Trail
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Sandia Peak Tram and Gift Shop Thursday-Monday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. *tickets must be purchased online Ten 3 Indoor Dining & Cliff Side To-Go Thursday-Monday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Ten 3 Fine Dining Seating Hours Thursday-Monday, 5 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
Hours: • •
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Enjoy a Mountaintop Picnic Ten 3
30 Tramway Rd NE 764-8363, ten3tram.com In these difficult times, takeout dining has skyrocketed in popularity. It offers a chance to feel normal again and it also helps support local businesses. And while it is great to get your favorite meal despite not being able to eat out, Ten 3 has taken the idea of to-go food to the next level. Sitting atop Sandia Peak, Ten 3 is a fine dining experience with a view, and it is their goal to ensure that both of those traits remain, despite the restrictions caused by coronavirus. “We want to make sure that all of our dishes look just as good in the togo box as they do on the plate,” says Eddie Cook, the director of restaurant operations. Ten 3 offers an extensive Cliffside-To-Go picnic menu that includes salad, a main dish, a side, and a dessert. However, they will go off menu and prepare anything on Ten 3’s usual “All Day Menu.” They also offer items that are easy to grab and go, like the Steak Fajita Wrap. For the whole family, Ten 3 is offering a carryout-only family meal package with a choice of chicken or brisket
that feeds up to four people. Cook recommends ordering in the restaurant, and not calling it in beforehand. “If there is a delay of even 10 minutes it could have an impact on the freshness of the food,” he says. “We recommend you just come on in. We can prepare pretty much anything on the menu in under 20 minutes.” But the food is only part of the fun of Ten 3’s Cliffside To-Go option. A number of attractions are present to bring Albuquerqueans in. Of course, there is the Sandia Tram, which offers unparalleled views of the city as it rises 10,378 feet above the city. At the end of the tram ride, customers are dropped at the peak, near Ten 3’s front door. The restaurant has also set up an outdoor dining area (though they don’t have service in the patio area. It is designed only as a place to sit and eat.) A trip to Ten 3 also offers all of the attractions of the peak, which includes half a dozen hiking trails and access to the Sandia Ski Area.
Cliffside-To-Go Family Picnic Menu: • CHOICE OF sandia caesar or roasted beet salad • CHOICE OF 10-hour braised brisket or spiced grilled chicken • PACKAGE INCLUDES roasted potatoes and assorted cookies
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Relax on the Beach North Beach Trail 1708 Riverside Dr NE rrnm.gov
Albuquerque and Rio Rancho are famously landlocked and sit more than a mile above sea level. Known as the “high desert” the area is dry, and the air is thin. So, spending a day at the beach in the middle of the Albuquerque area might not be an option that springs immediately to mind. But it is important to remember that the mighty Rio Grande slices its way through our fair city and brings with it plenty of water activities. From paddle boarding, to kayaking, to swimming and laying on the bank, the Rio Grande actually offers a wide variety of recreational options. One of the river’s hidden gems is North Beach. Technically, North Beach is just a
trailhead that marks the beginning of a beautiful Bosque trail hike. But the trail leads directly to the waters of the Rio Grande and a secluded, quiet, and cozy spot for a beach day. North Beach can be reached by heading to Rio Rancho on NM-528 and turning east at the River’s Edge II neighborhood. After moving quietly through the twisting neighborhood roads and pushing past the water treatment plant, a dirt parking lot appears. From there, it is a direct shot to the beach. The beach itself has plenty of room to stretch out. When we say “beach” we mean “beach.” The area is flat with sandy beaches leading up to the water line. As is typical for
the Rio Grande, water levels vary, and there is often a large island poking up in the middle of the river, perfect for a private family beach. The wide open area and long water line make for numerous great spots to set up camp for the day and remain socially distant. North Beach has places to fish, places to dip your toes in the water, and even places that are deep enough to swim. Though North Beach is not a well-known Rio Grande access area, it can get busy at times. Don’t just wear your beach duds. Make sure to pack plenty of water and equipment in case you need to hike along the water to find a good spot.
North Beach info: • • • •
Cross streets: Hwy 528 & Riverside 100 yards from parking to water Completed in 2013 North Beach Trail is a 2.5-mile, dog-friendly trail
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Fun in the River: • • • • • •
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Paddle boarding Kayaking Swimming Parties and family gatherings Sunbathing Hiking
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Bike In Coffee info: • • •
Season lasts March-October Closed Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday Located on the bike path next to I-40 a few hundred feet east of Gabaldon Road and about two minutes west of the Aspen Street entrance near the D. H. Lescombes Winery & Bistro. You can enter the property from the I-40 multi-use trail on the east side of the Duranes Ditch, or ride west down the Mountain Rd. bike boulevard from Old Town or east from the Bosque Trail access to the west end of Mountain Rd. Go to Montoya Road (look for Reginald Chavez Elementary) and turn north.
Events:
• Jazz Brunch - Saturday and Sunday, 9 am-11 am • Bici-Fix Mobile Bike Shop - Sundays, all day • Tasty Tacos - Thursday-Sunday, 8 am-2 pm
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Bike to Coffee or Brunch Bike In Coffee at Old Town Farm 949 Montoya St NW 764-9116, oldtownfarm.com
Bicycling during COVID is nothing new. In fact, it seems like the only things we’ve been able to do safely during this pandemic are hike and bike. So why not breathe a little life into the activity and try something new? Bike In Coffee at Old Town Farm gives bicyclists a place to (safely) gather. Located in the lush Bosque, Bike In Coffee is a coffee and food business, serving farm fresh produce and local coffee, and designed to cater to bicyclists on the Bosque Trail. What began as a food truck on the Old Town Farm property quickly developed into a popular business. Now owners Lanny Tonning and Linda Thorne have built a brandnew building complete with kitchen and covered patio. Of course, social distancing at Bike In Coffee is not a problem. “We’ve been practicing social distancing since 2012,” says Thorne. Even so, Tonning and Thorne are careful and attentive when it comes to keeping their customers and staff safe and healthy. As the name implies, the business used to be focused solely on coffee. But in recent years, Bike In Coffee has implemented a new menu. For their Taco days (Thursday-Sunday) they serve up a wide variety of savory delights like the #9, which is tempura shrimp with mango slaw, wrapped in a taco shell. But if you are only in the mood for something light, try their farmfresh produce or a mixed berry salad. Enjoy a crepe or a breakfast taco on their patio while reading your favorite book in the shade and splendor of the Bosque. Having a bike is, of course, the best way to enjoy Bike In Coffee, but it isn’t a requirement. Anybody is welcome to come on out for a cup of joe and a homemade cookie. Just do it fast. The season ends at the beginning of November.
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Saddle Up and Ride Tamaya Horse Stables
1300 Tuyuna Trail, Bernalillo 771-6060, tamayahorserehab.com
The open air, the trail stretching out in front of you, the warmth of the sun on your face, and the feel of the powerful horse beneath you. Trail riding is an elemental, simple, and beautiful experience. It’s also a particularly good activity for quarantine. After all, participants naturally socially distance and the activity takes place outside, often far from civilization. While there are a number of stables around Albuquerque that do trail rides, the Hyatt Tamaya Horse Stables offers an experience far from the hustle and bustle of the city, but close enough that it’s easy to access. “It’s really a great thing to do on the weekends,” says Connie Collis, the director of the Tamaya Stables. “It’s truly an adventure.” Located on the Santa Ana Pueblo, the Tamaya Stables sits on more than 80 acres of riding land, filled with wildlife and adventure. “There’s a lot of wildlife out there, so sometimes it feels like a trail ride turned safari,” says Katie Cuongiorno, marketing manager and wrangler. “You might see
some coyotes hunting a turkey, or some elk or rattlesnakes, antelope, lots of jack rabbits.” Collis says the stables have a horse to match every rider. “It is important to us to make good memories with horses,” she says. “So we can customize your ride to match your experiences. If you are scared of riding or horses, we can help. If you were thrown from a horse once, we have the perfect horse for you.” The Tamaya Stables have a wide variety of equine friends due in large part to the fact that they are also a horse rehabilitation center. “One of the really great things about riding with us is that you are helping horses at the same time because some of the money goes towards caring for the horses,” says Collis. On the weekends, Tamaya Stables have a special program, Stretch and Ride, which offers participants a chance to get in their yoga before riding (and work on breathing exercises during the ride.)
Info:
• Morning and evening rides
• Open 7 days a week, 365 days a year • 80 acres of riding space • 60 horses at the stables • 10 people per group ride
Riding Options
• Group Ride - 1.5 hours - offered daily - $80 per person • Private Ride - varying length - $110 per person • Stretch and Ride - 1.5 hours -
Friday and Saturday - $100 per person
• Private Lesson - 1 hour - $80
• Lead Around Lesson - 30 minutes - $35
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How to help: • • • •
Donate - A one time $12 donation purchases a bale of hay for a needy horse. Adopt - A $250 a month donation effectively adopts a horse and cares for it for the entire month. Volunteer - Plan a time and schedule to work with the horses. Shop - The online Tamaya Stables store helps provide funding for horse rehab. Visit tamayahorserehab.com.
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What to bring: • • • • • •
Hat Sunglasses Extra clothing layers Closed-toe shoes Sunscreen Camera
Pre-flight: • •
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Head to the website to download the Release Form Head to the website to download the Well Being Questionnaire
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Enjoy the View From Above Rainbow Ryders
5601 Eagle Rock Ave NE 823-1111, rainbowryders.com Sometimes it’s just good to get out and rise above it all. Scott Appelman, president and founder of Rainbow Ryders, the nation’s largest hot air ballooning company, can help. With current social distancing requirements, sitting in a basket, thousands of feet above the closest person seems like a great way to spend a weekend (or at least 45 minutes to an hour of it.) “Being a hot air balloon ride, you are out in the open and what better way to distance from the crowds,” says Appelman. Rainbow Ryders operates throughout the Southwest (with offices in Scottsdale, Arizona and Colorado Springs, Colorado in addition to Albuquerque) and employs the industry’s most experienced expert pilots. Those pilots, who have logged more than 50,000 hours with Rainbow Ryders and given 275,000 people the joy of a hot air balloon flight, will take customers on an hourlong journey over the Duke City.
Now is an especially great time to get out and enjoy some ballooning, and not just because COVID has robbed us of getting our balloon fix by postponing the International Balloon Fiesta, but because it is Fall in Albuquerque. Why is that important? Just rent a flight and have the pilot take you over the Bosque and you’ll find out. The quarantine did shut Rainbow Ryders down for a short time, but Appelman and crew used that time to upgrade equipment and create a safe and healthy environment. Appelman is happy to be back in the skies and says Rainbow Ryders is ready to help Albuquerqueans find a safe and fun way to get out of the house and maintain social distancing. “People have counted on us for 28 years and now they can rest assured we will fly them safely through COVID with the best and most innovative safety measures for staff and customer.”
Info:
• Group rides - $139 per person • Private flights - $250 per person (2 person minimum)
Flight Time: 45 minutes - 1 hour Total Time: About 2.5 - 3 hours OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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Rent a Swimming Pool for a Day Swimply
swimply.com
According to the Centers for Disease Control, “There is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of recreational waters.” That’s great news for taking the family out to the pool. However, the CDC also says that COVID-19 can spread easily between people in crowds, which is decidedly bad news for taking the family out to the pool. But this is an inventive day and age and a new app is on the scene that may help alleviate some of the hesitation when it comes to sitting poolside. Swimply—an app that functions much the same way as Airbnb
or Uber, but with swimming pools—offers Albuquerqueans a new way to enjoy the water. Local homeowners with swimming pools simply list their pool for rental on the Swimply app. Then local pool enthusiasts make a reservation and head out for some fun in the water at their appointed time. There are currently 11 different pools listed in the Albuquerque area on Swimply and they range in price from $30 an hour to $60 an hour. Pool owners are required to disinfect and follow all CDC coronavirus guidelines, however, once the pool is rented, Swimply is a no-contact activity.
That means you never have to actually be in physical contact with another person through the entire process. “It was amazing,” says Swimply user Susie Leahy. “The place had a trampoline and a diving board. The kids loved it. And it was so clean and welcoming. I would definitely do it again.” As a side note, Swimply will be unveiling their new app, Joyspace later this year. It functions in the same way but is for tennis and basketball courts, home gyms, decked out backyards, and other equipment.
How to get your private pool on: • Download the Swimply app • Search your area
• Select a pool and check the availability
• Communicate with the pool owner (through the app) • Head out at your reserved time and enjoy!
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Typical $30 pool: •
“Backyard includes a covered patio, gas grill, grass area, trampoline, and heated pool. Pool ranges from 3 ft to 10 ft and has a diving board. The pool is gated. Gated area includes FM radio player with speakers and a spiral staircase leading up to deck.”
Typical $60 pool: •
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“This pool is 38 ft long and 18 ft wide, it has a tanning deck and could entertain a volleyball game. Has multiple sprayers into the pool with shade structures. Backyard also has access to full court basketball goals and a miniature putt putt golf course.”
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What is “Sled Hockey?” •
•
Sled hockey is the same game you know but designed to accommodate our disabled community here in Albuquerque and surrounding areas. It is a sport that totally integrates players with mobility limitations and able-bodied people with knee, leg or hip injuries that limit their participation in traditional hockey. Friends and family are welcome to play. Players compete in sled hockey by using sleds to travel across the ice. Shortened hockey sticks with a metal pick allow the player to push the sled. The result is a fast-moving game with plenty of excitement for the players.
Public Skating Admissions and Rentals: • Public Skating fee (ages 6 & up): $10
• Tot Public Skating fee (ages 5 & under): $1 • Military Public Skating fee (ages 6 & up): $9 • Skate rentals (all ages & sessions): $3 • Advance purchase - groups of 11 or more (includes skate rental): $8
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Get the Kids (and You) on the Ice Outpost Ice Arenas
9530 Tramway Blvd NE 856-7595, outposticearena.com Outdoor activities have been all the rage during the pandemic, but there is still plenty of indoor fun to be had in the Duke City. Outpost Ice Arenas is one of those indoor spaces. The longtime Albuquerque establishment is still functioning during COVID and offers plenty in the way of attractions. The award-winning ice arena (which was recently featured in Rink Magazine) has two full-sized rinks available for skating. In between the two rinks are two straightaway sections designed for curling training. Outpost has the ability to raise the partitions between all of its sections, creating the CooLLoop, one long, continuous track of ice. “The CooLLoop is really neat,” says Outpost Ice Arenas General Manager Trevor Flint. “And really there is so much to do [at Outpost] that you and the family can spend all day here and not get bored or run out of things to do.” Part of Outpost’s resilience during this
time is the fact that Flint and his team are always brainstorming new ideas. One activity that has garnered some attention recently is their Sled Hockey team, the Blade Runners. Designed for Albuquerqueans with disabilities or lower body injuries, Sled Hockey offers a chance to participate in team sports, get out on the ice, and have a ton of fun. All that skating will make you hungry. Luckily, Outpost has the Center Ice Grill and Café, which serves snacks and arena staples like burgers, chicken tenders, and breakfast burritos. “We just want to make sure that everyone has a good time,” says Flint. In that spirit, he points out, any Albuquerquean can call ahead and take advantage of Outpost’s skate maintenance services. The services include skate sharpening, skate fittings, blade mounting, heat molding, skate stretching, and snow sealing.
Attractions: • • • • • • • • • • •
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Private Lessons Group Lessons Arcade Center Ice Grill and Café Air Hockey Curling Ice Wolves Games Youth Hockey CooLLoop Chilly’s Pro Shop Sled Hockey
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THE BUZZ AROUND ALBUQUERQUE: YOUR GUIDE TO EVERYTHING HAPPENING THIS MONTH
TOP PICK saturday 3 and sunday 4 | 9 am–5 pm Ikebana Autumn. The Japanese art of Ikebana is over 500 years old and was popular among Buddhist monks due to its fleeting beauty. It later became popular among the public, used during holidays and ceremonies, as well as for decoration. Info: ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, High Desert Rose Garden Atrium, 2601 Central Ave. NW, cabq.gov.
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saturday 3– sunday 11
32nd Annual Old Church Fine Arts Show. This year the show will be online only, with no art displayed in the church. Art forms include painting, sculpture, collage, mixed-media, ceramics and stoneware. Proceeds are used in the preservation and maintenance of the Historic Old San Ysidro Church in Corrales. Info: corraleshistory.org.
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sunday 4 | 2–4 pm
SouthWest Writers Presents: Crafting a Nonfiction Book Proposal. Loretta Hall, who has published eight nonfiction books, explains how to create a successful proposal. Class meets weekly via Zoom, October 4, 11, 18 and 25. Info: $105 (members), $110 (Osher members), $115 (nonmembers). Register: southwestwriters.com/ class-registrationcrafting-a-nonfictionbook-proposal. Password sent after registration.
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monday 5– thursday 8 | 3:30–4:30 pm
Skills Mid-Day Webinar for Dementia Caregivers. This is a four-day webinar from the Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter that presents approaches that encourage success in the lives of family caregivers and their loved ones. Also presented Monday 19–Thursday 22, same times. Info: communityresourcefinder. org, 800-272-3900. Free.
tuesday 6 | 10 am
A l b u q u e r q u e Newcomers’ Club Welcome Coffee. The club offers a fun variety of 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, 3216970.
friday 9 | 7:30 pm
Albuquerque Science Fiction Society Meeting. Skeptic Benjamin Radford talks about “Tracking the Lizard Man,” and his scientific research on the mysterious creatures. This science fiction club has author readings, films and science discussions. Info: St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, Activity Room, 5301 Ponderosa Ave. NE, bubonicon.com, 266-8905. Free to newcomers.
WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
Trust us, these are but a few ABQ events YOU CAN'T MISS. 10
thursday 10 | various times
3rd Annual Folds of Honor Patriot Shootout. This event, held to honor and support military families, includes tee prizes, raffles, auctions, breakfast and lunch. Info: Santa Ana Golf Course, 288 Prairie Star Road, Santa Ana Pueblo. Register: newmexico. foldsofhonor.org, 350-3996. $150 per player, $600 per team.
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thursday 10 | all day
NAMIWalks New Mexico Your Way. The annual walk on the National Day of Hope is different this year. Instead of canceling it when our collective mental health needs are greatest, it’s going to be virtual, with a greater reach. We join other walks across the country to support mental health in America. Info: namiwalks.org to register.
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
saturday 17 and sunday 18 | 9 am–1 pm
Train Tracks in the Garden Show. New Mexico Garden Railroaders Club will demonstrate how to bring backyard gardens to life with motion and sound through the use of miniature, G-scale trains and their unique, complementary landscape. 10 trains will run simultaneously. Info: ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. NW, cabq.gov.
friday 30–monday, november 2 | various times
Before I Die New Mexico Virtual Festival. In this online event, join in Death Café conversations, video tours and Zoom panel discussions about New Mexico traditions regarding death, dying, funerals and burial. Info: Full schedule, tickets and more information at beforeidienm. com.
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please note
At the time this listing was produced, many events were being canceled 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.
thursday 1–thursday 29 | various times
National Football League Games. The season for the NFL is set to continue through October. Attendance will be limited, but games can be enjoyed through a variety of media. Info: See the schedule at nfl.com.
thursday 1–saturday, december 5 | various times
Keshet Community Dance Classes: Fall Session. Weekly online live Zoom Classes are offered in ballet, contemporary, hip hop and creative movement with an All Abilities/All Ages weekly Dance Party each Thursday at 4:30 pm. Subsidized pricing available, ongoing registration. No classes the week of Thanksgiving. Info: keshetarts.org or email info@keshetarts. org.
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saturday 3 | 4:30 pm
Preakness 145. Join the roar of the crowd and witness the Middle Jewel of Thoroughbred racing. All eyes will be on the Preakness Stakes to discover if Triple Crown potential lives on. Info: NBC TV, nbcsports.com.
wednesday 14 | 12 noon–1 pm
Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia. In this webinar from the Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter, learn about the impact of Alzheimer’s, the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, stages, research, risk factors and more. Info: communityresourcefinder.org, 800272-3900. Free.
friday 23 | tbd
World Series. The 2020 Major League Baseball season was shortened by COVID-19. Each team was set to play a 60 regular game season, followed by an expanded 16-team postseason tournament. The World Series is scheduled to begin on October 23, and a potential Game 7 would be played on October 31. Info: mlb.com.
wednesday 28 | 12 noon–1 pm
10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s. During this webinar from the Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter, learn to recognize common signs of the disease and know what to watch for. Info: communityresourcefinder. org, 800-272-3900. Free.
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 and times. 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, 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.
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.
WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
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: 9387900.
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.
daily |
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 Charities of New Mexico. We provide a “home-awayfrom-home” for families whose children are in medical treatment. Operating the 30-guest-room Yale House, 20-guestroom Highlands House, and the Ronald McDonald Family Rooms at UNM and Presbyterian Hospitals, volunteers make a vital difference in the lives of the people they serve. Info: Volunteer Coordinator, rmhc-nm.org, 842-8960, volunteer@ rmhc-nm.org.
daily |
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.
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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 | various times
Explora’s STEAM Enrichment Programs. Explora has limited in-person and virtual STEAM enrichment programs happening throughout the fall. Info: explora.us for details. Prices vary.
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.
daily | 9 am–5 pm
“The Original Instructions: Pueblo Sovereignty and Governance” Exhibit. This Indian Pueblo Cultural Center exhibit reexamines 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 | 10 am
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.
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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
every second monday | 6:30 pm
“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.
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
mondays | 5:30 pm
every third monday | 6–7:30 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.
Outcomes, Inc. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren discussion and support groups. Info: Heights Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 8600 Academy Road NE, 243-2551 to reserve a space. Free childcare provided. Free.
every fourth monday | 6:30– 8:30 pm
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.
mondays–fridays | various times
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.
Outcomes, Inc. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren discussion and support groups. Info: West Mesa Community Center, 5500 Glenrio NW, 243-2551 to reserve a space. Free childcare provided. Free.
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DASH & DAWDLE...
from a Distance!
38th Annual Doggie Dash & Dawdle virtual registration NOW OPEN Proudly presented by Leader of the Pack Sponsor
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 | 6:30–9:30 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.
Join us for an array of activities, now thru Nov. 1 (Virtual Race Day) With your paw-ticipation, we can raise vital funds for homeless & at-risk cats & dogs across NM
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.
tuesdays or thursdays | 9:30–10:30 am
Fine Wine Dance Classes: Moving FWD. These weekly online Zoom Classes running through December 3 are specifically for ages 55 and over, exploring movement and choreography as a community, focusing on improvisation and body awareness. No experience necessary. Registration is ongoing. Info: keshetarts.org, 224-9808 or email info@keshetarts.org.
tuesdays–saturdays | 9 am–5 pm
REGISTER & FUNDRAISE MEOW! doggiedashanddawdle.org 82
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.
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tuesdays–saturdays | tuesday–fridays 9:30 am, 1:30 pm, saturdays 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.gov/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.
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, 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 (firsttime participants only). Info: 883-9203, ninjaparkabq.com.
every first tuesday | 1–2:30 pm
Spanish Language Alzheimer’s Support Group. This meeting is for Spanishspeaking individuals caring for a family member with dementia. Info: Alamosa Community Center, 6900 Gonzales Road SW, Suite C, 363-8499 or (800) 2723900.
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, 848-7180, abqbiopark.com. Tickets: Included with admission.
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 and 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.
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OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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every fourth tuesday | 7–9 pm
Duke City Story Slam. This monthly storytelling event is where people tell true-life 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: Canteen Brewhouse, 2381 Aztec Rd. NE, storytellersofnewmexico.com, facebook. com/newmexicostorytellers.
While jetting off to another country might not be a possibility, now is a great time to plan your escape for 2021 and beyond. In the meantime, scratch the travel itch with local destinations such as the wide-open spaces of Napa Valley or the vast natural wonderland of Glacier National Park in Montana.
every last tuesday | 6–7 pm
Murderinos Book Club. This free true crime book club meets monthly and Book Club purchases get 10% discount at Bookworks. Info: Bookworks, 4022 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, bkwrks.com, 344-8139. Free to attend.
Travel allows the joy of dreaming, the excitement of the experience, and a lifetime of memories that grow more valuable each day.
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.
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wednesdays | 10 and 11 am
Japanese Garden Tours. Join docents on the Hanami Flower Tours through the Sasebo Japanese Garden. Learn about the garden’s many varieties of flowering cherries and other blossoms, and the history of Japan’s Hanami celebrations. 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, 2437255. Tour included with paid general admission, $4-$6.
wednesdays | 12 noon–1 pm
We’re here for you. Call 505.294.5031 or email info@awtravel.com.
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.
awtravel.com 5200 Eubank Blvd NE, Ste C-1 Albuquerque
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WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
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 Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE, 768-6020. Admission is free for the children and an adult.
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, 299-3737. $5 cover.
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.
wednesdays–sundays | 11 am–5 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.
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.
every second wednesday | 6:30–7:30 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.
every second wednesday | 6:30 pm–8:30 pm
Rio Rancho Art Association (RRAA) Monthly Membership Meeting. RRAA’s mission is the cultural and educational enrichment of the community and surrounding areas by providing opportunities for artists and the public to collectively participate in fine art events and programs. Info: Don Chalmers Ford Community Room, 2500 Rio Rancho Blvd., 301-2009, rraausa.org.
every second and fourth wednesday | 10 am–2 pm
every first thursday | 9:30 am–12 noon
every fourth wednesday and thursday | 12 noon–2 pm and 6–8 pm
every first thursday | 6:30– 8:30 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, 848-7180, abqbiopark.com. Tickets: Included with admission.
