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SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

FEATURE

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SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

DEPARTMENTS 20 Publisher’s Note 23 Tapas

P. 24

P. 138

A partnership that will stand the test of time—like fine wine; a peek at ABQ’s 311 app; an anthology honors 9/11; gaming is better together; plus, an ode to coffee.

34 Faces and Places 59 Datebook

129 People

130 Albuquerque the Interview As the CEO of Ronald McDonald House of New Mexico, Jessica Wright does incredible things for our community, but she’s equally as impactful in her personal life.

134 Personality

Michael Anthony “MG” Giudicissi and Jerome Romero take over TikTok as “The New Mexico Pizza Guys,” but their individual stories are just as binge-worthy.

P.59

138 Behind the Scenes

The Downtown 2050 initiative has already started beautifying Downtown ABQ—and there’s a lot more to come.

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DEPARTMENTS

P. 158 P. 146 145 Culture 146 Creatives

P. 164

Artist Eri Yost gives kimonos a second life.

148 Storytellers

Cornerpost: One Unforgettable Year by Shane Urioste and Monique Swafford; Ever Orlando Salaiz Acuna takes over social media; plus, Richard Hobson hosts the Garden Talk podcast.

150 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.

157 Dish

P. 163

158 Eats Review

Wolf ‘n’ Swallow serves upscale favorites, like deviled eggs and caviar—but with a twist.

162 Eats, Etc.

Sal’s Ristorante and Pizzeria dishes up scratch-made Italian fare; plus, Lobo Taco is known for their birria, but don’t snooze on their other offerings.

164 Spirit Spotlight

The Deluxe Espresso Martini at Joe’s Pasta House will have you buzzing from a heavy pour of espresso—and booze.

166 A Recipe for Success

Community Outreach Director for the Better Business Bureau Austin Calabaza shares a recipe that feels like home.

168 Bites

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

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SEPTEMBER 2026 Volume 23 Number 5 PUBLISHING DIRECTOR

Lise Watkins lise@abqthemag.com PHOTO DIRECTOR

Don James don@abqthemag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Emily Klumpenhower emily@abqthemag.com Suzanna Hoenicke-Martin suzanna@abqthemag.com DATEBOOK EDITOR

Samantha Daitz samantha@abqthemag.com CONTRIBUTORS

Mel Minter Tristen Critchfield Daniel Larlham Jr. Sunny Smith Darren White

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.

DEPARTMENTS 209 Fun

210 Can’t Live Without

P. 214

Jennifer James, Market President and Publisher of Albuquerque Business First, shares a few things that she can’t live without.

212 Local Stuff We Love

Your touchstone for ABQ’s cool, fun, and eclectic retail goodies that will help you live life a bit happier and smarter.

214 Shop Talk

Twin Suns Comic Book and Game Center is working to fill a gap in the ABQ market.

216 Paws Button

Rescue Walkin N Circles rehabilitates our hoofed friends.

218 Amazing Pets

This month’s winners: Saachi Rose the Dog, General Smithy the Cat, and Mazie Lou the Dog.

220 Passenger Window

Summer Solstice, a steel sculpture on the IPCC campus, has profound meaning behind its simple design.

223 Photo Contest

This month’s winner: Tia’s House by George Evans.

224 A Few Things

Fast and fun facts you might not know about the I-25 Improved Project.

Special Advertising Sections 53 Dental Pros

Meet the dental professionals behind Albuquerque’s healthiest smiles. Discover their specialties, philosophies, advanced services, and personal approach to keeping our community smiling confidently.

124 Coffee Tour

Keep the buzz going! Discover local coffee shops, roasters, and businesses serving up bold flavors, fresh finds, and plenty of perks.

153 Senior Living

Explore senior living options designed for comfort, connection, and independence, featuring local communities, trusted resources, and services helping older adults live their very best lives.

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SEPTEMBER 2026 Volume 23 Number 5 PUBLISHER

Larryl Lynch larryl@abqthemag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Gena Goodson gena@abqthemag.com ASSISTANT EDITOR

Saleema Ishq saleema@abqthemag.com SALES DIRECTOR

Philip Kjelland philip@abqthemag.com ADVERTISING MANAGER

Megan Life megan@abqthemag.com

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Jake Handler jake@abqthemag.com

Gabe Candelaria gabe@abqthemag.com FACES AND PLACES

Ariana Lopez ariana@abqthemag.com BUSINESS OFFICE

Windy Rivera business@abqthemag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Scott Davis (1966–2004)

SUBSCRIBE!

Annual subscriptions to Albuquerque The Magazine are $19 for 11 issues. You may subscribe directly from our website. Send check or money order to:

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

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

eginning the day with a cup of coffee in hand is a favorite pastime on our planet (studies show more than 2 billion cups of joe—yowza!—are consumed daily). But in ABQ, I like to think it hits with a little more gusto. Maybe it’s the way morning light peaks over the Sandias at sunrise (and if you commute east from the city’s westside at a certain hour, you get two sunrises — IYKYK). Or perhaps it’s the steady hum of conversation inside our neighborhood cafés, in English, or Spanish, or perhaps in one of the dozens if not hundreds of Native American and global languages spoken in our city. It might be the familiar comfort of seeing locally-made art, pottery, jewelry, snacks, or other fare sold in java shops around the city—a city that’s home to a huge population of next-level artists and creatives. So, to give you a proper picture of the metro area’s coffee shops, we decided to throw a little spotlight on them—all 75 of them, in fact. Beginning on page 92, our round-up breaks down a neighborhood-by-neighborhood list of the spots that help shape the rhythm of our city—from longtime roasters and cozy study corners, to bright Downtown cafés and Nob Hill gathering spots. You’ll also get a peak at each spot’s specialty (in-house roasting, cold brews, pastries, etc.) and delve into the flavors that reflect the creativity and independence of our city. Whether you’re loyal to your usual order or ready to discover a new favorite, we hope this month’s feature encourages you to slow down, sip thoughtfully, and celebrate ABQ’s bean scene. Speaking of celebration, check out Darren White’s fun essay on coffee in the Tapas section. We decided to call it a ‘love letter,’ as it’s dripping with equal parts reverence and sweetness for our favorite caffeinated beverage—and the spots dedicated to serving it.

And don’t forget to read about Jessica Wright, the CEO of Ronald McDonald House of New Mexico, who has overcome immense obstacles from early in her life to become a beacon of hope for those in need—including her own adopted sons. Her tale of inspiration is the focus of our ABQ The Interview on page 130. Also in this issue, get the scoop on the city’s favorite pizza reviewers, the “New Mexico Pizza Guys.” The pair of retirees found a way to playfully flip the script created by young, hip influencers by shooting one-take, no frills, into-the-camera TikTok reviews of pizza spots around the city. (The best part: they chew and review at the same time—literally.) Michael Anthony (“MG”) Giudicissi and Jerome (“Jerome”) Romero have built a sizeable social media following with adorable candor and integrity (they insist on paying for any pizza they review—how many ‘influencers’ can say that?). Find out their backstories, along with what they think makes or breaks a good pizza pie, on page 134. We hope you enjoy this issue of ATM. We’re already working on the next one for you!

Sincerely,

Larryl Lynch Publisher

CORRECTIONS In our previous issue, we displayed incorrect images in our Tiempo music column. Here are the proper photos that should have accompanied columnist Mel Minter’s coverage of singer/ songwriter, producer, recording engineer, and multi-instrumentalist RonCrowder (left), and singer/songwriter Micah Thunder (right). We sincerely regret the errors.

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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

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

Partners in Wine

A vine-to-bottle partnership has formed between the Pueblo of Santa Ana and Lescombes Family Vineyards, as the Pueblo’s 26-acre Tamaya Vineyards will produce premium grapes for New Mexico’s largest winemaker (p. 24).

TAPAS

A New Mexican Partnership The Pueblo of Santa Ana’s Tamaya Vineyard will soon harvest their grapes for D.H. Lescombes wine. In June, D.H. Lescombes Family Vinyards and the Pueblo of Santa Ana signed into a partnership for the cultivation of premium wine grapes. Grapes on the pueblo’s Tamaya Vineyard from this upcoming harvest will be used in D.H. Lescombes’ wines, available as early as this upcoming spring. “The hope is that once we get those grapes in, we’ll use them for shortages and different things that we have on our end

to increase our production,” says D.H. Lescombes Sales & Marketing Director Randi Morrow. Morrow added that the grape varietals used in pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay have would have an easier time growing in the higher elevations of the pueblo than they would on D.H. Lescombes own 180-acre vineyard.

Santa Ana Pueblo Governor Myron Armijo and Lescombes Family Vineyards President Florent Lescombes sign the partnership agreement.

The 26-acre Tamaya Vineyard began harvesting grapes in 2014, and, according to Director of Santa Ana Agricultural Enterprise Ryan Garcia, produces between 60 and 90 tons of grapes per season. The vineyard had been previously partnered with Gruet Winery. “What’s different is, before we got with Lescombes, everything was harvested for sparkling wine. At least 95% of it was harvested for sparkling wine,” said Garcia. For Lescombes’ needs, he added, grapes will be harvested later in the season to produce a less acidic, larger and sweeter grapes. Beyond just the grapes, both Garcia and D.H. Lescombes’ Creative Content Manager Daniel Gonzales said that a wine under the Tamaya Vineyards label could be in the near future. “We really pride ourselves on being New Mexico true,” said Morrow. “Making sure we are New Mexican grown, New Mexican produced. So really, the stars aligned in that (Tamaya Vineyard) are the same, right?”—DANIEL LARLHAM JR.

The 411 on the 311 App What to know about Albuquerque’s app for non-emergency services Did you know that Albuquerque 311, the city’s non-emergency service line, has its own app? It’s been around for at least as long as Carrie Prothero, 311 Community Contact, has worked at the city service (9 years), works exactly the same as calling the number directly and is available for Android and IOS devices. “It’s really easy to download and utilize. There’s lots of different issues that you can report via the app,” Prothero said. “One of the more convenient things about it is it allows you to attach photographs, if you want to take a photo of what you’re seeing that you want to report.” Prothero added that reports through the phone aren’t prioritized over reports made through the app or over the website—

only by the order that they’re received. Non-emergency incidents like waste on the sidewalk, off-leash dogs or missed trash pick-up can all be reported through the app. Questions like what time the Los Altos pool opens or who to contact about raising your back block wall can also be answered there. When opening the app, a list of frequently used categories will appear. If you’re unsure of what category your report pertains to, you can hit the “report an issue” button where a contact center supervisor will route the report on your behalf. “We really try to be available to the public in multiple ways,” says Prothero. “I would say that the app and the online reporting are popular, but by far the most popular is the phone call.” –DANIEL LARLHAM JR.

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SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

TAPAS

Remembers 9/11 Albuquerque

Twenty-five years later, the Albuquerque writers behind the New Mexico Remembers 9/11 anthology are looking back at the words they wrote about that day.

Even though the 9/11 attacks happened thousands of miles from Albuquerque, their impact was still felt right here at home. “Yes, we weren’t physically attacked, but we were emotionally attacked,” says anthology curator and editor Patricia Walkow. That thought stuck with her and inspired New Mexico Remembers 9/11—a collection of prose and poetry about how the attacks affected the people living in New Mexico. When Walkow opened the project to writers across the state, she says she really didn’t have to go looking for stories. Most contributors told

her they’d wanted to write about the day for years. Twenty-five years since the attacks, some of them are reading their pieces again—many for the first time in years. “I got goosebumps a couple of times as I read it,” says Loretta Hall. “Reading the piece was a way of reliving the experience.” Dan Wetmore mentions that some of “the rawness and fervency has subsided a bit. With time, it’s starting to take on the patina of history.” Brenda Cole wrote about the effect the attacks had on her then-6-yearold son—something she can still see in him today. “I wanted to cast a light on how one incident, such as a terrorist attack, can have subtle and lifelong consequences for someone even if they barely remember the actual event.” And Corrales-based poet Janet Ruth, who contributed Counting Backward Toward Before, says there’s value in simply putting those thoughts on paper. “Writing in general (prose or poetry) is a way to affect healing. Also, to make our voices heard.” That’s especially important now that there’s an entire generation with no memory of the

event. “So many things changed after that day,” says Geoff Habiger of Artemesia Publishing, who published the anthology. “We can better understand where we are today by remembering that day, and this anthology makes those remembrances accessible.” New Mexico Remembers 9/11 was originally released during the pandemic, which meant they relied on Zoom events to promote the book, making it a challenge to get it in the hands of readers. For the 25th anniversary, Walkow is hoping to finally give the collection the attention she believes it always deserved.” —SI

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Caffeine Roundup

Ever wonder what fuels the creative humans powering ABQ The Mag every month? Our staff share their coveted coffee orders.

“I take my coffee strong with cream and vanilla syrup after my morning probiotic supplement and some kefir.” —Suzanna Hoenicke-Martin Graphic Designer

“I drink my coffee black, unless it’s St. Patrick’s Day—then it’s an Irish coffee.” —Philip A Kjelland Sales Director

TAPAS

New Game Plus encourages Burqueños to log off at home and show up in person to play video games. Sure, you can play video games from your couch with just about anyone anywhere in the world, but the folks at New Game Plus believe there’s something more powerful about doing it side by side. “It humanizes the experience,” says Jonathon Sakura, owner of New Game Plus. Online, another player can feel like just another username on a screen, but “there’s a safe intimacy in being in person,” he shares. New Game Plus welcomed its first players in October 2020 and still offers everything from retro favorites to new releases, but more than the gaming is their mission to create a space where every gamer feels confident pulling up a chair. That includes neurodivergent players who appreciate the café’s low-sensory environment, members of Albuquerque’s LGBTQIA+

community, and plenty of self-described introverts. “The gaming community is a massive spectrum of people, a lot of whom are very introverted,” Sakura says. “When they find a place that they feel they can come in and open up a little bit, making sure they still feel comfortable being there—as opposed to only at home—is a priority.” Just step into the back room, where it feels like you’ve time-traveled to your childhood basement. There’s the floral-patterned couch every single millennial remembers (and probably spilled their Yoo-hoo or Surge all over), vintage posters on the walls, and shelves filled with fun throwbacks like Pogs. Sakura believes the nostalgic elements add to the sense of warmth and comfort of the shop. New Game Plus also gives players an inexpensive way to try something new. With new video games costing upwards of $70, Sakura encourages gamers to test them at New Game Plus first. “Come here, try it out for $5 for an hour, see what you think,” he says. “If you like it, grab your own copy next door, and if you don’t like it, you saved yourself $65.” A handful of other Albuquerque businesses are also working to bring gamers

together. Empire Board Game Library, Slice and Dice Pizzeria, and Ettin Games offer opportunities to gather for tabletop games. Mobile video game units are even rolling through ABQ as a community gaming option. Albuquerque Rolling Video Games will pop up at your event or birthday party in their trailer equipped with four high-definition TVs and space for up to 16 players. Game lovers throughout the state can even connect at MañanaCon—New Mexico’s only tabletop gaming convention. This four-day event was founded in 2019 by Tara King and Paul Schulzentenberg as a way to provide a friendly, inclusive place to game in Albuquerque. “This year’s event will feature a live auction of board games, a night market of local makers, Designer Mesa (where folks can playtest games from local designers), a free board game for every attendee, and lots more fun,” King adds. The 2026 event will take place October 21–25 at the Marriott Uptown. —SI

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(caffeine round-up continued)

“Mocha anything for me.” —Gabe Candelaria Advertising Executive

“I have an iced coffee with milk every day. If I go out, though, I get a latte—usually at Rust Is Gold.” —Emily Klumpenhower Graphic Designer

“I like my coffee to taste more like a candy bar than a bean.” —Gena Goodson Associate Publisher

TAPAS

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Caffeine Roundup (continued)

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

“My current hyper-fixation drink is an espresso tonic. Each coffee shop puts their own unique spin on them, so I must order it whenever I see one on the menu.” —Saleema Ishq Assistant Editor

“I take my coffee at home in the morning with my husband. It’s the best way to connect before our days get hectic.” —Lise Watkins Publishing Director

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

TAPAS

Take a Breath

With back-to-school season upon us, a few intentional breaths can give students, parents, teachers, and just about anyone a moment of calm amid the chaos. Back-to-school season can feel like the beginning of the year for many. It’s packed with plenty of excitement, but between the early mornings and never-ending todo lists, it can bring with it just as much stress. Before you let it get to you, Somatic Breathwork Coach Rebecca Schlosser suggests that you take a beat to simply breathe.

“When we start to breathe, we’re telling our nervous system that we’re safe— that everything is OK,” Schlosser says. “It brings us into our bodies. It grounds us.” Despite what you might be picturing, you don’t actually need a yoga mat or a dark, silent room to get the benefits of breathwork. In fact, Schlosser says three minutes can be enough to “considerably relax the mind,” and it can be done from anywhere. See the instructions below for a complete how-to. If you’re a parent or teacher prepping for especially busy mornings, Schlosser suggests trying the practice before the day gets going. She often does it before she even gets out of bed. “We wake up and the list comes into our head,” she explains. “But after the breathing, we can approach our day and clearly assess, ‘OK,

what do I really have to do?’ It helps reduce all the things that we’re thinking about or stressing about when we first wake up.” But mornings aren’t the only time you might need to take a breather. Try it in the pickup line before the kids jump into the car, before walking into a classroom full of students, while studying for a test, or anytime you can feel the stress start to creep in. Schlosser reminds us, “Your body carries a tremendous amount of wisdom, and your breath is one of the simplest ways to begin listening.”—SI

Schlosser recommends starting with one of the simplest techniques— circular breathing. To practice this pattern, place one hand on your belly and the other on your chest.

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Inhale through your nose, allowing your belly to expand. Let the breath move into your chest. Finally, slowly exhale through your mouth. Repeat this pattern as many times as you need, imagining the breath moving in a circle. WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

FACES&PLACES

2nd Annual Youth Soccer Tennis Tournament Bosque School

The 2nd Annual Soccer Tennis Tournament, held on June 6, brought together players, families, and supporters for a full day of competition and community. This tournament served as a fundraiser for youth soccer scholarships around New Mexico. By blending competitive play with development-focused challenges, this tournament connected the community while benefiting a great cause.

2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Devon Baird, Lachlan Baird, Fletcher Etlantus, Devin McIntosh, Emmalyn McBrayer Axton Davis, Kian Hines, Desiree Davis Sebastian Steinbach, Soukuma Nakigan, Chad Hines Amelia Bierle, Madison Garcia Deanne Schufft, Charlie Kaiser, Kim Baird Ian Dodge, Kirk Freidrich Alandren Etlantus, Desiree McBrayer, Laura Castillo

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FACES&PLACES

Isleta New Mexico Bowl Golf Outing

The Canyon Club at Four Hills

The Isleta New Mexico Bowl Annual Golf Outing, held on June 22, brought golfers together for a day of friendly competition, community, and support for the New Mexico Bowl. The annual event helped bring together sponsors, supporters, and football fans ahead of the bowl season.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Chris Baca, Ray Lucero, John Teisher Ryan Danoff, Chris Saucedo Piper Le Jeune, Tania Armenta Mike Howell, Greg Griegos Adrian Chavez, Chrissy Baines Mark Cordova, Jaime Barrera Maria Rainsdon, Austin Leard

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FACES&PLACES

Recycled Arts

The Gallery ABQ

The Recycled Arts event, held on June 5, brought together local artists and art lovers to celebrate creativity. Unique artwork was shown—all made from recycled, repurposed materials—which highlighted how everyday objects can be transformed into something meaningful. Attendees enjoyed beverages, food, and art.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Linda Weiss, Gail Ranshaw Michelle D’Amour, Alison Thomas Lisa Zawadzki, Cynthy Sax Kenny Chavez, Jill Cooper Karen Mogen, John Bumkens Carla Forrest, Marcos Reyna Russ Bessette, Pat Cream

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FACES&PLACES

The Rio Retro Run Alameda Open Space

The Rio Retro Run was held on June 20 and brought a fun, nostalgic twist to the community. This event supported the Veterans in Business Group of the Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce to raise funds for military veterans. Runners were brought together for a festive morning of fitness, community, and retro-inspired fun.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Miles Tafoya, Jessica Sanchez, Marcus Ortega April Castillo, Nicole Midgett Jordan Henderson, Amanda Antonio Maridon Leh, Nancy Scollon Jared Cardenas, Rumi Karagogova Ava McDermott, Diane Villegas Miguel Pacheco, Briana Atencio

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FACES&PLACES

Summer Fashion Show

Park Square Market

The Summer Fashion Show, one of the biggest events of the summer, was held on June 27, showcased style and creativity. This event had lively runway presentations featuring local designers and talent. Attendees enjoyed an evening of entertainment with a creative community vibe.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Ian Black, Cory Gilliam Yazmean La Patrona, Silent Zamarron Estrella Maestas, Christian Maestas Brennan Cooper, Rip Williams Arielle Angel, Caitlin Dawson Manual Magana, Maria Jaslene, Opal the cat Rachel Padilla, Karma Michelle

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E N D T I P S O T T

Q B A

SAY “AH!” LOCAL DENTISTS AND DENTAL SPECIALISTS VOTED FOR THEIR FAVORITE DENTAL PROS ACROSS NINE SPECIALTIES — FROM PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY TO ENDODONTICS, SURGERY, TMJ, AND MORE. AND BECAUSE MAKING PATIENTS FEEL COMFORTABLE IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF WHAT THEY DO, WE TURNED THE TABLES AND PHOTOGRAPHED THIS YEAR’S WINNERS WHERE — AND WITH WHOM — THEY FEEL MOST AT EASE. MEET THIS YEAR’S TOP DENTISTS AND GET TO KNOW THE PEOPLE BEHIND ABQ’S HEALTHY SMILES. PHOTOS BY DON JAMES

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

MONICA BOEHMER, DDS, FAGD YEARS IN PRACTICE: 30 Where did you grow up? Albuquerque. Did anyone in particular inspire you to become a dentist? My orthodontist inspired me when I was in Junior High School.