Polka Dot Powerhouse Albuquerque Monthly Business Connects. Polka Dot Powerhouse is a closely linked family of extraordinary women—a world of fun, business growth, and connection. Learn, network, and be inspired with other area professionals, business owners, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. Guests are invited to attend their first meeting for free. Info: Managing Director Barbra Portzline, bportzline@comcast.net. Register at polkadotpowerhouse.com.
thursdays | 10 am–12 noon
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, 771-5680. 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. Pre-registration is required: glkello@ nmia.com or 299-3737.
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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.
every second thursday | 6–8 pm
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, 848-7180, abqbiopark.com. Tickets: Included with admission.
every thursday, friday and saturday | 6–9:30 pm
Party in the Fireroom or 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-youcan-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, 724-3510. 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.
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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.
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, 5084020, 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.
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, 296-6020 new-mexico.cactussociety.org.
saturdays | 8–11 am
Los Ranchos Growers’ Market. Fresh local produce and products, plants, and more. COVID 19 protocols - wear masks, keep social distancing, and no pets. Handicapped accessible, family and pet friendly. Info: 6718 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, 610-9591. Free admission.
saturdays | 8 am–12 noon
Downtown Grower’s Market. Visit the longest running farmer’s market with over 160 vendors. Info: Robinson Park, 810 Copper Ave. NW, downtowngrowers.org, 252-26959. 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.
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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.
saturdays | 5–8 pm
Cooking Classes at Cinnamon Sugar and Spice Café. Try a fun and exciting handson 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, 841-2848, nmnaturalhistory.org. Tickets: see cost information online.
WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
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 peerled 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, 256-2042. 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.
every second saturday | 10–11:30 am
Outcomes, Inc. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren discussion and 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.
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
every second saturday | 10 am–12 noon
Free Fishing Clinic. Instruction available on basic fly-tying methods, fly-rod casting techniques, fishing etiquette, effective catch-and-release practices and enhancement of advanced skills. Equipment and supplies are available free of charge on a first-come-first-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
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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.
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 last saturday | 7–9 pm
every first, third and fifth sunday | 6–9 pm
sundays | 9 am–1 pm
every second and fourth sunday | 10–11 am
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. 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, 2437255. 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, 7686020, cabq.gov/balloon.
sundays 10 am–2 pm
Rail Yards Market Express. Pre-order your favorite farm products, then drive through for non-contact pick up. Info: Rail Yards Market, 777 1st Street SW, railyardsmarket.org, 600-1109.
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, 288-0313. Cost: members, $5; non-member, $8.
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 508-4278 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.
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.
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
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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.
WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
SKIN PRODUCTS
BEFORE
Science + Nature = Results
AFTER
Real Customer Results after 30 days using BioVer-X Wrinkle Repair 3 Step Routine. BEFORE Katie Uilk and Kristina Trujillo are sisters-in-law who never planned to start a company together. Kristina was a professor and researcher at UNM and a complete “nerd”. Katie was a self-described “hippie” and had been making her own natural skin products for over 7 years. Katie had suffered through severe eczema since her teenage years without any solution from doctors. She started experimenting with natural oils, creating hundreds of variations until she finally discovered the solution that healed her skin. Meanwhile, Kristina was a professor at UNM with a specialty in biochemistry. Her own research focused on the healing properties of natural products. But what she really wanted was to get breakthrough university research out into the real world. The lightbulb moment came when Katie invited Kristina over for a fun day of making skin products. Kristina,(always a scientist) was more interested in looking up scientific studies on the ingredients. She was surprised to discover that there was extensive research supporting the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of the ingredients in Katie’s natural products.
Dr. Kristina Trujillo was a professor and scientist at UNM School of Medicine for over a decade. She specialized in healing properties of natural products.
505.966.6725
AFTER
This made her think of a molecule that she has encountered in her research. The molecule was non-toxic and had phenomenal skin healing properties. They began to wonder what would happen if they combined Katie’s natural oil blends with the skin-healing molecule. They began to test the combination. The effectiveness exceeded their wildest expectations. The combination of Katie’s natural skin care ingredients with Kristina’s breakthrough molecule is now the signature product of K&K Skin Products. It is called the BioVer-X Serum.
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Katie Uilk has crafted custom oil blends since 2013. Originating as a remedy for her own skin conditions, it later bloomed into a passionate career.
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OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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Lisa Godin
NM Dream Center (The Harbour)
Steve Cecco Feed NM Kids
Rosemary Freelin
Rio Grande Valley Blue Star Mothers
Lovie McGee African American Cultural Association
Mick Burke LifeRoots NM
Good Neighbors are REALTORS® and Affiliates who dedicate themselves to volunteer service. They donate gifts, money, and – most importantly – a lot of time.
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WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020 Learn more at gaar.com/goodneighbor
Albuquerque's Super Women 2020
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OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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9501 Paseo Del Norte NE, Ste B Albuquerque, NM 87122 (505) 821-9630 alluraderm.com AlluraDerm MD Med Spa, a locally owned and operated medical spa established in 2007, is New Mexico’s top provider of CoolSculpting®—the world’s #1 non-invasive fat reduction treatment. The providers at AlluraDerm are heroes who help their clients rediscover their confidence and feel their best every day. Under the guidance of medical director Dr. Nicholas Lam, the providers of AlluraDerm have performed more successful CoolSculpting® treatments than any other location in the state. When it comes to fat-freezing, these superwomen are unmatched! The unique CoolSculpting® technology is the world’s top nonsurgical, scientifically proven way to reduce fat in trouble spots such as the abdomen, flanks, or under the chin. The scientific name for CoolSculpting® is cryolipolysis, which is a technical word for fat-freezing. Fat cells are sensitive to cold and freeze at a higher temperature than surrounding tissues. This allows CoolSculpting® to target and destroy fat cells without any invasive procedures. Once fat cells are frozen, the body will naturally eliminate the dead cells in around 1-3 months, resulting in up to a 25% reduction of fat in the treated area. Provider Kristy shares, “What sets CoolSculpting® apart from other techniques is that this treatment targets fat at the cellular level, so
fat removed with CoolSculpting® is truly gone for good.” We all have those stubborn pockets of fat that don’t respond to diet and exercise, despite our best efforts. These vary from person to person because everyone carries fat in different areas of their bodies. CoolSculpting® allows individuals to contour their bodies and meet their goals without surgical risks or downtime. And because CoolSculpting® is FDA-approved for 9 different areas of the body, including the abdomen, neck, arms, inner thighs, back, and chest, AlluraDerm’s talented providers are able to create personalized plans for every client based on their unique needs, anatomy, and desired outcomes. Although this revolutionary technology might seem like a superpower, its results are due to both proven science and provider expertise. In CoolSculpting®, getting the right outcome is 30% technology and 70% technique. AlluraDerm’s award-winning providers have the training, knowledge, and experience that ensure their guests get the incredible results they deserve. Provider Kimberly explains, “Every body is unique. CoolSculpting® requires a great deal of skill to customize for each individual’s personal needs.” When it comes to your body, nothing but the best will do, which is
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
why clients from across New Mexico travel to AlluraDerm for exceptional individualized care and results they can trust. With this powerful combination of science and technique, it’s no wonder that clients rave about their CoolSculpting® treatments at AlluraDerm. One guest shared, “I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the results I got from CoolSculpting® my double chin. I just got the second treatment, but the first worked wonders. Lori is the best! If I won the lottery, I'd have my entire body CoolSculpted!” Another client adds, “Dori made the whole CoolSculpting® experience quite calming. Her technical experience and professionalism greatly added to my satisfaction with the process.” It’s reviews like these that show why AlluraDerm is New Mexico’s top CoolSculpting® practice. The providers at AlluraDerm provide the very best care for their clients with unbeatable results. When it comes to CoolSculpting®, why settle for anything less? Rediscover your confidence with the superwomen of AlluraDerm!
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Southwest Women's Oncology & Health 5700 Harper Dr. NE, Suite 410 Albuquerque, NM 87109
(505) 843-7813 swwomensoncology.com Preya Wisner, D.O. Karen Finkelstein, M.D. Victoria Garcia, M.D. (LEFT TO RIGHT)
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WHY DOES SOUTHWEST WOMEN’S ONCOLOGY DO THINGS DIFFERENTLY? We have all learned that the future is uncertain, we strive for better solutions, and we promise to deliver the best outcomes for your mind, body, and spirit. We embrace humanity and engage with you emotionally so that you can find joy on your journey and success in your fight. In order to stack the odds in your favor and help you overcome challenges; our team is here to deliver the best medical care available personalized for your needs. HOW DOES SOUTHWEST WOMEN’S ONCOLOGY DELIVER ON IT'S PROMISE? While we pursue unique and novel solutions to existing problems and challenges, we never lose sight of the basics. We seek to prevent cancer and encourage proactive screening enabling early
detection. We participate in research and conduct clinical trials. We learn the latest in advanced surgical techniques, pharmacological, and clinical practice. We create personalized treatment plans which cater to the person and are designed to meet each patient’s needs. WHAT HAVE YOU DONE DURING THE TIME OF COVID-19 Even during these extraordinary circumstances, you, our patients and your health needs are always our top priority. We move through the complicated world we are all facing to create clarity and make sense of the confusion and uncertainty for our team, patients, and community. Cancer and women’s health needs have not stopped during the pandemic, and neither did we. We have remained open throughout the COVID-19 crisis, and we will continue to be available whenever and wherever we are needed.
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Paixao Nail & Beauty Bar, Inc. PRISCILLA SMITH, OWNER
1100 San Mateo Blvd. #28 Albuquerque, NM 87110 (505) 266-6950 www.paixaobeautybar.com Readers of this very magazine have voted Paixao Nail and Beauty Bar “Best Nail Salon in Albuquerque” every year since they first opened their doors back in 2016. Originally in the property management industry, founder and owner Priscilla Smith saw an opportunity to truly elevate and improve the salon experience, and set about doing just that. “I started Paixao to bring something new and exciting to Albuquerque,” says Smith. “Emphasizing hygiene and sanitation was my number one priority, and over the years since our opening I have wanted to give clients a luxurious experience.”
Striving for relaxing, reinvigorating excellence, Paixao has developed a proprietary line of products designed to give clients results worthy of the Paixao brand. “When used on dry skin, our scrub perfectly exfoliates, leaving it smooth and soft,” explains Smith. “After rinsing and drying the area, follow with Paixao’s lotion and you will be instantly hooked. Our lotions are creamy, but they won’t leave your skin feeling heavy or oily.” These products both complement and expand Paixao’s existing lineup of comprehensive beauty services, with a distinctive emphasis on maintaining a pristine and healthy environment. “Paixao is a full-service salon offering nails and hair services,” says Smith. “I’m happy that all the changes we’ve gone through have been positive and necessary to push the company forward towards greatness.” Since opening, Paixao has tripled in size, allowing them to accommodate more and more service providers and better meet their clients’ needs. More recently, they’ve also launched a new and innovative salon concept: the event boutique. Here, clients can hold private parties built around hair, nail, and make up services in an exclusive space. “From the day we opened our doors, I knew that this was my career,” says Smith. “When I say, ‘I'm in it to change the game,’ I mean it. It’s not easy changing a culture, but I’m confident that with the right people, it will happen.” OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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Silhouette
Medical Spa
7501 Holly Ave. NE Suite #5 Albuquerque, NM 87113 505-339-9079 silhouette-medspa.com
Crafting the best version of you is a journey without a fixed destination. It’s a process, changing and evolving—just like you. Silhouette Medical Spa recognizes this. There, a team of seasoned experts help you realize and refine the most beautiful version of who you are right now. Co-owners, Nica Marez-Leon and Margie Pellegrino launched Silhouette Medical Spa in June 2020, right in the middle of a pandemic. They probably couldn’t have picked a more challenging time if they’d tried. But four months in, it’s clear that their services provide clients with a welcome, restful, reinvigorating reprieve from stressful times. “We provide our clients with a private and calm experience,” explains Margie. “During this pandemic, our environment is safe and precautions are taken to keep everyone safe.” “We have crafted a private environment, one client at a time, which provides increased safety during a personalized treatment experience,” says Nica. “This has proven very
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comforting during this period of increased caution. Nica and Margie built Silhouette around a shared vision, providing clients with discrete, individualized care in a boutique environment. Both registered nurses, Nica and Margie each have 25 years of medical experience. Nica has been a certified nurse injector for 9 years, and Margie has been working as a nurse injector for 4 years. Meanwhile, Pamela Parker (APRN, ACNP-BC) brings nearly 30 years of medical experience to her role as Silhouette’s medical director. Specializing in injectable treatments, Silhouette offers an expansive list of services. These include neuromodulators like Jeuveau, Dysport, and Botox, along with collagen stimulators like Sculptra and hyaluronic- acid fillers like Restylane. They also offer Juvederm and Versa. Their website offers clients the convenience of online booking, making a trip to the spa for individually tailored care that much smoother.
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EXPERIENCE THE BEST I N L I M O U S I N E T R A N S P O R TAT I O N
RESERVATIONS | 505.836.4035 303 Arvada Avenue NW | Albuquerque, NM luckyboyzlimos@me.com | info@luckyboyzlimos.com www.luckyboyzlimos.com
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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RUNNER-UP To get the perfect shot, Angelita Amador spent the entire 2019 Balloon Fiesta week getting up before 4 a.m. to scout the best locations. For her glorious shot of the sugar skull-adorned TrueLee New Mexico balloon, Angelita had to endure a bit more than just an early wake-up call. “Me and my friend Chris Mendonca had to run about a mile to get to the Rio Grande,” she says. “We were covered in mud from all the puddles.” But her work paid off, as Angelita found the right spot, then positioned her Canon 80D camera at a low angle so the thin clouds could frame the balloon.
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3RD PLACE Jan Adair has been into serious photography for about 3 years, shooting with both Nikon and Canon cameras. But for her fantastic pre-dawn photo of a balloon glow, she happened to use her cell phone. “The sun had not yet risen over the Sandia Mountains, and the balloons were getting ready to lift off,” says Adair, who traveled from Leesburg, Fla. for last year’s Balloon Fiesta. “We camped at the RV area, and went to the balloon glows each morning and evening,” she says. “It was an exciting event.”
Okay. So there isn’t a Balloon Fiesta this year. Well, thanks to you, we have the next best thing. The cover of this issue features the winner of our Reader Photo Contest: 2019 ABQ Balloon Fiesta. But we received so many beautiful photos, we decided everybody should see them. Here are the 52 other submissions.
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Submitted by Trisha Hughes
Submitted by Shannon Clark
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Submitted by Pam Troutman
Submitted by Junior Lozoya
Submitted by Barbara Gorham
THE SHAPE OF THINGS The biggest attraction for many fans is the Fiesta’s Special Shapes Rodeo, which often features more than 100 special shape balloons. Some of the favorites include the kissing bumble bees, the Wells Fargo coach, and the Star Wars collection that includes Darth Vader and Yoda.
Submitted by Monica Cioffi
Submitted by Lisa Oles
Submitted by Wendy Trevisani
Submitted by Scott Rohl
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Submitted by Arissa Novick
Submitted by Michael Blomker Submitted by Carl Gutierrez
Submitted by Ron Brauch
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Submitted by Katrina Griego
Submitted by Desiree Luca
PEOPLE
BALLOONS
The event draws close to a million fans annually to Balloon Fiesta Park in North Albuquerque. Few are more recognizable than Steve Stucker (right), the chief weather forecaster for KOB-TV, Ch. 4, who wears all the Balloon Fiesta pins given to him by fans over the years. “Back in the 80’s, a friend invited me as a volunteer. I had such a blast, and people started giving me pins,” says Stucker. “I’m a certified Balloonatic, and I’ve never missed a day of Balloon Fiesta in over 33
years.” So you don’t miss any of the action, our personal recommendation is to bundle up, grab a folding chair and arrive by 5 a.m., which gives you plenty of time to enjoy the sights and food vendors—and possibly even help a crew unfurl their balloon!
Submitted by Danielle Garciduenas
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Submitted by Adam Nish
Submitted by Christopher Olivas
Submitted by Anthony Jackson
Submitted by Jamie Walls
Submitted by Daniel Blodgett Submitted by Jason Boyles
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Submitted by Sergio Trujillo Submitted by Tom Domme
BE LIKE WATER The flowing Rio Grande is often a guide as balloonists float south after launch. The river is also the perfect spot for the maneuver known as a ‘splash & dash,’ whereby pilots take the balloon down to the river’s surface, then try to dip the gondola into the water before surging back skyward. Talk about needing ice water in your veins! Submitted by Nicole Gitz
Submitted by Wyatt Jolamars
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Submitted by Matthew Carver
Submitted by Darcy Clute
Submitted by Betty Spann
Submitted by Keith Langerman
Submitted by Dan Taylor
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Submitted by Trista Werner
Submitted by Richard ‘Andy’ Mills
THE BLUE ABOVE Clear skies and perfect weather have helped ABQ become the world’s hot air ballooning capital. Also, the winds here tend to create what is known as the “Albuquerque box,” whereby winds at lower elevations move in one direction, and winds above move in the opposite direction, making it ideal to move in a loop just by raising or lowering the balloon.
Submitted by Valerie Torres
Submitted by Melina Ottesen
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Submitted by Christopher Bowen
Submitted by Anamaria Dahl
Submitted by Doug Ware
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Submitted by Heather Pillman
Submitted by Belinda Bryant
BALLOON FIESTA REDUX Officials have dubbed the 2020 event as only being “postponed,” and have set the new launch dates for October 2-10, 2021. The event will be the 49th edition, and is again expected to draw more than 500 balloons and pilots from nearly two dozen countries. Submitted by Celena Beal
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Submitted by John Gibson
Submitted by Paul Fields
Submitted by Sandy Portlock
Submitted by Susan Warren
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Submitted by Katy Brown
Submitted by Jordan Lohkamp Buster
Submitted by Jacob Kehoe
Submitted by Cindy Collins
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ABQ THE INTERVIEW P. 114 | PERSONALITY P. 120 | BEHIND THE SCENES P. 124
INTO THE GREAT EXPANSE Daniel Abraham went from a job as an IT service tech to a career as a best-selling author. His collaborative novel series, The Expanse, is now a hot show by the same name, gearing up for a fifth season on Amazon Prime Video. (p. 120).
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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
STORIES BEHIND INDIVIDUALS WHO MAKE ALBUQUERQUE GREAT
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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH OUR LEADERS AND DIFFERENCE-MAKERS
Dean Smith With a plan to further engage residents (including the construction of a new building), the longtime ABQ library boss continues to turn the page.
D PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
ean Smith, the director of libraries for the Albuquerque Public Libraries, is a far cry from the stereotypical image of a librarian. No Coke-bottle glasses, no light blue perm, and no aggressive shushing. He is a talkative man with an easy smile and an extremely approachable aura. A native of Indiana, Smith always loved books and spent much of his childhood reading. Of course, growing up on a 30-acre farm allowed him plenty of time to indulge. But it wasn’t until his time earning a degree from Ball State (and a graduate degree from the University of Indiana) that he realized his passion for libraries. Initially, Smith studied architecture and education, the latter of which took him into several learning settings, one of which was a library. That’s when he knew he was destined for the library system. Smith’s days are largely spent handling “big picture” projects like community programs and fundraising, but he still loves to read (his favorite book is Pride and Prejudice). That’s, of course, when he isn’t hiking in the East Mountains with his partner and their four dogs. ATM: So, you graduated from college in Indiana and you knew you wanted to go into the library business. What was that journey like for you postgraduation? DS: I went to the American Library Asso-
ciation annual conference that summer in San Francisco. They also do a placement service. I attended the conference after
graduation and was interviewed by some recruiters from the New York Public Library Branches and they offered me a position in New York in the branch library and I said “yes.” ATM: When was this? DS: That was in 1987. I worked in the New
York Public Library for 17 years. I worked in Upper Manhattan and I worked in the
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Bronx in the Tremont area. That was my first position, a manager at the Tremont branch. My last position with the New York Public Library was at the Westside Regional Library which covers everything from about 14th Street up to 120th Street. ATM: Where did you go after New York? DS: I had a stop in London between New
York and New Mexico. I had the opportunity to work in London for five years. I was in Southwark, and that’s the burrow that goes from the south side of the Thames—where the Globe Theatre and the Tate modern museum are—and it works its way down to the Dulwich area.
ATM: What finally brought you to New Mexico? DS: At one time I thought it would be nice
to work in different parts of the country. I grew up in the Midwest, and so that took that off the list. Then I worked on the East Coast with New York City. And I have
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family in Tucson, so I was familiar with the Southwest and visited quite often. So I decided to look in the Southwest area and that kind of put a stop to my plans of doing the West Coast or the Pacific Northwest because, as happens with so many of us here, I got to New Mexico and I just stayed. ATM: Did you come out here for your current position or a lower position? DS: So, I started with the Albuquerque
ATM: What does your day-to-day look like? DS: It changes quite a bit day to day and A major part of Smith’s mission is creating a creative and fun space for kids.
2020 Virtual Pumpkin Carving Contest
that’s part of the appeal. Actually, a huge amount of the appeal is the whole range of things that you might end up doing. Staff members at the library might do an
ALBUQUERQUE
Our Halloween Shop will be
OPENING
on October 6th! We will be open on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm until merchandise is sold. Winners will receive Thrift Shop Gift Cerftificates. Entrants should carve their pumpkin and send a picture to socialmedia@assistanceleagueabq.org
Assistance League at 5211 Lomas NE
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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
Bernalillo County Library as assistant director of branches. That was 12 years ago and then, three years later, I became the director of libraries. I’ve been the director now for nine years.
ABQ
Elementary Class visit, and then do a story time, and then they might work with a business group that’s learning about the resources at the library, and then they might go on to meet with a community, working the front desk. My job, unfortunately, doesn’t include a lot of those things anymore. I’m more likely to work with elected officials, talk to the community on long-term projects that are going on, such as the new International District Library that’s under construction, and work out some new services that we might be adding. ATM: How did the pandemic affect the libraries? DS: We are really proud that we have so
many things in the digital format and we have for years. So we were prepared for the pandemic and when we had to close for eight weeks, we already had a strong presence online. Those who had library cards were still able to access books and audio books and movies, they just had to
do it online. Those who didn’t have a card, we were able to give them a temporary card. It was tough, but we were able to reopen, with a limited capacity and abbreviated hours on June 2. ATM: The newest finished library is at Central and Unser. Can you tell us a little about that project? DS: It’s our first new library in 17 years,
since the Cherry Hills Library was built.
We wanted it to reflect the state of modern libraries as well as the needs of the community. So there was a lot of community engagement before the building went on to be drawn up by the architects. One of the things that the community wanted was a gathering space, so we have a community room here that has a capacity of 150 people. We have several other smaller spaces for the community to use as well. They also wanted something that was monumental and stood out in the com-
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munity. The community out there felt a little bit neglected. They didn’t have a lot of symbols of services and so this building represented the value of the community and everyone has been really appreciative of it. ATM: What does the future look like for Albuquerque Public Libraries? DS: Well, the International District Library is under construction. It’s where the old Caravan East Nightclub and Bar used to be and it meets our criteria of being a good prime location that stands out in the community. It’ll be 25,000 square feet with a separate young adult area, a separate programming space for children’s activities, a large community room—actually for the community room we put in a wood floor as a nod to the Caravan East and also a recognition of the diversity of the community. One of the key pieces of culture, along with food and language, is dance and this
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will be a good venue to celebrate the different cultures in the International District. ATM: What is something you are particularly proud of accomplishing during your nine years as director? DS: For decades the library has worked really hard to eliminate barriers to people using libraries. For over 20 years we have not issued any fines. Your incentive to bring the books back is that you can’t borrow more until you bring the others back. Continuing to remove economic inhibitors to using the library is a major goal of mine. We’ve also worked hard to make sure that all of our buildings exceed ADA standards. ATM: What are some things on the horizon for Albuquerque Public Libraries? DS: We are working with Albuquerque
get library cards to third graders. When we are back to a normal school year, we hope to be able to help every third grader get a library card. The reassuring thing with that program is that about 50 percent of the kids already have a card when we go in. We are also just finishing up a $200,000 grant that we got from the National Institute of Health, which is to promote health information. So that allows us to do exercise classes, classes on diet and nutrition, and living with illnesses. We also have classes on STEM programs. ATM: Are books dead? Are they going the way of the Dodo? DS: [laughs] One of the things that we
think is quite interesting is that, statistically as a generation, millennials are the biggest users of public libraries. And they read paper books more per year than any other generation. So the book is not dead by any means. —TH
Public Schools and piloting a project to
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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
ABQ
The library at Central and Unser is Albuquerque’s newest library.
LIBRARIES BY THE NUMBER • 400,000 active Albuquerque library members (out of 662,000 in the area)
• 80% of Albuquerque households have a lbrary user
• 18 local library locations (19 with the
addition of the International District Library)
• The libraries post about 2 million visits annually
• Albuquerque Library programs see about 75,000 participants a year
• 104 staff • 420 volunteers • A recent Denver Libraries study shows that for every dollar spent on libraries a community sees four dollars back in the form of higher literacy rates, higher educational achievement, and better employment levels.
• Albuquerque Libraries circulate about 4 million items a year
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A LOOK AT THE LIFE & WORK OF ALBUQUERQUEANS WHO DESERVE A TOAST
Into The Expanse Born and raised in Albuquerque, writer Daniel Abraham’s long literary career has expanded into the world of television and streaming.
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riting fiction is a funny business. Unlike a lot of professions, there’s no straightforward path of ascension. Given that, the career of Daniel Abraham can hardly be considered unusual. He likes writing. He’s good at it. Those are the core ingredients. Season with the right mix of fortune and fortitude, you’ve got the makings of a potential—if far from guaranteed—literary success story.
PHOTO BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM
“One of the things that [Fred] Saberhagen told me very early on was that writing is a terrible way to make a living and a really great way to get rich,” says Abraham, Albuquerque native and author of works like The Long Price Quartet and The Dagger and the Coin series, the Black Sun’s Daughter series as M. L. N. Hanover, and the Expanse series, writing with Ty Franck as James S. A. Corey. “It’s totally unreliable as a paycheck, but the odds are better than a lottery ticket.” Clinically speaking, psychology’s failure to incorporate an overriding interest in writing into the DSM-5 as a diagnostic criterion for underlying mental illness is astounding. The whole industry can be capricious and myopic in ways few others are, and it is not, in the main, a particularly stable way to earn an income. It’s not, in other words, the sort of career anyone ought to pin their financial wellbeing on. Rather, it’s something people do out of passion; a labor undertaken because do-
ing otherwise feels unthinkable. “Like many science fiction writers, like many professional writers, I assumed that I would need a day job, and I had a day job and they were great,” says Abraham, who after earning a bachelor’s of science in biology at UNM originally went to work for Southwest Cyberport as an internet service provider technician. This paid the bills while Abraham pursued his craft off the clock. Asked, Abraham can’t pinpoint exactly
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when his interest in writing first sparked. “I don’t know,” he says. “I was doing it in fifth grade and then on and off throughout my career.” In high school, he benefited from a mentorship program that put students in touch with professionals. As an aspiring writer, Abraham turned mentee to science fiction writer Fred Saberhagen, author of dozens of novels spanning a nearly 50-year career. “Go up Comanche until it turns into a mountain, that’s basically where he was living,” recalls Abraham. “So, I was going up to his place on Saturdays for a year when I was a senior in high school.” Sped on by a choice (if tactless) quote from Kurt Vonnegut on the dubious merits of literary academia, Abraham decided not to study writing and literature in college. After a tour of mathematics, Abraham—following a period of circumspect reflection—fixed his sights on biology. “I picked biology because the cute girl was taking biology, and I wanted to sit next to her,” he says. “Then it turned out I was good at it. It was one of those things
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where I was in the class and I didn’t really read the textbook because I wasn’t really a good student, but I got A’s on the tests because I was just listening to the lecture
Daniel Abraham is one half of the writing duo that is James S. A. Corey, author of the hit sci-fi book series, The Expanse.
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and figuring it out. It was just a subject matter that worked well with my head.” Notably, studying any science isn’t entirely off course for someone with an in-
terest in science fiction. The best work in the genre tends to be grounded in enough real science to stimulate thought without shattering credulity. It’s a pattern that shows in Abraham’s work with co-author Ty Franck on the Expanse series, where the action takes place in a universe bound more or less by the same rules as the one we actually inhabit. “It necessarily informs what we do,” says Abraham. “Just because I understand ecology in a certain way, and I understand biology in a certain way, and I understand the mechanisms of science in a certain way. The stuff that I build is informed by that.” Abraham put serious thought into diving back into university life before the gears fully caught hold in his writing career. “Eventually I did burn out and the plan at that point—by then I was married, had a kid—was to go back to school and get into the physician’s assistant program at the med school, kind of upgrade my day job. But right then, that’s when the writing started taking off.” Inspired in part by a conversation with
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Abraham and Mythbuster Adam Savage on the set of Amazon’s hit series, The Expanse.
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COURTESY PHOTO
a luminary from the comic book industry, Abraham decided to abandon the PA program to really dig in and see if he could find a livable niche in professional writing. “‘There’s always work,’” he recalls being told—provided, of course, the ambit of your labors is sufficiently broad. “That was kind of the permission to not go back to school, to not have a day job. To say, ‘Okay, I don’t know what I’m going to write. I’m going to try writing fiction. We’ll see how that works. If that doesn’t work, I can try writing something else. I can try writing other genres that I didn’t think I wanted to do, I can try ghost writing—that’s a legitimate paycheck.’ But I decided at that point to just go ahead and find work doing this.” “Really helps having a spouse who has health insurance,” he adds. “Would be really hard to do that without that.” Now author of more than 30 novels, graphic novels, and novellas, Abraham is at work with Ty Franck on the ninth and final entry in the long running Expanse series, fashioning new stories, and putting serious thought into what projects lie beyond that horizon. “The one I’m working on now, I have no idea how it’s going to play,” says Abraham, describing a story that explores the complexity and interdependence of community, albeit in a fantastical setting. “If I do it right, if it works, you’ll wind up with this sense of the depth and the richness and the separateness of being in a community together.” Meanwhile, an adaptation of the Expanse—on which Abraham serves as a producer and writer—is currently in production on a sixth season, with a fifth likely to stream this year on Amazon. It is, in short, a heavy schedule. “If the writing room is going on, that’s five or six hours a day, five days a week when I’m sitting in with the writers of the show, talking about what exactly the story is going to be, what the outline for the story is gonna be...how to make this plotline not feel like we’re just echoing that one,” says Abraham. “When I’m working on a novel, I sit and futz around on Twitter for five hours and then I write for a couple hours. I mean, I know there are people who have a really ritualized way to do this. I don’t. I kind of catch whatever time I can, and it winds up being, ideally, a few hours a day, a few hundred words a day. And it adds up.”—ZB
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BEHIND SCENES THE
YOUR SNEAK PEEK AT JOBS THAT FLY BELOW THE RADAR
A Pro’s View Broadcaster Sebastian Noel has been part of some big pandemic-era ABQ stories, from a state hoops tourney with no fans, to interviews of high-profile local athletes.
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t began like any other state basketball tournament week: marathon workdays, crowded venues and all the pageantry that comes with the Land of Enchantment’s premiere high school sporting event. By mid-March of 2020, however, the COVID-19 pandemic forced fans out of arenas and had them gathering in front of cell phones, computer monitors and televisions so that they could see New Mexico’s finest prep basketball players vie for championship glory on the hardwood. At that moment, ProView Networks broadcaster Sebastian Noel’s call of the games suddenly took on a much greater significance. Noel estimates that last spring’s Class 4A boys championship final between Valley and Highland would have sold out Dreamstyle Arena, aka the Pit, under any other circumstance. Instead, bars and restaurants were packed with ardent Vikings and Hornets supporters as the ProView broadcast was streamed on screens at local establishments throughout the Duke City. “As soon as the fans weren’t allowed anymore, now this is huge — an added pressure to the broadcast because now
you have that feeling like everyone is watching,” says Noel, who is entering his fourth year with ProView. “I’m not gonna lie. I did more prep than I ever did before. I talked to coaches before [games] more than I ever did, just because the magnitude of that moment did not escape me. “I realized there would be 15,000 people in [the Pit] watching Valley versus Highland, but how many people are watching it now? I start getting pictures of all these watch parties, and I was right. About a month after the tournament con-
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cluded, our sales manager, Marty Watts, told me that stream had over 260,000 views.” Though the most recent iteration of March Madness provided an unusual backdrop for covering a game, Noel had been preparing for moments exactly like it long before those aforementioned pregame cram sessions ensued. A self-described “news junkie” who grew up in Los Angeles, Noel was audience to the dulcet tones of legendary sportscasters such as Vin Scully, Chick Hearn and Ralph Lawler during his formative years. It didn’t take long before he found himself inserting his own play-byplay commentary into video game action. A foundation was being laid. Noel’s path to becoming a recognizable voice of New Mexico sports gained momentum in high school, when he was
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prompted by friend and future Major League Baseball draftee Mike Lynn to do PA for the Del Norte baseball team. That led to announcing opportunities for many of the Knights’ other sports as well as a stint with the New Mexico Activities Association. He even got the chance to do play-by-play under the guidance of New Mexico Sports Hall of Famer Henry Tafoya.
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That career track stalled somewhat after Noel attended the University of New Mexico, where he earned a degree in communications. Though his primary source of income today comes from working as a district supervisor with McDonald’s, he did briefly consider a full-time gig in sports broadcasting years ago. “When I was in college, I took a couple of interviews. One of them was for a
minor league baseball team in South Carolina,” Noel recalls. “I think you start to realize, ‘There’s only 30 of these jobs. It’s really hard to break into.’ I do this interview, and it was for the play-by-play position in Single-A, which you also have to be the team’s sales manager — and it was non-commission. I was like, ‘I don’t think I could survive off this.’ That couldn’t be my only job.”
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Sebastian Noel editing a story for ProView Sports, along with producer/ director Jason Pohl (right).
It took a while before Noel returned to the industry, but when he was invited to do PA to help breathe some life into what were then sparsely-attended West Mesa basketball home games, he found that his passion had never waned. That led to an opportunity with ProView Networks, where Noel quickly learned upon meeting owner Steve Davis that primadonna personalities need not apply.
“The thing that stuck out about that conversation was, ‘Hey, you better be able to do YAFL.’ … All these years later, it turns out he was right because when I’m out in public, I get more of the ‘Hey, you did my son’s YAFL Super Bowl’ than anything else,” Noel says. “That made me realize every game counts. You’re not gonna be doing La Cueva-Eldorado every Friday night … I
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still do YAFL to this day.” In addition to a bevy of football, basketball and baseball games, Noel has covered events like cheerleading, wrestling and even American Ninja Warrior. He admits there are days as a prep sports broadcaster when the sailing isn’t so smooth, no matter how well-meaning his intentions might be. Take his first football game at Milne Stadium, for example.
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BEHIND SCENES “The booth is so tiny. The window has this glare on it. I’m used to doing games of teams that I know, so that helps you,” Noel says. “Well now I’m doing a Santa Rosa game, and they run the single wing. I’m driving home that day and I’m thinking to myself, ‘Man I probably saw who had the ball maybe 50 percent of the time.’ That had to have been a terrible broadcast.” ProView Networks has progressed significantly since its early days, when it had to send out email reminders regarding its broadcast schedule, and the audience primarily consisted of parents of the athletes participating. Today, the streaming of high school sports is a big deal — even without an ongoing pandemic to remove fans from stands. ProView broadcasts multiple games per week, including a weekly marquee offering on My50 TV, a partnership that began in late 2016. The streams themselves are HD quality, and the production teams are as professional as they come. “Before, we would show up (to cover a game) and people would ask us, ‘Why are you guys here?’ Now, if we don’t go to a game, we hear about it,” Noel says. Though the overall presentation is much improved, the final product still requires a tremendous amount of work. Noel is adamant that, in many ways, covering prep sports is a far more challenging task than a big-ticket professional game. Where an NFL broadcast team might have multiple assistants — known as “spotters” — in the booth helping to identify ball carriers, tacklers, yardage, etc., those calling a high school game are often left on their own in that regard. Not
Sebastian Noel with some of his highprofile interviews, including (from top) former Santa Fe High School basketball star JB White, who was tragically killed in August; mixed martial arts star Jon Jones, who trains in ABQ and was the subject of Noel’s livestream on Facebook of Jones and friends as they kept the peace during protest marches this summer; and ABQ Mayor Tim Keller, who infamously played quarterback (and threw a touchdown pass) for the Duke City Gladiators in a game in 2018.
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BEHIND SCENES to mention, Noel’s more famous counterparts have the luxury of watching all the action on a monitor, uninhibited by a glare or an awkward press box arrangement. While Noel might be the most prominent figure during a broadcast, he credits ProView’s directors and producers — Josh Brown, Jason Pohl and Alden Loane — for making sure everything runs smoothly on game night. “They do the job that maybe four or five guys would do at ESPN,” Noel says. “Not only are they directing the broadcast, but they have another computer right next to them that controls the instant replay. Any instant replay you see, they’re doing while they’re directing the broadcasts. They’re doing all the audio. They’re doing the scoreboard.” For the time being, ProView is playing the waiting game with prep sports, which have been put on hold due to ongoing concerns regarding the pandemic. Noel has had some interesting experiences in the meantime, documenting on video
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BEHIND SCENES show, “Local Focus” a couple years back. Noel identified the Santa Fe High School star’s talent early on, when he covered him as a freshman in Albuquerque, and a year later, White opened up in an outpouring of emotion on Noel’s show, as he was moved to tears when discussing a difficult childhood. “You could say that JB kind of put my show on the map a little bit because he just opened up totally,” Noel says. White was an ESPN Top-100 recruit and the first Blue Demon in more than 50 years to earn a basketball scholarship to UNM. On the hardwood he oozed potential, even if his penchant for showmanship wasn’t always appreciated. “You started seeing the jealousy and the envy,” Noel says. “I found myself constantly having to defend him. This guy is the real deal. He had this flair on the court, really a flair for life. He was a happy dude. He was getting these technicals sometimes, so I found myself defending him a lot. I think that brought us a little closer. It was an interesting year last year. To see some of the negativity start, it was
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kind of discouraging.” An already trying year due to COVID-19 took a tragic turn when White was shot and killed at a party in August. White’s death sent an entire basketball community into mourning, and for Noel, it’s been the most difficult thing he’s had to endure during his sports journalism career. “When you cover high school sports, that’s not even on your radar,” he says. “You think, ‘Oh man a couple of these kids are gonna make it in college.’ You never think you’re gonna go to a kid’s funeral that you covered.” Like everyone these days, Noel is attempting to move forward as best he can. Uncertainty abounds regarding the prep sports schedule in New Mexico, as everyone is at the mercy of an ever-fluid situation. “As an announcer, the only thing I’ve had to do is cross my fingers that there’s gonna be a season and that’s really it,” he says. —TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD
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Ultimate Fighting Championship star — and Albuquerque resident — Jon Jones’ role in making sure the George Floyd protests in the Duke City proceeded as peacefully as possible. As the play-by-play voice of the Duke City Gladiators, Noel had only a passing familiarity with Jones from a couple brief halftime interviews, but he came away impressed with an athlete who has often wound up in headlines for the wrong reasons. “He was just out there to make sure things weren’t going awry. It’s not like they had their own guys filming, so he wasn’t seeking that kind of limelight,” Noel says. “He really was just off to the side on the periphery to make sure things stayed calm. A lot of people would be out there doing that, but they’d be documenting it. “I think he was out there to protect the image of his city,” Noel added. “I really do believe that.” Noel’s ability to connect with New Mexico athletes also paid dividends when he introduced the state to basketball standout JB White on his weekly talk
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CREATIVES P. 132 | SHELFLIFE P. 134 | TIEMPO P. 136
CULTURE
COLOR AND CULTURE Local artist El Moises was born in Mexico and has lived throughout the Southwest, giving him a lifetime of perspective and unique experience that he infuses into his colorful and diversified paintings of Chicano life (pg. 132).
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A PULSE CHECK ON ALBUQUERQUE’S ART, MUSIC AND THEATER SCENE
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DIP INTO THE PERFECTLY MIXED PALETTE OF ABQ’S ART AND ARTISTS
PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE El Moises is the voice of the contemporary Raza art movement
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hat do lowriders, Frida Kahlo, and Toltec art have in common? They’ve all inspired creations from the Duke City’s adopted son Moises Salcedo, who goes by El Moises. His wandering ways have inspired his nickname as an artist. He was born in Mexico, grew up in Phoenix and Yuma, and lived in both San Diego and Taos before moving to Albuquerque. Along his travels, the free spirit has picked up elements of culture that mix and mingle in his neon-hued folk art, which often comes with a glitter coat on top. “It all comes from my upbringing, from
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my culture on both sides of the border,” he says. “It’s la Raza—a culture that’s not specifically Hispanic, Latino, or Mexican, and is as much about background as my surroundings.” The 46-year-old artist sees himself as part of an artistic lineage that began far before him and will extend well after him. This perspective of “pasado, presente, y futuro,” (past, present, and future) makes for one-of-a-kind combinations, such as Frida Kahlo painted as a punk rock chick in a leather jacket with an “I love tacos” button, and lowrider spaceships. “I’m carrying a torch right now that a lot of others have carried. I’m keeping my brushes lit,” he says. “If I can have influence on other artists, I need to keep doing what I’m doing.”
According to his family’s stories, his artistry began when he was 2 years old, when he began drawing. Although he says no one in his family was a painter or sculptor as he is, his father painted lowriders. The subject matter and painting style, which includes techniques like pinstriping and layers of glitter, still influence his work today. By kindergarten, a compliment from his teacher had him envisioning a career as a professional artist. He transformed a paper grocery bag into a vest with Western motifs, such as saguaro cactus and arrows, and fringe. “She was blown away and said, ‘You’re an artist.’ I didn’t even know what an artist was.” By sixth grade, he was hustling to sell work to other middle schoolers so he could buy more art supplies.
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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
El Moises uses colorful paints and intricate detail to create tributes to Chicano heroes.
Since then, he’s exhibited at top museums, including the Peterson Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, and the North Carolina Art Museum, to name two. However, El Moises considers collaborations with other artists his career highlights. He’s created album covers for Duke City Zyde-Tejano Blues band Felix y Los Gatos. He also illustrated the late Rudolfo Anaya’s children’s book Owl in a Straw Hat/ El Tecolote del Sombrero de Paja. The dean of Chicano literature also left stillto-be-published books for El Moises to illustrate after Anaya passed. Bringing these stories to life was a natural fit for the father of five and grandfather of two. At heart, he’s a narrative artist. “I’m just telling stories about my friends and things I love,” he says.
Although many artists have buckled under the pressures of COVID-19, El Moises has relished the extra time making art with his three children still living at home (ages 9, 15, and 16) and still finds his art in high demand. El Moises sells most of his art online through his Instagram and Facebook profiles. He also takes custom commissions, such as when he recently transformed an assembly-line standard Harley Davidson into a Dia de los Muertos/New Mexico– themed custom creation. The bike features a sacred heart design, prickly pear cactus, and depictions of the monsoon season. “New Mexico and Albuquerque have embraced me since day one. I’ve just melted into the culture here,” he says of moving to the state a decade ago. “I feel
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worthy of my Zia tattoo now.” Collectors can see his work in person at Keep Contemporary, in Santa Fe, and Coyote Moon, in Taos. Within the next year, El Moises is hoping to take his work on the road in a 38-foot school bus turned mobile art gallery. He appreciates the bus frame’s similarities to an arched wagon and plans to make it a rolling piece of art. He’s painted it turquoise with a coral bumper and added decks to make it feel like home. He envisions cruising into towns—with his signature black hat, dark sunglasses, and handlebar mustache— to sell works to the public. “Every day, I give thanks to be able to do what I do, that I can make a living out of it,” he says. —ASHLEY M. BIGGERS
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SHELFLIFE A MOTHER’S JOURNEY F
TURN A PAGE WITH OUR LOCAL AUTHORS
ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE: What inspired you to write this book? MARILEA C. RABASA: Recovering from
substance use disorder in both me and my daughter.
I had been dealing with my daughter, Annie’s, substance use for nearly a decade. I was worn out. I continued going to several 12-step recovery groups in Albuquerque as I struggled to do what many parents do: let their grown children go to find their own way in life. I had done the best I could with what I had, but Annie got lost in the hellish world of drug addiction. In Albuquerque I joined a writing seminar on grief that a friend was starting. Out of that seminar my first memoir was born,
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STEPPING STONES: A MEMOIR OF ADDICTION, LOSS, AND TRANSFORMATION By Marilea C. Rabasa She Writes Press 310 pages $16.95
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or Marilea C. Rabasa, writing is all about discovering oneself, working through emotional roadblocks, and learning to be mindful. Formerly of Rio Rancho, Rabasa found her writing voice as she worked through the process of addiction recovery. Her new book, Stepping Stones: A Memoir of Addiction, Loss, and Transformation, follows on the heels of her vulnerable and beautiful debut book, A Mother’s Story: Angie Doesn’t Live Here Anymore. It documents Rabasa’s own struggles with addiction and alcoholism (whereas her first book was more about a mother trying to help her daughter escape the overpowering world of addiction.) Unfortunately, Rabasa’s daughter is still stuck in her addiction, but Rabasa has emerged from her own issues with the help of her husband and children. After years of attending 12-step programs, Rabasa is finding peace in her sobriety and hoping to share what she has learned from others dealing with addiction. However, her treatment and recovery journey began with a support group for relatives of addicts, so she also wants to reach out and help the loved ones of addicts. A former English as a second language teacher, Rabasa is pleased to see that her book is helping people. Stepping Stones has also made a splash in the recovery community, earning a spot as a Finalist in the 2020 International Book Awards.
A Mother’s Story: Angie Doesn’t Live Here Anymore. ATM: What brought you to New Mexico? MCR: Ten years ago, my partner, Gene,
and I moved to Rio Rancho, New Mexico. We had just retired from our teaching careers in Virginia, and we wanted to start over in the Southwest, a part of the country we had grown to love.
ATM: A memoir of this nature requires a lot of vulnerability on your part. Did you find that difficult? MCR: Yes, very difficult. But illuminating.
I learn about myself when I write. I cannot say enough about the value of writing down our life stories. It’s a painful process, but ultimately cathartic and healing. I stress the word “process” because there’s really no end to it. Life keeps happening, and the truths we revealed at one time often grow larger and deepen. We keep changing, and those changes, sometimes, enable us to see ourselves more clearly.
ATM: What was your journey through recovery like? MCR: Throughout my battle to help An-
of alcohol. It continued at a slow and stealthy pace with few consequences. Even as I drank more watching Annie slip away, I never recognized this as alcoholism. There was still more to learn. It’s been a slowly turning wheel, my journey to wellness. It’s not easy to reveal shameful parts of myself. Yet it’s a necessary step in my recovery. I’ve finally been able to face this increasingly conspicuous and unhealthy behavior. Most importantly, I continue the sometimes bewildering process of recovering from losing Annie to substance use disorder. But recovery has been, and continues to be, an ongoing battle for me. ATM: What is your ultimate goal in writing this book? MCR: To connect with others going
through the same difficulties with substance abuse. To show readers the many faces of substance use disorder and to illustrate how addiction is formed, how it can flourish unaddressed, and how healthy emotions can, and usually do, kill it. —TH
nie, I was enjoying the numbing effect WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
SHELFLIFE
A MOUNTAIN RESCUE she met famed mountain guide Dave Hahn and convinced him to come visit her class to talk about his adventures as the world’s most experienced non-Nepali Everest climber. Her students were riveted and tracked Hahn’s yearly progress on Everest using their classroom computer. Hull began designing her curriculum around Hahn’s visits, but she soon ran into a problem. Despite there being hundreds of books about Everest, there just wasn’t one that really fit the middle school age group. Then larger issues hit. In 2015, an earthquake struck Everest. Dozens perished in the disaster and the aftermath. After finding out Dave Hahn was safe, Hull decided it was a chance to help raise awareness of the disaster, to share Hahn’s story, and to write the book she always wanted for her classroom (her first book).
ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE: Is this a book for middle schoolers, or is it something all armchair mountaineers can enjoy? JENNIFER HULL: That’s exactly what
UNM Press and I worked on. They positioned it as general nonfiction for all the armchair enthusiasts. I was writing the book originally for young adults and [UNM Press] said, “No. No, we think there’s a broader audience here.”
ATM: How did you meet Dave Hahn? JH: Well, I lived in Taos for 25 years and
Dave [Hahn] and I are longtime friends. I used to teach at Taos Middle School— 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. Back in the olden days, when Dave was doing the Mallory and Irvine Research Expedition and really just sort of creating his Everest career, he used to come into my classroom when he was in town. He would do these wonderful slideshows for my students and they could track him on Everest on the computer. And he had a really nice rapport with my students and that was sort of the seeds of this book. ATM: How long did it take to write Shook? JH: I’ve been thinking about that recently.
SHOOK: AN EARTHQUAKE, A LEGENDARY MOUNTAIN GUIDE, AND EVEREST’S DEADLIEST DAY By Jennifer Hull University of New Mexico Press 182 pages $19.95
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efore Los Ranchos resident Jennifer B Hull was a writer, she was a middle school teacher in Taos. It was there that
I’ve been trying to figure that out. It’s really been off and on for a very long time, but I guess I would say about four years. ATM: Have you done any mountain climbing yourself? JH: I was a ski instructor in Taos in 1992
when I first moved to New Mexico. Not that I was a great skier. I taught kids. It was really just five-year olds learning how to make a wedge. But no, I’m not a mountain climber. I love the outdoors and I love hiking but I’m by no means a climber. ATM: What drew you to this story? JH: The relationship with Dave was defi-
nitely the seed. But when I was teaching, I felt like I really wanted a narrative nonfiction vehicle, a book, that I could give to my students, because I ended up designing curriculum around his climbing. Into Thin Air is a brilliant book but it wasn’t the right fit. As I watched his career unfold, I’d run into him after a trip coming back from Everest and I really loved to hear about his adventures. Dave’s career became very profound over the years. He’s really the world’s most coveted mountain guide at this stage and he summited Everest more
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than any other non-Nepali. When the 2015 season happened, I got this message from Facebook that my friend Dave had marked himself “safe” and it was just such a miracle how much he had survived in his career. I thought it would be really interesting to celebrate Dave’s career but also write the book that I always wanted for my students. ATM: Was there anything that really surprised you while researching and writing this book? JH: There’s so many things. I mean most
of the heroes in this story are women. So, it was really interesting for me to learn about this through a feminine lens. Not that the book only focuses on women, but I was surprised by how many women were heroes in the story. There was a young woman who saved 23 people at base camp even though she herself was injured after this earthquake. The founder of the Everest ER is a woman. And then the Sherpas really see [Everest] as being inhabited by a female spirit. I think it surprised me just how female-driven certain parts of the story became. —TH
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by mel minter
ABQ’S THRIVING LOCAL MUSIC SCENE
TWO FORMIDABLE TUNESMITHS WALKING TO THE GRAMMYS (FINGERS CROSSED)
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Hip Hop artist Patrick Tripp records his hit song, Walk With Me.