What does the word “comfort” mean to you? Soft as a feather bed. What does your perfect Sunday look like? Sleep in, read the newspaper, workout (something for the body and the mind), and a nice dinner.

Where is your favorite local spot to unwind? Home. What is a self-care ritual you never skip? Workout. Are you an early bird or a night owl? Neither (10 to 2 gal). What is one word patients would use to describe you? Thorough. What is the most rewarding part of your job? Helping my patients achieve their dental goals.

What surprised you most about this field? The many different facets of

dentistry.

What is a piece of advice you’d give someone who might be nervous about a dental visit? Think about what you want, be honest with the dentist,

bring your questions (don’t be afraid to ask questions). Additionally, seeing is believing so ask for visuals of your teeth and have the dentist use those visuals to explain issues and approaches.

Monica Boehmer DDS PC

ENDODONTICS

3309 Juan Tabo Blvd NE, Suite A (505) 271-8009 boehmerdds.com

SECOND PLACE: Dr. Chelsea Gonzales THIRD PLACE: Dr. James Slaman

DAVID HADLEY, DDS, MSD YEARS IN PRACTICE: 18 Where did you grow up? North Ogden, Utah. When did you know that you wanted to become a dentist? I

knew that I wanted to be a dentist when I worked as a dental assistant in my dad’s office during college. It was inspiring to watch how he treated his patients and cared for them at such a high level. I wanted to be like him. What does the word “comfort” mean to you? Being with friends and family and enjoying the world around me. What does your perfect Sunday look like? Attending church in the morning and being with my family as much as possible. A nap would also make the day amazing. Where is your favorite local spot to unwind? I love to hike, run, and bike in the foothills. It is amazing that we have such an incredible area here in Albuquerque. What is a self-care ritual you never skip? Exercise. It is my therapy. Are you an early bird or a night owl? A little bit of both at times, but more of an early bird. What is one word patients would use to describe you? Hopefully kind or empathetic. What is the most rewarding part of your job? I enjoy helping relieve patients’ dental pain and getting them back to full function. What surprised you most about this field? The daily physical and emotional demands. I feel like I need to be at my best each day in order to treat patients at the highest level.

What is a piece of advice you’d give someone who might be nervous about a dental visit? Being nervous for a procedure is nor-

mal. Try to be patient. We will be gentle, and you will likely be surprised by how much better the procedure will go than what you are worrying about.

ABQ Endodontics

10429 Lagrima de Oro Rd NE (505) 291-8630 ABQendodontics.com

SECOND PLACE: Dr. Ryan Savage THIRD PLACE: Dr. Ryan Wilson WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

Where did you grow up? El Paso, Texas. When did you know that you wanted to become a dentist and did anyone in particular inspire you? I’ve always enjoyed working with my

hands and helping people, but it wasn’t until I started learning more about dentistry that I realized it was the perfect combination of science, creativity, and patient care. I was also inspired by my own dentists who took the time to make me feel comfortable and cared for—it’s the kind of experience I hope to provide every day.

GENERAL DENTISTRY

HELENA WU

YEARS IN PRACTICE: 5

What does the word “comfort” mean to you?

A familiar song, a warm drink, or a favorite blanket. Comfort is the feeling that simply being present is enough.

What does your perfect Sunday look like?

My perfect Sunday starts with an early spin class at CORR, followed by some time at home to relax. I love unwinding with a good movie, and if the weather’s nice, you’ll usually find me tending to my pumpkin and pepper plants in the garden.

What is a self-care ritual you never skip? Brushing and flossing twice a day.

Are you an early bird or a night owl? Definitely

an early bird. I love getting an early start to the day.

What is one word patients would use to describe you? I’d like to think they’d say “kind,” but I have a feeling they’d probably say “quirky”.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Helping someone go from feeling anxious to feeling confident is incredibly rewarding. Seeing a patient leave with a smile—whether because they’re out of pain or proud of their results—makes every day worthwhile.

What surprised you most about this field?

I was surprised by how much of dentistry is really about building relationships. Taking the time to listen to a patient is just as important as the clinical work.

What is a piece of advice you’d give someone who might be nervous about a dental visit? Sometimes the hardest part is making that

High Desert Dental

3520 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 888-2606 highdesertdental.com

first appointment. I always tell my patients that our first visit is simply about getting to know each other. We’ll talk, answer any questions you have, discuss your concerns, and come up with a plan together. There’s no pressure and no rush. It’s not a race to the finish line—my goal is simply to help you get there at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

SECOND PLACE: Dr. Chelsea Gonzales THIRD PLACE: Dr. Quinn Boyack

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

IMPLANT DENTISTRY

DR. OZZIE RODAS

YEARS IN PRACTICE: 8

DDS, DABOI

When did you know that you wanted to become a dentist? When I was 17 years old, I accompanied my mom

to a consultation for dental implants. She was given the opportunity to receive a new smile in a single day, and I remember being fascinated by how dentistry can improve someone’s quality of life. What does the word “comfort” mean to you? The word comfort means creating an environment where patients feel safe, heard and cared for. Many of the patients I see have delayed treatment for years because of dental anxiety or fear. What does your perfect Sunday look like? My perfect Sunday starts with an early morning workout, followed by breakfast with my wife and our two boys. We attend church together and if the weather is nice, you’ll usually find us spending the afternoon swimming or exploring one of our favorite family spots like Explora or Kids Empire. It’s the perfect balance of faith, family and fun making memories before a busy week begins. Where is your favorite local spot to unwind? One of my favorite places in Albuquerque is Indigo Crow Cafe. My wife and I enjoy going there whenever we can. The atmosphere is relaxing, and the food is excellent and it’s a great place to slow down and reconnect after a busy week. What is a self-care ritual you never skip? I make exercise a priority because it helps me stay physically healthy and mentally focused. I also never miss my Thursday morning haircut—it may seem simple, but starting the day feeling refreshed helps me bring my best energy to both my patients and team. Are you an early bird or a night owl? Definitely an early bird. My mornings usually begin around 5:30 am with a workout before the rest of my day begins. Since welcoming our newest son, mornings have become a little earlier and a lot busier, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Family has made me even more intentional about how I spend my time.

What is one word patients would use to describe you? Compassionate. I want every patient to know they’re

being listened to, respected and treated like family.

ABQ Dental Implant Center and High Desert Dental 3520 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 705-8808 abqdentalimplantcenter.com highdesertdental.com

SECOND PLACE: Dr. Kevin Harrison

THIRD PLACE: Dr. Charles Gallagher

What is the most rewarding part of your job? The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the transformation that extends far beyond someone’s smile. Patients often tell me they’re eating comfortably again, smiling in family photos and simply enjoying life without pain. Knowing that we’ve helped restore both their health and self-confidence is incredibly fulfilling. What surprised you most about this field? What has surprised me most is how rapidly technology has transformed dentistry. The way I practice today is remarkably different than it was even 5 years ago, and that is exciting because it means we can provide better care than ever before.

What is a piece of advice you’d give someone who might be nervous about a dental visit? I always tell

patients that the hardest part is simply taking the first step. At our office, we begin with a conversation- not treatment. We take time to understand your concerns and answer your questions then develop a plan that fits your comfort level. Whether that’s gentle care, oral sedation or IV sedation. Our goal is to help every patient feel relaxed, informed and confident throughout their visit.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

Where did you grow up? St George,

Utah.

When did you know that you wanted to become a dentist? Did anyone in

particular inspire you? I got braces on while in college. My orthodontist recommended that I shadow him. Spending time at his practice kick-started my professional journey.

What does the word “comfort” mean to you? Family. What does your perfect Sunday look like? Going to church and spending time with my wife and kids.

Where is your favorite local spot to unwind? Hiking, biking, and trail running in the Sandias.

What is a self-care ritual you never skip? Prayer with my family. We aren’t

perfect at it, but we try hard.

Are you an early bird or a night owl?

Early Bird to the core. I am pretty useless after 9pm.

Bear Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery 10151 Montgomery Blvd NE, Suite 2D (505) 292-3400 bearcanyonofs.com

What is one word patients would use to describe you? Kind. What is the most rewarding part of your job? When patients and referring

practices compliment how well our team takes care of them.

What surprised you most about this field? How much I enjoy the challenge

and rewards of providing relief to patients through sedation.

What is a piece of advice you’d give someone who might be nervous about a dental visit? It’s important to ac-

knowledge our fears and not to invalidate those feelings. I am terrified of heights, and it is embarrassing sometimes. We live in an incredible age of medicine. There are so many tools available to help manage anxieties. A well-trained professional and their team can explore options and find a comfortable solution in most situations.

SECOND PLACE: Dr. Jeffrey Hagen THIRD PLACE: Dr. Ryan Sterk

border of LA and Orange County, in Whittier, CA.

When did you know that you wanted to become a dentist and did anyone in particular inspire you? I had ortho-

dontics that changed my life. I felt better, breathed easier, and was much more comfortable with my appearance. I wanted to be a part of that for others.

What does the word “comfort” mean to you? I like it as a verb: to provide ease, strength, hope.

What does your perfect Sunday look like? I wake up well rested and prepared

for the week ahead. During the phone-free day I play with my kids, listen to music, wrench on a car, and read. Dinner is full of laughs with extended family at home.

Where is your favorite local spot to unwind? Nothing beats a beer with my

dad at La Cumbre, Sidetrack, or Bow & Arrow.

What is one word patients would use to describe you? Genuine. What is the most rewarding part of your job? Getting to know my patients as their smiles continue to improve.

What surprised you most about this field? How lucky I feel: I get to solve bite-

size puzzles every day, I work with and for great people, and I’m constantly challenged to learn and improve. It’s so fun.

What is a piece of advice you’d give someone who might be nervous about a dental visit? “Cookie” it: Bottom

layer, congratulate yourself for booking an appointment that might make you nervous but will definitely make you healthy. Top layer, schedule something you really enjoy immediately following your visit. In between, bring someone with you who respects your anxiety but doesn’t share it, and who’ll be as glad as you are about what you have planned for afterward.

What is a self-care ritual you never skip? I have to read to fall asleep and sleep

Straightline Orthodontics

7520 Montgomery Blvd NE, Suite D9 (505) 884-5610 @straightlineortho

well.

Are you an early bird or a night owl?

I’m a total night owl who wishes he was at least a little bit early bird.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

SECOND PLACE: Dr. Lilly Padilla THIRD PLACE: Dr. Jason Klinger

ORTHODONTICS

DR. ROBERT HANN YEARS IN PRACTICE: 13 Where did you grow up? Right at the

ORAL/MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

DR. TRAVIS RUDD YEARS IN PRACTICE: 13

PERIODONTICS

MICHAEL S. SPARKS

YEARS IN PRACTICE: 22

DDS, MS

Where did you grow up and when did you know that you wanted to become a dentist? Did any-

one in particular inspire you? Growing up in Odessa, Texas, I liked my dentist, my orthodontist, and my oral surgeon. When I got into college, I did some observation and was thinking about going into medicine. But I really liked what dentists do for people, how kind they can be, and how they can provide a good experience that really helps you with your self-image and physical health.

What does the word “comfort” mean to you? Comfort means supporting my patients in a way to maximize their treatment, experience, and aftercare.

What does your perfect Sunday look like? A perfect Sunday is rejuvenation with friends and family.

Where is your favorite local spot to unwind? I enjoy spending time in the outdoors whether golfing, hiking, or reading a book in my backyard. What is a self-care ritual you never skip? Daily flossing.

Are you an early bird or a night owl? Early to bed, early to rise.

What is one word patients would use to describe you? Caring. What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Building relationships with my patients and helping them have a comfortable dental experience and the nice feedback we get from people when they have a stressfree experience, do well post-procedure, and get great results.

What surprised you most about this field? My

team and I continually pursue and stay updated on the latest advances in the rapidly advancing field of dentistry. We have been using state of the art technology like IV conscious sedation and cone beam (3D) imaging for well over a decade, as well as newer tech. This will all continue to get better and better. I am always amazed about the overall dramatic betterment in quality of life for our patients.

What is a piece of advice you’d give someone who might be nervous about a dental visit? We do IV sedation, and it’s a tremendous help. When we do more complex procedures, people can sleep through the procedure. We always assure patients that we’re going to take great care of them, that we’re specialists in this area, and that people do well with these procedures. Many patients tell us that they wouldn’t have waited as long as they did if they had realized that they would be able to tolerate the procedure so easily.

Albuquerque Periodontics and Implantology 4216 Louisiana Blvd, NE (505) 291-9000 albuquerqueperio.com

SECOND PLACE: Dr. Curtis Pino

THIRD PLACE: Dr. Brendan Schleyer

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

Where did you grow up? I am an Air Force Brat. I lived in Washington state, Colorado, Guam, Utah, and Oklahoma.

When did you know that you wanted to become a dentist? When I was 10 years

old my dad was getting braces. I went with him to his appointments, and I thought it was the coolest environment.

Did anyone in particular inspire you?

Once I got into dental school, one of my friends took me on a dental mission trip to the Dominican Republic. Caring for the kids there inspired me to go into pediatric dentistry.

What does the word “comfort” mean to you? I think sometimes we first think

about our own comfort and doing things to decrease our own stress mentally or physically, but it can also mean helping someone feel better when they are in pain or emotionally stressed. Our office definitely takes pride in how we can bring “comfort” during their dental visits

4620 Jefferson Ln NE, Suite C (505) 888-3520 abqpediatricdentistry.com

great team that can carry out your goals and vision for how you want to treat patients and communicate with families.

What is a piece of advice you’d give someone who might be nervous about a dental visit? At our office, we make it as

SECOND PLACE: Dr. Tamera Coffman

be a dentist ever since I was a kid. As I got older, my Uncle David played a significant role in reinforcing that goal. Although he wasn’t a dentist himself, he was a pioneer in the field of dental practice management. His passion for the profession and his impact on the dental industry inspired me to pursue a career in dentistry.

What does your perfect Sunday look like? My perfect Sunday starts with a relaxing morning at home with my wife, Daniela, and our five-month-old daughter, Colette. We love taking our dog for a walk around the neighborhood and enjoying some quality time together. If there’s still time in the af-

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

THIRD PLACE: Dr. Jung Lee

ternoon, I’d love to get out on the golf course and play a round with friends.

Where is your favorite local spot to unwind? My family and I like to go to Sawmill, so everyone can pick and choose from all of the different restaurants there.

What is one word patients would use to describe you? My patients would describe

me as attentive. I take the time to listen carefully, address their concerns, and ensure they fully understand their care.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? The most rewarding part of my

job is empowering patients with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve their oral health goals. Seeing their confidence grow and watching those goals become a reality is incredibly fulfilling.

What surprised you most about this field? One of the biggest surprises about

focusing on TMJ wellness has been realizing that no two patients are the same. While many people experience similar symptoms, the underlying causes and the most effective treatments can vary significantly from person to person. That’s why I believe every TMJ treatment plan should be personalized to each individual’s unique needs to achieve the best possible outcome.

SECOND PLACE: Dr. Robert Supple THIRD PLACE: Dr. Kartik Antani

TMJ DISORDER

When did you know that you wanted to become a dentist? I knew I wanted to

someone feel genuinely at ease and cared for. At Academy Dental Care, creating a relaxing, welcoming environment is one of our top priorities. We want every patient to feel comfortable from the moment they arrive, which is why we offer our popular Comfort Menu, featuring amenities like noise-cancelling headphones, a custom cup of coffee or tea, and other thoughtful touches designed to make each visit as stress-free as possible.

6425 Holly Ave, NE (505) 828-2020 academydentalcarenm.com

What surprised you most about this field? Just how important it is to have a

the evening.

What is a self-care ritual you never skip? I have to get regular exercise. My fam-

What does the word “comfort” mean to you? To me, comfort means helping

Academy Dental Care

team and being able to treat complex cases with them.

with my family.

Where is your favorite local spot to unwind? I really like hanging out at Top Golf in

SHANE KROHNFELDT, DDS YEARS IN PRACTICE: 9

What is one word patients would use to describe you? Caring. What is the most rewarding part of your job? Being able to work with a great

painless as possible—and if it’s going to be unpleasant, we have several options to alleviate that stress!

What does your perfect Sunday look like? A relaxing day at church and at home ABQ Pediatric Dentistry

ily and staff know I can get quite grumpy if I’ve gone a few days without a good workout or run. Are you an early bird or a night owl? I can be both. My favorite mornings are running up in the mountains. Seeing the sun rise over the Sandias and onto the city are the best mornings. I also don’t mind staying up late to watch a movie.

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

DR. SPENCER TASKER YEARS IN PRACTICE: 20

DENTAL Pros

Partner Content SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

DENTAL Pros

Partner Content

Travis C. Rudd DDS

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Bear Canyon Oral and Facial Surgery

10151 Montgomery Blvd NE Suite 2D 505.292.3400 bearcanyonofs.com

t Bear Canyon Oral and Facial Surgery, the patients are always priority No. 1. “We want patients to come in and feel like they are genuinely cared for as individuals,” says Dr. Travis Rudd, who has been serving the Albuquerque community since 2013. “That is much more important than anything else that we do here.” A highly-respected oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Rudd has performed countless dental implants and wisdom tooth extractions over the course of his tenure. Staying on top of the latest trends is also essential at Bear Canyon Oral. Dr. Rudd and his team have recently integrated digital impressions, which means messy alginates are no longer necessary to take molds of people’s teeth. Additionally, computer-guided surgery is utilized for dental implants. Dr. Rudd is backed by a staff of highly-trained individuals who are dedicated to making each patient’s visit to our office as comfortable as possible. “They treat you not as another patient — they really do treat you like family,” says Kayla, a patient at Bear Canyon Oral. “They have so much care and compassion for you as a person and your whole family, too. They always want the best for you.” Dr. Rudd is well-known for following up with calls to check up on his patients after procedures. He and his staff are also knowledgeable, patient and kind when putting minds at ease. “I think what impressed me most about Dr. Rudd was he was incredibly professional, incredibly kind and he took time to answer questions,” says Dustin, another patient. “As well as any of the staff members that I ever had a question to, they all took their time to give me the answers that I sought.” A husband and a father of five children, Dr. Rudd enjoys “being a shamelessly goofy dad” as well as a variety of activities including hiking, skiing, distance running and staying active in his church. Wild Cherry Pepsi and Super Nintendo are among his guilty pleasures. Dr. Rudd is pleased to continue living the dream by providing top-notch oral care to his valued patients. “I get to come to work and do something that I genuinely love every day,” he says. “I really enjoy interacting with my coworkers. I enjoy getting to meet new people and work on different challenges related to their oral health needs.”

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

Partner Content

DENTAL Pros

onica Boehmer, DDS, PC is a leading family and cosmetic dental practice, serving the Albuquerque community for over a quarter of a century. At Monica Boehmer, DDS, PC, the team’s focus, beyond delivering toptier dentistry and education, is offering compassionate service. Dr. Boehmer believes in actively involving patients to ESTHETIC & RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY determine an appropriate approach for achieving their oral health and aesthetic objectives. She customizes the techniques 3309 Juan Tabo Blvd NE and methods employed to each patient, Ste. A eschewing a standardized approach to 505.271.8009 diagnoses and procedures. Embracing boehmerdds.com a holistic viewpoint, the practice acknowledges the interconnectedness of oral health and overall well-being, recognizing the oral cavity condition can have far-reaching effects on the entire body. Monica Boehmer, DDS, PC boasts a highly skilled and collaborative team that works to deliver comprehensive dental care. Services range from hygiene maintenance, including oral cancer screening and meticulous care for both hard and soft tissues, to more extensive treatments like full mouth reconstruction. The practice provides an array of routine care services, including fillings, crowns, implants, veneers, bridges, and teeth whitening. If you are seeking dental care that seamlessly blends exceptional dentistry with unparalleled customer service, your search ends here with Dr. Boehmer and her exceptional staff. Waste no time in contacting them today to experience the perfect fusion of topquality dental care and exceptional patient service.