“ideologies and nuances” that he wants to present. It was a long process, with every track going through three or four edits to get it where Tripp wanted it. “Walk with Me,” the album’s standout track, cowritten with D. Brown and produced by Scott Sena with Dynasty Records, communicates sentiments similar to John Lennon’s “Imagine,” but on a more granular level and with an uplifting, irresistible beat. It covers everything from world hunger to health care to racial justice to three-dollar trips to the moon. “Yeah, I just think the industry right now is oversaturated with too much negativity,” says Tripp. Rather than denigrate women and glorify violence, he wants to bring a unifying and compassionate message, which he feels is especially needed right now. “We want to get that song to the masses. We feel it’s a really important song.”
He’s not alone. The track has brought him a distribution deal and a digital radio campaign and has found its way onto scores of streaming services. In the wake of those arrangements, he landed a publishing deal that will help get his music in front of people who select music for movies, TV shows, and commercials. “Walk with Me” was building a head of steam before the pandemic slowed everything down, but Tripp is confident that the track will light up his future. Meanwhile, Tripp and his colleague DB GoodGreen have founded GoodGreen Production here in Albuquerque. “We just want to put out good music, and just kind of be the alternative to what’s going on in the industry now,” says Tripp. They hope to demonstrate to future artists that they need not conform to the negative messaging. “We want to be an example.” You can check out Tripp’s example on
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PHOTO BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM
Threaded through the song “Do You Know,” on hip hop artist Patrick Tripp’s album Keep Calm PT Is Here, a lovely female voice sings, “Do you know who you are? Do you know where you’re going to?” Tripp knows the answer to both questions. He’s a singer/songwriter, with ideas and opinions to communicate, who wants to take hip hop in a positive direction, and he’s going to the GRAMMYs, riding his hit “Walk with Me.” The Evanston, Illinois, native says he always had a talent for writing, but he didn’t begin to put that talent to work musically until he was about 17. “A friend of a friend had this equipment and a sampling machine, and I just used to start going down to his basement and started rapping,” says Tripp. “Just kinda got hooked. Started out as a little bit of a hobby, and then one day, I thought, ‘Wow, I could probably turn this into a real session.’ ” It would be a while before he managed that. Tripp applied himself to basketball— he was MVP in the Fellowship of African-American Men league as a sophomore—but dropped out of high school. “I left school because at the time, I guess I was a little bit distracted. Just wanted to be grown before I was,” he says. But he went back and got his GED at age 20 and went on to computer training. Several years later, he took a job working at a Chicago club owned by blues icon Buddy Guy. Hearing good music night after night relit his musical ambitions. In 2016, he began work on the album, which was recorded in Evanston. Tripp collaborated with four different producers on the album’s 12 tracks, creating a nice variety of soundscapes and beats. One thing that’s consistent throughout, though, is the quality, intelligence, and uplift of Tripp’s flow. “I really put everything I had into it,” says Tripp, who adds that the 12 tracks accurately represent who he is and the
AN IRREPRESSIBLE SONGWRITER The pandemic canceled all of singer/ songwriter Oscar Butler’s local gigs, as well as his 2020 breakout plans to carry his songs to Atlanta, Chicago, and Nashville. No problem. Ever resourceful, he turned his 425-square-foot apartment into a professional video production studio, complete with green screen (he even made some of the lighting equipment). Then, he invited people to send in photos of a place where they’d like to see him in concert, and he made the Oscar Butler World Tour happen virtually. The New York native started his musical career around age nine, when, ever resourceful, he convinced his parents of his genuine desire for a guitar. “I made this cardboard cutout of the neck, and I would sit around and practice. I’d learn notes on the neck,” says Butler. He got a guitar
on his birthday and started taking lessons, switching early on from electric to acoustic and finding inspiration in Richie Havens’ Woodstock appearance and the fingerpicking of James Taylor. Butler went to college to study music but felt he did not have the necessary talent and switched to computer science. (His computer programming and graphic design skills have proven valuable assets.) Six years later, though, now married and living in Boston, he noticed buskers in the subway and thought he should give it a try. “I grabbed my guitar and went and sat down on the Red Line subway platforms, and I made a good handful of money,” he says. Within a week, he had enough to buy a little amp and mic, and he proceeded to make a living busking. It was on those Boston streets and subway platforms that Butler discovered that he could improve his income—and his own satisfaction—if he focused on enjoying what he was doing, rather than worrying about whether he’d make enough cash that day. That discovery, along with a careful study of charismatic performers,
Oscar Butler got creative during the pandemic, turning his apartment into a video studio.
helped Butler perfect his “smooth like gravy,” as he describes it, stage persona. “Every time I do a song—and at that time I was doing mostly James Taylor songs, I wasn’t even writing my own stuff—even though it might be the 10,000th time that I do a song, I always want to do it like it was the first time and the best time,” he says. “I love performing. I love people.” In 1990, with the birth of the first of his three daughters, Butler and the family moved to Albuquerque, where his in-laws were living, and Butler’s songwriting took off. His songs celebrate the small peculiarities and joys of everyday life, and he has a slew of them. “I don’t believe in writer’s block,” he says. His “Song a Week” You Tube presentations furnish ample evidence of that. “I write so many songs so fast that I don’t learn them,” says Butler. He recently paused his Song a Week presentations to give himself time to go back and learn the songs he had written over the previous 20 weeks. Three or four years ago, when Butler decided to become a full-time musician, a friend sat down with him and said, “There’s songwriters out there. What makes you different from the others?” “What I try to make my brand, number one, is very feel good music,” says Butler. “I want people to walk away feeling good.” It’s not just the lyrics and the music, he says, but also the presentation, and he works hard in front of his bathroom mirror to make the sure the visual matches the aural. You can see for yourself at oscarbutlermusic.com, and on Facebook and Instagram (oscarbutlermusic). Also, search for “Oscar Butler Music” on YouTube for a trove of videos, including everything from concerts to songwriting tips. He’s also a certified personal trainer, so check out “Getting Fit with Oscar” on YouTube.
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.
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Twitter and Instagram (ptripp78) and on Facebook (patrick.tripp.71), or email him at patrick_tripp@yahoo.com.
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EATS P. 140 | EATS, ETC. P. 144 | FROM THE VINE P. 146 | MY FAVORITE RECIPE P. 154 | BITES P. 156
DISH
WECK UP EARLY Over the course of three decades, ABQ-based Weck’s has served up no-nonsense breakfasts that combine our dual love of Southwest-style chile plates, and traditional European morning favorites, like the strawberry Belgian waffle (p. 140).
OCTOBER 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
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WECK'S Yes, the menu is huge, but so is the taste at this beloved local chain.
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eck’s has been a feature of the Albuquerque food scene for almost 30 years, first opening in Louisiana Plaza back in 1991. Since then, it has grown to 11 restaurants stretching from Los Lunas to Rio Rancho, with a 12th opening up in Las Cruces in 2019. Add a pair of licensed restaurants— one in Farmington, the other in Santa Fe—and you’ve got a living testament to Weck’s “full belly tradition.” “I’ve worked in restaurants most of my career,” says owner Art Kaplan, who purchased Weck’s with his wife Toya in 2004. “Before Weck’s I managed restaurants in Texas for years. After that, my wife and I bought a BBQ restaurant in Mobile,
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Alabama. We ran that for a while before purchasing Assets Grill in Albuquerque on Montgomery and Louisiana. I transitioned to full time business consulting after that, working largely with restaurant owners in New Mexico. I did that up until we bought Weck’s.” By the time the Kaplan’s purchased Weck’s, founder Doug Weckerly had already grown the business into three locations. “The food was already great and well-loved in the city,” explains Kaplan. “We knew if it already had a great reputation it would be easier to build on, and it did. We took it on as our responsibility to continue on with what it was known for and make that even greater.”
Weck’s, in short, was already a welltuned, finely running machine, widely loved by Duke City residents with a healthy appreciation for American diner classics, from pancakes to burgers, all with a signature New Mexico twist. Among their most winning recipes, the papas have long served as a draw for hungry breakfasters. Served by plate or bowl, these are hearty mounds of hash browns served under cheese and eggs with your choice of chile. Variants include the Original, stacked with bacon, ham, and sausage, and Veggie, served with sauteed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, and diced tomatoes. “Papas are definitely what Weck’s is
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DISH ALWAYS NEARBY With 12 official locations and two licensed restaurants, you’re rarely far from a Weck’s. That makes deciding on breakfast pretty easy.
PARTY IN THE A.M. Ever thought of having a catered breakfast? Weck’s offers dishes like the “Wecksellent” Dozen (handheld burritos filled with eggs, hash browns, and other start-yourmorning favorites) or a Breakfast Sandwich Tray (large croissants filled with eggs, choice of meat, and cheddar cheese).
YES, MERCH Take the Weck’s experience home with housemade salsa, red and green chile, shirts, gourmet coffee, and mugs.
known for,” says Kaplan. “The Original is very popular, but honestly the papas plate and bowl—no matter what kind it is—is absolutely a fan favorite. Sloppy Pappas is my absolute favorite. It’s the best of everything. Our scratch-made gravy, diced bacon and sausage, over easy egg on a mountain of hashbrowns and topped with red and green. Amazing.” Being chiefly a breakfast joint (Weck’s are usually open 7:00 am to 2:00 pm), they’ve put some effort into developing some incredible takes on pancakes and waffles. The strawberry cheesecake pancakes come topped with cream cheese icing under a bed of fresh strawberries with
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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
ALL ABOUT THE COMMUNITY The chain is big on charity. In 2019, they ran a campaign called “Weck’s Gives Back,” making a charitable donation to different organizations each month.
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Weck’s 12 Locations wecksinc.com
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a whipped cream finish. True to its name, the Belgian fruit waffle is served under a pile of strawberries, bananas, and blueberries, all complimented with a creamy side of Sabayon sauce. “They are always perfectly golden brown, huge, and have delicious topping options like fresh fruit, chocolate chips, peanut butter, whipped cream, warm syrup, [and so forth],” says Kaplan, describing both the pancakes and waffles. Though Weck’s has grown substantially over the years, adding a further nine locations since the Kaplans took over, they have managed to maintain a familiar, comfortable, and personal touch with customers. At one location, where a regular customer—an elderly woman the staff all know by name—started experiencing memory problems, someone taped a small note to the server line. It was a sim-
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ple reminder about the customer’s preferences, helping staff guide her to a meal she would like even if she herself felt a little lost. This, according to Kaplan, is the essence of Weck’s. “You can get bacon and eggs in many places,” he says. “This is why our bacon and eggs are extraordinary.” A fair assessment. Plenty of places have great food. Lots of others have excellent staff. Some have both, and those are the places you want to go back to again and again. “Weck’s is definitely known for the great food, but we believe we have grown and continue to grow because our teams are phenomenal,” says Kaplan. “Our success is in our standard being consistently upheld and maintained: Excellent food and exceptional service. You can’t beat a delicious meal and friendly staff.”—ZB
FEATURED DISHES PAPAS - BOWL 7.99/PLATE 11.99
Basically, a mountain of fresh hash browns, served with cheese and eggs in a half dozen varieties.
HUEVOS RANCHEROS - 10.29
Two eggs cooked to your taste over a pair of corn tortillas with fresh hash browns, beans, your choice of chile, and topped off with cheddar and jack cheeses. Add carne adovada or carnitas for 3.99.
BUILD YOUR OWN BURGER - STARTING AT 8.99 One of the best ways to get a burger you’ll love is to specify the fixings yourself. Add bacon, guacamole, red or green chile, egg, sauteed mushrooms, cheese, and/or fresh green chile.
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Eats, Etc.
Japanese classics like the teishoku, which includes the moist and flaky tenderness of grilled mackerel, are signatures at Nagomi.
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ut on the corner of Juan Tabo and Menaul—not far from the western slopes of the Sandias— sits a little taste of Japan. There, in a humble, unassuming, almost blink-and-you’llmiss-it storefront, you’ll find Nagomi Restaurant. The name itself—nagomi—has no direct English translation, evoking instead ideas like calmness, relief, and tenderness. For Nagomi owners Masahito and Kelly Sano, it speaks to the warmth and comfort that comes with a good meal. Launched just over six years ago, Nagomi fulfills some of Chef Masahito’s longest held aspirations. Back in Masahito’s native Tokyo, his family has owned a restaurant specializing in Japanese-style sweets for over a century. Coming to
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America, he dreamed of one day running one of his own, albeit with a distinctly different flavor. The Nagomi menu is virtually overrun with Japanese culinary classics. Donburi—oversized rice bowls—are widely customizable, allowing you to build a dish loaded with things like egg, pork cutlets, or tuna sashimi. Completists will want to turn their eyes to the teishoku—a main dish served with rice, the soup of the day, and a variable side dish called kobachi. Stretch a little past the typical American pallet with the grilled mackerel—soft, flaky, and moist with the perfect grill-top char. “It’s actually one of [our] most popular dishes,” says Kelly. Nagomi is also one of the few places in
Albuquerque where you can go to indulge in shabu-shabu, a Japanese-style hot pot. This is a delightfully hands-on culinary experience where you cook your meat and vegetables (ideally in that order) in a pot of boiling broth. Current conditions reward anyone who can improvise, which is why Nagomi has recently expanded their operations. They operate a small grocery, which specializes in Japanese imports ranging from royal milk tea to fresh fish and draws customers from Santa Fe, Taos, and Gallup. —ZB
NAGOMI RESTAURANT 2400 Juan Tabo Blvd NE 298-3081, nagomirestaurantabq.com
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A glance at three local eateries that you may or may not already know.
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ers, and they also sell pretty similar food, but everybody has different takes on it.” Those variations, however subtle, are key to exploring the menu at a place like Taste of India. These are family recipes modified for American tastes, which typically means dialing back the spice a bit. With such direct Indian roots, it’s no misnomer to think of Taste of India as just what the name advertises: a taste of regional flavors, conveyed by people who grew up with them. As a Punjabi restaurant, Taste of India naturally does borderline magical work with a tandoori oven. Their boti kebab, for instance, presents succulent chunks of
Pesto salmon on a fresh baquette pairs nicely with the house favorites on tap at Toltec Brewing.
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een by the Aztecs as their cultural and intellectual progenitors, the Toltec people were part of an ancient Mesoamerican cultural complex that dominated south central Mexico between about 900 and 1170 AD. In the Aztec language, the name Toltec was perceived as an honorific title, conveying wisdom, tradition, and knowledge. Toltec Brewing aims to honor and extend that lineage, crafting superior food and top-notch brews in the spirit of a culture that once stood at the frontiers of innovation and achievement. For almost
two and a half years, they’ve been doing just that. “My wife and I would frequent [breweries] and we just enjoyed being around the crowd,” explains owner Robert Navarrette. “I mean, the people that gather at breweries are just easy to talk to, and we really enjoyed being at them. We decided to jump in with both feet and it’s been a real learning curve for us. But the passion is there, and I enjoy the people and so we’ll just keep going.” Starting a new brewery from scratch is no simple business, but Navarrette made
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marinated lamb cooked in the traditional clay oven. For starters, Aakash recommends giving some consideration to the aloo tikki chole. “It’s like a potato patty with a chickpea curry on it,” says Aakash. “I personally love it. A lot of Indian people used to come, they also loved it. But a lot of American people started trying it, and everybody has been like, suddenly, ‘Oh, this is the best thing we have.’” —ZB
TASTE OF INDIA 1605 Juan Tabo Blvd NE 294-6342, tasteofindiaabq.com it as easy as possible for himself by bringing in some supremely talented people. Brewmaster Kaylynn Krosche developed a suite of delicious and refreshing brews, while Chef David Ruiz fashioned the original menu. Today, culinary duties fall to Executive Chef Emma Gibson, who brings her own sophisticated flare to the rich world of pub grub. On that front, Toltec is definitely firing on all cylinders. Take their pork belly fries, for instance—seasoned fries served under melted cheese and savory pork belly with chipotle mayo and cilantro. Looking for some lighter fare? Something to tickle the taste buds while saving plenty of room for a cold pint? Try the pesto salmon, served on a baguette or as a wrap with arugula, tomato, balsamic glaze, and garlic mayo. Regardless of food cravings, be sure to pair your order with a brew. The Cactus Warrior is brewed with agave nectar for a smooth, easy to drink, endlessly approachable pint. —ZB
TOLTEC BREWING 10250 Cottonwood Park NW 890-1455, toltecbrewing.com
PHOTO BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM
Marinated lamb slow-cooked in a traditional tandoori style goes perfectly with naan at Taste of India.
PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
ndia is the source of the world’s largest diaspora. Depending on who does the counting, there are anywhere between 17.5 and 32 million Indian people living outside the borders of India proper. This has enormous economic and cultural benefits for both India and the globe, one of the most obvious being the widespread availability of Indian cuisine. Taste of India, located on Juan Tabo just north of Constitution, is a perfect example of just what we’re talking about here. The Bajaj family emigrated from the state of Punjab in Northern India in the middle of 2016 and opened their restaurant in February 2017, just over half a year later. “My grandpa has always been in [the] restaurant business in India,” says Aakash Bajaj, son of Taste of India owner Vaneet Bajaj. “We just always wanted to do something like this.” Thanks to the mechanics and contingencies of global migration, most of Albuquerque’s Indian restaurateurs hail from Punjab, Aakash explains. “It’s Punjabi food, which is pretty similar to other restaurants in Albuquerque too. I think most of them are owned by Punjabi own-
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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN ABQ’S BEER, WINE, AND SPIRITS SCENE
SUDS FOR THE CAUSE
Good deeds and good suds. Those are the essential ingredients behind the One For 5 IPA, a beer produced and sold in collaboration among Steel Bender Brewyard, Second Street Brewery, Sierra Blanca Brewing Co., Albertsons, Admiral Beverage, and 94 Rock. Naturally, the three breweries will craft the beer, Albertsons and Admiral Beverage will distribute it, and radio station 94 Rock will cover promotion. The beer will be sold in six packs and 100 percent of sales will be donated to
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Storehouse New Mexico, a non-profit community pantry that fights hunger and food insecurity. Each year, they help feed more than 50,000 people, a third of them children. Thanks to the efficiency of their bulk purchasing, they are able to provide five meals for every dollar donated, thus the name of the beer—One For 5 IPA. This marks the collaboration’s second year, with brewers from Second Street, Steel Bender, and Sierra Blanca lending insight and expertise to the
recipe. As in 2019, the idea is to craft an accessible, welcoming beer—something that will appeal to lots of folks and please plenty of palates. This year’s recipe relies on Centennial, Cascade, Citra, Styrian Wolf, and Nelson Sauvin hops. The final product is a 6.5 percent ABV (alcohol by volume), 75 IBU (international bitterness units) West Coast style IPA. According to Feeding America, over 300,000 New Mexicans are struggling with hunger, including one in every
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Several ABQ businesses produced One For 5 IPA, which donates 100 percent of proceeds to help feed those in need.
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Each year, The Storehouse food pantry in East Downtown feeds more than 50,000 people with hunger and food insecurities.
four New Mexico children. Food pantries like Storehouse play a vital role in helping meet their nutritional needs. With unemployment and hunger exacerbated by COVID-19, these services are more crucial than ever. Visit storehousenm.org to find out more about how you can help, and look for the One For 5 IPA at Albertsons locations throughout Albuquerque.
WINE NOT USE THE PROPER VESSEL? Even the most devout teetotalers have probably noticed that there is a wide—almost absurd—variety of booze receptacles out there. For wine alone, there are well over a dozen different types of glassware. In a way,
it’s all part of the ethanol-enriched scenery. But here at Albuquerque the Magazine, we got to thinking about the diversity of wine glasses out there and quickly came to the realization that we really had no idea what it was all about. Are they just cultural fossils, frozen in place by the whims of some long-dead dandy and the people who aped him? Or does the shape and size of the glass fundamentally alter the drinking experience? We reached out to the folks at VARA and Gruet, chatting with local vino experts Doug Diefenthaler and Laurent Gruet to learn all about the ins-andouts of glassware. Right off the bat, Diefenthaler was quick to stress that all of them, regardless of size or shape, will get the job done. “There’s emergencies sometimes,” he says. “You’ve
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got to figure out how to get that bottle open, number one, and there’s ‘what do I put it in? Oh, we got some dixie cups?’ I’m fine with just about anything making do if it’s an emergency. I wouldn’t be there the whole time going, ‘man, if only I had the right glasses this would be wonderful.’” Diefenthaler’s point, more or less, is not to sweat it. But that by no means should be understood to imply that the glass doesn’t matter. For one thing, there is real value to the aesthetic and traditional roots of stemware. But more importantly, the right glass for the right wine can meaningfully enhance the drinking experience, reining in unwieldy flavors or summoning forth subtle aromas.
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Bordeaux/Cabernet
OF BOWLS LARGE AND SMALL The natural place to start is with a tour of the glass itself. Almost universally, wine receptacles have four basic parts: the rim, the bowl, the stem, and the base/foot. The base does the generally thankless work of holding the whole apparatus upright when you decide to set your glass down. The stem, meanwhile, is the thin, gracile neck that connects the base to the bowl. The bowl is a bulb of glass that plays the single most indispensable role in the entire operation, keeping all that precious liquid handheld and contained. Finally, the rim is where a lot of critical action takes place—it’s where the wine meets your lips. When it comes to picking the right glass for the right wine, almost everything boils down to the size and shape of the bowl. “You know, the red wine needs much more air, much more contact with the oxygen,” says Laurent Gruet, head winemaker at Gruet Win-
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Burgundy/Pinot Noir
Sauternes/Chardonnay
ery. “So that’s why [those glasses] are going to be bigger.” “We don’t do the different glass for every wine thing [at VARA],” explains Vara owner Doug Diefenthaler. “We do style and type, so to speak. So lighter, easier wines—smaller bowl. Bigger, more complex wines—bigger bowl. Now, you’ll see with some pinot noir or burgundy, often you’ll have more of a balloon, almost round with a bit of a close [toward the lip]. Pinot noir is an aromatic wine but it needs some space to get out there, and then it can focus a little bit more for you.” Broadly summarized, this is the fundamental distinction between wine glasses. Big, showy, layered wines need room to strut their stuff, to really allow their aromas to fully blossom. Lighter wines—the kinds you might serve chilled, like a riesling or sauvignon blanc—do well in a more confined space, something that really focuses their milder aromas and more subtle, delicate characteristics into a fully appreciable point. “The pinot noir is rounder than the
cabernet sauvignon, mellow, because pinot noir has a lot of fruits,” says Gruet. “The glass is very round so the fruit can evolve much better. The cabernet sauvignon, merlot [glass] is large. Not as large as pinot, but taller, because those [wines] are more tannic, actually. It’s a different flavor altogether, so it comes to your mouth at a different angle.” By pouring a robust red wine into a larger glass, you’re giving it more opportunity to interact with the oxygen in the air. This amplifies subtle aromas, making complex wines more intelligible by giving layers of flavor and smell the room to differentiate themselves. At the same time, oxygen breaks down the tannins in wine, softening and rounding the flavors of wines that might otherwise taste slightly caustic on the tongue. More delicate wines—pinot grigio or chardonnay, for instance— hold up better in smaller glasses. Not only do these preserve the aromatic experience of white wines, their smaller size helps keep chilled wines cooler for longer.
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CHAMPAGNE: TO FLUTE OR COUPE? Your typical champagne flute is a lot more straightforward. That long, narrow glass is all about keeping the bubbly bubbling for as long as possible by limiting the surface area through which carbonation can escape. But, as Diefenthaler points out, that is a relatively recent innovation. “This is an original, old school champagne coupe,” he says, gesturing to a wide-mouthed, shallow-bowled piece of stemware. “In the day, they didn’t make [modern flutes]. They don’t go back nearly as far as coupes. Champagne was consumed much more quickly, and this provided a shape to get poured in and really open-up quickly. It didn’t take more than three takes and it was empty and you’d ask for some more. They weren’t set down and just left and then picked back up.” Both designs—the long, elegant flute and the short but capacious coupe—are strictly utilitarian. They just serve different purposes. The former is all about appearances. It keeps your champagne sparkling and active for a lot longer. The latter is about consumption. It presumes that a champagne glass’s chief purpose is to convey that champagne to your lips and down your throat. “It would lose [carbonation] quicker,” Diefenthaler says of the coupe. “It wasn’t a big problem in the day at all because, like I said, they weren’t sitting down and talking and picking it back up. They were drinking it and asking for more.” “To me, I prefer the flute because it lets the bubbles stay longer in the glass,” says Gruet. It’s as much a matter of personal preference as it is context. Those who want to toss back a quick bit of champagne will benefit from the coupe. Others—perhaps more interested in mingling and conversing—will want to steer toward the flute, allowing them to linger over their drink for longer without losing as much carbonation.
THE IDIOSYNCRASIES OF PREFERENCE Interestingly, neither Gruet nor
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Zinfandel/Rosé
Champagne/Sparkling Madeira/Port
Diefenthaler pointed to the traditional variants as personal favorites. Wine experts, it seems, develop their own peculiar ideas about the best way to tackle a few ounces of vino. “There are many, many different forms of glass,” says Gruet. “The best glass in my life, you don’t see the color of [the wine]. It’s very nice because sometimes you trick people to decide, you know, ‘tell me what wine is that’ and between chardonnay and pinot noir sometimes people don’t know the difference. They know the difference when they see the color, but when they don’t see the color it’s much harder.” For Diefenthaler, a smaller glass—of the kind you might fill with Madeira—establishes a nice balance between elements. This makes it, if not strictly the best glass around, then at least the most versatile. “This is one of my favorite glasses period, because this works with some wine and this works with some spirits very well,” he says. “It’s a greatest hits kind of thing, an all star, all around player.”
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THE RIGHT WINE FOR THE RIGHT GLASS Insofar as the details matter—and the farther you probe into the world of hardcore wine appreciation, the more you realize they do—there’s also a degree of subjectivity at work here. For example, one might enjoy drinking wine out of a juice glass just because it conjures a rustic aesthetic, something redolent of Old World pragmatics. There’s nothing strictly wrong with that kind of approach. But if you’re really interested in scrutinizing the nuanced interplay among all those fennols and aromatics, certain glasses will get the job done better than others. “I did a seminar with Riedel Glass about 20 years ago and it really blew my mind away, the big improvements in the quality of the wine,” says Gruet. “If you do the right wine in the right glass, the wine tastes two or three times better than the ordinary glass. It’s incredible.” There are details that matter beyond
the shape and size of the bowl. Weight, for instance, can affect the way you drink. A particularly heavy glass can make the entire experience feel clumsy and unrefined. Likewise, cut crystal tends to facilitate nuanced, engaged appreciation a bit more readily than rolled glass because the thin lip allows you to exercise better control over how the wine enters your mouth. In the end, it all boils down to what you’re after. Some folks drink just as much to catch a buzz as to enjoy the flavor. For that sort of drinking, just about any glass will do. But for those interested in really embracing the full complexity of a wine, subtle differences matter. In that regard, the right glass is a matter of pushing things that much farther, gaining the slightest edge that lets you peer just a little deeper into what’s happening in your nose and mouth. The difference is hardly enormous, but it is, nonetheless, important. Critically, it can bring you that much closer to the wine itself. — ZB
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THE SPICY CLAW
SPIRIT SPOTLIGHT
At the urging of a regular customer, Mariscos Altamar began offering White Claw Hard Seltzer a few months ago. And while the beverage proved popular in its own right, it didn’t take long for the creative bar staff to add their own twist. “We’re always making new drinks,” says bartender Lezly Zamarripa. “We like to serve what people like.” Thus was born The Spicy Claw, a modification of the seltzer that was created by one of Zamarripa’s fellow mixologists at the Westside seafood restaurant and bar. The drink is served two ways: on ice with an upside-down can of White Claw, or with a flavorful rim added to the can itself. In both cases, the traditional Mexican combination of fruity chamoy sauce and zesty Tajin powder create a flavor explosion that plays perfectly with the bubbly smoothness of the seltzer. The drink also comes with freshly cut chunks of pineapple and strawberry, which adds to a final alluring presentation that’s pretty hard to resist. “People order them all the time. Guys, girls, everybody,” says Zamarripa. —Francisco Morales
Bubbly
The Spicy Claw, $5 Mariscos Altamar 1517 Coors Blvd. NW Mariscosaltamarabq.com
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Zesty
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with Swarupa Watlington Executive Director
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easured by GDP, the United States is the richest country in human history, drawing in just over 18 trillion dollars in 2015. Still, millions of Americans remain largely cut off from these spoils. According to the USDA’s most recent accounting, 37 million Americans struggled with hunger in 2018. And as the pandemic continues, estimates indicate as many as 54 million Americans will experience food insecurity this year. While these numbers speak to a larger—and likely more complicated—deficiency in our ability to efficiently and usefully allocate resources as a society, aid organizations like Storehouse New Mexico step in to make sure vulnerable families and individuals have the food they need to get by right now. Making sure all of that runs as smoothly and reliably as possible is a job that falls to Swarupa Watlington, The Storehouse New Mexico’s Executive Director. “I would say that I specifically feel like my job is to give people hope,” says Watlington. “I don’t necessarily believe that the Storehouse is just about food. I feel like people come to the Storehouse, especially now, and we are hope-givers, allowing them to feel better.” Founded in 1976 by Titus and Charlotte Scholl, Storehouse New Mexico helps feed over 50,000 people a year, nearly a third of them children. With one in every four New Mexico children experiencing food insecurity, the Storehouse’s
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services are invaluable. After all, childhood hunger isn’t just a matter of empty bellies—good nutrition in the early years of life is essential to healthy physical, emotional, and intellectual development. Whereas Storehouse New Mexico usually operates as an open food pantry, with folks coming by to fill a shopping cart with essentials, COVID-19 has changed operations. “Now with COVID, what they do is they come to the front door, and we have somebody who takes an ID and they hand it to a customer service rep who enters them into the computer if they haven’t been there before,” Watlington explains. “If they’ve been there before we just renew them in the system. They can come once a month, and then they walk around to a separate door so they’re not even coming into the facility. And then we fill an entire cart for them. It’s about 100 pounds of food, which includes meat, dairy, produce, and then non perishables as well. And then we take it to their car and then help load up the car.” As a non-profit institution, the Storehouse draws support from the USDA and organizations like Roadrunner Food Bank. They also acquire a lot of food via “food rescue” programs, where they collect food that might otherwise have been discarded from outlets like Albertsons, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods. But they
also depend on individual monetary donations, which have become increasingly crucial during COVID. “The best way for people to give right now is to donate online to storehousenm. org,” says Watlington. “One dollar will buy us five meals. There are two things that money does: it keeps us moving operationally by helping us with staff and the enormous amount of PPE costs [and] it also helps us purchase food.” In highlighting the work of the Storehouse New Mexico, Watlington decided to share with us a recipe for Pantry Perfect Green Chile Chicken Soup. “It’s something that the families we support through the Storehouse New Mexico could easily make from foods we provide at the food pantry, or that New Mexico families often have on hand,” she explains. “We also wanted a recipe that could feed a crowd for a low cost per serving. Plus, this soup is filling and nutritious, and it’s very easy to make just a bit more if you have a larger crowd.” –ZB
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PHOTOS BY DON JAMES/ATM
Storehouse New Mexico
DISH Pantry Perfect Green Chile Chicken Soup: Ingredients
Directions
1 cup chopped carrots 1 onion (yellow or whatever you have on hand) 2 cloves fresh garlic 2 tbsp olive oil (or corn oil) 1 whole chicken or 2 cups of chopped cooked chicken 4 cans or 1 carton chicken broth 1 can (16 oz) cream of chicken soup (optional) 2 cans (16 oz) pinto beans or black beans 5 fresh tomatoes diced (or two 16 oz cans of diced tomatoes) 4 potatoes diced into 1-inch cubes 1 cup diced green chile (more or less to taste) 2 tbsp oregano 1 tbsp basil 1 tsp sage Salt and pepper to taste
Boil your whole chicken or boneless chicken pieces until cooked through. Cool to chop into bite sized pieces or shred. In a pinch, use left-over chicken, 1 cup or more will do. To make soup, chop up the carrots, onion and garlic, add to a large soup pot with several tablespoons of cooking oil. (olive or corn oil will do). Cook over medium heat on your stove top, stirring often for about 5 minutes, until the onions are cooked and opaque. Add the remaining ingredients, being sure to taste how hot your chile is before deciding on a final amount. For very mild chiles, a whole cup adds lots of flavor, but if it’s hot chile you’ll want to scale that back. If you have room in your pot and lots of people to feed, add a few cups of water and throw in another potato, cream of chicken soup, and another can of beans. This recipe is easy to extend for larger groups. Bring to a boil while stirring frequently to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan. Then reduce heat to low and simmer for an hour or longer so the vegetables will cook through and the flavors can mesh. Four hours is great, but you can also start this in a pan and when it’s time to simmer, switch to a crock pot and cook on low most of the day so you can come home to a hearty meal. Serve with tortillas or quesadillas. Once cool, feel free to freeze leftovers so you’ll have some on hand when someone in the house has a cold.
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BITES
OUR EATS ALUMNI, CONDENSED INTO PERFECTLY SIZED SNACKS TO TAKE WITH YOU ON THE GO
POLICY: “Bites” is a guide to Albuquerque-area eating establishments compiled by
ALQUDS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & GROCERY
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AL’S BIG DIPPER
$
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.
Albuquerque The Magazine’s editorial staff. These restaurants have been featured previously in the “Eats” department of the magazine. Restaurants may or may not accept reservations or major credit cards, so call before visiting.
CORRECTIONS: Please send corrections and suggestions to bites@abqthemag.com.
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.
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
$$
1450 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, 332-8565 This vegetarian Vietnamese spot is also veganfriendly. Pho fans don’t fret; Thai and wonton soup will satisfy any meat eater.
5901 Wyoming Blvd. NE, 821-1909, 5starburgers.com From bison, salmon, turkey and crab to lamb, chicken and Black Angus beef, burger addicts will love Five Star’s 100 percent natural meat. Handformed patties or vegetarian options paired with wine from St. Clair Winery or beer from Marble Brewery are a match made in heaven.
ALDO’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZERIA $
ANNAPURNA’S WORLD VEGETARIAN CAFÉ
$
Two Locations, aldosalbuquerque.com With handmade lasagna and pizza dough, among other items, Aldo’s New York Style Pizzeria shares family recipes with its customers. From the buttermilk ranch dressing to the Eggplant and Chicken Parmigianas, homemade cooking is not too far away.
Various locations, chaishoppe.com Annapurna offers some of the most enlightened, health-conscious vegetarian and vegan plates in the city, with plenty of options for people suffering from food allergies or Celiac disease. And the menu is world-class, with options from virtually every continent.
66 DINER
$$
ALICEA’S NY BAGELS & SUBS
ANNIE’S SOUP KITCHEN
$
ABC CAKE SHOP
$$
5 STAR BURGERS
$
1405 Central Ave. NE, 247-1421, 66diner.com This blast from the past specializes in burgers, chicken fried steak, liver and onions, and blue-plate specials, including the Pile Up: a mound of pan-fried potatoes, chopped bacon, green chile, two eggs, cheddar cheese, and red or green chile sauce on top. 1830 San Pedro Drive NE, 255-5080, abccakeshop.com Specializing in custom cakes and cakes for all occasions, this bakery focuses on freshness and flavor. Everything is made from scratch, including the cupcakes, cookies, pies, Danishes, pastries, and other desserts.
THE ACRE
$$
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
$$
3216 Silver Ave. SE, 266-2305, ajiacobistro.com Inside the intimate space, you’ll find combination plates, arroz con pollo, arepas, plantains, and of course, a great cup of Colombian coffee. The dishes at Ajiaco combine indigenous Colombian, Spanish, African, and Arab flavors for a truly thrilling experience.
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1009 Golf Course Road SE, Suite 103, 896-4555 This East Coast–style deli on ABQ’s Westside is serving up 20 different sandwiches to Rio Rancho’s hungriest diners, using fresh-baked New York–style bagels and meats prepared in house for the likes of its Philly Steak and Cheese or the Cuban. Come hungry, because Alicea’s portions are not for the faint of heart. Can’t get out? Delivery options in Rio Rancho and parts of ABQ are also available when that hunger pang strikes.
AMADEO’S PIZZA AND SUBS
$
Three locations, amadeospizza.com This family-run pizza place believes that there truly are a million different ways to make a pizza. Using fresh, high quality ingredients, they specialize in pizzas, subs, pasta, and fresh salads.
3107 Eubank Blvd. NE, 296-8601, anniessoupkitchen.com With four homemade soups made fresh every day, and home-style favorites such as avocado and bacon omelets and piles of potatoes topped with melted cheese, chile and eggs, Annie’s specializes in comfort.
ANTIQUITY RESTAURANT
$$$$
112 Romero St. NW, 247-3545, antiquityrestaurant.com Antiquity Restaurant is located just off historic Old Town Plaza. Antiquity holds the distinction of being the only restaurant in Albuquerque to serve the Henry IV—a bacon-wrapped filet mignon placed on a bed of artichoke leaves, topped with an artichoke heart and covered with béarnaise sauce.
ARTICHOKE CAFÉ
$$$
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.
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.
AMORE NEAPOLITAN PIZZERIA
ASIAN NOODLE BAR
$$
AZUMA SUSHI & TEPPAN
$$
AMERASIA/SUMO SUSHI
$
$$
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.
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.
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BITES
OLD WORLD RECIPE, FRESH TASTE Luigi’s Ristorante & Pizzeria, off 4th just a little south of Osuna, is rooted in family tradition. Luigi Napolitano started it with his mother, Tina, a first-generation Italian immigrant. Like everything on the menu at Luigi’s, the house marinara is about as authentically Italian as you can get. “We’ve been doing it the same way for generations,” says Luigi. “The family still does it the same way.” The Napolitanos would grow their own tomatoes and do their own processing, jarring enough marinara sauce for a year.
PHOTO BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM
Luigi’s uses only fresh whole tomatoes for their sauce and doesn’t add any additional sugar to the mix. It is, Luigi warns, just a little spicy. The sauce is available for purchase at the restaurant, and can also be found online at Luigi’s website, luigisitalianfood.com/sauce. —ZB Luigi’s Ristorante & Pizzeria 6225 4th Street NW 343-0466, luigisitalianfood.com
Luigi’s Marinara, $24 for 4 jars
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.
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.
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, preservative-free and takes its roots from the owner’s family’s New Mexican recipes. Try the salmon or the steak served with a side of calabacitas, papas, and sautéed mushrooms.
BENNY’S MEXICAN KITCHEN
$
1675 Bosque Farms Blvd., 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 doublemeat, double-cheese beauty—intimidate you. And, don’t forget to save room for that vanilla ice-cream shake.
BLACK BIRD SALOON
$
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
$
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 pre-flight. The made-to-order turkey sandwich will fill you up far more reliably than the bag of pretzels you’ll get on the plane. Baked goods, including the popular
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
banana bread, are made in-house daily. Five menu items, including brownies and cookies, are glutenfree.
BLADES’ BISTRO
$$$
221 NM Highway 165, Suite L, Placitas, 771-0695, bladesbistro.com Owner and chef Kevin Bladergroen’s restaurant offers a culinary journey from his 30-plus years of experience in restaurants across the country and Europe, serving up steak and seafood with a twist.
BLAKE’S LOTABURGER
$
BLEU CAFÉ
$
Various locations, lotaburger.com Blake’s became an Albuquerque establishment more than 30 years ago, and almost immediately garnered kudos for its out-of-this-world green chile cheeseburgers (the restaurant has since scored spots on National Geographic’s “top hamburgers in the nation” list and Albuquerque The Magazine’s Best of the City list). Everything is made from scratch as soon as it’s ordered—and not a second before. At Del Norte Sports and Wellness, 7120 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Suite 8B This in-gym café offers fresh food from scratch— paninis, burgers, wraps, burritos, protein shakes–to both gym-goers and the general public. Healthy and tasty? Check!
BOCADILLOS $
200 Lomas Blvd. NW, Suite 110, 243-3995, bocadillos505.com Slow-roasted meats are the highlight of the Food Network “Chopped” winner, Marie Yniguez. Open for breakfast, lunch, or dinner on Wednesdays– Saturdays, pop in for a burrito or sandwich filled to the brim with pork, chicken, turkey or corned beef.
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BITES BOSQUE BREWING CO.
$
Various locations, bosquebrewing.com Another favorite on the ever-growing ABQ brewery scene, Bosque Brewing Co. is the product of three NMSU grads’ love for brew. With 10-12 of Bosque’s own sudsy creations on tap every day, the brewery is teeming with options to pair with seasoned fries, daily specials, or an array of other appetizers, soups, salads, and sandwiches.
BRICKYARD PIZZA
$$
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 spicand-span, laid-back atmosphere.
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
$$
400 Central Ave. SW 242-2400, brixens.com A creative spin on American bar fare inspired by New Mexican culture, the restaurant serves 99 bottles of beer, literally on the wall, and a range of food items. Brixens has many unique qualities, but a couple notable qualities include their all-day happy hour on Sundays and 3-6pm daily.
6855 4th St NW, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque 890-9150, cafe6855.com A sister restaurant to Vernon’s Speakeasy, Café 6855 has gourmet dishes, expertly prepared and served in an elegant atmosphere. The menu is populated with gourmet sandwiches, salads, and cafe specialties that redeploy Vernon’s ingredients to thrilling effect.
BUDAI GOURMET CHINESE
CAFÉ BELLA COFFEE
BRIXENS $$$
$$
6300 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Suite H-1, 797-7898, budaigourmet.com The menu features specialties from different regions of China and Taiwan, all painstakingly prepared by chef Hsia Fang. The Crispy Flounder Filet is sure to please diners from both the East and the West. The Mini Steamed Pork Buns shouldn’t be missed.
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$
2115 Golf Course Road SE, Rio Rancho 306-6974, cafebellacoffee.com With made-to-order panini and tasty salads filled with the freshest seasonal ingredients, this restaurant’s farm-to-table concept is a smart—and delicious—one.
CAFÉ CUBANO
$$
CAFÉ LAUREL
$$
At Laru Ni Hati Salon, 3413 Central Ave. NE, 255-1575, larunihati.com Who would guess that an upscale hair salon such as Laru Ni Hati would also be home to delicious Cuban food—platanos, Cuban sandwiches, dirty rice, and even espresso and hand-rolled cigars? 1433 Central Ave. NW, 259-2331, cafe-laurel.weebly.com The casual American café, open for breakfast and lunch, serves soups, sandwiches, burgers, salads, New Mexican favorites, and breakfast items in a bright airy atmosphere complete with local beers on tap. Peruse the daily selection of sweets and the full coffee bar for dessert (or breakfast).
CAFÉ LUSH
$
LA BAREN RESTAURANT
$
700 Tijeras Ave. NW, 508-0164, cafelushabq.com Located on a quiet neighborhood corner, this café is perfect for a nice brunch or lunch and your wallet will not be hurt after your visit. The menu is glutenconscious, vegetarian-friendly and has some of the best gluten-free red chile in town. 230 Louisiana Blvd. SE Suite A, 232-6764, labarenrestaurant.com The pho and spring rolls have a die-hard following of Kirtland Airforce Base employees. Located across the parking lot from Talin Market, experience an extensive menu of traditional Vietnamese cuisine inside this dine-in and takeout eatery.
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BITES CAKE FETISH
$
2665 Louisiana Blvd. NE, 883-0670, cakefetish.com Cake Fetish specializes in baker’s cups filled with heaven, such as the Sleepless in Albuquerque (chocolate cake with mocha French buttercream frosting) and the Inside-Out German Chocolate Cake (coconut and pecans and crowned with chocolate French buttercream).
CAMPO AT LOS POBLANOS
$$$
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 top-of-theline 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
$$
3120 Central Ave. SE, 639-5214, canvas-artistry.com Specializing in international street food with a local twist, expect seasonally rotating artsy fare made with local produce, daily and weekly specials, and art to boot. A great late-night spot with live spinning DJs featuring different genres each night.
CASA DE BENAVIDEZ
$$
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.
CASA TACO
$$
2 locations casa-taco.com Both Casa Taco locations offer a window into owner John Pecherski’s signature take on the U.S. Southwest—a strange place where you could picture a classic John Wayne character lingering over a plate of Jamaican jerk chicken and Yucatan pork tacos. Casa Taco defies expectations.
CECILIA’S CAFÉ
$
230 6th St. SW,243-7070 Recognized on the Food Network’s “Diners, DriveIns & Dives,” and ranked No. 45 on the Travel Channel’s “101 Tastiest Places to Chow Down,” Cecilia’s Café offers tasty New Mexican treats, such as their Fireman’s Burrito or homemade chicharrones in a cozy atmosphere.
CENTRAL GRILL & COFFEE HOUSE
$
2056 Central Ave. SW, 554-1424, centralgrillandcoffeehouse.com This local favorite on Route 66, adjacent to Old Town, offers a bevy of breakfast and lunch options that will comfort your belly and your wallet. Here, you’ll find traditional New Mexican favorites, serious sammies, and solid caffeine with a staff famous for their classic Southwestern hospitality.
CERVANTES NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT $$
5801 Gibson Blvd. SE, 262-2253, cervantesabq.com Old-world style meets traditional New Mexican fare at this family-owned restaurant. Go for the madefrom-scratch chile rellenos, tamales, and carne adovada.
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
CESAR’S MEXICAN & GREEK
$
CHEBA HUT
$
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. 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
$$
Two locations, cheeseandcoffee.com There’s more than just cheese and coffee here— think homemade soups, sandwiches, salads and specials. At lunch, the line often goes out the door, so it’s worth getting there early.
CHEZ AXEL
$$$
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.
CHOCGLITZ & CREAM
$
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).
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SALSA STRAIGHT FROM HATCH
PHOTO BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM
Monroe’s New Mexican Food has been doing exactly what the name implies—serving up delicious New Mexican favorites—for almost 60 years. “We’ve been doing it since 1962,” says Matthew Diaz, co-owner of Monroe’s. Here, he’s referring not to the restaurant, but to the salsa Monroe’s has been making since day one. Unusual among salsas, Monroe’s house version doesn’t use jalapenos, drawing its heat instead from Hatch green chile. The resulting kick is real without being intimidating, and distinctly New Mexican. The recipe had to change a little when they started bottling the salsa in the 1990s, modified to preserve the original flavor despite the changes induced by cooking. Conveniently, Monroe’s salsa is available for order online. But for our money, the best place to try it is at one of Monroe’s restaurants.—ZB Monroe’s Restaurant 2 Locations, monroeschile.com
Monroe’s Salsa, $4.50/jar
CHRISTY MAE’S RESTAURANT
$
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
$$
2111 Church St. NW, 247-8522, churchstreetcafe.com Calling the oldest residence in Albuquerque its home, this café serves up favorites ranging from natillas to margaritas. They also sell their own bottled salsa and cookbooks with recipes from the restaurant.
CINNAMON SUGAR & SPICE CAFÉ
$
Two locations, cinnamoncafeabq.com Featuring breakfast and lunch options, endless baked goodies, friendly staff and regular cooking classes, this place puts the “everything nice” in the well-worn phrase.
COCINA AZUL
$
Three locations, cocinaazul.com The newest location of the Old Town favorite serves up the same tried and true home-cooked recipes you’ve come to love. Don’t miss location specific specials and local brews amid New Mexican staples.
CODA BAKERY
$
230 Louisiana Blvd. SE Suite C, 232-0085 Wrap your hands around one of Coda Bakery’s unique, Vietnamese-inspired sandwiches. Beyond its popular lineup of sammies, Coda Bakery also puts a distinctive twist on Vietnamese street food, using from-scratch recipes, including the bread, its deli meats, and its desserts.
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CONCHITA’S CAFÉ
$
400 Gold Ave. SW, Suite 119, 339-6774, conchitascafe.com What began as the food truck, Conchita’s Creations became a downtown café with breakfast, sandwiches, and salads. New Mexican favorites shine here, just like abuela made them—including tacos, Frito pie, and burritos.
CORN MAIDEN
$$$
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
$$
9600 Tramway Blvd. NE, 856-7477, countyline.com It doesn’t take long for the barbecue to arrive at your dinner table, whether it’s wood-burning oven cooked and slow-roasted brisket, ribs, or sausage. Throw in the Rib King Platter, green-chile stuffed pork loin, live music, and two stepping, and at The County Line, everybody wins.
CRACKIN’ CRAB
$$
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
$$
3015 Central Ave. NE, 232-3474, crazyfishabq.com Tasty, fresh sushi and sashimi await you in this sleek Central Avenue restaurant, along with kitchenmade favorites such as tempura and crispy chicken.
THE CROWN ROOM
$$$$
145 Louisiana Blvd. NE, 767-7171, abqdowns.com/crown-room Perhaps Albuquerque’s best-kept fine dining secret, this gem is tucked away in the newly remodeled Downs Casino. With an incredible selection of liquors and wines, gourmet dishes, tableside Bananas Foster, and Dom Pérignon palate cleansers, this special occasion hideout is hard to beat, anywhere in the 505.
CURRY LEAF
$
6910-C Montgomery Blvd NE 881-3663, curryleafrestaurant.us Curry Leaf is the only restaurant in New Mexico to offer both North and South India cuisine. This means that, while you can get familiar favorites like tandoori chicken, you can also explore the world of chicken chettinad and dosas—a type of crepe made with fermented lentil and rice flour, filled with stuffing like potato, spiced vegetables, or ground lamb.
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THE DAILY GRIND
$
4360a Cutler Ave. NE, 883-8310, dailygrindabq.net This family-friendly restaurant serves breakfast and lunch, including huevos rancheros and a huge assortment of baked goods. On Friday and Saturday, look for spontaneous specials, such as stuffed French toast or steak and eggs.