Monica Boehmer DDS, PC

t Sunshine Dental, dentistry is more than a healthcare profession, it is a lifelong calling rooted in empathy, perseverance, and a dedication to helping patients find lasting comfort. Dr. Lilian Jaime discovered the power of compassionate care at a young age. When she noticed that her childhood dog was suffering from a damaged tooth, she worked with her father to remove it and bring her dog relief. That experience DR. LILIAN JAIME showed her how meaningful it could be to ease pain and inspired her lifelong passion for dentistry, problem-solving, and caring for others. 10411 Lagrima De Oro Rd In a time when healthcare can feel 505.298.6724 rushed and impersonal, Sunshine Dental sunshinedentalnm.com takes a different approach. During appointments, we listen carefully to concerns, answer questions, explain treatment options, and create personalized plans based on each patient’s dental history, comfort, and goals. While we provide comprehensive general dental care, Dr. Jaime also specializes in mini dental implants and restorative treatments designed to improve comfort, function, and confidence. At Sunshine Dental, our work is about more than repairing teeth. It is about helping patients feel comfortable eating, speaking, laughing, and smiling again. Call or visit our website today to schedule a free consultation so we can determine whether mini implants or another restorative treatment will be the best fit for your unique dental needs.

Sunshine

Dental

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

DENTAL Pros

Partner Content

Ryan T. Sterk DDS

Board-Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

Nob Hill Oral & Facial Surgery

1513 Carlisle Blvd NE 505.881.7373 doctorsterk.com

homegrown New Mexican personified by unwavering drive and determination, Dr. Ryan Sterk has wanted to be a doctor for as long as he can remember. Born and raised in Albuquerque, Dr. Sterk attended Eldorado High School before playing college baseball at Trinity University. He returned home to study at UNM, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. His medical training continued at the University of Colorado, where he was recognized with numerous awards. From there, Dr. Sterk completed his internship in oral and maxillofacial surgery at the University of Pennsylvania before completing his residency at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein School of Medicine in New York. Through hard work and dedication, Sterk is proud to be able to return to his hometown to provide care to the greater New Mexico area. He follows in the footsteps of Nob Hill Oral & Facial Surgery founder Dr. Timothy L. Gutierrez, who has served the community for more than 30 years — building an impeccable reputation as a world class surgeon and caring clinician who adapts his approach based on what is best for the patient. Dr. Gutierrez brought Dr. Sterk to the practice five years ago and has since provided valuable guidance and mentorship that continues to this day. At Nob Hill Oral and Facial Surgery, Dr. Sterk offers full scope oral and maxillofacial surgery including dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, facial trauma, pathology and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures. Because there are limited specialists in New Mexico’s surgery community, Dr. Sterk strives to bring state-of-the-art care to his patients. This work would not be possible without a talented and experienced staff, all of whom have extensive tenure with the practice. From the front office to the oral surgery assistants, this group of patient advocates makes Nob Hill Oral & Facial Surgery what it is today. “Our mission goes way beyond providing world class clinical care,” Dr. Sterk says. “We believe that the best result is a patient who is not only healthy, but one that leaves our oral surgery office feeling completely satisfied as well.”

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

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

BANDS OF ENCHANTMENT SATURDAY 19 | 4-11 PM Emmy Award-winning show Bands of Enchantment is back with Season 6 live tapings in Downtown ABQ from September 16–18 and an outdoor music festival on September 19. Not sure what to expect? “It’s a live concert experience and a taping,” says creator and executive producer Ken C. Peterson. “You’re getting this up-close-andpersonal experience that you’ll probably never get with a band.” Past performers have included Arrested

Development, Adrian Quesada, and Pacifica (band member Martina Nintzel pictured here performing during Bands of Enchantment 2025). RSVPs are required for the weekday tapings and the free music festival, which wraps up the celebration on September 19 along Central Avenue between 4th Street and 6th Street. More info at bandsofenchantment.com.

SEPTEMBER 2026

SATURDAY 26 – SUNDAY 27 9 AM – 5 PM

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

OH MY GOURD

Corrales Harvest Festival. The Corrales Harvest Festival is a two-day event that takes place each year throughout the village of Corrales during the last weekend in September. The Festival had been held continuously since 1985. Traffic through Corrales is restricted during the event to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for guests. Info: The Village of Corrales along Corrales Road, starting at Meadowlark and Corrales Road. Tickets: $20

F LY I N

FRIDAY 4 | 4 - 6 PM

TWOFER

“Double Vision.” Watercolorist Tom Cassidy and oil painter Christopher Miller share a focus on Southwestern landscapes but they arrived via different paths. Meet these award-winning artists and experience their differing visions at their reception. The display is available the entire month at Amapola Gallery, 205 Romero, NW. Find more info at Amapola-gallery.com.

SATURDAY 26 | 7 AM - 2PM Land of Enchantment Fly-In & Double Eagle Airport Open House. Stroll amongst unique aircraft: amateur-built, jets, helicopters, remote-control & more! Wanna fly? Build a plane? Engage in educational exhibits, plus hands-on activities at the Pilot Experience, Builders’ Corner, Youth Center. Food Trucks, Live Music! Details at loefi.org. Info: 7401 Atrisco Vista Blvd. Free admission and parking.

TOM CASSIDY - STROLLING ALONG ROMERO ST.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

GOOD ART

SATURDAY 12- SUNDAY 13 10 AM—5 PM Sandia Heights Artists Studio Tour. Art enthusiasts are invited to visit 13 homes in the foothills by Tramway and meet 40 artists in various fine art media including jewelry, pottery, glass woodcrafting, textiles, painting, algorithm art, and mixed media. Tour is free and selfguided. Information and interactive map at sandiaheightsartists.com

SATURDAY 12 | 6 PM 20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival.The New Mexico Jazz Festival, in partnership with the City of Albuquerque, presents a night of rockin’ blues on Civic Plaza. Headlining the event is Grammy Awardwinning vocalist, songwriter, multiinstrumentalist Judith Hill—one of the highest-profile background singers of her generation whose talents have been sought after by Elton John, Spike Lee, Prince, and Michael Jackson. More info at newmexicojazzfestival.org. Info: 1 Civic Plaza. Free.

LEARNING

FRIDAY 4 | 6-8 PM Gallery with a Cause New Mexico Cancer Center. Free art opening and fundraiser featuring “The Architecture of Beauty” – 300 works by well-known NM artists. 40% of sales go to patients in need, and the exhibit is on view through November 20. After the reception, gallery visits by appointment only: regina@gallerywithacause.com, (505)8033345. GalleryWithACause.org. Info: 4901 Lang Ave NE. Free.

FOLK IT UP

SATURDAY 26 | 10 AM – 9 PM SUNDAY 13 | 2 PM Colcha Embroidery: A New Mexican Spanish Heritage Art. Please join us for a colorful visual presentation about Colcha Embroidery by Teresa M. Hernandez, who will give a brief history of Colcha in New Mexico, highlighting some of the different unique styles and also explaining the process and the materials used in this art form. Details at sc-hsm. org. Info: Sandoval County Historical Society & Museum, 160 Edmund Rd, Bernalillo. Free.

Albuquerque Folk Festival. Enjoy indoor and outdoor venues featuring national, international, regional, and New Mexico musicians. This is a full day of fun activities influcing performances, hands-on workshops, storytelling, dance, jams, food trucks, and more. Details at abqfolkfest.org. Info: National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th St. SW. Tickets: $22, children are free.

SATURDAY 19 | 4:30 - 6:00 PM Son Como Son Concert. See one of Albuquerque’s favorite salsa band at La Entrada Park in Corrales. When their music plays, you’ll just want to get up and dance — and there’s a dance floor at La Entrada Park waiting for you! More info at musicincorrales.org/tickets. $32-35.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

DATEBOOK tuesday 1 | 7:30 pm

1318 4TH ST. NW. For details and tickets visit lospoblanos.com/events. $25.

Christoph Wagner performs Franz Schubert’s Arpeggione Sonata and a sonata by César Franck, with University of Richmond piano faculty Dr. Joanne Kong. Keller Hall, 203 Cornell Dr. NE. For more information, visit unmtickets. com

thursday 3 | 6–8 pm

Faculty Concert. UNM cello faculty Dr.

thursday 3–friday 4 | various times

New Mexico Jazz Festival Films at the Guild Cinema. The New Mexico Jazz

Festival partners with the Guild Cinema to present two films: “Imagine the Sound”, which profiles musicians of the avant–garde free jazz movement from the 1960s, and “Chasing Trane”, which is about the life and work of legendary jazz musician, saxophonist John Coltrane. Tickets: $10/$7 Outpost Members, seniors and students. Info: Guild Cinema, 3405 Central Ave NE, guildcinema.com.

thursday 3 | 2:30 and 3:30 pm

Distillery and Production Tour at Town & Ranch. Go behind the scenes on a guided

tour of our distillery and production space. Tickets include a signature drink.

Live Music at Town & Ranch, R Jameson.

Featuring your favorite local artists paired with a selection of local spirits and craft cocktails. Town & Ranch, 1318 4TH ST. NW. For details visit lospoblanos.com/events. Free.

thursday 3 | 6:30–7:30 pm

Sound Bath Meditation in the Wellness Yurt. Journey into a state of profound

relaxation with the soothing sounds of crystal singing bowls, curated to harmonize the mind, body and spirit. 4803 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, Los Ranchos. For details and tickets visit lospoblanos.com/events. $35.

friday 4 | 5–8 pm

The Gallery ABQ presents “Return to Dreamland”. This show features George

Hauie Hayes III and Leo Gonzales, and promises to be out of this world. The gallery Featured Artist will be Gwenda McLamb. See the gallery website at thegalleryabq.com or Facebook@ TheGalleryAbq. 505–292–9333. The Gallery ABQ in Hoffmantown is open Tuesday–Saturday, from 11 am–4 pm.

friday 4 | 4–6 pm

Double Vision. Watercolorist Tom Cassidy and oil painter Christopher Miller share a focus on Southwestern landscapes but they arrived via different paths. Meet these award–winning artists and experience their differing visions at their reception on Friday. The display is available the entire month at Amapola Gallery, 205 Romero, NW. On The Plaza in Old Town, Albuquerque. (505) 242–4311 Amapola–gallery.com

friday 4 | 9:00 pm

Chatter Late Works. A late–night concert for sonic explorers. Cash bar provided by Rumor Brewing. Info: Chatter at 912 3rd St NW, Albuquerque. Tickets: $17 adults in advance; $20 at–door. $9 students/under–30, $5 under–13. chatterabq.org

friday 4 | 5:30–9 pm

Opening Reception: Far Out Far East. Far Out Far East is a celebration of Asian pop culture and its explosion into global visual art: anime, manga, street fashion, action figures, bold graphics, and the iconography that has shaped generations of artists worldwide. This show channels the energy of the East. At The Groove Artspace, 309 Gold Ave. SW ABQ. FREE

friday 4–sunday 13| Various Times

The River. Written by Jez Butterworth,

directed by Joe Feldman, is a haunting and lyrical play about a man, a woman and a remote fishing cabin, exploring themes of love, loss, memory and time through the lens of trout fishing. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 7.30pm, Sundays at 2.00pm. Tickets are $22–$26 available at westendproductions.org or call (505) 460–4823. West End Productions, 4904 4th St NW.

friday 4 | 6–8 pm

Gallery with a Cause/New Mexico Cancer Center. Free art opening/fundraiser

for The Architecture of Beauty–Works by Prominent NM Artists featuring 300 works by well–known NM artists. Through November 20, 2026. 40% of sales go to our patients in need. 4901 Lang Ave NE. After the reception, gallery visits by appointment only: regina@gallerywithacause.com, 505– 803–3345. GalleryWithACause.org

saturday 5 |1–11pm

Reggae Festival. Featuring live performances from local and touring reggae artists and an artist vendor fair from 1–5 pm. Come enjoy a day of reggae. 111 Bar and Venue at Marble Downtown. 112 Marble Ave NW. 21+. FREE

505

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DATEBOOK saturday 5 | 12 pm

saturday 5 | 1–4 pm

Bellamah Ave. NW, (505) 306–2977. Free. galleryhozho.com.

singer, and musician for decades; also writes for stage and screen; multi– talented and athletic; still covering Beatles music and writing British Invasion–styled music. WHEELS Museum, 1100 Second SW. Free. (505– 243–6269)

Learn to use beads, findings, and jewelry making tools to make a beautiful coordinating necklace, memory wire bracelet and earrings set. At The Groove Artspace, 309 Gold Ave. SW. Reserve your spot at thegrooveartspace.com. All materials are included for $70.

sunday 6| 12:00–1:00 pm

Entertainment from Mel MacKaron. Actor,

saturday 5 | 2:30–3:30 pm

Tibetan Mother Bowl Sound Bath in the Wellness Yurt. Step into a sanctuary of

sound and stillness with our immersive meditation class, featuring the sacred resonance of the Tibetan Mother Bowl. 4803 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, Los Ranchos. For details and tickets visit lospoblanos. com/events. $35.

saturday 5| 11:30 am–12:30 pm

Creative Path–Work Meditation Series.

Join Brother Francis Revels–Bay every Saturday. Brother Francis gives a cue and then teaches you to let go of the busy mind allowing you to follow the cue. We are located at 2703 Broadbent Parkway NE, Suite J. Class Fee: $10. Call (505) 220–2583 or RSVP at resonantessentials.com/events.

Bead Soup: Jewelry Making with Sara.

saturday 5| 10:30 am–12:30 pm

Albuquerque Tarot Circle. Join Susan Pepper–Jojola’s online group every Saturday. This group is perfect for beginners and advanced readers. Susan leads the circle and brings a new vision for your spread each week. Suggested donation $10/circle. You must have your own deck. For questions or to join this online community, email Susan at resonantessentials.com/abq–tarot– circle.

saturday 5 | 3 pm

Gallery Talk. Join artists Suzanne Sbarge, Julia Lambright, and Suzanne Fricke for a discussion about their work, creative processes, and the inspiration behind the exhibition. Info: Gallery Hózhó, 2000

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

Sacred Sound Bath + Multimodal Healing– Sunday Reset! Join Liliana Jaguarina

Rondon every 1st, 3rd, and 4th Sundays to slow down, release tension, and reconnect with your body. Crystal singing bowls and intuitive support ease overwhelm and emotional build–up. Fee: $35. Located at 2703 Broadbent Parkway NE, Suite J. Contact Liliana at (505) 552–2101 or visit resonantessentials. com/events.

sunday 6 | 10:30 am

Chatter Sunday. Overlook String Quartet returns from NYC. Also featuring clarinetist James Shields. As always, your ticket includes a custom coffee drink from our espresso bar! Info: Chatter at 912 3rd St NW. Tickets: $17 adults in advance; $20 at–door. $9 students/ under–30, $5 under–13. chatterabq.org

sunday 6 | 10 am–1:30 pm

Fused Day–of–the–Dead Skull Class. Get

ready for Halloween by making your own Day–of–the–Dead fused glass skull decoration. At The Groove Artspace, 309 Gold Ave. SW. Reserve your spot at

DATEBOOK thegrooveartspace.com. All materials, and one kiln firing, are included for $100.

and jazz) and visual arts. Free! Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE, newmexicojazzfestival.org

wednesday 9 | 6–7 pm

tuesday 8 |5 pm

wednesday 9 | 6–9 pm

Choreographed (Cued) Ballroom is placing names to steps in ballroom patterns. No partner needed! Visitors welcome! Beginner friendly, Rhythms we teach: Rumba & Cha–cha, Wed. Sept. 9 & 23, Location: Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909–15 Hawkins St NE, Randy Pratt: 505–415–1124, DesertDancersABQ@gmail.com. Cost $5.00.

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival: Inpost Artspace Reception: Work by Greg Tucker, 1979–2025. Following

the Cecil Taylor LP Release & Listening Outpost hosts an Inpost Artspace opening reception for an exhibition featuring the work of New Mexico artist Greg Tucker, who explores the connections between music (blues

Mosaic Coasters. This quick 2–evening class (Sept 9–10) will teach you to cut glass tile and grout coasters. A great gift idea–all ages and levels of experience most welcome!! At The Groove Artspace, 309 Gold Ave. SW. Reserve your spot at thegrooveartspace.com. All materials are included for $85.

Learn parties,

to Social Dance–go to weddings, clubs and dance.

wednesday 9 | 7:30 pm

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival: William Parker Heart Trio w.

Hamid Drake and Cooper Moore. William Parker and his Heart Trio with pianist Cooper–Moore and drummer Hamid Drake, are united by over thirty years of deep collaboration. Exploring a connection to ancestral African and Eastern music, their sound was described as “an outernational fantasy of panglobal grooves” (Jazzwise). Tickets: $35/$25 Outpost Members. Students $15 with current valid ID, at newmexicojazzfestival.org. No Member Passes. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE.

wednesday 9 | 5:30–6:30 pm

Lecture Series at La Quinta. Star Axis: New Mexico’s Monumental Sculpture to Observe the Stars: Join us for an engaging lecture by Jamie Clements exploring Star Axis, Charles Ross’s monumental earthwork in eastern New Mexico. La Quinta. 4803 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, Los Ranchos. For details and tickets visit lospoblanos.com/events. $20.

wednesday 9 | 10 am–4 pm

Collage & Painting Workshop. Spend the day creating with artist Suzanne Sbarge in this hands–on collage and painting workshop designed for artists of all skill levels. Fee: $150. Registration required. Info: Gallery Hózhó, 2000 Bellamah Ave. NW, (505) 306–2977. Register online at galleryhozho.com

thursday 10 | 6–8 pm

Live Music at Town & Ranch, Chachalacas. We are featuring

The

our favorite local artists to pair with our selection of local spirits and craft cocktails. Town & Ranch, 1318 4TH ST. NW. For details visit lospoblanos.com/ events. Free.

thursday 10 | 7:30 pm

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival: Django Festival Allstars. The

Django Festival Allstars return with their unique “hot jazz” inspired by legendary Gypsy jazz guitarist, Django Reinhardt. The group takes the music

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

DATEBOOK fully into the 21st century with their own creative interpretations and original compositions. Tickets: $45/$35 Outpost Members. Students $15 with current valid ID, at newmexicojazzfestival.org. No Member Passes. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE.

thursday 10 | 2 pm

Musicology Colloquium & Robb Symposium Series. Composer/pianist/

therapist Monica Demarco presents A Shrine to Spruce, a lecture–recital exploring musical lineage, plant medicine, cultural identity, and the Eurocentric traditions of classical music. Keller Hall, 203 Cornell Dr. NE. Free admission.

from our espresso bar! Info: Chatter at 912 3rd St NW. Tickets: $17 adults in advance; $20 at–door. $9 students/ under–30, $5 under–13. chatterabq.org

Suite J. For details visit our website resonantessentials.com/events. Gain clarity, embrace opportunities, and empower yourself!

sunday 13| 10am–5pm

sunday 13 | 2 pm

practitioners offer tarot, mediumship, spiritual counseling, and energy work. Explore unique vendors with special goods and treasures. Located at 2703 Broadbent Parkway NE,

a colorful visual presentation about Colcha Embroidery by Teresa M. Hernandez, who will give a brief history of Colcha in New Mexico, highlighting some of the different unique styles and also explaining the process and

Psychic/Healing Fair & Outdoor Market every second Sunday of the month! Vetted readers and energy

Colcha Embroidery: A New Mexican Spanish Heritage Art. Please join us for

friday 11–oct 4| various times

The Motherf**ker with the Hat. This is

a dark, high-energy comedic play by Stephen Adly Guirgis. Info: Vortex Theatre, 2900 Carlisle NE. $21-$26.

saturday 12 | 9 am–4 pm

Intro to Glass Casting w/Willi Haye. In this 4–day course (Sept 12, 13, 19, 20) glass casting master Willi Haye will teach how to transform glass into a luminous sculpture. Explore techniques, experiment with textures to create a unique work of art. No experience necessary. The Groove Artspace, 309 Gold Ave. SW ABQ. Full details, reserve your spot at thegrooveartspace.com. $750 covers all materials, tools and firing

saturday 12 | 5–9 pm

Decades Night: ‘90s. Dress to impress and join us for a ‘90s throwback night at Town & Ranch. Themed drinks, music and more. Live music from 6–9pm. Town & Ranch, 1318 4TH ST. NW, ABQ. For details and tickets visit lospoblanos.com/events.

saturday 12 |6–9:30 pm

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival: Blues Night on Civic Plaza Featuring Judith Hill; Levi Platero; Michael Matison. The New Mexico Jazz

Festival, in partnership with the City of Albuquerque, presents a night of rockin’ blues on Civic Plaza. Headlining is Grammy Award–winning Judith Hill, one of the highest–profile background singers of her generation whose talents have been sought after by Elton John, Spike Lee, Prince and Michael Jackson. Free! Civic Plaza. More info at newmexicojazzfestival.org.

sunday 13 | 10:30 am

Chatter Sunday. George Crumb’s Lux Aeterna, Ingram Marshall’s September Canons and more. As always, your ticket includes a custom coffee drink

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

DATEBOOK the materials used in this art form. Info: Sandoval County Historical Society & Museum, 160 Edmund Rd, Bernalillo. Website: sc–hsm.org. Free.

sunday 13 | 3 pm

EMBER in Concert. Friends of Cathedral Music presents Emily Levin (harp), Julia Choi (violin), and Christine Lamprea (cello). Repertoire: Henriett Renié’s Trio, Reena Esmail’s Saans, and the Jacques Ibert Trio.Venue: Episcopal Cathedral of St. John, 318 Silver Ave SW. Tickets ($30, $25, $12 plus booking fee) and more info at fcmabq.org.

sunday 13 | 3 pm

UNM Music Faculty Spotlight Concert.