DELICIAS CAFÉ
$
DG’S DELI
$
6001 San Mateo Blvd. NE, 830-6561 Named after the city in Chihuahua, Mexico, Delicias delivers traditional fare of the region, like caldo de res (beef stew), gorditas, carnitas, flautas, and horchata. 1418 Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. NE, 247-3354, dgsdeli.com With 31 cold sandwich options and a wide variety of grilled hot sandwiches—ranging in size from mini to jumbo—there’s something for everyone here. Try the Green Chile Philly or the Lobo Club.
t breakfas
’ n i n mor
tacos
7-10am
D.H. LESCOMBES WINERY & BISTRO $$
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
$
10136 coors blvd nw • 505-890-7113
s! 2 location 2321 carlisle blvd nE • 505-884-4000
visit
RUDYS.COM
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 chili-cheese 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
$$
6100 4th Street NW, 345-0595 Southern transplants who make their way to ABQ have a new spot for traditional seafood boil. From dry rub to a spicy, buttery fusion sauce, your tastebuds will dance with delight when you feast on this eatery’s collection of crawfish, rock shrimp, crab legs, and more.
DUGGAN’S $
227 Lead Ave. SE, 312-7257, dugganscoffeeshop.com This breakfast and lunch spot serves up newsthemed entrees like the Journalist Salad and Fact Checker Green Chile Chicken Soup in an intimate setting. Cups are filled with locally roasted Trifecta coffee.
DURAN’S CENTRAL PHARMACY
$$
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.
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BITES
FIRE ON THE RIDGE
Paako Ridge 1 Clubhouse Drive, Sandia Park 281-6000, paakogolf.com
Paako Fire Sauce, $10 for 5 oz. bottle
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
$
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.
EL COTORRO
$
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.
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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
Thanks to Executive Chef David Ruiz, Paako Ridge Golf Club has developed a reputation for impressive dining. Their menu features dishes like Skuna Bay Salmon (miso glazed salmon with pickled apple and wild mushroom) and Cast Iron Steak Frites (marinated 44 Farm’s flat iron steak with crisp fries and green chile butter). Tasty options, clearly. The same is true of the house hot sauce, Paako Fire Sauce. “It took about a year of development to make the sauce itself,” says Chef Ruiz. “I wanted it first-off to be different from any other hot sauce I tried. I wanted something with a red chile base and a northern New Mexico flavor profile.” Ruiz started experimenting with peppers, both personally grown and given to him by local farmers, soaking them in water, vinegar, and salt. In its final incarnation, the sauce employs a variety of peppers, including red chile, ghosts, habaneros, and red spicy cherries, alongside garlic and onions. Spicy? Yes. Delicious? Definitely. —ZB
EL PATIO DE ALBUQUERQUE
$
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
$$
Two locations, elpatronabq.com A customer favorite, El Patron’s menu includes dishes such as mouthwatering tacos, enchiladas, chile rellenos, and housemade chips. Wash them down with a tasty margarita.
EL PINTO
$$$
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.
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
$$
Two locations, elsarapeabq.com Specializing in authentic food from all regions of Mexico, you can count on dishes such as nopalitos (cactus sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and garlic), fresh salsa, burritos, chile rellenos, and seafood specials with shrimp, oysters, calamari, and fish.
ELOY’S NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT $
1508 Wyoming Blvd. NE, 293-6018 Opening 36 years ago, Eloy’s New Mexican Restaurant’s claim to fame is their consistent food and service, offering the same recipes that made them famous all those years ago. Try the No. 1 Eloy’s Deluxe Dinner, with a little bit of everything.
EMBER’S STEAK & SEAFOOD
$$$
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.
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.
WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
FAN TANG
$$
FAREAST FUZION SUSHI BAR & LOUNGE
$$
3523 Central Ave. NE, 266-3566, fan-tang.com With authentic family recipes that include coffee chicken (rubbed in Satellite coffee, then stir-fried with flavorful sauce) and creative additions like soul dumplings (made with tofu, kimchi, and cashew pesto), this spot is sure to satisfy.
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.
Kitchen
FARINA ALTO PIZZERIA & WINE BAR $$
10721 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 298-0035, farinaalto.com The Northeast Heights version of Farina offers the same urban atmosphere as the East Downtown (EDo) Farina, minus the elbow-to-elbow seating. Alto offers every pizza on the EDo menu, such as the Formaggio di Capra and the Carne, but includes unique dishes—Eggplant Parmesan Napoleon and Oven-Roasted Chicken Wings. Alto’s wine room is stocked with more than 300 bottles of wine.
FARINA PIZZERIA
$$
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 relaxedbut-hip urban eatery.
FARM & TABLE
$$$
THE FARMACY
$$
Safely serving you since 1975!
Visit our Newest Location 6930 Coors NW
We treat you and your guests like family!
505•242•1199 | GarciasKitchen.com
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.
Catering
6 Albuquerque locations to serve you!
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
$
FLAMEZ BISTRO
$
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. 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
$$
3258 La Orilla Rd NW B-1 445-8500, flixbrewhouse.com Flix is a one-of-a-kind concept; a movie theater that serves full meals and an in-house brewed beer menu in its stadium-seating “dining rooms.” The dream is real, Albuquerque–you can catch the latest blockbuster in theaters while knocking back a pint and having dinner brought to you.
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BITES FLYING STAR CAFÉ
$$
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.
FORQUE KITCHEN AND BAR
$$
330 Tijeras Ave. NW, 842-1234, albuquerque.hyatt.com Forque’s multi-level, tastefully decorated dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows and makes it easy to forget you’re dining at a Downtown hotel. The elegant presentation extends to the regional cuisine, which is prepared in the restaurant’s open kitchen by executive chef Eli White and his staff.
FORK & FIG
$$
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
$
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.
FRANK’S FAMOUS CHICKEN AND WAFFLES
$
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 $$$
3509 Central Ave NE, 433-5911, frenchish.co Envisioned as a casual neighborhood restaurant, French-ish’s menu draws inspiration from an eclectic mix of French and Midwestern US cuisines, with an active focus on clean, simple foods.
FRIENDS COFFEE & SANDWICH SHOP $
AYY IDA H OLLID HO N ION ATTIO SSTTA AYYCCA
200 3rd St. NW, 243-4801, fcass.com Every cup of coffee served at Friends Coffee & Sandwich Shop is from New Mexico Coffee Company, and a different flavor is showcased each day of the week. Local favorites such as the quesadilla and the Taco Burger are dependable lunch choices.
FOR YOUR PUP
FRONTIER RESTAURANT
$
2400 Central Ave. SE, 266-0550, frontierrestaurant.com Famous for its legendary Frontier Rolls, hot-offthe-iron tortillas, burgers, New Mexican favorites, hash browns, fresh-squeezed orange juice, and more, the Frontier is Albuquerque’s melting pot— it’s a guarantee you’ll see someone you know there.
FU YUANG KOREAN & CHINESE RESTAURANT $
3107 Eubank Blvd. NE, Suite 16, 298-8989 Fu Yuang breaks away from tradition with its take on Korean and Chinese cuisine, but keeps it simple. Freshly made with high-quality meats, you’ll get perfectly-portioned dishes made without MSG, less oil, and all natural ingredients.
GARCIA’S KITCHEN
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GARDUÑO’S OF MEXICO RESTAURANT AND CANTINA $$ Various Locations, gardunosrestaurants.com
Garduño’s consistently earns enthusiastic kudos for its mouthwatering enchiladas, burritos, salsa, and knockyour-socks-off margaritas. And, with three locations around town, you’re always near a fiesta.
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GECKO’S BAR AND TAPAS
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TRAINPLAYSTAY.ORG
$
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.
$$
Two locations, geckosbar.com Plenty of tasty tapas—including Southwestern Krab Taquitos and Red Molé Grilled Sirloin Tacos—and hearty salads and sandwiches, too.
GINO’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA
$
Two locations, ginosnystylepizza.com With handmade lasagna and pizza dough, among other items, Gino’s New York Style Pizza shares family recipes with its customers. From the buttermilk ranch dressing to the Eggplant and Chicken Parmigianas, homemade cooking is not too far away.
OR CALL 505.255.PLAY (7529)
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WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
BITES
HALF-CENTURY OF TASTY SAUCE
Tully’s Italian Deli and Meats 1425 San Mateo Blvd NE 255-5370, tullysdeli.com
GIOVANNI’S PIZZERIA
Tully’s Pasta Sauce, $5.98/jar
$
921 San Pedro Drive SE, 255-1233, giovannispizzaalbuquerque.com Giovanni’s isn’t easy to spot at first, but once you’ve had a big slice of fold-in-half New York-style pie, you’ll never miss it again. Whether you like it covered in spinach, pesto and tomatoes, cheeseonly, no cheese at all, or plain pepperoni, you’re sure to find your pizza match.
GOLDEN CROWN PANADERIA
$
1103 Mountain Road NW, 243-2424, goldencrown.biz Golden Crown Panaderia is known for taking creativity in baking to the next level. Try the original biscochitos or cappuccino, chocolate and sugarfree versions. Don’t miss out on homemade green chile bread, pizza, and creative bread sculptures.
GRASSBURGER $
Two locations, eatgrassburger.com There’s a lot that sets the burger joint apart— including their community involvement, their vegan and gluten-free burger options, and their commitment to a no-corn syrup menu.
GREENSIDE CAFÉ
$$$
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
PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
Tully’s Italian Deli and Meats is a true Albuquerque original, turning in over 50 years as the go-to grocer for authentic Italian ingredients, adding along the way a much-loved sandwich operation and bakery. Among Tully’s signature draws, they sell house takes on both marinara and spaghetti sauces. “That’s been a part of us since we started, 50 years ago,” says Tully’s owner Johnny Camuglia.The sauces come from an old family recipe that Camuglia traces back to his grandmother. His dad, original Tully’s owner John Camuglia, modified them, with Camuglia supplying his own touch— adding rosemary, adding a little more garlic and parsley—in the 1980s. Similar in most respects, the spaghetti sauce is simply a milder version of the marinara, which true to Italian tradition has a slight kick to it. “It’s super versatile,” says Camuglia. “You can add clam and have a nice pescatory.” Both sauces are available at Tully’s, as well as grocery stores like Sprouts and Smith’s. —ZB
$
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.
THE GROVE CAFÉ AND MARKET
$$
600 Central Ave. SE, Suite A, 248-9800, thegrovecafemarket.com The brunch and lunch favorite is well-known for its exceptional dishes made from local and organic ingredients, and it now offers a newly expanded menu, with additions such as the French Ham & Cheese with d’affinois cheese, mostarda, and caper mustard sauce.
GYROS MEDITERRANEAN
$
106 Cornell Drive SE, 255-4401, egyros.com Tried-and-true Greek recipes, such as traditional Kota Reganato (oven-roasted chicken with oregano, garlic and lemon), fresh Greek salads, Patates, and, of course, sweet baklava, served in a friendly, laidback collegial atmosphere.
HADLEY’S TEA
$
7600 Jefferson St. NE, Suite 9, 821-4832 With about 200 different teas—half of them available in loose-leaf form—Hadley’s Tea is a tea lover’s oasis. Every tea that lines Hadley’s shelves is made with all-natural ingredients. A cucumber and cream cheese sandwich, otherwise known as the “tea sandwich,” is the perfect companion for your Lady Londonderry or strawberry green tea.
HANNAH & NATE’S MARKET CAFÉ
$
4512 Corrales Road, 898-2370 Offering breakfast and lunch, Hannah & Nate’s is all about flavor—whether it’s the flavor of traditional New Mexican cuisine, cuisines from throughout the world or the family recipes served.
HARTFORD SQUARE
$
218 Gold Ave. SW, 265-4933, hartfordsq.com Perhaps the only Albuquerque establishment that changes the menu weekly based on local produce options, this is a clean, smart, urban café that feeds
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
suits and millennials in droves. Also serving up local coffees from Michael Thomas roasters, dine anytime and support the farm-to-table movement.
HELLO DELI
$$
HIGH POINT GRILL
$$
7600 Jefferson St. NE, 797-3354, hellodeliabq.com Home to one of the most delicious breakfast burritos around, Hello Deli serves sandwiches and even Frontier’s sweet rolls. 9780 Coors Blvd NW 312-8519, highpointgrill.com Those perpetually on the hunt for the perfect burger will find plenty to love at High Point. With a foundation of 100-percent Akaushi, American Prime Wagyu beef, the burgers at High Point Grill are some of the city’s most popular. Their Southwest burger, for instance, features a red chile crusted patty, extra hot local green chile and cheddar cheese.
HIGH NOON RESTAURANT AND SALOON
$$$
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.
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BITES HORSE AND ANGEL TAVERN
$$
HOT PINK THAI
$$
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.
I SCREAM ICE CREAM
$
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.
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.
IL VICINO
HOT TAMALES
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.
$
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.
HURRICANE’S CAFE
$
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.
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$$
Various locations, ilvicino.com Using wood ovens to bake its thin-crust pizzas, Il Vicino (which means “The Neighbor”) also offers hearty calzones and award-winning brews from its own brewery.
INDIGO CROW CAFÉ
IRONWOOD KITCHEN
$$$
$$
5740 Night Whisper Road NW, Suite 250, 890-4488, ironwoodkitchen.com This family operation’s goal: to serve meals made with whole foods at affordable prices. Try the green chile cheeseburger, with freshly-ground chuck, topped with fresh vegetables and roasted green chile.
JAPANESE KITCHEN
$$$
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
$$
Various locations, jinjabistro.com Evoking a vintage ambiance, Jinja serves inspired and mouthwatering pan-Asian cuisine, such as Kung Pow Chicken (a Thai version of the Chinese favorite) and Home-Style Chicken Udon Wok Bowl.
WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
JOE’S PASTA HOUSE
$$
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.
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.
$
KATHY’S CARRY OUT
$
LA QUICHE PARISIENNE BISTRO
$
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.
LA REFORMA
$$
8900 San Mateo Blvd NE, Suite I 717-1361, lareformabrewery.com On the taco front, La Reforma is virtually unimpeachable, offering options like braised pork shoulder carnitas, tempura-battered white fish pescado, and rotisserie-broiled al pastor for carnivores, along with tempura-battered avocado (aguacate) for those looking for something plantbased.
LA SALITA
BITES
$
1950 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, 299-9968, lasalita.com The name may mean “little room,” but this New Mexican restaurant always has a full house. The chile rellenos, chile con queso, sopaipillas, and shredded beef burrito (a Wednesday special) have earned loyal customers for 37 years.
LAGUNA BURGER
$
Various locations, thelagunaburger.com Every half-pound burger is made fresh upon ordering, topped with Hatch green chile, and slipped on a butter-toasted bun made specifically for Laguna Burger by Sara Lee. Also on the menu: freshly-cut fries, foot-long chile cheese dogs, and zingy breakfast burritos.
471 South Hill Road, Bernalillo, 818-7285 kaktusbrewery.com Tucked away from it all, Kaktus specializes in European-style pints, and a menu featuring pizzas and apps uniquely topped with game meats like elk, boar, bison, and duck. Special events on weekends abound. 823 Isleta Blvd. SW, 873-3472 This carry out has been a South Valley favorite for 38 years. Look for the chicharron burrito with egg, fresh hand-cut fries, and the daily special—you just might land on a seems-too-good-to-be-true deal, such as three tacos for $3.
KATRINAH’S EAST MOUNTAIN GRILL $$
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).
KIMO’S HAWAIIAN BBQ
$
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.
KOLACHE FACTORY
BEST CHICKEN WINGS 2 YEARS IN A ROW
$
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
$$
LA OJA RESTAURANT
$$
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. 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.
2003 Southern Blvd. SE, Suite 139 | Rio Rancho
5 0 5.994 .0363 | SLA TESTREETBILLIA RDS . C O M
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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BITES LAS RISTRAS
$$$
4940 Corrales Rd. #400, Corrales 433-4192, lasristras.com Though New Mexican fare is a huge part of Las Ristras’ menu–all the usual suspects from tacos and chile rellenos to burritos and bowls of fresh posole are in evidence–they are joined by some of the most dynamic steaks on the Rio Grande.
THE LAST CALL
$
Various locations, lastcallabq.com This late-night eatery specializes in freshly-made Baja Mexican street cuisine (think: carne asada fries). If you’re lucky, you just might run into the “Taco Box” while out on the town: a mobile extension of the restaurant that brings the food to you.
LAVA ROCK BREWING COMPANY $$ 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.
LAZY LIZARD GRILL
$
12480 North Highway 14, Sandia Park 281-9122, lazylizardgrill.com From the King Cobra Pizza and made-fromscratch Jalapeño Poppers to their impressive selection of microbrews, the Lazy Lizard Grill has customers always coming back for more— and has the food and atmosphere to back it up.
LIMONATA ITALIAN STREET CAFÉ
$$
3222 Silver Av SE, 266-0607, limonatanobhill.com Channel your inner Italian at this street foodinspired café, where the breakfast and lunch menus feature perfect pastries, craveable cappuccino and trattoria-inspired lunches. The chef makes every dish from scratch and insists that everything about the restaurant, from the menu to the atmosphere, be done just as it would in Italy.
LINDY’S DINER
$$
500 Central Ave SW, 242-2582, lindysdinerabq.com Lindy’s is a neighborhood joint, through and through. The sort of place where, even if they don’t know your name, you’ll feel like they do anyway. The owners recommend the Ultimate Burger for that classic American diner experience.
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
$$
1313 San Pedro Dr. NE, 266-6118 Le Bistro Vietnamese Restaurant is just as much a bakery as it is a restaurant, specializing in traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
Various locations loscuatesrestaurants.com Popular since it opened over 25 years ago, Los Cuates serves its own ancho-chile salsa and tons of delicious New Mexican dishes in humongous portions.
LE CHANTILLY FINE PASTRIES
LOYOLA’S FAMILY RESTAURANT
LE BISTRO VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT
$$
$
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.
LE TROQUET
$$
228 Gold Ave. SW 508-1166, www.abqfrenchrestaurant.com The Parisian bistro, open for lunch or dinner, offers classically simple French dishes made by Chef Jean Pierre Gozard. From Boeuf Bourguignon to quiche and delectable desserts, expect a tres bien atmosphere with a comprehensive wine list.
LEVEL 5 AT HOTEL CHACO
$$$
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.
THE LIBRARY BAR & GRILL
$$
312 Central Ave. SW, 242-2992, library-abq.com Featuring more than a great party, the Library offers drink specials and half-priced appetizers during happy hour, as well as salads, hamburgers, sandwiches, wraps, and specialty items.
$$
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 $$
6225 4th St. NW, 343-0466, luigisitalianfood.com Enjoy more than 250 made-from-scratch Italian dishes, including pizza, chicken Florentine, spaghetti and meatballs, and green chile chicken lasagna.
M’TUCCI’S ITALIAN
$$
MARIO’S PIZZA
$$
MARISCOS ALTAMAR
$$
MARY & TITO’S CAFÉ
$
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. 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. 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
$
MAZAYA CAFÉ
$
111 Louisiana Blvd. SE, 265-4448, maycafenm.com Traditional Vietnamese cuisine is easily customizable, fresh and healthy. The café’s spring rolls, made fresh to order, are popular with diners new and old. Try the pho or the bún. 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.
Three 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.
MICHAEL THOMAS COFFEE ROASTERS $
MAC’S STEAK IN THE ROUGH
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.
$
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
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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.
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
$
MILLY’S $
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.
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MIMMO’S RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA $$
3301 Coors Blvd. NW 831-4191, mimmosabq.com Mimmo’s serves authentic Italian food in a casual family atmosphere, with everything made on premise: the sauces, pizza dough, lasagna, noodles and meatballs. An all-you-can-eat lunch buffet is offered every day of the week.
MONICA’S EL PORTAL RESTAURANT
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MONROE’S RESTAURANT
$
321 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, 247-9625 Traditional New Mexican favorites make up the menu at this Old Town staple that has been around for 34 years. Monica’s roasts their own green chile, makes biscochitos from scratch and offers red chile straight from the pod. Two locations, monroeschile.com More than 50 years after they opened their doors south of Old Town, Monroe’s continues to serve reliable New Mexican favorites to a local fan base, and service around here is a team effort, so no glass goes unfilled.
MONTE CARLO STEAKHOUSE
$$$
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.
MONTE VISTA FIRE STATION 3201 Central Ave. NE, 255-2424
$
Once an actual working fire station, this second-floor 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
$$
11200 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 292-4728 Soak up the cool Zen-like atmosphere while enjoying six versions of fried rice, sushi, sashimi, tempura, hibachi, grilled udon, soups, and teriyaki spiced with fiery Thai chili peppers.
MUSTANG CAFÉ
$
8601 Lomas Blvd. NE, 275-4477 Perfect for anyone shopping at the Rich Ford car dealership—or anyone at all—is this auto-themed restaurant, which serves up homemade breakfast burritos, papitas, enchiladas, rellenos, tamales, and the Dennis Snyder Favorite: a 16-oz. sirloin patty with cheese and chile.
NAGOMI RESTAURANT
$
2400 Juan Tabo Blvd NE 298-3081, nagomirestaurantabq.com The Nagomi menu is virtually overrun with Japanese culinary classics. Nagomi is also one of the few places in Albuquerque where you can go to indulge in shabu-shabu, a Japanese-style hot pot
NAMASTE
$
Two locations, namastenm.net Offering authentic Nepalese and Indian dishes— including chicken tikka masala and lamb curry— Namaste also serves traditional food with a New Mexico twist, such as the green chile chicken curry.
NARUTO $
2110 Central Ave. SE 369-1039, narutonoodle.com Who knew Ramen noodles could be so creative, so diverse, and so darn good. Naruto is reinventing the Ramen noodle with specialized dishes that can’t be found anywhere else in the city.
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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BITES NEXUS BREWERY
$$
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.
NICK AND AND BAR
JIMMY’S
RESTAURANT $$
OHANA HUT
$
5740 Night Whisper Rd NW, 508-4439, ohanahut.com Family owned and operated Ohana Hut means “Family Hut”. It specializes in Hawaiian, Japanese, and Korean flavors to create an Asian fusion menu with a New Mexican twist.
5021 Pan American Freeway NE, 344-9169, nickandjimmysrestaurant.com Nick and Jimmy’s vision was a comfortable atmosphere with comfortable food. They blend traditional foods with new twists and serve everything from enchiladas to green chile meatloaf.
OLD TOWN PIZZA PARLOR
NOB HILL BAR AND GRILL
OLO YOGURT STUDIO IN NOB HILL
$$$
3128 Central Ave. SE, 266-4455, upscalejoint.com This restaurant manages to be simultaneously upscale and laid back, gourmet and down-home, 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.
$$
108 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, 999-1949, oldtownpizzaabq.com This comfy, funky, family-owned restaurant serves tasty pies, huge calzones, and portions of pasta that won’t ever leave you hungry.
$
3339 Central Ave. NE, Suite C, 718-4656, oloyogurt.com Nothing is as sweet as a guilt-free treat. In the same building as Staples in Nob Hill, Olo features a Candyland-esque interior, complete with 10 flavor choices and a salad-bar-sized toppings bar.
O’HARE’S GRILLE & PUB
$$
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.
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.
OAK TREE CAFÉ
O’NIELL’S PUB
NOMAD’S BBQ FOOD TRUCK 206-7654
4545 Alameda Blvd. NE, 830-2233, cafeoaktree.com
$
$$$
This hometown café has served a lot of locales over the past 30 years, and the current venue on Alameda is great at the basics, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, made fresh, in-house every day.
$$
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
$$
800 Eubank Blvd. NE, 291-4900, owlcafealbuquerque.com World-famous green chile cheeseburgers, milkshakes, fajitas, quesadillas, meatloaf, burritos, fries… the list of drool-worthy dishes goes on and on.
CHEFS & P ROP RIET ORS , JENNIFER JA MES & NELLE BAUE R
3509 CENTRAL AVE. NE | NOB HILL ALBUQUERQUE 505.433.5911 • WWW.FRENCHISH.CO
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BITES P’TIT LOUIS BISTRO NOB HILL
$$
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 $$
3000 San Pedro Drive NE, 881-0999, pacificparadise-restaurant-abq.com Faux palms and tiki huts frame a menu filled with more than 100 options: salads, soups, stir-fry, seafood, fried rice, noodles, sushi, and dessert menu. Try the Seafood Rice Pizza or Rock ‘n’ Roll Sushi.
PADILLA’S MEXICAN KITCHEN
$
1510 Girard Blvd. NE, 262-0115 It might not get any more New Mexican than it does at Padilla’s—from huevos rancheros and tamales to chile rellenos and egg-topped blue corn enchiladas. You may have to shake your head after a taste of the chile just to remind yourself you’re not in your grandmother’s kitchen. A sopaipilla dripping with honey will seal the deal for your traditional meal.
PAISANO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
$$
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 $$
9800 Menaul Blvd. NE, 292-8877, papafelipes.com Papa Felipe’s exceeds expectations by offering traditional New Mexican cuisine (enchiladas, stuffed sopaipillas, tacos) as well as simple twists on favorite dishes (green chile carne adovada, Tampico Tacos, Green Tamale Pie).
PAPA NACHOS
$$
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
$$
4590 Corrales Road, Corrales, 898-2442 Open for lunch only, the family-owned and -operated business specializes in real, home-cooked New Mexican food that’s consistently earned kudos from customers who can’t say “no” to the Frito pie, carne adovada, and green chile cheeseburgers.
PERICO’S $
Various locations, pericosmexicanrestaurant.com Serving delicious New Mexican food at affordable prices made Perico’s instantly popular, and the “home of the ½ lb burrito” is now an Albuquerque institution with three locations, catering services, and 22 different burritos.
PHO LINH
$$
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 $$
Two locations, piatanzi.com A neighborhood Italian eatery with artisan flair, Piatanzi serves up big bites on smallish plates that please families and adventurous foodies alike, in a venue that scores big points.