Featuring UNM Music faculty, alumni, and guests. Keller Hall, 203 Cornell Dr NE. For more information, visit unmtickets.com.

tuesday 1–sunday 27 | various times

A Retrospective Show in her Memory. Wild

Hearts Gallery in Placitas is featuring a show for Marcia Rackstraw. Marcia was known for her vibrant paintings and worked with charcoal, pastels, woodcuts and oil paintings. The Gallery is located at 221 B Homestead Village Hwy 165 Placitas, View all the artists and discover

Marcia’s art at wildheartsgallery.com, 505 361–2710. Wild Hearts Gallery is an artist’s collective of 14 local artists.

tuesday 1–sunday 13 | various times

Mean Girls: The Musical. Cady Heron thought surviving the African savanna was tough—until she entered the wild world of American high school. Packed with sharp comedy, unforgettable songs, and plenty of pink, this hit Broadway musical is a hilarious look at friendship, popularity, and finding yourself. Info: Albuquerque Little Theatre, 224 San Pasquale SW. Tickets from $28. albuquerquelittletheatre.org

saturday 12–sunday 13| 10 am–5 pm Sandia

Heights

Artists

Studio

Tour.

Art enthusiasts are invited to visit 13 homes in the foothills by the Tramway and meet 40 artists in various fine art media including jewelry, pottery, glass woodcrafting, textiles, painting, algorithm art, and mixed media. Tour is free and self–guided. Information and interactive map at SandiaHeightsArtists. com

saturday 12 I 10am–12 pm

Pastel Society of New Mexico. Join

us for a demonstration by Master pastelist Lorraine Trenholm. Known for her animal paintings as well as her landscapes, she will be doing a dog painting. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an award winning artist and to learn more about our society. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Rd NW. Free.

tuesday 15 | 7 pm

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Grammy nominated Festival. The

Rodriguez Brothers perform music propelled by Afro–Cuban tumbao, deeply rooted in the island’s irresistible descargas. They celebrate their 20th anniversary with their latest release, Reunited Live at Dizzy’s Club and they’ll will be joined by Matteo Rodriguez, guitar, with bassist and drummer TBA. Tickets: $35/$25 Outpost Members. Students $15 with current valid ID, at newmexicojazzfestival.org. No member passes. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE.

wednesday 16 | 7:30 pm

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival: Fred Hersch Trio. The Seventeen–time

Grammy nominated artist, Fred Hersch, has been an influential creative force over more than three decades as an improviser, composer, educator, bandleader, collaborator, and recording artist. His Trio, which features Drew Gress, bass and Jochen Rueckert, drums, was named the #1 Jazz Group of the Year by DownBeat magazine. Tickets: $45/$35 Outpost Members. Students $15 with current valid ID, at newmexicojazzfestival.org. No ember Passes. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE.

wednesday 16–saturday 19|4 pm–11pm

Bands of Enchantment–A downtown takeover with live music, culture, and community. Expect raw energy, genre–

bending talent, and unforgettable moments. Central Avenue will be closed to traffic for the FREE Bands of Enchantment Music Festival. Kimo Theater + Central Ave.

thursday 17 | 2:30 and 3:30 pm

Distillery and Production Tour at Town & Ranch. Go behind the scenes on a guided

tour of our distillery and production space. Tickets include a signature drink. 1318 4TH ST. NW. For details and tickets visit lospoblanos.com/events. $25.

thursday 17 | 6–8 pm

Live Music at Town & Ranch, Chris Dracup.

We are featuring our favorite local

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DATEBOOK artists to pair with our selection of local spirits and craft cocktails. FREE. Town & Ranch, 1318 4TH ST. NW. For details visit lospoblanos.com/events. Free.

thursday 17 | 6:30–7:30 pm

Sound Bath Meditation in the Wellness Yurt. Journey into a state of profound

thursday 17 | 6–8pm

Encaustic Monoprinting. Come explore the art of monotype with the unique medium of encaustic. You will create five (5) monoprints using griddles, hot wax, and a variety of mark–making tools. We will then take these prints to the next level by adding beads and wire. The Groove Artspace, 309 Gold Ave. SW. Full details, reserve your spot at thegrooveartspace.com. $85 covers all materials.

Friday 18 | Midnight

Submission Deadline: Shape & Form. Shape and Form is a celebration

of sculpture and three–dimensional art. From carved and cast to assembled and constructed, artists working in any sculptural medium may submit work that explores space, weight, and form. Full details and application at thegrooveartspace.com. $85 covers up to 3 submissions.

friday 18 | 7:30 pm

Faculty Concert. UNM trombone faculty

Dr. Christopher Buckholz presents a recital of classical music and jazz. Keller Hall, 203 Cornell Dr NE. For more information, visit unmtickets.com.

saturday 19 | 2:30–3:30 pm

Tibetan Mother Bowl Sound Bath in the Wellness Yurt. Step into a sanctuary of

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

saturday 19 | 4–6pm

Son Como Son Concert. Albuquerque’s favorite salsa band at La Entrada Park in Corrales, $32 in advance, $35 at the gate. musicincorrales.org/tickets When their music plays, you’ll just want to get up and dance — and there’s a dance floor at La Entrada Park waiting for you! Come join the fun!

saturday 19 | 12 pm

Book Reading. Author Brian Jay Jones tells about his new book–seven years in the making: “The Capitol: The Surprising Biography of an American Building.” WHEELS Museum, 1100 Second SW. Free. (505–243–6269)

saturday 19 | 1 pm

Gather Open Arts Studio. Drop in to make

art, experiment with materials, and connect with others in a welcoming, low–pressure space. No instruction and no expectations–just time, materials, and community. Star Heights Recreation Center, Rio Rancho. $10. Occurs monthly. Register at rr–cc.org or email info@rr–cc.org for more information.

DATEBOOK saturday 19–sunday 20 | 10 am–5 pm

2026 North Valley Studio Tour. Explore working studios, meet local creatives, and purchase original artwork directly from the artists themselves. New this year, visitors can enjoy a Preview Gallery Show before the tour, offering a chance to see artwork from participating artists in one convenient location and plan their studio visits. Free. northvalleystudiotour.com

sunday 20 | 10:30 am

Chatter Sunday. Dmitri Shostakovich’s

Piano Quartet in G Minor and more. As always, your ticket includes a custom coffee drink from our espresso bar! Info: Chatter at 912 3rd St NW, Albuquerque. Tickets: $17 adults in advance; $20 at–door. $9 students/under–30, $5 under–13. chatterabq.org

sunday 20 | 5 pm Chatter Cabaret. A

full concert of chamber music from baroque to contemporary with music by J.S. Bach, Alfred Schnittke, Leilehua Lanzilotti and more. Cash bar and bites provided by Slate Cafe. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Rd NW. Tickets: $32

general admission chatterabq.org

(table

seating).

sunday 20 | 3 pm

Faculty Concert. UNM horn faculty Dr. Michael Walker presents a recital, with Dr. Natasha Stojanovska on piano. Keller Hall, 203 Cornell Dr. NE 87111. For more information, visit unmtickets.com.

monday 21 | 7:30 pm Piano

Quartet:

Schumann

More.

Maureen Yuen, violin; Jorge Alves, viola; João Lima, piano; and Dr. Christoph Wagner, cello. Works by Schumann, Brahms, Costa, Braga Santos, and Adaskin. Keller Hall, 203 Cornell Dr. NE. For more information, visit unmtickets. com.

tuesday 22 | 7:30 pm

UNM Jazz Bands. Led by Dr. Christopher

Buckholz and Robby Beasley. Keller Hall, 203 Cornell Dr. NE. For more information, visit unmtickets.com.

wednesday 23 | 7:30 pm

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival: Melissa Aldana Quartet. One of the most

important

voices

contemporary

jazz, Melissa Aldana, made history by becoming the first woman to win the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition in the instrumental category. Rooted in the jazz tradition, her music was described as “unmistakenly contemporary.” Tickets: $45/$35 Outpost Members. Students $15 with current valid ID, at newmexicojazzfestival.org. No Member Passes. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE.

wednesday 23 |6–7 pm

Learn to Social Dance. Choreographed (Cued) Ballroom is placing names to steps in ballroom patterns. No partner needed! Visitors welcome! Beginner friendly, Rhythms we teach: Rumba & Cha–cha, Wed. Sept. 9 & 23, Location: Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909–15 Hawkins St NE, Randy Pratt: 505–415–1124, DesertDancersABQ@ gmail.com. Cost $5.00.

wednesday 23| 6–9pm

Holey Bowls with Delfi. In this 2–day

class (Sept 23 & 26) you will create a decorative fused bowl with holes by using glass powders. We will be making a 10–inch bowl, using various colored glass powders. No experience

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necessary. The Groove Artspace, 309 Gold Ave. SW. Full details, reserve your spot at thegrooveartspace.com. $200 covers all materials, tools and firings.

wednesday 23 | 7:30 pm

UNM Wind Symphony. Conducted by Dr. Emily Moss. Popejoy Hall, 203 Cornell Dr. NE. For more information, visit unmtickets.com.

thursday 24 | 6–8 pm

Live Music at Town & Ranch. We are featuring our favorite local artists to pair with our selection of local spirits and craft cocktails. Info: Town & Ranch, 1318 4TH ST. NW. For details visit lospoblanos.com/events. Free.

thursday 24 | 7:30 pm

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival: Bad Plus Farewell Tour. Embarking on a

2026 “Farewell Tour” to mark their 26th and final year as a band, The Bad Plus is an adventurous boundary–defying unit that refuses to conform to convention. Tickets: $45/$35 Outpost Members. Students $15 with current valid ID at newmexicojazzfestival.org. No Member Passes. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE.

thursday 24 | 7:30 pm

Music from the Americas. Presenting LA–based pianist Dr. Nic Gerpe, visiting from the Pasadena Conservatory of Music. Keller Hall, 203 Cornell Dr. NE. For more information, visit unmtickets. com.

thursday 24–sunday 27

36th Annual NM Dance Fiesta. Four days

of exciting dance competitions, 40+ dance workshops offered in swing, country and ballroom with nightly social dances, plus an awesome Saturday evening dinner show and dance, ending with a FREE “Post–Dance” on Sunday at 4pm. Fees: $25–$225. New Location! ABQ Marriott Pyramid North, 5151 San Francisco Rd NE. Early bird discount ends Aug. 1st. Info: glkello@nmia.com or (505) 299–3737. Website: dancefiesta. net

friday 25 | 7:30 pm

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival: John Maestas “Juan Tigre.”

Juan Tigre’s debut release, The Dream Catcher, inspired by the high deserts of New Mexico and the folklore of the Southwest, was called a “funky, psychedelic indie sound–musical candy to the ears.” The band features of some of New Orleans’ finest young musicians and composers. Tickets: $35/$25 Outpost Members. Students $15 with current valid ID, at newmexicojazzfestival.org. No Member Passes. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

saturday 26 | 7 am–2pm

Land of Enchantment Fly–In & Double Eagle Airport Open House. Stroll

amongst unique aircraft: amateur– built, jets, helicopters, remote– control & more! Wanna fly? Build a plane? Engage in educational exhibits plus hands–on activities at Pilot Experience, Builders’ Corner, Youth Center. Food Trucks, Live Music! FREE ADMISSION & PARKING. 7401 Atrisco Vista Blvd. Benefits EAA Chapter 179 scholarships. loefi.org

saturday 26 | 11 am

“Route 66: The Italians’ Pathway to Prosperity.” Part of the Route 66

Centennial Series, Lynne Peckinpaugh tells about Albuquerque businesses owned by Italians on the Mother Road (Central Ave.) here. WHEELS Museum, 1100 Second SW. Free. (505–243–6269)

saturday 26 |5–8 pm

Fillin’ Funky Student Art Showcase.

Fillin’ Funky refillery is hosting a special public gallery showcasing handmade art from Albuquerque students grades 1st–12th. Produced by owner, Gabrielle Parrulli, and UNM art majors: Amanda Burnell and Jewell Trujillo. For more info: please visit fillinfunkyrefillery.com

saturday 26 | 8 pm

Rocky Horror At Sunshine Theatre.

PRIDE & Equality Magazine and The Favorite Obsessions Shadow cast are bringing Rocky Horror to the historic Sunshine Theatre with a fabulous pre show with performances by Lilith Stargazer, Tsunami Couture, Lee Ignatius King, and more, before a screening of the iconic film. Info: Sunshine Theatre 120 Central Ave NW, Tickets at myprideonline.com/ rockyhorror.

saturday 26–sunday 27 | 10 am–4 pm

New Mexico Railroad Days. Celebrate Albuquerque’s railroad heritage with New Mexico Heritage Rail during this free, family–friendly event featuring historic railroad equipment, exhibits, railroad safety education, and interactive activities for all ages. Info: Albuquerque South Rail Yards, 1300 2nd St. SW. Free admission. More at 2926.us.

saturday 26|10 am–9 pm

Albuquerque Folk Festival. Indoor and outdoor venues featuring national, international, regional, and New Mexico musicians. Performances, hands–on workshops, storytelling,

DATEBOOK dance, jams, food trucks and more. A full day of fun activities. National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th St. SW. Tickets: Adult, $22, Children, Free, and other discounts. Info: abqfolkfest. org.

sunday 27 |10 am–5 pm

Aki Matsuri: Japanese Fall Festival. The

Art of Autumn’s Beauty and Harmony Between Nature and Human Life — a celebration of autumn, Japanese culture, community, food, art, performances, and tradition. Join us for a full day of Taiko, Japanese folk dancing, martial arts, ikebana, Japanese food and drinks, vendors, artists, cultural exhibits, and more. $15

sunday 27 | 7 pm

Comedy Show. Hyenas ABQ is once

again bringing out the best local comics for our 6th Best of Burque! Don’t miss this crazy lineup! Hosted by Tim Mathis (Comedy Central, Netflix) we have local faves AJ Matthews, Sarina Ochoa, Jake Otero, AJ Deleon and Stef Darnell! Guests include Aurora Simpson, Nico, TJ Jones and Laura Steuer! Tickets athyenascomedynightclub.com/ albuquerque.

sunday 27 | 10 am–3 pm

pianist Sylvie Courvoisier and acclaimed guitarist Mary Halvorson features “a telepathic interplay and ferocious intensity.” Tickets: $35/$25 Outpost Members. Students $15 with current valid ID, at newmexicojazzfestival. org. No Member Passes. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE.

tuesday 29, |7:30 pm

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival: Mingus Dynasty featuring pianist Helen Sung. Charles Mingus lives on

through new generations of musicians exploring his rich musical legacy. The Dynasty features guest pianist Helen Sung; Dr. Alexander Norris, trumpet; Sarah Hanahan, alto saxophone; Wayne Escoffery, tenor saxophone; Conrad Herwig, trombone; Boris Kozlov, bass; and Donald Edward, drums. Tickets: $45/$35 Outpost Members. Students $15 with current valid ID, at newmexicojazzfestival.org. No Member Passes. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE.

tuesday 29 | 7:30 pm

UNM Symphony Orchestra. Conducted by

Dr. Karin Hendrickson, the Orchestra performs Beethoven’s Egmont Overture, Holst’s majestic Jupiter (from

the Planets), and excerpts from Bizet’s Symphony in C Major. Popejoy Hall, 203 Cornell Dr. NE. For more information, visit unmtickets.com.

saturday 26| 9:30 –11 am

Soma Breath with Andrea S. William

starts your Saturday! This guided session blends rhythmic breathing, visualization, and music for deep calm. Join Andrea the last Saturday of every month at 2703 Broadbent Parkway NE, Suite J, Albuquerque, NM. Fee: $25. Bring yoga mat, pillow, blanket, and eye mask. Register at resonantessentials. com/events. A multi–sensory experience leaving you feeling lighter and clear.

saturday 26–sunday 27 | 9 am–5 pm

Corrales Harvest Festival. The Corrales

Harvest Festival is a two–day event that takes place each year throughout the village of Corrales during the last weekend in September. The Festival had been held continuously since 1985. Traffic through Corrales is restricted during the event to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for our guests. Location: The Village of Corrales along

Landscape Collage with Alison. In this class you will glue layers of translucent tissue paper on a 12x 12 board to create a glowing landscape. Learn about color combinations and spectral light, to create a landscape with light, depth, and glowing color. The Groove Artspace, 309 Gold Ave. SW. Reserve your spot at thegrooveartspace.com. $150 covers all materials.

sunday 27 | 3 pm

Faculty Concert. UNM oboe faculty Dr.

Jillian Kouzel in concert. Keller Hall, 203 Cornell Dr. NE. For more information, visit unmtickets.com.

sunday 27 | 7:30 pm

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival: Delbert Anderson Quartet.

Delbert Anderson is a leader and innovator in today’s contemporary jazz scene and a Diné culture bearer. Bringing traditional Diné “spinning songs” into the modern world, he captures their essence through the languages of jazz and funk. Tickets: $35/$25 Outpost Members. Students $15 with current valid ID at newmexicojazzfestival. org. No Member Passes. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE.

monday 28 |7:30 pm

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival: Sylvie Courvoisier–Mary Halvorson Duo. Debuting with their album, Crop

Circles, the idiosyncratic duo of Swiss

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

DATEBOOK Corrales Road, starting at Meadowlark and Corrales Road Tickets: $20

wednesday 30 |7:30 pm

20th Anniversary New Mexico Jazz Festival: Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band. The Fellowship Band, which has

released seven recordings, including Kings Highway (2023), which NPT called “a majestic new album,” features Brian Blade’s longtime collaborator Jon Cowherd on piano; Chris Thomas, bass; and Myron Walden and Melvin Butler, saxophones. $45/$35 Outpost Members. Students $15 with current valid ID, at newmexicojazzfestival. org. No Member Passes. Info: Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE. ONGOING/DAILY EVENTS

various days | various events and times

Presbyterian Health Plan Place. These beautiful facilities have activities all month long, including fitness, nutrition, and wellness classes, such as strength training, pain care awareness,

beginner’s fitness journey, tai chi, salsa dancing, sewing, making crafts, Zumba, education, and fun such as Lego Club and Dreamcatcher making. Info: Two Locations: 2100 Louisiana Blvd NE, Ste 408 and 6100 Pan American Fwy NE. See what’s available and the calendars at phs.org/health–plan–place. Registrations can also be made at this web address.

various days | various times

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

various days | various times

Cancer Support Now. Free services. Info: Call the helpline, (505) 255–0405. Also, various days/times listed throughout Datebook for specific group and individual assistance.

various days | various times

CSP Dance Studios. Providing Albuquerque with the best partner

dance instruction in town, including ballroom, Latin, swing, country, and line dance instruction. Info: 1624 Eubank Blvd NE, (505) 883–9521. Please check out the website to see all that is offered, cspdancestudios.com.

various days | various times

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

thursdays |6–7 pm

Course in Miracles Discussion Group.

Join Nancy Bowers in exploring how this spiritual self–study course can shift your thinking from fear to inner peace. Everyone is welcome. No prior experience needed. Info: 505–224– 9405. Rio Grande Center for Spiritual

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DATEBOOK Living, 2404 San Mateo Place NE. Love offerings accepted.

various days | various times

New Mexico Young Actors, Inc. Now in

their 46th season, NMYA features youth ages 9 to 19 in all roles. The mission is to develop an appreciation of theater in the community–performances by children and for children. NMYA offers classes, workshops, and productions, and are always looking for new young actors to join their company. Weekly theater classes are offered for ages 5 to 18; Drama I classes for elementary, middle, and high school students; and Advanced Drama productions are available for returning students. Call (505) 821–8055, email info@ nmyoungactors.org, or visit the website at nmyoungactors.org. Prorated fees and tuition assistance available.

various days | various times

Old San Ysidro Church Tours. Come see the beauty and learn the history of one of Corrales’ most significant historic buildings. Informative docents are on hand to provide insight into the history and current usage of this

iconic landmark. Info: 966 Old Church Rd, Corrales. Register for a tour at corraleshistory.org. Free.

various days | 8–10 pm

Haunted Tour of Old Town. Take a tour of Old Town Albuquerque and learn about the many ghosts who have made the Old Town square their home. Legends, folklore, ghost stories, and history come to life as you depart on an intriguing excursion–315 years of haunted history. Info: Approximately 1 hour, 50 minutes at abqtours.fun.

daily |

Cancer Support Now. LGBT Cancer Peer

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

daily | 9 am–5 pm

At Play in the Atomic Age. The toys of the

atomic age reflect the times and culture of their day. The Atomic Age was born with the Manhattan Project and blasted into the public’s consciousness in 1945.

This exhibit features over 100 artifacts from the permanent collection of the Nuclear Museum and artifacts on loan specifically for this exhibition. Info: The National Museum of Nuclear Science and History, 601 Eubank Blvd NE, (505) 245–2137. Tickets $15 at nuclearmuseum.org.

daily | various times Wellness

Classes

Los

Poblanos.

Restore, revive, and move with a class in the Wellness Yurt. Class offerings include Gentle Yoga, Flow and Restore Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga and Mat Pilates. Info: Los Poblanos, 4803 Rio Grande Blvd NW, (855) 486–1380. $15 per class. To reserve your space, visit lospoblanos. com/hacienda–spa/wellness–classes. G. Brian Kurtz, MS, discusses ”The Real You Principles”. Kurtz supports the practical application of his book “Access The Real You”, in whatever life concerns you’re willing to share. All are welcome! Zoom in every Wednesday, 6:30–8:30 pm, and be open to growth! Use meeting code 505–541–0265. No password needed. Love offerings accepted.

daily | various activities and times

Jewish Community Center. The Ronald

Gardenswartz Jewish Community Center of Greater Albuquerque (JCC) is part of your extended family and your home away from home, providing programs and services for all ages and stages in life. Within our walls or around the world, our members gather to meet, play, learn, celebrate, and be part of the community. Everyone, regardless of age or religious affiliation, is welcome. Info: JCC, 5520 Wyoming Blvd NE, (505) 332–0565, jccabq.org.

daily | various times

Al–Anon Family Groups and Alateen.

Meetings are held various days, times, and locations throughout Albuquerque and New Mexico and this is an anonymous fellowship of relatives and friends of problem drinkers. 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, (505) 262–2177.

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 part of a rewarding organization. Info: Agora Crisis Center, agoracares.org (505) 277–3013.

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DATEBOOK

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DATEBOOK daily | 10 am–5 pm

Weems Gallery & Framing. The website

enables people to purchase fine art online, as well as kaleidoscopes, jewelry, glass, sculptures, photography, and wood. Go to weemsgallery.com, (505) 293–6133. Closed Sundays.

daily |

Animal Humane Free Behavioral Helpline.

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

tuesdays |9 am–9:30 am

Weekly QiGong Class. Sherry Noone

leads a small group in practice offered by YoQi via YouTube. Experience the many health benefits from a holistic, low–impact practice that combines meditation, breathing and movement. Held at the Rio Grande Center for Spiritual Living, 2404 San Mateo Place NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110. Love offerings accepted. 908–486–4442.

daily |

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

daily |

Epilepsy Support and Education Services.

For meeting times and places, call (505) 243–9119 or visit epilepsysupportnm. org.

daily | 11:30 am–5:30 pm

Rattlesnake Museum. See different species of live rattlesnakes displayed in recreated natural landscapes. The owners are dedicated to conservation and preservation education. Info: American International Rattlesnake Museum, 202 San Felipe Rd NW, Ste A, (505) 242–6569, rattlesnakes.com. Closed Mondays.

daily |

Roadrunner Food Bank. Volunteers needed to prepare packaged food for distribution, repack and sort items, and other activities. The gift of your precious time helps solve hunger for many New Mexicans. Volunteers must register in advance. Shifts are available in two–hour increments, Mondays–

Saturdays. Info: 5840 Office Blvd NE, givetime@rrfb.org, (505) 349–5358.

daily |

Ronald McDonald House Charities of New Mexico. A “home–away–from–home” is

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

daily |

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

daily | 7 am–8 pm

Free Fishing at Tingley Beach. From sun– up to sun–down, practice your basic fly–tying methods, fly–rod casting techniques, fishing etiquette, effective catch–and–release practices, and enhancement of advanced skills. Bring your own equipment and refreshments

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DATEBOOK as the store and cafes are currently closed. Great place for a picnic with trails. Make sure you have a fishing license. Info: Tingley Beach, 1800 Tingley Dr SW, call 311 or (505) 768– 2000.

daily | 9 am–4 pm The

Indian

Pueblo

Cultural

Center.

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

daily | 10 am–1 pm; 2–6 pm

Adopt a Pet. Find your best pet ever.

Adopt a dog, cat, puppy, or kitten from Animal Humane New Mexico. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and a microchip. Info: 615 Virginia St SE, (505) 255–5523 and 10141 Coors Blvd NW, (505) 323–7387, animalhumanenm. org.

daily | various times

NAMI NM and NAMI Albuquerque (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill).

There are many support programs available weekly–Zoom at no charge. Also, 8–week classes are offered on mental illness that are available at no charge to family members and people with a mental health condition or diagnosis. During trying times, stress, anxiety, depression, and anger are prevalent. Info: naminewmexico.org, namialbuquerque.org, information line (505) 260–0154. Free.

daily | 10 am–5 pm

Amapola Gallery. This is a group of 39

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

daily | 10 am–5 pm

engineering, art, and math for the whole family. Open 9–11 Mondays for Toddler Time. Info: 170 Mountain Rd NW, explora@explora.us, (505) 600–6072. Tickets: $8–$11 at explora@explora.us/ visitor–information.

daily | 10 am–8 pm

Watermelon Mountain Ranch Animal Center. New Mexico’s largest no–kill

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

daily | 12:30 pm

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

¡Explora! Explora is an innovative experiential learning center located in the heart of Old Town Albuquerque with over 250 interactive exhibits and activities in science, technology,

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

The WHEELS Museum, Inc. This museum is a 501(c)3 non–profit community organization whose mission is to continue to fund a transportation museum at the downtown Albuquerque Steam Locomotive Repair Shops. Educational programs, tours, and presentations are provided for the community in the 21,000 square foot historic building located at 2nd and Pacific SW (1100 2nd St SW). Info: Visit wheelsmuseum.org for information on all the interesting and informative exhibits, (505) 243–6269. Tax deductible donations are gratefully accepted; contact Leba at leba4@aol. com.

various days | various times Create Art at The Groove Artspace.

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

various days | various times

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

various days | various times

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

saturdays and sundays

Birthday Parties at ¡Explora! The smartest party in town is at Explora! Celebrate with all–day museum admission, a private party room and an interactive activity of your choice led by an Explora host. Now booking online at explora.com for two–hour blocks.

DATEBOOK Pricing available for members and non– members.

Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Rd NW, (505) 600–6072, explora.us.

sundays | check website

mondays | 2:30–4 pm

Breaking Bad Tour. Breaking Bad fans won’t want to miss this entertaining and action–packed tour that features many show locations that only true fans will appreciate. Your Breaking Bad knowledge will be tested with trivia from the show, so come prepared to win prizes. Locations may change depending upon ongoing filming schedules. Info: 1919 Old Town Rd NW, abqtours.fun for more information and $95 tickets.

sundays | 10:30 am

Chatter Sunday offers weekly Sunday morning concerts which also include readings and refreshments. A calendar

can be found at chatterabq.org and in Datebook above. Info: Chatter, 912 Third St NW. Doors open at 9:30; for best seats, come early and enjoy the coffee and camaraderie. Advance tickets: $17 adults, $9 under–30 and students, and $5 children, at chatterabq.org/boxoffice and if still available, at the door: $20 adults, $9 students, $5 children.

sundays | 1–3 pm

Gang Trivia with host, Matt Hoffberg.

Bring your brain, bring the gang, and show us your wits. It’s free, it’s fun, and there are prizes to be won. No Brain Gang Trivia on April 5–Easter. Info: Craft Republic, 4301 The Lane 25 NE, braingangtrivia.com. 18+ welcome.

sundays | 5–7 pm

Brain Gang Trivia with host, Matt Hoffberg.

Bring your brain, bring the gang, and show us your wits. It’s free, it’s fun, and there are prizes to be won. Info: The BLOCK, 7805 Enchanted Hills Blvd NE, Rio Rancho, braingangtrivia.com. 18+ welcome.

mondays–saturdays | 10:30 am–2 pm

Albuquerque City Library Bookshop. Funds raised by the Bookshop go directly to the Library to fund important literacy programs, staff development, and community outreach efforts. Info: Main Library, Lower Level, 501 Copper Ave NW. Two–hour free parking available; bring parking ticket to the library to get validated.

mondays | 9–11 am

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

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

first and third mondays |11:30 am–1 pm

The Kiwanis Club of Albuquerque Luncheon. Meet other friendly people

whose mission is to help kids. Our speaker program is highly regarded. Info: Luncheons are held at the Embassy Suites Hotel, l1000 Woodward Pl NE. Reserve your seat and buffet lunch for $30 (cash or check at the door) by contacting Dave at (505) 681–6325 or dorner66@gmail.com for more information. Meet friendly people whose mission is to help kids. Reserve your seat and buffet lunch: Dorner66@ gmail.com, or call Dave O at 505–681– 6325. $30 fee (cash or check at the door).

first and third mondays | 6–8 pm

Game Night at I Scream Ice Cream. Join us for an evening of games, treats, and community fun. Bring the whole crew or come ready to make new friends. There is always a seat at the table. Also, $5 Bingo tickets with prizes; proceeds go to updating the game shelf. Info: I Scream Ice Cream, 2000 Carlisle Blvd NE, Ste F, (505) 268–0139.

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

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

mondays | 6–8 pm

Brain Gang Trivia. Bring your brain, bring the gang, and show us your wits. It’s free, it’s fun, and there are prizes to be won. Info: Canteen Taproom, 417 Tramway Blvd NE, (505) 200–2344, braingangtrivia.com. 18+ welcome.

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mondays | 6:30–8 pm

Connection Support Group. This is a free peer–led support group for any adult that has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Info: Education Building, 5400 Gibson Blvd SE, Classroom #2. Sign up once online at namialbuquerque.org/support–and– e d u c a t i o n /s u p p o r t – g ro u p s / n a m i – connection.

mondays and wednesdays | 9:30 pm

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

monday–friday | 9:30 am–2:30 pm

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

mondays–saturdays | 12–2 pm

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

mondays, wednesdays, and fridays | 10 am–1:30 pm

Museum. The museum’s purpose is to educate young and old alike to the history of the telephone in New Mexico and to preserve the legacy of the telephone people that built that industry in New Mexico. There are four floors of exhibits, telephone switchboards and telephones, as well as four audio exhibits in the original telephone building dating from 1906. There are also telephone directories from 1916–current from almost every town in New Mexico. Info: 110 Fourth St NW, (505) 842–2937. Scheduled tours can be made after normal museum hours.

Telephone

DATEBOOK mondays–fridays | 8:30 am–4 pm

Presbyterian Health Plan Place. Start enjoying your health and wellness journey. We will educate and guide you no matter where you are in your health journey to build a strong foundation. Our resources, services, and classes are open to all, free of charge and regardless of insurance. Join us for activities around nutrition, fitness, and self–management and wellness. Any Medicare eligible individual with any type of health insurance is welcome at

Health Plan Place. Info: Two Locations: 2100 Louisiana Blvd NE, Ste 408 and 6100 Pan American Fwy NE. See what’s available and the calendars at phs.org/ health–plan–place. Registrations can also be done at this web address.

first tuesdays| 6–7:30 pm

NAMI Family Support Group. This is a free

peer–led support group for any adult with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Info: Education Building, 5400 Gibson Blvd SE, Classroom #2. Sign up once

online at namialbuquerque.org/ s u p p o r t – a n d – e d u c a t i o n /s u p p o r t – groups/nami–connection.

every other tuesday | 6–7:30 pm

NAMI Family Support Group. This is a free

peer–led support group for any adult with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Info: By ZOOM: Sign up once online at namialbuquerque.org/support–and– e d u c a t i o n /s u p p o r t – g ro u p s / n a m i – connection.

tuesdays | 9–9:30 am

QiGong Class. Experience the many

health benefits of qigong from a holistic, low–impact practice that combines meditation, breathing, and movement. Info: 2404 San Mateo Pl NE, (908) 486–4442

tuesdays | 6–7 pm

Chess Club. All ages and skill levels are

welcome. Info: Corrales Community Library, 84 West La Entrada, (505) 897–0733.

tuesdays | 6:30–8:30 pm

The New MexiChords Barbershop Chorus. Do you love to sing? The New

MexiChords Barbershop Chorus is looking for men and women to join them. It is not necessary to read music to join. Sheet music and learning tracks are available to learn songs. Two concerts are performed annually, and they also sing at Albuquerque’s Citizenship Naturalization Ceremonies as well as other civic events, such as the Balloon Fiesta and others as they arise. Info: St. John’s United Methodist Church, 2626 Arizona Ave NE. For more information, contact Walt Parsons at (505) 410–9635.

tuesdays | 7–9 pm

Brain Gang Trivia with host, Matt Hoffberg. Bring your brain, bring the

gang, and show us your wits. It’s free, it’s fun, and there are prizes to be won. Info: The Tatted Bee Brewhouse, 11500 Menaul Blvd NE, (505) 554–2513, braingangtrivia.com. 18+ welcome.

first tuesdays | 10–11 am

Albuquerque Newcomers’ Club. Make new friends who share your interests. The “Welcome Coffee” is free. Join us to meet some of our members and learn about the club’s events and activities. Open to singles and couples. Info: Sandia Presbyterian Church, 10704 Paseo Del Norte NE. Once there, follow the yellow ANC signs to meeting room #214 on the 2nd floor. (We aren’t affiliated with this, or any other, church. We just use the space they have donated.) More information can be obtained at (505) 321–6970. Please

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DATEBOOK visit albuquerquenewcomersclub.org for more information.

second tuesdays | 4–7 pm

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

second tuesdays | 5:30–7 pm

Turquoise Trail Harley Owners Group, Chapter #2015. Socialize with other

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

third tuesdays | 6–8 pm

abqmuseum, (505) 243–7255. General admission: $6; a $5 exhibition surcharge may apply.

purpose is to provide for the benefit and development of our members and the community at large through education, appreciation, and involvement in the field of beads and bead–related subjects. We do not meet in July or December. Please check our website in case of occasional changes. Info: Heights Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 8600 Academy Rd NE, beadsocietyNM.org.

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

Bead Society of New Mexico (BSNM) Monthly Membership Meeting. BSNM’s

tuesdays, wednesdays, and thursdays | 6 pm

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

tuesdays–saturdays | 9 am–5 pm

Art and History Exhibitions. See the

Albuquerque Museum website for the current listing of exhibitions. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Rd NW, cabq.gov/artsculture/

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

Casa San Ysidro Tours. Take a tour of this

late 19th century building filled with an excellent collection of New Mexico vernacular art. Info: Casa San Ysidro, 973 Old Church Rd, Corrales, cabq.gov/ casasanysidro, (505) 898–3915, $4–$6 general admission.

tuesdays | 3:30–5 pm

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

DATEBOOK tuesdays | 7 pm

Music Bingo Night. Enjoy yourself and

invite friends to join you with food, drinks, and friendly competition presented by World’s Best Trivia. Food truck on site from 5–10 pm. Prizes awarded. Info: Flock of Moons Brewing Company, 111 Harvard Dr SE.

second tuesdays | 10:30 am–12 pm

Pueblo of Isleta Cancer Community Support. Info: Isleta Pueblo Health

Clinic, 1 Sagebrush St.

tuesdays–sundays | 10 am–5 pm

National Hispanic Cultural Center Exhibits.

See the website for the current listing of exhibitions. Info: National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 Fourth St SW, (505) 246–2261, nhccnm.org.

tuesdays, thursdays, fridays, sundays | 11 am

Historic Old Town Tours. Explore historic

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

tuesday–sunday | 10 am–5 pm

The Corrales Bosque Gallery. Artist– owned and operated, the Corrales Bosque Gallery is delighted to display the work of its 18 member–artists. You will find a wide variety of media and styles, including painting, photography, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, drawing, folk art, beadwork, and mosaic. Info: 4685 Corrales Rd, (505) 898–7203, corralesbosquegallery.com.

first wednesdays | 9 am–5 pm

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

wednesdays | 6–8 pm

Brain Gang Trivia with Host, Matt Hoffberg. Bring your brain, bring the

gang, and show us your wits. It’s free, it’s fun, and there are prizes to be won. Info: Canteen Brewhouse, 2381 Aztec Rd NE, (505) 881–2737, braingangtrivia. com. 18+ welcome.

second wednesdays | 12–1 pm

Cancer Support Now. Sandia Base cancer

support group for survivors of all cancers, all stages, men and women. Info: The Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255–0405. Currently hosting web meetings only. Please call the helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to connect with someone for one–to–one support.

second wednesdays | 10—11:30 am

NAMI Family Support Group. This is a free

peer–led support group for any adult with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Info: By ZOOM. Sign up once online at namialbuquerque.org/support–and– e d u c a t i o n /s u p p o r t – g ro u p s / n a m i – connection.

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DATEBOOK

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DATEBOOK second and fourth wednesdays | 11:30 am

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

fourth wednesdays | 10–11:30 am

wednesdays–sundays | 10 am–4 pm

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

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

wednesdays–sundays | 11 am–3:30 pm

New Mexico Holocaust & Intolerance Museum. The museum is dedicated

to providing knowledge about genocides and intolerance throughout history, continuing to the present day. Approximately 50 percent of the museum focuses on the Holocaust; the remaining space is devoted to other genocides, human rights, and social justice issues. Info: 616 Central Ave SW, (505) 247–0606, nmholocaustmuseum. org. Reservations required for parties of five or more.

wednesdays | 11 am–8 pm; fridays–sundays | 11 am–5 pm

Help Socialize Cats and Have Fun. Spend time with adorable, adoptable cats at Catopia Cat Cafe. Your visit and purchase of drinks and snacks will support the foster home of shelter and rescue kitties. Please visit catopiacatcafe. com for more information and details

on special events. Info: Paseo Village, 8001 Wyoming Blvd NE, Ste C–5, (505) 508–4278.

first thursdays bimonthly (every other) | 6:30 pm

Lymphedema + Lipedema Support Group.

Patients, caregivers, and advocates are invited to share experiences and strategies in a supportive space. Learn about wellness resources, compression options, and self–care techniques. Info: Hosted by Balanced Physical Therapy + Wellness, 7849 Tramway Blvd NE, Ste. A (Paseo Del Norte and Tramway Blvd), balancedrehababq.com/lymph, (505) 821–3831.

thursdays | 11:30 am

Road Runner Business Networking Group.

If you’d like to generate more business referrals, meet with us. Info: Jimmy’s Café, 7007 Jefferson St NE. Contact Terry at (505) 377–6074, triddle@ rmmsonline.com or roadrunnersabq. com.

thursdays | 4–5:30 pm

UNM/Cancer Support Now. Friends and Family Writing Together. This is a

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

DATEBOOK journaling support group for survivors of metastatic cancer, men and women, all diagnoses. Info: Our Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255–0405. Currently hosting web meetings only. Please call our helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to connect with someone for one–to–one support.

thursdays | 5:30—7:30 pm

CNM Student Study Hours with Childcare.