PIZZA 9
$$
PIZZERIA LUCA
$$
Various locations, pizzanine.com Chicago-style pizza at 10 locations around the city, along with the option of gluten-free crust—that’s what Pizza 9 brings to the, er, table. Don’t forget the wings, salads, breadsticks and calzones to complement any meal. 8850 Holly Ave. NE, 797-8086, pizzerialuca.com With imported Italian flour, cheese, and pepperoni, Pizzeria Luca offers authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant has a subway-inspired interior and features delicious and affordable lunch specials.
PLANTY SWEET
$$
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.
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
$$$
2401 12th St. NW, 724-3510, puebloharvestcafe.com The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is the perfect backdrop for the Native American-inspired cuisine prepared in the café, serving traditional and innovative dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Reservations are recommended.
PUPUSERIA Y RESTAURANTE SALVADOREÑO $
1701 Bridge Blvd. SW, 243-8194 In El Salvador, pupusas (stuffed corn tortillas) are found on every street corner. In Albuquerque, they can only be found in the South Valley, stuffed with shrimp, calabacitas, cheese, beans, or guacamole and served with a side of fresh salsa and curtidos (a spicy cabbage salad garnish).
QUARTER CELTIC BREWPUB
$$
$$
Two locations, quartercelticbrewpub.com Irish brews like the Crimson Lass and Rye’t Side of Dublin are paired nicely with Celtic pub fare with a New Mexico twist. Must-tries include the classic fish and chips, ruben, shepherd’s pie, and poutine with green chile.
POKI POKI CEVICHERIA
$$
QUARTERS BBQ
POLLITO CON PAPAS
$$
RANCHERS CLUB OF NEW MEXICO $$$
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. 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.
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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. 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
$$
Three locations, rangecafe.com Locals flock to The Range Café when they’re in search of good, made-from-scratch comfort food, including meatloaf sandwiches, huevos rancheros, enchiladas, ice cream, and the gooey Life by Chocolate dessert.
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BITES REBEL DONUT
$
Two locations, rebeldonut.com Not only can you find their set flavors, including their raised glazed, chocolate cake glazed, rebel red velvet, birthday cake, and toasted coconut, but you can also order custom-made donuts or choose to experiment with their daily creations.
RELISH GOURMET SANDWICHES
$$
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.
RESTORATION PIZZA
$
5161 Lang Ave NE Suite A 582-2720, Restorationpizza.com Here, good food and positive works—delivered simultaneously—is in the very nature of the business. The idea is to provide patrons with top-notch pies and first-rate beers while giving traditionally underemployed individuals work opportunities they would otherwise miss.
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 its signature Viper sauce, or tempt your sweet tooth with traditional cannoli or New York-style cheesecake
RIO BRAVO BREWING COMPANY
$
1912 2nd St. NW, 900-3909, riobravobrewing.com The pub and grill is bright and airy with high ceilings and a modern industrial style, mixed with the cozy rustic feel of a neighborhood bar, with 32 taps, including their award winning La Luz Lager.
ROCKIN’ TACO
$
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.
ROMA BAKERY & DELI
$
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 $$
4565 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Suite A 361-1842, rosemaryabq.com This plant-forward restaurant offers a soothing atmosphere, creative menu, and amazing food. Any menu item can be adapted to meet personal preferences and dietary restrictions.
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RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q
$$
SALATHAI $
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.
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.
RUSTIC BUBBLE TEA CAFE
THE SALT YARD
$
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.
RUSTIC ON THE GREEN
$
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.
RUTILIO’S NEW MEXICAN FOODS
$
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.
SADIE’S OF NEW MEXICO
$$
Various locations, sadiesofnewmexico.com A staple in New Mexican cuisine, Sadie’s features enchiladas, carne adovada ribs, tacos, burritos, and of course, world-famous chips and salsa. Reservations are recommended.
SAHARA MIDDLE EASTERN EATERY
$
2622 Central Ave. SE, 255-5400, saharamiddleeasterneatery.com Delectable Middle Eastern plates served up Manhattan-deli style. The chicken shawarma plate, complete with greens, pita, hummus, and awardwinning tabbouleh, is always a good bet. Complete with beer and wine, and belly dancing on weekends, this is a fave of students, locals, and out-of-towners alike.
SAIGON RESTAURANT
$
Two locations, saigonrestaurantnm.com Vicky Truong’s secret to 12 years of success has been consistency. Truong maintains an extensive menu that caters to every type of eater. From summer dishes such as noodle bowls to winter mainstays like beef noodle soup, Truong will make sure you find your favorites.
SAKURA SUSHI & GRILL
$$
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.
$$
Two locations, thesaltyardnm.com A multi-concept bar and restaurant, The Salt Yard is
equipped with games, dozens of televisions, great food, drinks, and plenty of space to stretch your legs. This unique location is a great place for parties, trying the newest beer and tequila (Blue Agave Republic is now a part of it), or just watching the game.
SAMURAI GRILL AND SUSHI BAR
$$$
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.
SANTA FE BITE-ABQ
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.
SANTIAGO’S NEW MEXICAN GRILL
$
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
$$$
10601 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 294-9463, savoyabq.com Resembling a California wine-country bistro, Savoy Bar & Grill is one of Albuquerque’s premier finedining establishments. Specializing in food and wine pairing, Savoy’s menu is a toast to the art of balance of food and wine.
SCARPAS BRICK OVEN PIZZA
$$
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 $$
119 San Pasquale Ave SW 999-8414, searedabq.com During the day, the space is Cheese & Coffee, but at night, it gets a makeover and becomes Seared, a fine dining establishment serving up steak, pork loin, and Atlantic Salmon among other things.
SEASONS ROTISSERIE AND GRILL $$$
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.
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BITES SERGIO’S LA DOLCE VITA
$
SHARK REEF CAFÉ
$
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.
modern cuisine. From the smoked salmon frittata to build-your-own bruschetta to mouthwatering Ahi tuna, their culinary flair will tantalize and delight from breakfast through dinner.
SLICE AND DICE PIZZERIA
$
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.
5720 McMahon Blvd, Suite B, 261-2058, sliceanddicepizzeria.com With both a sweeping library of board games and full menu of hot pies and subs, Slice and Dice is a venue for everyone from seasoned players to wideeyed beginners (or people just hungry for some pizza). They provide a space where you can gather with a few friends and take in the twin delights of pizza and board games.
SHARKY’S FISH & SHRIMP
SLICE PARLOR
$
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
$$
3310 Central Ave. SE, 265-9166 When your order of sushi comes around the bend on its floating wooden boat, you couldn’t be happier, whether you’ve ordered the “Super Crunch” (shrimp tempura roll), or the “TNT Roll” (fish, zucchini and onion, baked with spicy mayo and smothered on a California roll).
THE SHOP BREAKFAST & LUNCH
$
2933 Monte Vista Blvd. NE, 433-2795 Breakfast and lunch at The Shop guarantees a plethora of flavors and textures that are tough to find in the Duke City. Combining down-home Southern staples with Mexican and New Mexican traditions, you’re bound to discover a new appreciation for bacon and eggs.
SIAM CAFÉ
$$
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
$$
2400 12th St. NW 243-2230, sixtysixacres.com If you had to boil Sixty-Six Acres down to two words, they would be “casual” and “classy.” Featuring craft cocktails and a wealth of locally sourced, globallyinspired dishes, Sixty-Six Acres is the ideal spot to grab a relaxed, refined meal.
SLAPFISH $$
SOO BAK
SPINN’S BURGER & BEER
SQUEEZED JUICE BAR
$$
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STEVE’S ICE CREAM AND JAVA
$
STICKY RICE
$
323 Romero St. NW # 16, 242-8445 In addition to a dozen ice cream flavors and an array of sherbets, the ‘chill’ side of the menu boasts delightfully smooth malts and fountain drinks. For those looking for a good cup of Joe, Steve’s also delivers–offering a broad selection of coffees and a full set of espressos. 7600 Jefferson St. SE, Suite 5, 797-1288 Likely the only authentic Laotian sticky rice to be found anywhere in ABQ, this simple menu offers moist, slow roasted chicken and a few frills at prices you can’t beat with a chopstick. The family meal is a steal.
STRAIGHT UP PIZZA
$$
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.
$$
STEEL BENDER BREWYARD
SUSHI KING
$$
SUSHI XUAN
$$
$$
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.
STANDARD DINER
515 Slate Ave. NW, 243-2210, slatestreetcafe.com Slate Street Cafe is a sleek, contemporary eatery that combines big city ambience with inspired,
$
$
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.
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.
Various locations, squeezedjuicebars.com
SLATE STREET BILLIARDS
SLATE STREET CAFÉ
$
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.
ST. JAMES TEAROOM
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.
$
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.
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.
$
$
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.
STARR BROS. BREWING
$$$
320 Osuna Road NE, Suite D, 242-3752, stjamestearoom.com Albuquerque’s long-standing, go-to teahouse, this enveloping, intricately detailed, and authentically British tearoom provides old-fashioned conversation and honest service.
$$
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.
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. 417 Tramway Blvd NE #3, 200-2477, sushixuannm.com
You’ll find more than tasty sushi here. Diners dig into Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai dishes, too. Sushi Xuan has multiple shipments of fresh fish during the week, and only uses Japanese Kokoro rice, and organic veggies whenever possible.
SUSHIYA $$
2906 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, Suite D, 275-4777, nmsushiya.com This family-owned and operated restaurant strives to serve up sushi the way you’d find it on the southern California coast. A clean and comfortable atmosphere pairs well with friendly service and some of the thickest cuts of sashimi in the city.
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BITES SWISS ALPS BAKERY
$
TACO SAL
$
3000 San Pedro Drive NE, 881-3063, swissalpsbakery.com Desserts rule, but the sandwiches hit it out of the park. Endless flavors of pastries, tiramisu, and over a dozen cookies line the bakery case. Everything is scratch made including the many varieties of bread and authentic Bavarian style pretzels available on Saturdays. Paninis, grilled, and cold sandwiches round out the sweets with a full espresso bar. 9621 Menaul Blvd. NE, 298-2210 This family-owned and operated restaurant offers tasty, traditional New Mexican (burritos, chile rellenos, enchiladas, tacos, huevos rancheros and more) with its very own chunky salsa, made with real green chile.
TAJ MAHAL CUISINE OF INDIA
$$
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
$$
1606 Central Ave. SE 792-3221, talkingdrumsabq.com Talking Drums restaurant is serving up some unique African and Caribbean fair inspired by a form of communication expressed through specific drumbeats. Though most of the items are traditional, keep an eye out for some New Mexican flare.
TASTE OF INDIA
$$
1605 Juan Tabo Blvd NE 294-6342, tasteofindiaabq.com Family recipes modified for American tastes; Taste of India typically dials back the spice a bit. But it’s no misnomer to think of Taste of India as just what the name advertises: a taste of regional flavors, conveyed by people who grew up with them
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
$
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.
THAI KITCHEN
$
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, Siam Café. Thai Kitchen is his very own venture, featuring his takes on authentic dishes that taste “just like they do back home.”
THAI SPICE
$$
THAI TIP RESTAURANT
$$
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. 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.
THAI VEGAN
$$
Two locations, thaivegannm.com Utilizing local organic produce, you’ll get some of the healthiest food around, all without sacrificing taste. This non-vegan favorite has hearty offerings and a soy chicken that satisfies even the pickiest of meat eaters.
THEOBROMA CHOCOLATIER
$
12611 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 293-6545, theobromachocolatier.com More than 20 years of experience goes into every morsel of European–inspired chocolate and sweet treat at this 505 sweet-tooth savior. Streamlined and polished, Theobroma has the look of a franchise, but everything is hand-crafted and produced on-site.
THUNDER ROAD STEAKHOUSE AND CANTINA AT ROUTE 66 CASINO HOTEL
$$
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
$
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.
TIA B’S LA WAFFLERIA
$
TIA JUANITA’S
$
TINGLEY BEACH CAFÉ
$
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.
TOLTEC BREWING
$$
10250 Cottonwood Park NW 890-1455, toltecbrewing.com Culinary duties at Toltec fall to Executive Chef Emma Gibson, who brings her own sophisticated flare to the rich world of pub grub. Regardless of food cravings, be sure to pair your order with a brew. The Cactus Warrior is brewed with agave nectar for a smooth, easy to drink, endlessly approachable pint.
TOMASITA’S $$
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
$$
TROMBINO’S BISTRO ITALIANO
$$
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. 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.
TSAI’S CHINESE BISTRO
$$
TULLY’S ITALIAN DELI
$$
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 $$
905 36th Place SE, Rio Rancho, 994-9497, turtlemountainbrewing.com turtlemountainbrewing.com Known for its handcrafted ales and lagers, which are brewed on the premises, this is more than just a place to enjoy a few drinks. It’s also a great place to enjoy wood-fired pizzas and calzones in a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.
TWO BOYS DONUTS
$
6400 Holly Ave NE, Ste H 302-0102, twoboysdonuts.com Regularly stocking more than 30 flavors of donut, Two Boys has particular favorites—like their blueberry cake donut with maple icing and cinnamon sugar—and also brews up Villa Myriam coffee, giving you everything you need for a fullcourse wake-up.
1800 Tingley Drive SW, 248-8524, cabq.gov For runners and bikers along the Bosque Trail, or for the fishermen that frequent Tingley Beach lakes, the Tingley Beach Café is a well-kept secret for snack seekers, offering fare such as hamburgers, hot dogs, French fries, pickles, and more.
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BITES
Our non-essential clients kept their conversations going through social media during these past few months. Thanks for hanging through the tough times with us.
siarza.com 505.234.6900
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BITES TWO FOOLS TAVERN
$$
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
$
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.
URBAN HOTDOG COMPANY
$
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).
VERNON’S HIDDEN VALLEY STEAKHOUSE $$$
6855 4th St. NW, 341-0831, thehiddensteakhouse.com This unmarked restaurant requires a secret password to gain entrance. Once inside, you’ll discover a world of perfect steaks and gourmet seafood, paired with an unbeatable loungey atmosphere. Reservations are recommended.
VIC’S DAILY CAFÉ
$
VICK’S VITTLES COUNTRY KITCHEN
$
3600 Osuna Road NE, 341-9710, vicsdailycafe.com With a full range of breakfast items, New Mexican favorites, and comfort food, this is a one-stop shop for tasty options like breakfast burritos, meatloaf, and coconut cream pie.
VINTAGE 423
$$
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 goto location for good eats and happy hour—all year long.
WECK’S $$
Various locations, wecksinc.com For nearly 20 years, Weck’s has served up huge, tasty portions of breakfast and lunch. Examples: The Original comes with one pound of potatoes mixed with eggs, cheese, and chile; the “Scratch Made” Buttermilk Pancakes are more than seven inches wide.
WHICH WICH
$
Various locations, whichwich.com A national brand with local twists, list your favorites on the bag and await a sammie that edges the competition. The UNM location is a student mainstay.
WHOLE HOG CAFÉ
$
Two locations, wholehogcafenm.com Get award-winning Memphis-style barbecue in a family-friendly atmosphere. Can’t-miss items include the pulled pork, potato salad, and the homemade banana pudding.
YANNI’S MODERN MEDITERRANEAN $$
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.
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.
VIET TASTE
$
THE YELLER SUB
$
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. 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
$$$
3009 Central Ave. NE, 254-9462, zincabq.com Imaginative, gourmet cuisine (think: duck confit eggrolls, chicken skewer salad, and pine nut spanakopita) and an out-of-this-world wine list meets a friendly, laid-back atmosphere at this Nob Hill favorite. Reservations are recommended.
ZORBA’S FINE GREEK CUISINE
$
11225 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 323-2695, zorbasabq.com The family behind University area favorite, Olympia Café, have relocated their tasty homemade Greek food to the Northeast Heights. Try the Southwestern Gyros or the enduring customer favorite, the pork, chicken, or lamb kebob.
There' s There' food for all!! all
$
5721 Menaul Blvd. NE, 888-0101, pwbportal.us/viet-taste-abq With more than 100 menu options—noodle and rice dishes, eight varieties of Pho, coconut shakes, and many more—this restaurant is true to its name, offering a real taste of Vietnamese cuisine.
VIET PHO
YASMINE’S CAFÉ
$$
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.
wall to wall flatscreens bold burgers hand tossed pizzas ice cold beer at 33° 33°
VINAIGRETTE $$ 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 go-to 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.
4861 Pan American Freeway NE Albuquerque,, NM 87109 Albuquerque 505.. 344 505 344.. 7427
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Innovators
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The Albuquerque team that is leading the way in skin health and skin care.
Leslie Glass, MD
Barbara Einhorn, MD
Carol Purcell, PA-C
Marcia Starns, PA-C
Kelley Nelson, PA-C
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Our team of experienced, board-certified Dermatologists and Physician Assistants have been offering a wide array of medical dermatological treatments tailored to our desert environment for decades. From acne treatments to Mohs surgery to address skin cancer, our cutting-edge services are designed to address both the health and appearance of your skin.
Botox, laser hair removal, facials, fillers, peels, bodysculpting, and vein treatments are just a few of the services that our team of Registered Nurses and Aestheticians specialize in. Our skincare experts create custom treatment plans for each client depending on skin type and the best options to help them achieve their skin and body goals. Our practice prides itself on tailoring its services to enhance the health and appearance of our patients’ skin and bodies in a relaxing, comfortable spa environment. We hold our patient’s health and safety as our top priority and have instituted additional COVID-19 processes for treatments. Please visit our website for details.
Eastside - 505-855-5503
10151 Montgomery NE Bldg 1, Ste A Albuquerque, NM 87111
The Spa @WDC - 505-855-9267
10151 Montgomery NE Bldg 1, Ste A Albuquerque, NM 87111
Westside - 505-897-1313
4801 McMahon Blvd NW, Ste 270 Albuquerque, NM 87114
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Albuquerque, NM 87102 (505) 433-2766
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Home of tHe
Curbside pickup & outdoor seating at
ALL LOCATIONS
monster slice!
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Louisiana Plaza, 7200 Montgomery Blvd NE, ABQ. (505)312-8579
FEATURING new mexico’s premier wines & spirits Lunch | Light Bites At hotel chaco 2000 bellamah ave Nw 505.246.9989 | Hotelchaco.com
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Cakes • Cupcakes • Milkshakes • Sweets OP 5
WINNER
2720 Central Ave. SE, Suite D Albuquerque | 505-514-6775 Hours: Tues–Sat: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
W W W . Q C A K E S . C O M
DEFIANTLY DELICIOUS
Delivery & Catering Available
Fresh Handmade Donuts Daily!
Full Espresso Bar Featuring Locally Roasted Coffee! WEST SIDE 9311 Coors Blvd. NW, Suite QA Albuquerque, NM 87114 505.898.3090
The ‘Best Breakfast Burrito’ and Amazing chicken and ribs!
EAST SIDE 2435 Wyoming Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM 87112 505.293.0553
Hours: Monday-Sunday 7am-3pm daily
rebeldonut.com OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
10101 Central NE • 1830 Lomas NE 5231 Central NW • 3720 Juan Tabo NE
GOLDENPRIDEABQ.COM
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Bring
this Ad
in
to rece
20% O ive ff
Thank you for voting for us!
r g o b l in s eF ed yobuefore the big night. BUY 1 SWEET & GET 1 SWEET FREE
BUY 3 KOLACHES & GET 3 FREE
Of equal or lesser value.
Of equal or lesser value.
One coupon per customer. May not be duplicated or copied. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Valid curbside, please present coupon. Not valid for online ordering. Offer expires 10/31/20. ABQM-88
Excludes Specialty items such as Croissants and Polish Varieties. One coupon per customer. May not be duplicated or copied. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Valid curbside, please present coupon. Not valid for online ordering. Offer expires 10/31/20. ABQM-88
Paseo Village Shopping Center Paseo del Norte & Wyoming • Ste B3 505-856-3430 10660 UNSER BLVD NW, STE D, ABQ NM 87114
Hours: Mon. – Sat. 6AM – 2PM, Sun. 7AM – 2PM Franchises Available • Follow Us on
505.898.GLTZ (4589) • CHOCGLITZANDCREAM.COM
Order Online at KolacheFactoryToGo.com
STARRBROTHERSBREWING.COM @STARRBROTHERSBREWING
ARTFULLY CRAFTED BEERS & BITES
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Receive an instant gift from Kaktus Brewing Company to introduce our product. Also receive two coupons monthly there after. Some of the coupons include Complimentary beer tastings, free pizzas, desserts, and drink specials.
text ABQMAG to
505-968-6868
There is something here for everyone! Delivery
Curbside Pickup
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
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4410 Wyoming Blvd NE, ABQ
505-299-6973 TheAcreRestaurant.com
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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100%GRASS-FED BEEF
LVL 5
BURGERS FRIES SHAKES!
GMO-FREE SIGNATURE sunflower chipotle E E FR O OIL MAYO GMCraft Batch NM craft BUNS green soda chile
GLUTEN FREE & VEGAN options
TAKE OUT --- and--eatgrassburger.com DELIVERY 11225 MONTGOMERY BLVD NE | 5600 COORS BLVD NW
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in Hotel Chaco 2000 Bellamah Ave NW | 505 318 3998 hotelchaco.com
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An Albuquerque Tradition Since 1971 For Red & Green Chile, fresh Flour Tortillas & the Frontier Sweet Roll
Gift cards available 2400 Central SE | FRONTIERRESTAURANT.COM PATIO + FOOD TRUCKS
LEAVE THE COOKING TO US 125 Second Street NW Albuquerque, NM 87102 Phone: 505.388.0088
529 ADAMS ST. NE / 505.433.5591 / HIGHANDDRYBREWING.COM
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
DELIVERY: selflane.com doordash.com
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Join Us in the Pub or
enjoy at Home. Dine-in • Curbside • Pickup
Award winning Beers, Fantastic Fish & Chips.
1930 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, Ste. H Albuquerque, NM 87112 1100 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Ste. 50 Albuquerque, NM 87110 quartercelticbrewpub.com 505.717.2536 | 505.503.1387
experience NEW MEXICO’S FIRST FOOD HALL 1909 bellamah ave. NW, Albuquerque
SaWmillmarket.com
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It’s Prime time.
Albuquerque’s Only Authentic Irish Pub Enjoy the best Fish & Chips this side of the Pond, along with a perfectly poured Guinness or sample New Mexico’s most extensive Scotch Whiskey selection.
savoyabq.com • 505.294.WINE (9463)
FOOD SERVED DAILY 11 A.M.-11 P.M. FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS UNTIL 12 A.M. 3211 CENTRAL AVE. NE • 505.265.7447 • WWW.2FOOLSTAVERN.COM
MONTE CARLO STEAKHOUSE
& Liquor Store Firing up the grill on:
Mon-Fri 11am-10pm Saturday 11am-9pm Closed Sundays
Seared SINCE 2017
FREE Appetizer with 2 paid entrées!
Place Takeout orders at:
(505)836-9886 3916 Central Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105
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119 San Pasquale Ave SW, Albuquerque
505-999-8414 searedabq.com
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THOSE WHO KNOW... KNOW TO GO... TO GO TO MARIO’S
Safe Service & Quality Food!
VillagePizzaNM.com 4266 Corrales Rd. 505-898-0045 “One Of The Best Places To Eat In The Duke City”
3200 La Orilla Rd. 505-219-3766
Call today for Delivery!
BY: ALBUQUERQUE JOURNAL
BEST PIZZA • BEST GELATO • BEST PIZZA DELIVERY BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT SERVING ABQ SINCE 1972
DINE IN - CARRY OUT - DELIVERY - CATERING San Pedro & Uptown 883-4414 Juan Tabo & Menaul 294-8999 4th & Montaño 344-4700 Paseo & Wyoming 797-1800 O R D E R O N L I N E AT M A R I O S A B Q . C O M
now offering
Outdoor patio seating at both locations!
Thank you for supporting local businesses!
The BEER is Flowing & Our Patios are OPEN!
Thank you for voting Albuquerque!
WINNER
ORDER ONLINE | CASA-TACO.COM ALBUQUERQUE: 5801 ACADEMY RD NE & 111 COORS BLVD NW ELEPHANT BUTTE: 704 HWY 195
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Come Enjoy a full bar at our DWTN Pub featuring local spirits, delicious pub food along with our 14 beers & ciders! The Brewery Tasting Room 1001 Candelaria Road NE (505) 633-6675 Downtown Pub 509 Central Ave NW (505) 990-3029
reddoorbrewing.com WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
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Cinnamon Sugar & Spice Café BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DESSERT
Patio NOW OPEN for limited service! Still offering Curbside & Take Out! Call in, pay over the phone, call us when you’re outside, we bring it right to your car!
The Shops @ Mountain Run Mon.-Sat. 7am-3pm Sunday Brunch 8am-2pm (505) 492-2119
Nob Hill Open Every Day! 8am-3pm (505) 588-2860
cinnamoncafeabq.com OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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‘TIL YOU DROP P. 192 | THE PAWS BUTTON P. 198 | PASSENGER WINDOW P. 204 | 25 THINGS P. 208
FARM FRESH FUN The Farm Shop at Los Poblanos offers a wide variety of products made from lavender and other plants grown on the farm. Customers can find everything from books to hand sanitizer (p. 196).
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
OUT AND ABOUT: YOUR GUIDE TO SHOPPING IN THE DUKE CITY
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Look good Feel good
‘TIL YOU DROP
YOUR INSIDER’S GUIDE TO ABQ’S SHOPPING SCENE
Tips to be a better you...