CNM student families are invited to take advantage of study hours at Explora. Childcare will be provided by Brillante for kids between the ages of three and 12. X Studio programming is available for children older than 12. Info: This is a free service available at Explora, 1701 Mountain Rd NW, (505) 600–6072 or email brillante@explora.us for more information. Space is limited.

thursdays | 6–8 pm

Live Music at Town & Ranch. Featuring

our favorite local artists, paired with our selection of local spirits and craft cocktails. Info: Town & Ranch, 1318 4t St NW. For details, visit lospoblanos.com/ events.

thursdays | 6–9 pm Karaoke. Join

DJ Danielsan for an evening of fun. Take the stage and sing your favorite songs or relax with friends while enjoying great drinks and food. Sip on cocktails, local NM craft beers, and wines. Feast on dishes from Ursa Minor, Suffocakes, La Cocina de Maria, Vegan Vato, and Latin Flavor ABQ. Info: Imperial Inn, 701 Central Ave NE. Free.

thursdays | 6:30 pm

Nerd Nite. Nerd Nite is a monthly lecture

event that strives for an inebriated, salacious, yet deeply academic vibe. It’s often about science or technology, but by no means is it limited to such topics. And it’s definitely entertaining. Our unofficial tag line is “It’s like the Discovery Channel–with beer!” There are Nerd Nites around the world; ABQ is just one of them. Info: Santa Fe Brewing Company Taproom at Green Jeans Food Hall, 3600 Cutler Ave NE, #1. Take a gander at nerdnite.com for more info or contact Nat at (650) 319–5001.

thursdays | 7–9 pm

Brain Gang Trivia with Host, Matt Hoffberg.

Bring your brain, bring the gang, and show us your wits. It’s free, it’s fun, and there are prizes to be won. Info: The

BLOCK, 7805 Enchanted Hills Blvd NE, Rio Rancho. 18+ welcome.

Second and fourth Thursdays | 11–12 pm

Grief and Loss Support Group. Grief is

a natural process that can often be eased, sharing with others who have experienced the loss of a loved one or any other significant loss. Info: Jewish Care Program. Pre–registration required with Jen Dennis at (505) 348– 4443. Free.

second and fourth thursdays | 3:30–5 pm

Cancer Support Now. Pancreatic cancer

caregiver support group for caregivers of patients and survivors of pancreatic cancer, all stages, men, and women. Info: The Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255–0405. Hosting web meetings only currently. Please call the helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to connect with someone for one–to–one support.

first and third thursdays | 5–6:30 pm

Cancer Support Now. Women’s North Valley cancer support group for all

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

DATEBOOK cancers, all women, survivors and/ or caregivers. Info: The Helpline is available seven days a week at (505) 255–0405. Currently hosting web meetings only. Please call the helpline for an invitation to join a web support group or to connect with someone for one–to–one support.

thursdays | 4–6 pm

Tutoring Thursdays at ¡Explora!. Tutoring in the Tech Lab. Want help with tricky homework or a study partner for that upcoming quiz? Drop in for an effective tutoring session. Ages 13–19 welcome. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Rd NW, (505) 600–6072, explora.us.

thursdays | 6–8 pm

fridays in May, June, and July | 6:30 pm

Live @ Winrock Free Concert Series Last year established Winrock as the place to be outdoors on Fridays. Join us for your

favorite local bands, food trucks, beer, wine and vendors, a grassy park and a playground, something for everyone. Mark your calendars now for round two of joyous community and celebration with like–minded good people and music fans. Info: Check ampconcerts. org/tag/Winrock for bands playing on the night(s) you would like to attend. Free.

first friday | 9 pm

Chatter Late Works. Info: Chatter, 912

any other significant lProgram, (505) 821–3214, free.

fridays | 1–4 pm

Tamarind Institute. See the workshop facility, learn about fine art lithography, current programs, and the history of Tamarind (a division within the College of Fine Arts at UNM). See a collaborative process video and a printing demonstration. The public is welcome, no reservation required; reservation for other times: tamarind. unm.edu. Info: Tamarind Institute, 2500 Central Ave SE, (505) 277–3901. Free.

fridays | 4–6 pm

Fix–it Fridays and Crafternoons at ¡Explora!. Join others for a variety of

Live Music at Town & Ranch. Featuring our favorite local artists paired with our selection of local spirits and craft cocktails. Info: Town & Ranch, 1318 4th St NW. For details visit lospoblanos. com/events. Free.

3rd St NW. Doors open at 8:15; concert starts at 9 pm. General admission is $15 with tickets at chatterabq.org/ boxoffice and, if still available, at the door. Cash bar provided by Rumor Brewing.

projects–repair your broken electronics, use sewing skills to bring old clothes back to life, and craft with friends over Boba Tea drinks. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Rd NW, (505) 600–6072, explora.us.

thursdays | 9:30 pm

fridays | 12–1:30 pm

fridays | 6:30–8 pm

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

Tango

Classes.

Grief and Loss Support Group. Grief is

a natural process that can often be eased–sharing with others who have experienced the loss of a loved one or

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

NAMI Connection Support Group. This is a free peer–led support group for any adult who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Info: By ZOOM–Sign up once online at

DATEBOOK namialbuquerque.org/support–and– e d u c a t i o n /s u p p o r t – g ro u p s / n a m i – connection.

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. Call to confirm schedule, (505)

508–4020, $30.

holidaydancestudio.com,

fridays | 7–9 pm

Square Dance. Come dance with the

every first friday |

Anderson Abruzzo International Balloon Museum Free Admission Day. Check out

this award–winning, world–class facility highlighting the art, culture, history, science and sport of hot air ballooning and other lighter–than–aircraft. Info: 9201 Balloon Museum Dr NE (north of Alameda), (505) 768–6020, cabq.gov/ balloon.

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

fridays | 7–9

Solid Grounds Music Café. Solid Grounds is a unique venue offering musical inspiration and community in a coffeehouse atmosphere, every Friday evening. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Live music from 7 until 9 pm. No cover charge. Info: Hosted by Rio Grande Center for Spiritual Living. 4374 Alexander Blvd NE, (505) 224–9405, rgcsl.org. Everyone is welcome and donations are gratefully accepted.

second fridays | 6–7 pm

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

every third friday | 7–9 pm

Cactus and Succulent Society of New Mexico. Discuss cacti and succulents;

enjoy a program presented on a subject relevant to these plants. The program usually includes a slideshow. It is not necessary to be a member to attend. Info: Albuquerque Garden Center, 10120 Lomas Blvd NE, (505) 296–6020 new– mexico.cactus–society.org.

fridays, saturdays, and sundays

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

first saturdays | 8:30–11 am

Bosque Wild Guided Hike. Come join the Open Space Nature Guides and Trail Watch Volunteer Stewards on an adventure into one of the gems

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

DATEBOOK of Albuquerque’s Open Spaces. This is a moderately strenuous, 2–to–3– hour hike so please bring water, wear comfortable and closed–toed shoes, and dress for the weather. Info: Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors Blvd NW, (505) 768–4951.

first saturdays | 10–11:30 am People

Living

Through

Cancer.

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

or email brillante@explora.us for more information. Space is limited.

saturdays | 12:30 pm

saturdays | 12–1 pm

Rehearsals have begun for the Fall 2026 season and continue through our concerts in December. CCRR is a cooperative community chorus located in Rio Rancho. We are accepting new members (2nd–5th grades) from Rio Rancho and all surrounding areas through September 15th. No auditions and no experience required. Just come and join the fun. Registration $150 at rr–cc.org. Questions? info@rr–cc.org.

Watermelon Mountain Ranch Volunteer Orientation. Come to the main facility

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

Children’s

Chorus

Rio

Rancho.

saturdays | 8–11 am

Los Ranchos Growers’ Market. Fresh local produce and products, plants, arts & crafts, music, and more. Handicapped accessible, family and pet friendly. Info: 6718 Rio Grande Blvd NW. Facebook: Los Ranchos Growers’ Market. For more information, call Colene (505) 610– 9591. Free. May have seasonal changes.

saturdays | 8 am–12 pm

Downtown Growers’ Market. Shop the

largest selection of local farmers and ranchers in Albuquerque. Each bring their own knowledge, flavor, and personal touch to the plants they grow, animals they raise, and bees they tend. Info: Robinson Park, 8th St and Central Ave. May have seasonal changes.

saturdays | 9 am–10 am Kundalini Yoga. Start

your weekend grounded, refreshed, and connected to nature with a Saturday Morning Outdoor Yoga Series at the Open Space Visitor Center. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced yogi, this class welcomes all who are looking to move their body, calm their mind, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Info: 6500 Coors Blvd NW, (505) 768–4951.

saturdays | 9 am–12 pm

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

saturdays | 10 am–2 pm

CNM Student Study Hours with Free Childcare. CNM student families are

invited to take advantage of study hours at Explora. Childcare will be provided by Brillante for kids between the ages of three and 12. X Studio programming is available for children older than 12. Info: This is a free service available at Explora, 1701 Mountain Rd NW, (505) 600–6072

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

DATEBOOK saturdays | 1–2:30 pm

Family Art Workshops. Stop by the

Albuquerque Museum School during your visit to participate in an art project. Families are welcomed with weekly opportunities to get creative together. All ages will enjoy working with a variety of art mediums with all materials supplied. Child and grown–up friendly. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Rd NW, (505) 243– 7255. Workshops included with paid admission of $3–$6. Tickets at cabq. gov/artsculture/albuquerque–museum.

saturdays | 1–3 pm

Duke City Model Yacht Club. Join us every

Saturday at Tingley Beach where we race remote–controlled sailboats. All are welcome to visit us at the pond. We will be happy to help you sail one of our boats before or after the races. Info: 1800 Tingley Dr SW, dcmyc.org.

saturdays | 2 pm

Rio Rancho Youth Chorus. Rehearsals have begun for the Spring 2025 season and continue through our concerts in December. RRYC is a cooperative community chorus located in Rio Rancho. We are accepting new members (6th–12th grades) from Rio Rancho and all surrounding areas

through September 15. No auditions and no experience required. Just come and join the fun. Registration $150 at rr–cc.org.

second saturdays | 10 am–4 pm

Monthly Book Sale. Hardcovers, paperbacks, audiobooks, DVDs, CDs, vinyl, puzzles, games, art prints and more. 70% to 90% off list prices. Info: Main Library, 501 Copper Ave NW, (505) 768–5141.

most 2nd and 4th saturdays | 7–10 pm

second saturdays | 6–8:30 pm

Community Coffee House. Warm up with a cup and the opening musical performer. This is a great way to spend a Saturday evening listening to music and enjoying friends, old and new. Info: Unity Spiritual Center, relocated from the East Mountains to 9800 Candelaria Rd NE, (505) 292–1998, uscabq.org/ coffeehouse for information about the month’s performers. (Not affiliated with the church.)

third saturdays |

ABQ Dance Club: FUN social dances held every 2nd and 4th Saturday–of–the– month. Variety music for swing, country,

ballroom, Latin. 120+ dancers regularly attend. All levels welcomed, no partner needed, all age venue. Fee: $8 ($5 ADC); ASDC, 4915 Hawkins NE, 7–10pm (Optional: Lesson @ 6:45pm TBD). For more info email glkello@nmia.com or call 505–299–3737 (no text).

saturdays | 2:30–4:30 pm

Blue Star Mothers. General membership meeting for mothers of sons or daughters who currently serve or have served in the U.S. military. Care packages are packed four times a year for those serving in the military. They also volunteer and participate in several

military events throughout the year. Info: 2919 2nd St NW, rgvnmbsm.org. Contact Ruby at rubyjeangarcia@ gmail.com or (505) 203–8250 or Denise at (505) 883–6240. Free.

Tango Club of Albuquerque’s Weekly Practice. At this Argentine Tango

practice, no partner is necessary. Info: ABQ Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins St NE, abqtango.org.

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.

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SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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D WNT WN Espresso Fino 222 Gold Ave SW

Espresso Fino is a one-man show run by barista and owner Greg Flores. The micro-shop is a hidden gem located in Downtown ABQ with a sign that boasts “We’ll Make Anything You Want!” That’s right—Flores will use your preferences and taste to customize a drink just for you.

Little Bear Coffee 330 Tijeras Ave NW

This Little Bear location sits inside the Clyde Hotel, where you can grab your coffee and settle into the hotel’s atrium or wander Downtown. Just know they’re only open until 3pm.

Lasso Coffee & Lager 601 Gold Ave SW

Can’t decide between coffee or a beer? Lasso reminds us that you don’t have to. This Downtown spot transitions from specialty coffee in the morning to craft beer later in the day and into the night. Cheers to that!

4 TIO CA LO

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

727 Tijeras Ave NW

A lot of coffee shops boast being community-forward spaces, but Castle Coffee walks the walk. Along with their reservable Downtown community room, networking events, art showcases, and pop-ups, they have an entire digital resource guide for anyone interested in coffee. It covers everything from at-home brewing methods and roast levels to flavor notes and even the chemistry behind coffee. You can even email education@castlecoffeeco.com with any questions that aren’t addressed on their site. “Coffee brings people together in a way that no other industry can,” says founder Joshua Castleberry.

D OW N T OW N

Castle Coffee

3 O ATI LO C

Albuquerque roots run deep for Keith “The Dean of Mean” Jardine. The retired UFC standout, once known for his unconventional fighting style and legendary toughness, has traded the Octagon for a different kind of daily grind: Albuquerque’s coffee shop scene. These days, you’re more likely to find Jardine tucked behind a laptop, sipping a craft-roasted, co-fermented brew while working on his next creative endeavor. Jardine has found a new arena in film. He’s actively writing screenplays and stepping behind the camera to direct projects such as his recent title, Kill Me Again, while continuing to act in films like the recent hit Over Your Dead Body (available on Prime Video). One of his favorite places to settle in and create is Castle Coffee, where neighborhood regulars mix with fresh faces and the morning atmosphere strikes an unusual balance—quiet, yet buzzing with energy. For Jardine, it’s just the right blend of hip and quaint, calm and chaos—and unmistakably Albuquerque.

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Sueños Coffee Co.

101 Broadway Blvd NE

If you like trying new things, put Sueños on your list of places to try. The family-owned coffee shop helped put coffee flights on the map in New Mexico and is constantly rotating creative seasonal drinks. It’s the kind of place that encourages you to order something you normally wouldn’t— and you just might discover a new favorite.

MOJO Rising Coffee 701 Central Ave NE

Mojo Rising might be a tiny coffee bar tucked inside The Imperial on Route 66, but it’s got an awful lot of personality. Their most talked-about drink is the Spanish Harlem—made with espresso, steamed milk, chocolate, and local red chile powder. Don’t mind if we do!

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

Behind

every cup of coffee is a roaster carefully figuring out how to get the very best flavors out of each bean.

Café es Amor 1024 4th St SW

You can get all your Café es Amor favorites, like conchas, chilaquiles, and café de ollo, at their Barelas location.

LOCAT

“Roasting is an art, and it’s a science, as well,” says Cutbow Coffee founder Paul Gallegos, who’s been roasting coffee for nearly four decades. Rather than relying on computer software, Gallegos roasts by sight, smell, and sound. “It requires all your senses to be acutely aware of what’s happening,” he says. Great roasting actually starts long before the beans reach the roaster. That’s why Villa Myriam owner and roaster Jose Dominguez spends just as much time sourcing beans as he does roasting them. “That quality matters to me because it gives me a great foundation to create roast profiles that really let the coffee speak for itself,” he shares. Just know that not every local roaster has a storefront. Companies like Crude Lab Coffee Roasters, Los Amigos, Whiting Coffee Co, Grinding Gears, and Moon’s Coffee & Tea focus primarily on roasting, then supplying beans to wholesale partners or selling directly to customers. They might fly under the radar, but they’re a big reason ABQ’s coffee scene has become what it is today.

D OW N T OW N

Boom-Roasted!

Java Joe’s

906 Park Ave SW, #3045

Java Joe’s has been fueling Burquenos since 1990, which alone speaks volumes. This institution roasts its own coffee, showcases local artists and musicians, and is basically the place where generations of Burquenos have—and will continue to—start their mornings.

IONS

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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VM Coffee

573 Commercial St NE

Every bean at VM Coffee—the ‘VM’ stands for ‘vida miya,’ which translates to ‘my life’—is sourced through a small network of trusted partners before being roasted on-site. “I treat all of our customers and partners as if they were part of the VM family,” says Jose Dominguez, head roaster and owner. “It’s never just about selling coffee. It’s about building relationships, honoring the people behind the product, and creating something that brings people together.”

Burning Daylight Coffee Co. 800 3rd St NW, Ste A

Burning Daylight is a modern shop in Wells Park that serves up coffee, breakfast, and lunch. They roast their beans on-site and serve an all-day breakfast menu that’s earned just as many compliments as the coffee—especially the fluffy pancakes.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

413 2nd St SW

Women-owned shop Zendo has become a Downtown coffee staple. “We started here in 2013 with nothing really on our block,” shares owner Pilar Westell (pictured below). Since then, the shop has done immense things for the area and the ABQ community at large. They host monthly art shows, local pop-ups, donate coffee to the New Mexico Immigration Law Center and UNM medical students, and donate their space to local organizations. “I believe we were a spark that was able to show people that Downtown really is a cool place and it has a lot to offer,” Westell says. The creative shop also boasts both indoor and outdoor seating, plus a menu of classic favorites along with specialty drinks like the Zia latte (white or dark chocolate and cinnamon), Turkish latte (honey, cardamom, clove, and nutmeg), pistachio rosewater latte, and seasonal offerings.

Moka Joe’s Coffee 219 Central Ave NW

D OW N T OW N

Zendo Coffee

LOCAT

IONS

Moka Joe’s Coffee serves single-estate, organic coffee from its Downtown shop. Along with classics and New Mexico-inspired favorites like the biscochito latte and red chile mocha, don’t miss their signature MCT latte, which is made with MCT oil for some extra clean energy.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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Madcrema

1108 Broadway Blvd NE

Madcrema is the brick-and-mortar home of Odacrem Coffee—that’s “Mercado” spelled backward. Owners Juan Mercado and Carol Krause roast coffee under the Odacrem name and serve it at their cafe on Broadway alongside creative espresso drinks and breakfast food favorites.

Mission Grounds Coffee

The Brew

311 Gold Ave SW

The Brew’s coffee is grown on the owner’s family farm in Colombia and roasted locally to make the perfect balance of flavors. Speaking of flavor—this Downtown coffee bar has some of the most intriguing latte flavors, like the Crazy Monkey (espresso, milk, banana, and chocolate) or the Aztec latte (espresso, sweet condensed milk, and cinnamon). Why not try them all?

220 Copper Ave NW, Ste 100

Mission Grounds started as a mobile coffee truck before growing into their Downtown ABQ shop. They still craft the same great drinks and greet everyone with the same hospitality.

Slow Burn Coffee Roasters 821 Mountain Rd NW

Slow Burn quickly became a neighborhood favorite following inception in 2020—which makes its success even more impressive considering the shop opened at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Wells Park spot specializes in high-quality, single-origin, small batch-roasted coffees. As if that weren’t cool enough, Slow Burn recently partnered with Down Home Books to sell used books in the cafe.

Don’t be afraid to ask

Branch out and try something

questions. A lot of people

new. Most coffee shops want

are terrified of asking

you to do that, and if you don’t

questions, but baristas

like it, that’s okay—just tell your

genuinely

barista. Most of the time, they’ll

helpful. They care, and

want

remake your drink and help you

they want you to have a

figure out what you don’t like

good experience.

about it.

OLIVIA MORRIS LITTLE BEAR COFFEE

100

TREVOR VIGIL

LITTLE BEAR COFFEE

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

Sukoon Coffeehouse 3001 Central Ave NE

This Nob Hill coffeehouse serves worldly favorites, like Arabic coffee, Turkish coffee, Adeni tea, honeycomb bread, and savory zatar pastries. Sukoon’s large seating area is great for studying, and they even have a separate meeting room in the cafe.

NO B H I L L

N B HILL

Grandma’s Coffee Garden 124 Girard Blvd SE

Grandma’s Coffee Garden is part coffee shop, part garden, and entirely adorable. The quaint shop serves drinks out of a retro Airstream—patrons have the option of enjoying theirs on the go, in the neighboring indoor seating area, or amongst the flowers and curated shrubbery. (We suggest the greenery and zen of the outdoors here.)

Dia De Las Baristas 4915 Lomas Blvd NE

Amalie Coffee Co.

2132 Central Ave SE

This trendy coffee shop is known for its strong Turkish coffee and decadent desserts. The best part is they’re open late—as in, 11 pm—which is perfect to swing by for a post-Popejoy treat, or to grab some caffeine while studying into the night.