X
I AM READY TO GET BACK OUT THERE AND START EXERCISING AGAIN. ARE THERE ANY SAFE, IN-PERSON FITNESS CLASSES THAT I CAN CHECK OUT? OUR E
RT E P
OU R
E
Q:
ll By Kelli Trapne
XP ER T
Bryan Pletta, Owner Stone Age Climbing Gym
Ashley Fathergill, Owner & Instructor YogaZo
A:
“For the last five years, YogaZo has been working on pushing the boundaries of how we view and offer yoga in ABQ, and we really try to take a social aspect to it. We have a traditional practice, but it’s in non-traditional locations. Our focus with YogaZo has really been that everyone’s invited. Everyone has a space with us. Our team of teachers is very well-versed and certified to teach all different levels. So when Electric Playhouse first opened up, I had reached out to them to see if they were interested—I wanted to do digitally interactive yoga, so when we move on the mat, things that are projected on the floor and the walls follow with us, based on heat. We started to come up with these themes around the yoga practice but also the [classical] elements, so like, fire and ice. So for instance, if you move your hand, a stream of fire will follow your hand. We sold out all of our events last year. When COVID happened, we had to adjust. So now what we’re doing is they’re also putting a projector to shoot down on the floor to have an outline of a mat space, so people will go and lay down their mats within that space to maintain social distancing. As far as I know, we are the only ones anywhere who are doing something like this.”
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A:
“I think the biggest fitness benefit of climbing is that it’s fun, and that it’s not a drudgery to go to the gym and do your workout. It encourages and creates a healthy lifestyle. We’re offering most everything that we would normally—we are at limited capacity, so we’re able to handle 25% of our occupancy load. There’s lots of social distancing built into the facility, so people can come in and climb. If they’ve never climbed before, we do have some classes that we’re offering. Right now, we’re doing a max of four students per class. So they’re small classes with individual instruction. We also have fitness areas with strength and cardio equipment at each gym. In addition to climbing, we’re also offering group fitness, yoga, and group exercise classes on our rooftop deck at our north location. Anybody who comes into the gym, if they’re a beginner who’s never climbed before, we’re going to give them our gym orientation, which includes instruction on how to use our auto-belays and the bouldering terrain, so that’s something available. It’s about a 15-20 minute class that gives you access to some of the basic parts of the gym.” WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
A:
T ER P X
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‘TIL YOU DROP
Jamie Martinez, Owner Bombshell Fitness
[
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Want to look good and feel good? Send us your questions, and we’ll ask the city’s experts, lookgoodfeelgood@abqthemag.com
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
“I started pole dancing after a break-up. I was bored at the gym, and I still had so much time to think while working out. It was just really not helpful to me, so I decided to try pole dancing. It was really hard, but in a good way! It was hard because you have to learn all of the hand grips and the terms and everything. So that’s really where it all started for me: I went to my first class and just fell in love. People think it’s all upper body strength, you have to be super tiny, and that’s so false. You could be a little curvier, you could be a man, you could be someone who’s never exercised in your whole life, and we all kind of start off the same in pole dancing. A lot of what we learn is a lot of dance, lots of leg workouts. We definitely do a lot of arms and pull-ups, but most of our students will start by learning how to grip the pole, transitions, and spins, and then they start getting into advanced tricks that require a lot more strength. It’s really fun to see all the different types of groups we get to work with. When COVID first happened, we went online, but now that we’re open, it’s awesome because we can finally have new people come in and try it in a safe way.”
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‘TIL YOU DROP
We Find It FOR YOU By Kelli Trapnell
QUESTION
ANSWER
The weather is getting cooler, but it’s also getting drier. My skin is a disaster. Are there any great beauty masks out there that can help me revitalize my skin?
You bet! Skincare products have come a long way in recent years. Here are just a few of the amazing products we found around the Duke City.
THE FULL TREATMENT
PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
If you’re looking for personalized skincare, Albuquerque native and skin expert Ayanna Freeman has you covered. Her plant-based, complexion-inclusive products are tried and true. Not only will her signature face mask formula, made with Indian clay, bentonite clay, matcha, noble grape skin, and aloe vera, help increase sebum production in your skin and promote cellular turn-over, the spa-quality kit it comes in practically guarantees a fun at-home self-care sesh. The kit itself comes with the wet mask and the dry mask, plus a cleanser, moisturizer, bowl, mask application brush, face pads, washcloth, and spa candle. Talk about treating yourself. Face Masking Kit, $95
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WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
‘TIL YOU DROP
THE MUD TREATMENT
PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
While the words “Dead Sea mud” might not immediately make you think “I should put this on my face,” one application of Lillie’s Dead Sea Mud from Lillie’s Handmade Soap in Old Town and you’ll be singing this face mask’s praises. So named for the genuine mud from the Dead Sea that’s used in its home-made formula, this mask works to remove impurities while improving your skin’s elasticity, thanks to the high level of salt in the Dead Sea mud (the Dead Sea is one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world with salinity measurements in excess of 33 percent). Trust us, once you rinse the dried mud mask off, your skin will shine like the sea. Lillie’s Dead Sea Mud, $24.99
THE LUSCIOUS TREATMENT LUSH may be known throughout the world as a beauty product standby, beloved in particular for its inventive bath bombs and its lip scrub. But the skincare giant also carries a vast assortment of face masks, all sold in little black pots and tailored to specifically combat particular skin woes, like the Cosmetic Warrior, which helps your skin recover from night after night of intense makeup. Or the Oatifix, which focuses on moisturizing your skin through the natural health benefits of oats. Our favorite is called Don’t Look at Me. Its bright turquoise formula not only makes for a fun, masked-up mirror selfie, but also feels right at home in the Land of Enchantment. Best of all, it helps boost the brightness of your skin, lending you a fresh and dewy look post-rinse off. Don’t Look at Me Mask, $13.99
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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Farm Shop at Los Poblanos 4803 Rio Grande Blvd NW 938-2192, farmshop.lospoblanos.com
T
he legacy of Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm is inextricably linked to the history of Albuquerque. Anyone who grew up here knows the name Los Poblanos, and many in the city (and from far flung locales across the globe) have celebrated momentous occasions at the farm, from birthdays to anniversaries to weddings and more. The land where Los Poblanos currently sits was inhabited by the Ancestral Pueblo people as far back as the 14th century. In 1716, nearly 400 years later, the land became part of the Elena Gallegos land grant, afterward falling into the hands of Ambrosio and Juan Cristobal Armijo for the next few centuries. Then, in 1930, congressman Albert Simms and his wife, Ruth Hanna McCormick Simms, pieced together the entirety of the original ranch
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Shop Talk
Far beyond lavender, the Farm Shop is now luxury chocolate, custom furniture, and more. land stretching all the way to the Sandias. They made what is now the historic inn their primary residence and ran several business endeavors off of the land. These including a working dairy and farm, which would in the next decade become the primary home of Creamland Dairy, whose milk you can still find at Smith’s and other grocery stores across the country today. The farmhouse renovation was part of the groundbreaking Works Progress Administration projects in the 1930s that helped the United States recover from the Great Depression. These days, the farm itself is involved in green initiatives and its focus on sustainability is helping move its operations forward into the next century and beyond. But what about the Los Poblanos Farm Shop itself? Surprisingly, the Farm Shop is a relatively new addition to the cultur-
al standby that is Los Poblanos. Started in 2009 by then store manager Steven Humphrey, the store had humble beginnings—in its first iteration, the Farm Shop was just a nice little closet stocked full of lavender salve, tucked away in the hotel’s restaurant. Now, the Farm Shop has taken over the whole space occupied by the old dairy—though it smells a lot better these days. “A lot of our new ideas that we’re tossing around are informed by what we’re growing on the farm,” said Marketing Manager Lauren Kemner. “Our farmers have such a slew of ideas just being out in the fields and harvesting things all the time and so as we continue to evolve the product line, it’s a team effort. It’s not just driven by what our customers are asking for or what we’re seeing in the markets, but it’s really driven by our team, top to bottom.”
WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
PHOTOS BY DON JAMES/ATM
‘TIL YOU DROP
This innovation helps set the Farm Shop apart, and helps them stay prepared for even the most unpredictable circumstances. Back in March, at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Farm Shop at Los Poblanos had already been developing a formula for their lavender hand sanitizer. As a result, they were able to roll out the sanitizer in April, right when the city needed it most. The Farm Shop is also very interested in carrying out the mission of Los Poblanos’ on-site restaurant, Campo, which is to showcase what the farm grows locally in as many ways as they can. “Our head farmer, Wes Brittenham, came to us about three years ago, and he has an incredible wealth of experience, and is very ambitious and has lots of great ideas,” said Bill Stimmel, the Farm Shop’s manager for the past four years. “A lot of what we do on the farm is with that Campo culinary model in mind. A lot of what they’re growing on the farm, beyond of course our core lavender plant, is in collaboration with our executive chef and is going to wind up on the menu in some way shape or form.” Some of the shop’s most tasty offerings are their selection of in-house baked goods, made by the Farm’s expert pastry chefs. “I don’t think people realize our amazing breads and sausages that we have here in the shop,” said Ramona. “I think people come in and are shocked to see these beautifully made baguettes and sourdough and green chile cheese bread. I don’t think they have any idea, and once they’re hooked, they’re hooked.” The Farm Shop also features the work of local artisans like high-end furniture maker Damian Velasquez, Talavera pottery artist Isabella Collins, and small companies like textile producers Kei & Molly and fine chocolatiers Eldora Chocolate. “The model became, okay, how do we become the best stewards for Albuquerque New Mexico and how do we go out and find you know these great artists throughout the metro and throughout the states and what makes sense as far as bringing them into the shop,” said Bill. “We’ve got about twenty-five artisans from around Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos, or elsewhere in the state that we support, and that’s really in a lot of ways the most exciting part of our model and growth.”—Kelli Trapnell
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
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THE
PAWS BUTTON
KEEPING TABS ON ABQ’S FURRY FRIENDS
DASH AT A DISTANCE
A
dd it to the list of things that coronavirus has taken from us. The Doggie Dash & Dawdle, New Mexico’s largest animal-related fundraising event, will not be happening live this year. Instead, Animal Humane New Mexico (AHNM), who hosts the event, will be putting on a series of virtual events from now until the big race day finale on November 1. “When it became obvious that we hadn’t even reached the peak of coronavirus, we thought, ‘No way. We have to pull [the Doggie Dash & Dawdle] and go to a virtual event,” says Karolyn Winge, marketing director for Animal Humane New Mexico. “Dash is our single largest fundraising event, so we really had to go and rethink, ‘what are we going to do here?’” The solution to not having a large live event is to have a large number of minievents leading up to Race Day. The goal for the Doggie Dash & Dawdle is to raise $188,000. At the time of print, AHNM had raised $108,000 through their minievents thus far. Race Day, which AHNM is calling “Doggie Dash & Dawdle From a Distance,” kicks off at 9 am. Participants can tune into the opening live stream and then take their furry friends out for a little dashing and dawdling around the city. Every participant will be sent a purple Doggie Dash & Dawdle 2020 t-shirt to wear during the virtual event. “We just want the city streets flooded with people in their purple shirts.” Head to animalhumanenm.org for more information.—TH
EVENT TIMELINE:
OCTOBER 3: Paws for Yoga Presented by YogaZo OCTOBER 11 – 17: ASPCA/Subaru Share the Love Adoption Special OCTOBER 17: Paws for Yoga Presented by YogaZo OCTOBER 19: Pet Costume Contest opens
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OCTOBER 31: Pet Costume Contest closes, Paws for Yoga Presented by YogaZo & 55 For 55 Challenge closes & 1965 Fillable Fundraising Card submissions due NOVEMBER 1: Day of Dash. Livestream Sunrise Stretch with YogaZo @ 9:00 am & encourage participants to actually go Dash or Dawdle. Prerecorded videos & engaging social media fun throughout the day.
DASH MINI-EVENTS: Pints for Pets Animal Humane New Mexico’s premier brewery partner, Red Door Brewing Company, will once again exclusively craft Left Paw Lager. This year, it’ll be available in canned 6-packs, with AHNM pets, some copy, logo & website URL on the labels AND on tap at all their local Taprooms. The 6-packs will be sold at their Taprooms. 55 FOR 55 ANNIVERSARY CHALLENGE In honor of AHNM’s 55th Anniversary, they are introducing a running/ walking/hiking/biking challenge for participants that will provide a new option for peer-to-peer fundraising. This challenge runs September 1 thru
October 31, the day before Virtual Race Day. Participants will ask for pledges from their family, friends, & co-workers to raise funds for every mile completed. Daily or overall mileage can be tracked in the RunKeeper app or based on their preferred method of tracking. 1965 FILLABLE FUN-RAISING CARD This activity is an alternate option for those who do not wish to participate in the 55 For 55 Anniversary Challenge. AHNM will provide a refillable fundraising card filled with boxes. Each box contains a small dollar amount that the participant then can fill by asking friends, family, and colleagues to make small contributions to their fundraising efforts. No individual box amount shall exceed $5 and the total of the card will be worth $100 if fully completed. Each box will contain cute phrases like, ‘$1 because I believe in Animal Humane’ or ‘I’ll donate the cost of a burrito: $4,’ etc. PET COSTUME CONTEST This traditional Dash activity will run from October 19 until October 31 and allow participants to submit one photo for each $10 entry. All submissions must be received on or
WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020
THE
PAWS BUTTON
REGISTRATION & PRICING: $10 Lazy Dog Virtual Dasher: Participant receives Thank You e-certificate & Digital Doggie Bag $20 Get A-long Little Doggie Virtual Dasher: Participant receives sponsor bandana & race bib $35 Raise the Woof Virtual Dasher: Participant receives t-shirt & race bib $50 Big Dog Strut Virtual Dasher: Participant receives t-shirt, bandana & race bib $150 Ulti-Mutt VIP Registration: Participant receives t-shirt, bandana, limited edition face mask, race bib, 1 free entry to pet costume contest, 1 free entry to drive-in movie & YogaZo All-Access Pass *All levels of registration come with thank you e-certificate & digital doggie bag with sponsor collateral.
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
COURTESY PHOTOS
before October 31. A live Facebook judging panel of American General Media radio personalities will judge the submissions on November 1.
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PET OF T H E MONTH
PET OF THE MONTH ATM readers’ furry, fuzzy, feathered, or scaly best friends. This month's winner: Pig
P
ig is not, in fact, a pig. You’d have to go all the way back to the Carboniferous period, over 300 million years ago, to find the last time she and a pig even shared an ancestor—and who, in time-is-money 21st century America, has time for a trip to the Carboniferous period? A barred tiger salamander, Pig earned her name through a reputation for indiscriminate gluttony. Like others of her kind, she does two things in life, and does them very well: sleep and eat. My wife (Becky) and I took Pig home just over four years ago. At the time, she was a young adult, barely four inches long (Pig, that is—my wife is at least 65 inches long). Since then, she’s more than doubled in length and easily quadrupled in weight. Barred tiger salamanders live just about everywhere west of the Mississippi, from southern Canada to northern Mexico. These critters look a little different everywhere you find them. Pig comes from a more northern population and her coloration reflects that, making her look distinct from the barred tigar salamanders that live in the Middle Rio Grande Valley. That adorable Kermit-the-Frog face in the photo belies a boundless voracity. This is a creature that gleefully gobbles up almost anything small enough to swallow. Thankfully, she’s only about eight and a half inches long, so Becky and I are able to live with her in relative peace. Being a salamander, Pig spends a big chunk of each year brumating in a burrow. Similar to hibernation in mammals, brumation is a state of lowered physiological activity in reptiles and amphibians. This allows them to survive in low temperatures without food for months, and that means that we don’t see Pig for long stretches during the winter. As one might expect, when Pig finally claws her way out of the dirt each spring, she’s insatiable. Most salamanders can’t hear soundwaves passing through air very well, lacking as they do middle and external ears. But Pig can clearly detect vibrations. The moment my wife or I start shuffling around the room near her tank, Pig appears at the glass, hoping we’ll toss her a cricket or a worm. Fortunately for her, we’re often happy to oblige. —ZB
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.
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| OCTOBER 2020
PIECE OF T H E PAST
A TREE GROWS IN ROOSEVELT Arguably the city’s most picturesque park, the towering trees and rolling grass here have history that begins with the namesake’s New Deal.
a small playground. The original driving path around the park is now largely blocked off, and the stone retaining wall (also built with New Deal-era funding) has been repaired and revamped. But other than those things, Roosevelt Park remains mostly unchanged since it was first built over a dry, garbage-filled arroyo during the Great Depression. As a result of its living history, Roosevelt is an Albuquerque Historic Landmark and, in 1996,
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
it was listed on both the New Mexico and National Cultural Registers as part of a multiple property submission that documents the New Deal in New Mexico. Roosevelt Park is one of Albuquerque’s most iconic and important sites. But, at the end of the day, it’s really just a nice place to relax under a tall tree and listen to some hippies bang on drums.
PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
W
ell known for its towering trees, frisbee golf course, and frequent drum circles, Roosevelt Park is the crown jewel of the Albuquerque parks system. The park itself is surrounded by a two-thirds-of-a-mile walking path that includes an elevation variation of 50 feet from its high point to its low point. And though the park is large (by neighborhood park standards), its makeup and layout make it seem more expansive than its 14 acres, and lend to the illusion that there is always something more to discover at this beloved University-area park. Roosevelt Park includes plenty of attractions—from the full frisbee golf course to Tasty Tuesday (when the park is packed with Albuquerque’s best food trucks) to the multiple picnic areas. It also comes with a deep and rich history—it was built using New Deal money, hence its namesake, President Franklin D. Roosevelt. But perhaps it’s most famous characteristic, one that fits snuggly into both the park’s “attractions” and “history” categories, is the massive grove of trees that shade the area. The 14-acre park was first built in 1935 and included over 2,250 trees and shrubs, many of which are still part of the park’s greenery today. Though the main canopy consists of mature Siberian elms, the park also includes juniper, blue spruce, and catalpa trees. The mature trees create a comfortable park with plenty of shade for hot summer days. Unfortunately, after 85 years, many of the most mature trees are reaching the end of their life cycles and becoming hazards. In 2019, under the leadership of Mayor Tim Keller, the City Forester, Joran Viers, began a 10-year project to restore Albuquerque’s diminishing city canopy. He began his plan of planting 100,000 trees over the next decade by planting a handful of new trees at Roosevelt Park. The park also had a renovation done in 2005, under then-Mayor Martin Chavez, which included picnic amenities and
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ROADRUNNER HITS THE GAS As a form of therapy, painter Madeline Mackenzie ramped up her usual small-scale painting to create a full-sized mural on Edith Blvd.
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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
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t’s not unusual for art to have a therapeutic effect on those gifted enough to create it. That proved especially true for Albuquerque-based painter Madeline Mackenzie this past spring, when she was laid off from her job as a production designer with the Weekly Alibi during the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. To fill the void, Mackenzie did what any self-respecting creative would do: she found an empty wall to paint. Normally, Mackenzie’s specialty is smaller-scale paintings where attention to detail trumps the ability to cover large amounts of space in a relatively short period of time. But when the opportunity to paint an abandoned gas station on the corner of Edith and Coal arose, Mackenzie decided she was ready to go big. “It really gave a purpose to weeks of purposelessness,” Mackenzie says. “It helped me structure my days. I had a really, really awesome time.” The project began in early April and ended approximately a month-and-ahalf later. Mackenzie showed up early in the morning and painted through the afternoon until she was too tired to keep working. Sometimes, work would resume in the evenings. “I had to consider whether it was even appropriate to do a project like this at that time,” she says. “I kind of realized and figured out that I could do it safely. It was really strange. The world was just dead. There was no one out. I would get up in the mornings and go paint this wall and try and have some semblance of a schedule and a commitment. It was a super bizarre time.” Though many people chose to remain indoors during the early days of the pandemic, Mackenzie still enjoyed some positive interactions with the neighborhood. “People don’t have anything else to do, so you’re going to take the dog out around the block for a couple times,” Mackenzie says. “I definitely kind of got to know a couple people that live in the surrounding area. They would come by and check
in and see how the progress was going. I got to meet so many dogs. It was incredible. Everyone was really sweet, supportive and curious. We kept a good distance. It was cool.” As a rookie large-scale muralist, Mackenzie ran into some difficulties along the
way—but nothing she couldn’t overcome. Early on, she struggled selecting the proper paint and brushes for the task, and she also eventually elected to ditch a “clunky” scaffolding setup in favor of a more efficient ladder. “I was expecting to finish it in maybe
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three weeks, but I think it took me a solid month and a half to get it exactly how I wanted it,” Mackenzie says. “There were so many times I was up on this ladder and I was like, ‘I have no idea how to paint a wall this big.’ There was a huge learning curve and a lot of trial and error.” The wall itself presented its own set of challenges. “I didn’t really know how to tackle it at first. I just broke it up into different fields of color and did these separate little frames for each weird chunk of the wall,” she says. “That kind of helped, breaking it up. It was a weird shape to go up against.” One wouldn’t be able to guess that Mackenzie was a large-mural novice upon viewing the final product. The painting is a striking blend of colors and shapes that showcase Mackenzie’s creative talents while simultaneously capturing the essence of summertime in the Duke City. “I think the challenge with murals is making something that appeals to every-
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body. I just wanted to take some really simple imagery from Albuquerque and what it feels like to be here in the summer,” Mackenzie says. “There’s like sunflowers coming up everywhere, and you go down to the river. I wanted to channel that. “I really wanted to make this an exercise for myself in color and form — and how I could use those and simplify them and make something that would elicit this gut reaction to seeing these things arranged this way.” As the mural took form, reactions from the neighborhood gradually transformed from confused curiosity to excitement. Mackenzie herself was also pleased with how everything turned out. “Typically I’m a really detail oriented painter and I like to spend a lot of time with my work,” she says. “That’s really easy when you’re working at a smaller scale. When you’re working with a 20foot high wall, you kind of have to figure
OCTOBER 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE
out how to get that level of detail but still get the project done.” Fast forward to the present day, and Mackenzie has regained her gig with the Weekly Alibi. She’s also gained a newfound appreciation for painting big walls, something that has carried over from her quarantine project. Mackenzie began a new piece in conjunction with Mural Love in September, and she has designs on doing more down the road. And to think that the catalyst for it all was an old gas station wall in need of a touch-up. “I had six weeks of just being in this really strange state where I wasn’t super confident about this project and I wasn’t sure how it was going to turn out,” she says. “Now when I’m driving up Coal I see it and I’m like, ‘Oh yeah, that was a really weird couple of weeks where I just manically painted this large wall.’” —TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD
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12. I earned a varsity letter
at Eldorado High School. For orchestra.
13. I was also an algebra, trigonometry, and calculus tutor in high school.
14.
Stacy Sacco
Lecturer, UNM Anderson School of Management Director, UNM Small Business Institute CEO, Sacco Communications In his best-selling book, The Tipping Point, author Malcolm Gladwell opines that the success of a society is made possible in part by “connectors,” or people “with a special gift for bringing the world together.” In Albuquerque, Stacy Sacco the ultimate connector. A UNM professor, Sacco has long been the bridge between business students and working professionals. Rarely do his evenings not involve networking events or business get-togethers, and his lunch calendar has a waiting list of sometimes 20 people or more. The best part? Sacco, who grew up in ABQ, does it solely for the satisfaction of helping others. “I love New Mexico and all of my chile-loving fellow citizens of this great place,” he says. “I just want to do what I can to make a positive difference in our community.” He even publishes a free website that connects employers to job-seekers. And on those rare nights when he’s not networking, he and his wife Dorothy can often be found twirling on local dance floors to Latin music. —ALAN FLETCHER
1. My first small business was making macramé plant hangers at Albuquerque’s Jackson Middle School (we called it Junior High back then). 2. For two years I was part of Up With People, and lived with 136 host families around the world.
3. I entered a dance contest
in 1978 to a song from Saturday Night Fever—and we won.
7.
I played cello and stand-up bass for 15 years, including gigs at the KiMO Theater and Popejoy Hall.
8. I wear a lapel pin from the Apollo 17 mission given to me by American astronaut Eugene Cernan (the last man on the moon). 9. On my first business trip to
18. On our honey-
moon, we rafted the Grand Canyon.
19. I publish a free website
(www.nmnetlinks.com) for 4,500 subscribers.
21. For Christmas, I once
6. I earned an MBA from
11. In California, I co-founded the Orange County Chapter of the American Marketing Association.
22. I have more than 6,000 followers on LinkedIn.
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The Magazine’s premiere party in 2004. I’ve been a paid subscriber ever since.
17. On our first date, I took my w i f e , Dorothy, to dinner at La Crepe Michel in Old Town. One year later, I proposed to her in front of the restaurant.
10. My first car was a ‘68
Pepperdine University in Malibu.
25. I attended Albuquerque
16. I love dancing, especially Latin dancing. I can dance bachata, cumbia, merengue, rueda, and salsa.
5. I give 20-30 public speech-
Chevy Impala.
Toastmasters public-speaking clubs.
America’s national slogan contest in 1991 with my entry, “Cars That Make Sense.”
4. I auditioned to be one
es every year.
24. I helped found two
15. I won Hyundai Motor
New York, I was in the same elevator as the poet Maya Angelou. We chatted for 50 floors.
of the chipmunks (Chip or Dale) at Disneyworld.
I quit “reading” books about 20 years ago and now only “listen” to audiobooks.
20. I scaled El Castillo, a Mayan pyramid in Mexico, on an archeological tour.
crocheted scarfs as gifts for my family.
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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM
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I met Russian President Boris Yeltsin at a hotel in Korea. His KGB security wrestled me to the ground when I walked toward him.
23.