The thing that sets Dia De Las Baristas apart from other coffee shops isn’t necessarily the coffee—it’s the baristas who serve it, and their scanty outfits. Self-billed as Albuquerque’s first “bikini coffee shop,” the drive-through opened last year with a proclamation to celebrate and empower women. In addition to standard fare, the menu includes shaken espressos, cold brews, and breakfast burritos.

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NO B H I L L

Michael Thomas Coffee 202 Bryn Mawr Drive SE

Michael Thomas helped shape the city’s specialty coffee culture as one of its original ‘OGs’ (an Original Grinder, for our purposes here). The business was started in 2004 by Michael Sweeney—the shop’s namesake—who roasts and runs the shop alongside his daughters, including Kate Sweeney, pictured below.

Rise + Roast

Citizen Coffee

102

Located inside Citizen Church, this Citizen Coffee location is only open Sunday mornings, so make sure you time your visit right.

BLVD SE, STE E

LOCAT

O ATI LO C

10500 Copper Ave SE

401 Eubank Blvd

With three locations across ABQ and Rio Rancho, locally-owned Rise + Roast serves freshly made donuts to go with their espresso drinks. They even have drive-thrus at each location, so you can make a stop on your drive to work.

3 O ATI LO C

Castle Coffee

1111 Carlisle Blvd SE

Grab some of Castle Coffee’s legendary house-roasted coffee at their newest location. Don’t snooze on the courtyard—it’s the perfect place to start your day.

IONS

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026

3409 Central Ave SE

Daily Rituals might be new on the coffee scene, but its creators aren’t new ABQ business owners. Husband-andwife team Adriana Dolores and Josh Shaft have run House of Stickks and Stones since 2020, and Daily Rituals is an extension of their shop—and when we say extension, we mean it literally extends right into the crystal shop via a gorgeous doorway. Sip on a cup of their house blend coffee as you browse the carefully curated collection of goods.

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Daily Rituals

Ancora Café and Bakery 148 Quincy St NE

Duggan's Coffee 2227 Lead Ave SE

Neighborhood coffee joint Duggan's Coffee is a favorite among students because it's smackdab in the center of UNM and CNM. Duggan's was established in 2014 by Mary and Kevin Scanlan and named in honor of Kevin's father. In 2022, the pair sold the shop to roasters Thomas Isole and Lee Sanders, who also own Trifecta Coffee Co. Along with their delicious coffee, you can get your breakfast on at Duggan's with classic dishes and baked goods.

At Ancora Cafe & Bakery, your morning coffee comes with a bigger mission. The nonprofit cafe provides paid job-skills training and community support for individuals in recovery, while also serving up delicious coffee, baked bites, and a welcoming place to gather.

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NO B H I L L

Satellite Coffee

5 L

IO AT OC

•2300 Central Avenue SE •1131 University Blvd NE

Satellite Coffee remains a student favorite with locations just a few steps from both UNM’s main campus and the UNM North Campus.

Humble Coffee Company 4200 Lomas Blvd NE

4 LO

TIO CA

Little Bear Coffee

3123 Central Ave NE, ste D

Little Bear’s Nob Hill location was originally a gas station along historic Route 66, which gives a whole new meaning to the phrase “fueling up.” After 5 pm, this cafe turns into Little Bear PM, where they serve natural wine and beer until 10 pm, though you can certainly still order coffee into the night, too. Plus, the cafe front is also the entrance to the new Daydream Rum Bar tucked downstairs.

Humble stays true to its name with quality coffee and an unpretentious vibe. They’re committed to keeping it local by serving locally-roasted coffee alongside pastries and burritos (including tons of vegan options!) from fellow Albuquerque businesses. Even though it might look small from the outside, the interior has plenty of seating for your next book club meetup or study sesh. Plus, there’s a walk-up ordering window on the back patio (pictured here), so you don’t even need to step foot inside if you don’t want to!

The Girls Coffee House 915 Yale Blvd SE

The Girls was founded by teen siblings Kaia and Arya Goold. Along with coffee, the UNM-adjacent cafe also serves quesadillas and bagels.

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MIDT WN Napoli Coffee

3035 Menaul Blvd NE

Napoli has been a fixture in ABQ’s coffee scene since 2002, but it’s entering a new era. Just over a year ago, longtime employee Cole Burke took over ownership, and it’s clear the team is thriving. Just take a look at their seasonal menu, which has drinks inspired by everything from ‘The Dark Knight’ to ‘Pink Pony Club.’ “We like to feature flavors our staff comes up with rather than what’s trendy,” says manager Erin Wolfe. Barista Kam Cordero is one of the creative geniuses behind the unique flavor combos. “The fun part is taking a dessert and figuring out what different flavor aspects it has and how we can put that into the latte,” she shares. Pair one of Napoli’s rotating drinks with a fresh-baked pastry, or ask which coffee goes best—the team loves helping customers discover new faves.

Kashmir Coffee Lounge 6565

Americas Pkwy, Ste 4

PHOTO BY WES KELLY

Looking for an excuse to dress up for coffee? Kashmir Coffee Lounge, tucked inside Park Square Market, has a boutique feel with gorgeous decor and pastries served alongside their coffee. Be ready to ‘gram before you dig in.

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ABQ Coffee

1321 Eubank Blvd NE Studio A

This spot is nestled inside The ABQ Collective, a retail space home to more than 30 local micro-shops. Along with classic espresso drinks, the café serves seasonal specials like the Abuelita Espresso (inspired by the nostalgic flavors of Abuelita Mexican Hot Chocolate). Yum!

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New Mexico Piñon Coffee 2235 Wyoming Blvd NE

This iconic New Mexico brand has been fueling locals for over 30 years. They’re best known for their piñon-infused coffee blends, but you can get tons of other flavors, like dulce de leche, vanilla bourbon, and lavender vanilla. Stop by one of their six locations in the ABQ metro area—including Sunport—to get your coffee fix.

Sunday Service Motor Company 2701 4th St NW

Coffee, beer, and motorcycles—oh my! This craft coffee shop and brewery, owned by Kevin Anderson and Stephen Park, operates out of a building that was previously a Harley-Davidson dealership, and they’ve definitely kept the motorcycle culture going. Sunday Service brews its own beer and serves coffee that’s locally roasted by Garden Company Coffee Roasters. It’s the perfect place to grab a cup or a pint while catching up with friends—they even host Bike Night every Wednesday evening.

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M I D T OW N

Little Bear Coffee

2632 Pennsylvania St NE

Little Bear has helped put New Mexico on the specialty coffee map with baristas who regularly compete at national levels. The shop has also also grown into one of Albuquerque’s biggest specialty coffee success stories, expanding to four locations across the metro—including one inside Sawmill Market. But if you spend a few minutes with the LB team, you’ll learn they aren’t interested in making specialty coffee feel exclusive. In fact, they want to make it as approachable and enjoyable as possible. “The quality of coffee is less about the coffee itself and more about the experience,” says barista Trevor Vigil. That experience starts with making every customer feel welcome. “I hope their day leaving Little Bear is a little bit better than it was before they walked in,” Vigil shares.

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Rust Is Gold Coffee 3732 Eubank Blvd NE

Coffee and motorcycles come together at this veteran-owned shop, which serves craft coffee with vintage vibes. Co-founder Steven Maes even has a documentary out called “Caffeine and Gasoline,” so you know they’re all-in with the theme.

If you’re making a choice about where to go in the morning, just make sure it’s somewhere local. The only thing that bugs me is if you’re spending your money at a chain when you could be having something really amazing from us or one of our neighbors.

AMANDA BASSETT

PLATA COFFEE

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HEIGHT S Meraki Coffee

Heatwave Coffee

5900 Eubank

8001 Wyoming

Blvd NE

Blvd NE, Ste B8

Meraki wears a lot of hats— coffee shop, brunch spot, cocktail bar, and artisanal market. Grab a cup of thirdwave coffee here while you shop locally-made products, or invite your whole crew out for a girls’ brunch.

Since its launch in 2024, Heatwave has quickly earned a following among ABQ coffee lovers. The Northeast Heights shop serves Little Bear Coffee roasts and has a rotating seasonal menu using house-made syrups and loads of creativity. With ample seating and plenty of free parking, this just might be your next favorite study spot.

Satellite Coffee

8405 Montgomery Blvd NE

As one of Albuquerque’s best-known coffee brands, Satellite has remained a go-to gathering place for nearly three decades. The entire family of coffee shops—plus, its sister company, Flying Star—recently changed ownership, having been acquired by five longtime employees, which means the 11 locations will stay in local hands.

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Citizen Coffee

TIONS LOCA

7518 Oakland Ave NE

Located inside Citizen Church, this spot serves as both a café and a gathering place for the community. The space is built around the idea of “coffee with a cause,” and each sale helps fund local and global outreach.

The Well Coffee 5500 San Mateo

Blvd NE, Ste 104

The Well is operated by the nonprofit U-Turn for Christ New Mexico, and was created as a place for people to gather and find community. They host regular events and are even available for parties and meetings with custom coffee and food catering.

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6239 Montgomery Boulevard NE

Whether you’re a coffee drinker, tea lover, or somewhere in between, Lala has something for everyone. They even have boba drinks and cupcakes to enjoy.

O’Beans Coffee

12760 San Rafael Ave NE, Ste C-2

Don’t be surprised if the folks at O’Beans start to ask if you want “the usual.” This family-owned coffee shop has built a loyal following over the years—much of the Volkswagen decor in the cafe was gifted to the owners by regulars. “It’s Cheers here,” jokes owner Sara O’Brien. “When you come in here, we want you to feel like you’re just one of us.” O’Beans beans are roasted right in-house, and the team loves experimenting with seasonal drinks until they find a combo worth sharing. It’s truly a family affair, with everyone from O’Brien’s husband and son, to her nephews (pictured here) pitching in to keep the coffee flowing.

H E IGH T S

Lala Coffee & Tea

Caffeine n Wheels Albuquerque knows great coffee can be served anywherE

When Stan McCoy launched Stan’s Coffee & Scones out of a refurbished 1964 Airstream Tradewind in 2018, there were only a handful of mobile coffee businesses in town. Eight years later, mobile coffee units have become a thriving part of ABQ’s coffee scene, with businesses like Pink Pour, Café Monita, Latte Corazón, and The Bean joining pioneers like Stan’s. “You run your own schedule,” McCoy says of one of the perks of staying mobile. And regulars are incredibly understanding, responding with “See you when you get back!” whenever

he takes a break from his usual route. That flexibility was also especially helpful during the pandemic, when Stan’s shifted to serving hospitals and other essential workplaces. Even now, McCoy appreciates the freedom to take his business wherever it makes sense, like testing out a new stop in Tijeras, which they’re doing currently. Meanwhile, several of the city’s favorite coffee businesses used wheels as their jumping off point. Before opening brick-and-mortar locations, both O’Beans Coffee and Sueños Coffee Co. began as mobile units—

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O’Beans served out of a 1971 VW Van (aka. the “O’Bean’s Coffee Cruiser”), and Sueños from a fully builtout coffee trailer. Sueños is already looking toward the next generation by preparing to launch its own roasting operation. Owner Norma Hernandez says the space will also include a training lab for anyone who loves coffee, including those interested in starting their own mobile coffee businesses. “We want to share the good, the bad, and the difficulties,” Hernandez says. “And how we’ve overcome them.”

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HEART F ABQ Plata Coffee

8325 2nd St NW

When you walk into Plata, you might stumble onto a Mario Kart tournament or puppy adoption event. Since opening their doors, Plata has become a gathering place with an ever-changing lineup of events designed to bring people together. And that’s exactly how they like it. That vibe is something manager Amanda Bassett is really intentional about cultivating. Before joining Plata, she worked with independent coffee shops across Albuquerque, training baristas and helping cafés grow. She also recently co-organized Coffee Brewers NM, which exists because owners have access to resources—but baristas don’t. The group puts on monthly Shop Talk meetups where baristas gather to talk shop, share ideas, hone their skills, and simply build relationships. Bassett is a firm believer that when one coffee shop succeeds, they all do. “We’re all collectively working to change our customers’ understanding of what good coffee is,” she shares. “Historically, coffee shops have been places for people from all walks of life to interact and leave each other better than how we found each other.”

La Luz Coffee

1115 Griegos Rd NW

Named after ABQ’s iconic La Luz Trail—and the Spanish word for “the light”—La Luz will definitely brighten your day. Try a La Luz latte crafted with homemade rosemary vanilla syrup, or any of their curated specialty drinks.

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TIO CA

Satellite Coffee 7600 Jefferson St NE

Linger over your fresh coffee with friends or colleagues at Satellite’s Jefferson location—just don’t visit on a Sunday because they’re closed.

LO C ATIO N

New Mexico Piñon Coffee

•5222 4th St NW •4545 Alameda Blvd NE

Trifecta Coffee Company

Piñon’s Alameda location is the only one without a drive-thru, so use this as your excuse to sit and sip a while.

We love a coffee shop with an impressive pastry selection, and Trifecta’s definitely doesn’t disappoint. Think quiches, scones, cookies, cakes, and more. Food aside, their coffee is equally awe-inspiring. They roast all their coffee on the premises—you can even watch the roaster from the inside seating area.

413 Montaño Rd NE

H E A R T OF A B Q

Moka Joe’s Coffee 350 Osuna Rd NW

Moka Joe’s second location brings its locally micro-roasted organic coffee and scratch-made breakfast to the Los Ranchos area.

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LD T WN Café es Amor

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2209 Central Ave NW, Suite B

As the name suggests, Café es Amor is a love letter to Mexican culture. Owners Lemuel Apodaca Jr. and Jackeline Villarreal wanted to recreate the feeling of slow mornings spent drinking coffee with family, and that notion is evident in every single detail. The cafe is decorated with vibrant Talavera, drinks are served in handcrafted mugs from Puebla, the menu incorporates nostalgic flavors like mazapán and Duvalín, and their café de olla is even prepared the traditional way—in clay pots. “It’s about the experience,” says Apodaca. “When you think about coming into a coffee shop, you’re having conversations, people are talking about their goals and dreams... you want it to be around that nostalgic feeling.” Since opening its first location in 2024, Café es Amor has expanded to a second location in Barelas with plans for a third in Rio Rancho or Albuquerque’s Westside. They’re also expanding their original cafe to accommodate larger parties. “We roll in packs,” Apodaca jokes. But no matter how much they grow, Café es Amor aims to remain a place where every guest feels like family. “There’s a lot of noise right now,” Apodaca says. “We’re doing the best we can to stay connected to the community, the culture, and create a safe place.”

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Bike In Coffee

949 Montoya St NW

Built with cyclists in mind, Bike In Coffee is situated on Old Town Farm. While you can drive up to the shop, biking in is highly encouraged. Grab a breakfast burrito, baked treat, sandwich, or crepe to go with your coffee—you’re going to burn it off on the ride home anyway!

Blackbird Coffee House

“Local is always the way to go. Familyowned or family-run coffee shops care a lot more about their product.”

206 San Felipe St NW

Blackbird Coffee House is a longtime Albuquerque staple that pairs locally roasted coffee with gorgeous artwork. The cafe walls are covered in stunning murals designed by Nikki Zakicki, but you’ll also want to wander outside to check out the lush courtyard. SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

ELIJAH HERNANDEZ

SUEÑOS COFFEE

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Remedy Coffee

1816 Lomas Blvd NW

Remedy Coffee is owned by the family behind Duran Central Pharmacy, so you know you’re in for incredible quality ingredients. They also boast specialty coffee, freshbaked pastries, a sunny courtyard, and one of the coziest fireplaces in town. Don’t leave without trying The Remedy—a mocha made with Duran’s signature red chile.

Cutbow Coffee

1208 Rio Grande Blvd NW

Cutbow Coffee is one of Albuquerque’s coffee legends, and it’s no surprise why. After spending more than 30 years in California’s coffee industry, owner Paul Gallegos returned to the 505 because he wanted his children to know where they were from. He describes that feeling with the Spanish word “querencia”—a deep love for the land you’re grounded in. Querencia is woven throughout the café— it’s named after the Cutbow trout (a hybrid of New Mexico’s state fish and the rainbow trout) as a nod to owner Paul Gallegos’ late father, and fresh flowers sit on every table because Gallegos wrote “fresh flowers” in a notebook years before Cutbow even had a name or a location, and it’s been part of the coffee shop ever since. “Those little respectful details help make this a really special place,” says Gallegos. Every coffee bean is roasted on-site, and Gallegos regularly opens that process up to the public with free cuppings. While you’re there, don’t miss the Maria Elena—an espresso shot poured over homemade marshmallow. Most coffee shops call this drink a gommosita, but Cutbow renamed it to embody a sense of querencia. “My dear mother makes the marshmallows, and it has occurred to me that we’re not really honoring who’s making them,” Gallegos shares. “So we changed the name to Maria Elena, which is my sweet mama’s name.”

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4 LO

Santa Cecilia Coffee

TIO CA

111 Romero St NW

Little Bear Coffee

Santa Cecilia was named after owner Anthony Hernandez Montalvo’s grandmother and Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music. The queer-owned coffee shop has an Old Town hacienda aesthetic and some of the best pies and cakes you’ve ever tasted.

Little Bear occupies a stall in Sawmill Market, one of Albuquerque’s indoor food halls. Pair your coffee with food from any of the 25+ other vendors.

1909 Bellamah Ave NW

Wake Up, Albuquerque Before they bring you the day’s headlines, Albuquerque’s morning news anchors are reaching for their first cup of coffee. We asked a few very familiar faces how they fuel those early mornings.

Royale Da

“As a morning news anchor, coffee isn’t just part of my routine—it’s practically in my contract. I’d love to grab an Americano from one of Burque’s great coffee shops, but they’re all closed when I’m off to work. So, my favorite cup starts with beans my husband roasts at home, freshly ground and brewed in a Clever Dripper. Then comes a splash of half-and-half into my Ember mug, set to a very specific 134 degrees. Bougie? Absolutely. Too many steps? Probably. Worth it? Every morning. Coffee is my happy place, my love language, and the only reason 2:30 a.m. feels remotely civilized.“

Danielle Todesco

“When you wake up at 2 a.m., it takes a monstrous amount of caffeine to get going for the day. My co-anchor, Giuli, and I bought a coffee maker for our desk. We start with a cup of coffee around 3 a.m., then another around 7 a.m., and I have a third cup of coffee while I anchor the noon to power me through the lunch hour newscast. But for an extra treat after the show, I love going to local shop Cutbow Coffee for their lavender latte. Even with all of that, I think I could fall asleep at a moment’s notice.”

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Coffee Lingo 101 Some coffee shop menus can feel like a foreign language, with intimidating terms like single origin, Chemex, honey process, and direct trade. Before you panic, know that a lot of coffee words actually do come from other languages—particularly Italian. We asked our local coffee experts to help decode some of the most common (and most confusing) java lingo, so you can sound like a pro the next time you order.

Crema Crema is the creamy golden layer of foam on top of a freshly pulled espresso shot and a sign of quality espresso.

Chemex Chemex is a brand of glass coffee brewer that’s shaped like an hourglass and used for pour overs. Depending on where you order it, your barista might serve the entire Chemex so you can pour each cup yourself.

Cortado A cortado is equal parts espresso and steamed milk and is much smaller than a latte. You can definitely taste more of the espresso in this drink.

Espresso Tonic This is one of those ‘trust the process’-type drinks, but don’t knock it ‘til you try it! It combines espresso, tonic water, and often a flavored syrup for a refreshing buzz that’s becoming increasingly popular at specialty coffee shops like La Luz, Plata, Little Bear, Grandma’s Coffee Garden, Zendo, and others.

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Honey Process Despite the name, no honey is involved in this type of coffee bean processing. It just means that some of the coffee fruit is left on the bean while it dries, which creates a naturally sweeter flavor. Yum!

Latte Art Latte art refers to the beautiful designs poured into steamed milk on top of a latte.

Single Origin Coffee sourced from one farm or region is called single origin.

Direct Trade Direct trade refers to buying coffee directly from farmers rather than through a middleman. Drip Coffee A drip is your classic cup of coffee. Your barista will typically serve it from a pot or carafe.

Pour Over This is a common brewing method where hot water is poured over coffee grounds by hand. If you order a pour over at a cafe, expect it to take a bit of time—but the result will be a super smooth cuppa.

Cold Brew Cold brew is steeped in cold water for up to 24 hours, which makes it smoother and less acidic than traditional iced coffees. Cupping The coffee world’s version of a wine tasting is cupping—roasters use it to evaluate a coffee’s flavor and quality. Several shops actually offer public cupping for patrons, like Cutbow and Plata.

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R A NCH

&C RRALES The Farm Stand

4206 Corrales Rd, Corrales

ext time you stop at The Farm Stand‘s retail market—which has a great selection of local, organic products—consider grabbing a cup of joe at their coffee counter. They serve small-batch coffeeroasted next door at Grinding Gears.

Grinding Gears Coffee Company Café Bella Coffee

2115 Golf Course Rd Suite 102, Rio Rancho

With over 1,200 possible beverage combos, there’s a little something for everyone who stops at Café Bella Coffee. This Rio Rancho favorite has been around since 2012 and is known for its neighborhood charm and scratch-made scones baked on-site.

4206 Corrales Rd Corrales

Today’s Grinding Gears Coffee Company is the result of a merger between Candlestick Coffee and Grinding Gears Coffee Company. Part of the brand’s mission is to create meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, so every bag of beans sold is a step closer to a more inclusive community.

Oval Dogs Coffee

R IO R A NCHO & C OR R A L L E S

661 Quantum Rd NE, Suite 13, Rio Rancho

Like man’s best friend, Oval Dogs Coffee is built around loyalty. The family-run roastery is loyal to the coffee farmers who grow their beans, loyal to their community, loyal to their customers, and loyal to a really great cup of coffee. They’re also pretty loyal to Saturdays, which happens to be the only day they’re open—keep that in mind when visiting!

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Castle Coffee

1330 Rio Rancho Blvd SE, Rio Rancho

Castle Coffee crossed the river in 2023 with their Rio Rancho location, which is currently their biggest space with plenty of room to work during the day or meet with friends.

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Rise + Roast

2 ON ATI LO C

2011 Unser Blvd SE, Rio Rancho

Whispering Bean

Rise + Roast’s winning combo of coffee and freshly-made donuts can be found at the bustling Unser corridor.

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3 TIO CA LO

1100 Hwy 528, Suite B, Rio Rancho

Whispering Bean’s second location brings their locally roasted and brewed coffee just north of the original location.

New Mexico Piñon Coffee

1761 Rio Rancho Blvd SE, Rio Rancho

Early risers rejoice—this NM Piñon’s location opens at 6am for both walk-in and drive-thru service.

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Game Of Foams A little friendly competition never hurt anyone, and Albuquerque baristas say it’s actually responsible for making the city’s coffee scene stronger than ever.

Most people don’t realize this, but Albuquerque has an incredibly active competitive latte art scene. They’re not exactly a secret—most events are open to the public, but unless you know someone in coffee, you’d probably never know they were happening. These competitions aren’t cutthroat coffee versions of March Madness, though. “We’re all doing our own unique niche thing within coffee, and there’s space for that in Albuquerque,” says Little Bear quality control manager Olivia Morris. Instead, the throwdowns are about celebrating great coffee and helping everyone raise their game. Beyond latte art, both Morris and fellow Little Bear barista Trevor Vigil have represented ABQ on the national stage at the U.S. Barista Championship, where Morris has advanced to the semifinals twice. “Albuquerque isn’t known for being the coffee city in the same way that New York or L.A. or Chicago is,” Morris says. “So being able to highlight and showcase what Albuquerque has to offer is really amazing.” According to Vigil, what makes ABQ really stand out at these stages is its people. “People in Albuquerque have very special personalities,” he says. “That definitely shines through in our routines, which is fun.” That’s right—routines. Competitors have a given amount of time to produce and

serve the judges numerous courses “All while giving like a TED Talk presentation that ties into the coffee that you’re serving,” shares Morris. “It’s meant to replicate service behind bar.” There’s plenty more brewing locally—multiple shops are working together to keep this and next year’s calendar full of rotating latte art throwdowns and coffee education events, starting as soon as this fall.

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The throwdowns are about celebrating great coffee and helping everyone raise their game.

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WESTSI E Whispering Bean

10701 Corrales Rd, Ste 3 1100 Hwy 528, Suite B,

Rio Rancho

Whispering Bean is a cozy neighborhood coffee spot with locations in both Northwest ABQ and Rio Rancho. They brew their own locally-roasted beans with well-balanced flavor notes. Bonus points if you’re gluten-free—this place has way more GF pastry options than you’ll find at most coffee shops.

Rise + Roast

9160 Coors Blvd NW

Rise + Roast’s newest location has plenty of seating, so you can stay awhile after grabbing your coffee.

Drop Cafe

9311 Coors Blvd NW, Suite QA

This family-owned Yemeni coffee house has one of ABQ’s most beautiful café interiors. The lights, fixtures, mugs, and even the ceiling are absolutely stunning. If you’re looking for a coffee date spot—this is it. (They’re open late until 9 pm or 10 pm daily.) Along with your typical coffee menu items, you can find Mofowar—a traditional aromatic Yemeni coffee—Turkish coffee, adeni tea, karak tea, saffron lattes, and a wide range of decadent pastries.

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2105 Vista Oeste NW, Suite A

Cup of Cozy lives up to its name with a warm, inviting space. The shop was founded by retired firefighter Marcelino Martinez a n d his wife Ashley Martinez. They serve Fire Department Coffee, which helps support firefighter mental health missions.

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Satellite Coffee

1642 Alameda Blvd NW

All Satellite Coffee locations allow pets to enjoy their outdoor patio—petio, if you will—so bring your furry friend along next time you need a caffeine fix.

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New Mexico Piñon Coffee

2781 57th St NW

The Westside New Mexico Piñon Coffee location is the perfect place to grab a coffee on the go—it’s drive-thru only!

SoPo Coffee

6051 Winter Haven Rd NW

SoPo roasts their coffee at their original Los Ranchos location, but you can enjoy a cup on the other side of the river at this location—it even has a drive-thru.

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Cup of Cozy

The Art

Of Flights

We’re not saying you have commitment issues, but if you’ve ever struggled to choose just one drink at a café, a flight might be your perfect solution. Coffee flights are becoming popular on menus across Albuquerque, and just like with beer flights, they’re a great way to sample several different beverages—no commitment necessary. This concept is actually what put Sueños Coffee Co. on the ABQ coffee map. “We started experimenting with different flavors and launched our first flight in 2021,” shares owner Norma Hernandez. “That’s what made us a little more innovative. We didn’t know of any other coffee flights in New Mexico at the time,” she says. After a local influencer shared Sueños’ flights on social media, sales nearly tripled. They now change up the flavors seasonally and offer both coffee flights and matcha flights. “We’re a family of five with different palates,” Hernandez says. “Flights let you try a variety of things without committing to one full-size drink or wondering, ‘What if I don’t like it?’” Several Albuquerque coffee shops have also put their own spin on the trend. Napoli Coffee has a monthly flight with creative flavors that always align with a central theme. Last year they offered a Stranger Things flight with a drink called the “Demogorgon” and a cozy fall Gilmore Girls flight. Flights also give cafés the chance to showcase some of their signature drinks. At Café es Amor, the Amor Flight lets guests sample favorites like the Duvalín latte, Mazapán latte, café de nuez, galleta María, and café de olla. As it turns out, you really can have it all—the hardest part now might be deciding which flight to order. SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

SUENOS COFFEE CO.

CAFE ES AMOR

NAPOLI COFFEE

BE R NA L I L L O & PL ACI TA S

BE R NA L I L L & PL ACI TA S SOMA Coffee House

221 NM-165 A4, Placitas

SOMA is a relatively new Placitas coffee shop with a laidback vibe and gorgeous views of Sandia Peak. Don’t forget to check out the rotating local artwork displayed on the cafe walls.

Chicky’s Coffee 240 S Camino del Pueblo, Ste A, Bernalillo

Chicky’s serves up small batch specialty-roasted coffee from their quaint and colorful Bernalillo shop.

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ABQ THE INTERVIEW P. 130 // PERSONALITY P. 134 // BEHIND THE SCENES P. 138

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

STORIES BEHIND INDIVIDUALS WHO MAKE ALBUQUERQUE GREAT

Meet the McBoss

Jessica Wright, CEO of Ronald McDonald House of New Mexico, hangs out with the other guy in charge. Throughout her eight years with the organization, she’s made an immense impact—not only through her work, but through the ways she shows up for the community (p. 130).

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ABQTHEINTERVIEW

UP CLOSE A N D PERSON A L WIT H OUR LEA D ERS A N D D IF F ER EN CE MAKERS

CEO With Heart Overcoming a debilitating condition as a child helped Jessica Wright develop the kind of strong will required to one day lead the state’s Ronald McDonald House—and to adopt two young children in need of a loving home.

W PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

hen Jessica Wright was 12 years old, she underwent a major corrective surgery for scoliosis, a sideways curve of the spine that can cause significant pain and difficulty breathing in the most severe cases. The procedure left Wright with large scars on her back and hip and two titanium rods on either side of her spine. As a result, she didn’t exactly have a normal childhood. Instead, there were doctor appointments, consultations and plenty of discomfort. While Wright still gets the occasional reminder of her condition, it’s not something that defines her. Instead, it helped to build resilience, forging a leader who wasn’t afraid to advocate for herself or others. “I think it gave me a sense of just owning myself and showing up in a presence, which I think I continue to do to this day,” Wright says. “But it also showed me a sense of resilience. And that is just one part of my story. As I go through life, it’s something that fewer people know. And it’s not anything they notice about me.” The story today: Wright is in her eighth

year as CEO of Ronald McDonald House of New Mexico, an organization that provides lodging and comfort for families whose children have been hospitalized. Her tenure, which has included navigating a global pandemic and overseeing the groundbreaking of a historic facility, has been memorable to say the least. And that difficult life experience, while usually hov-

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ering below the surface, is something she can use to her benefit. “It gives me a very unique perspective because I can relate to the patient of the families that we take care of; I can relate to what it’s like being in the hospital room without your parents there or without your support system there,” Wright says. ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE: How do you assess your tenure after eight years on the job? JESSICA WRIGHT: Depends on the day. I think I am very hard on myself and I have high expectations of myself. There are things I wish were further along. There are things that I wish we had already accomplished. Now, in that time, there were significant disruptors. I started here in August of

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2018 and my mom died very suddenly in May of 2019. That just rocked my world. It completely threw me off my axis. I was so fortunate to be working here and having the support of my team and my board and the global team that allowed me to kind of walk around here like a zombie while I got my feet back under me and figured it out. ATM: How were you and your team able to navigate COVID? JW: We were doing a capital campaign to open our second house, which was the first of its kind in the world. We were so excited about it. It was fall of 2019. We were almost across the goal for our campaign. And then boom, [COVID] hit. It totally changed all of it. I firmly believe that time period just completely exacerbates any timeline that you have. As we all know, life was changing rapidly for all of us. And then add it to the fact that we were responsible for up to 51 families and the rules were changing day-by-day as far as how we could get access to food and how many people could be here and what our health protocols were. Family emergencies didn’t stop. Pregnancy or birth didn’t stop. Accidents didn’t stop. Families still needed our support. I would definitely put navigating COVID in the win column. ATM: You eventually did open your Highlands House a little later than expected. Why was this impactful? JW: Our groundbreaking was in March of 2019. And then it opened in April of 2021. So it was without any fanfare because we were still under a lot of the (pandemic) guidelines. As a housing facility, we had restricted capacity limits per the government and all of those pieces. But still, we opened the first of its kind in the world because it was intentionally built within a hotel. It’s in the SpringHill Suites. It’s downtown right across from Presbyterian. We occupy an entire floor there. It’s now being duplicated around the world. I’ve had conversations with my peers in Memphis and Indianapolis and Australia and Canada and England that are saying this makes such sense. Real es-

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tate is at a prime, especially that close to a hospital. You’re seeing an uptick of hotels going up around hospitals. ATM: What else are you proud of that has occurred during your time as CEO? JW: We’ve had exponential growth in the staff. When I came on, I think we had 12 folks working here. As of today, we’re at 28. When I look at what we were doing in 2018 and where we are now, we’re setting records every year since 2021 as far as the number of families we service, the number of nights that we provide, the number of meals that we provide. We’re upping ourselves every year. ATM: What’s something the average person doesn’t know about Ronald McDonald House that you think they should know? JW: What’s interesting to me is I think people know of us, but they don’t have a good understanding of us. And my immediate response is ‘Good for you.’ That means nobody in your immediate circle has had to use us. And part of our initiative is to make people more aware of us so that when they do have a friend or a neighbor or a relative that has a sick child, that someone goes, ‘Hey, call Ronald McDonald House. I think this is what they do.’ Because I think a lot of people just fundamentally don’t understand what it is that we do. It’s not just like, hey, we have this house where they sleep. We try and really wrap a family in love and meet them where they’re at and try and provide all of the support that are needed when they are facing one of the most difficult things. It’s not just giving them a place to sleep or giving them free laundry or giving them food, but, yes, we do those things. But it’s providing them a safe space. ATM: How does your lived experience as an openly gay woman inform the way you lead? JW: I have a huge opportunity and privilege with that. I try and be as forthcoming as I can in big and little ways. There’s pictures of my wife around at our wedding

We try and really wrap a family in love and meet them where they’re at and try and provide all of the support that are needed when they are facing one of the most difficult things.

and things like that. I try fairly early on to work that into conversation. And so that if in any way, shape or form, that’s going to connect with someone or they’re going to identify with that, then they realize, ‘Hey, this is a safe space.’ And it’s also a lens I use when we’re creating any policies. A lot of our forms used to say mom and dad. I’m like, oh, life looks so different for that. Like, we don’t need to put mom and dad on our forms. There’s a thousand ways we can say that that make no presumptions. Whether it’s because it’s a same-sex couple or whether it’s because aunt and uncle have custody right now. And so I think I have such an opportunity to influence that thing in very micro ways that hopefully open the eyes of anyone that interacts with us. ATM: Are there any other significant changes in your life that occurred recently? JW: My wife and I became foster parents in 2019. We fostered a couple of kiddos in that first year. Then May of 2020, we got a call at six in the morning, and it was our social worker. She’s like, ‘I’ve got two boys, but I need you to think about this

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ABQ THE INTERVIEW

placement because I’m fairly confident it’ll move to adoption. So if you don’t want that or you’re not ready for that, then please don’t accept this placement.’ I’m like, yeah, ‘OK, we’re going to do this.’ So we started fostering at the time. Our youngest was 10 months old and then the oldest was almost 3. They both were born prematurely exposed to meth, alcohol, domestic violence, not against them, but witnessing (it). My youngest had a recovering skull fracture from neglect. And so we fostered them for a year and a half and then we adopted them in November of 2021. So now we are two moms with two black adopted boys. ATM: Your wife, Kat, works as an APD detective. How do you two complement each other?

JW: She’s a major crimes detective now. She’s part of the team that goes out anytime there is a suspicious death or an officer-involved shooting. We see two very different sides of the world. She sees the bad, the ugly. And I see the good and the potential. And we take it as our responsibility to share that with our kids. Our kids know that when she goes calling out to work, it’s because a bad guy did something. Her job is to collect the evidence to make sure that there’s a consequence for the bad guy. And then I counter that with, I have my job because there’s so much good in the world, because the community shows up so that we can support families. So it’s kind of like two sides of the same coin. –TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

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I think people know of us, but they don’t have a good understanding of us. And my immediate response is ‘Good for you.’ That means nobody in your immediate circle has had to use us.

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PERSONALITY

A LOOK AT THE LIF E & WOR K OF A LBUQUERQUEA N S WHO D ESERVE A TOAST

Life by the Slice

After various careers in filmmaking, writing, journalism, education, and coaching, “MG” Giudicissi and Jerome Romero are now spending retirement as the “New Mexico Pizza Guys,” happily devouring pies (and giving offbeat reviews) on TikTok.

I PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

f a friend texted you, “Hey, are you interested in doing something where we’ll make no money, we’ll never be famous, and we’ll probably be ridiculed?” you’d probably ask questions. When Jerome Romero received this message from Michael Anthony “MG” Giudicissi, it was a no-brainer. “Yeah, sure. I’m in,” Romero remembers responding—no explanation necessary. A day or two later, the pair found themselves seated in the parking lot of Sal’s Pizzeria recording a pizza review video in Giudicissi’s car with absolutely no idea that thousands of people would eventually start following along. They’re now known as the New Mexico Pizza Guys—the duo behind a TikTok account dedicated to trying pizza across the state. Giudicissi and Romero have tasted their way through more than 50 pizza joints and gained over 4,000 followers. One early review of Gimani’s Pizza even blew up and accumulated a whopping 44,000 views. They don’t have a production setup, high-tech equipment, staged cheese pulls, or even editing. They simply pick up a pizza and share their thoughts on camera. “We have zero idea what the hell we’re doing,” Giudicissi jokes. The whole thing started as “just a goof,” he says, between

two retired friends with a little time on their hands. Neither actually needed a new career when they started the account, because both had already packed several into their lives. Giudicissi has always been a storyteller—he entered filmmaking in 2018 and wrote and directed three small feature films. When the pandemic hit and put film production on pause, he dove into Back to Billy, an idea he’d been kicking around since his first trip to New Mexico in 1992. “I’d written books before,” Giudi-

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cissi shares. “But I’d never written a novel, which was like pulling teeth. It was so hard.” But that didn’t stop him from pushing through, and the Back to Billy series now includes 10 books along with a spinoff series. Despite being fiction, Giudicissi admits there’s plenty of him on the page. “A lot of these characters share DNA with me,” he says. “A lot of what’s in here—the good and the bad stuff—is really plucked from my life.” Romero started out in journalism and communications, working in TV news before the demanding schedule—and becoming a dad—sent him in a different direction. “I didn’t want to be married to the TV business,” he shares. Romero later became the director of the fetal alcohol syndrome education and prevention program at the University of New Mexico Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse, and Addiction, where he spent 22 years. But that’s not all. “At the same time that I was doing that, I was also a high school

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I’ve got a mouth, and I put pizza in it. I have no authority from the pizza tasting society. —MICHAEL ANTHONY “MG” GIUDICISSI

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basketball, soccer, tennis, and bowling coach,” Romero shares. Though he’s since retired from high school coaching, he still gives private tennis lessons around town. Their paths finally crossed about five years ago thanks to their wives, who were already friends. Time spent together on the tennis court helped seal the deal, and Giudicissi and Romero quickly became the kind of buddies who apparently don’t need any details before agreeing to questionable new ventures. Like starting a pizza-testing TikTok account. Despite all they have in common, the Pizza Guys don’t approach a pie the same way. Romero prefers pepperoni, whereas Giudicissi is a purist who sticks with plain cheese. It didn’t take long for viewers to notice that they also dig into slices very differently. Romero takes what Giudicissi calls “little sparrow bites.” Giudicissi, on the other hand, has an aggressive chomp. By their fourth video, followers were posting comments like, “Why so aggressive?” “What did that pizza do to you?” and even “Let

the other guy get some.” But there’s a story behind the bite. Giudicissi grew up in an immigrant Italian family with parents who smoked at the dinner table. Because he was allergic to cigarette smoke and couldn’t take his food elsewhere, he did what he had to do. “I had to learn to eat fast and aggressive and get it over with and get the hell out of there,” he explains. “So, no, I’m not changing, I’m conditioned by 60 years of eating like that.” The guys don’t take themselves too seriously, but they do take integrity seriously. They don’t announce themselves before visiting a restaurant, don’t accept free meals, and pay full price for every pizza they review. They also aren’t interested in trashing local restaurants. Even when a pizza isn’t for them, they remind viewers that taste is subjective and encourage people to try it for themselves. “Somebody asked, ‘What are your qualifications for rating pizza?’” Giudicissi remembers. “I said, ‘I got a mouth, and I put pizza in it.’ I have no authority from the

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PERSONALITY pizza tasting society.” For two guys who insist they aren’t trying to become influencers, they’ve certainly become recognizable. A woman recognized Romero’s voice while he waited in line to vote. “She said, ‘New Mexico Pizza Guy!’ and started talking to me,” he recalls. Even wilder, on a trip to Arizona for a tennis tournament, a family spotted Romero walking into an In-N-Out and immediately knew him from the TikToks. That’s not why they continue making videos, though. “I think we just like hanging out together,” Romero says. “When he sends me a text saying, ‘Hey, you want to do pizza today?’ Yeah, let’s go do pizza.” That might explain why their videos feel different from so much of the other content out there on social media. Giudicissi and Romero are truly two buddies eating lunch, making jokes, occasionally disagreeing, and introducing thousands of viewers to another local Albuquerque business while they do it. More than 50 pizzas in, they’re still having fun—and there are plenty of pies left to try. –SI

I think we just like hanging out together. When he sends me a text saying, ‘Hey, you want to do pizza today?’ Yeah, let’s go do pizza. —JEROME ROMERO

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BEHINDTHESCENES

YOUR SN EA K PEEK AT JOBS THAT F LY BELOW THE RA DAR

A Pretty Century With the 100th birthday of Route 66 upon us, ABQ continues to spruce up and refresh, thanks to the Downtown 2050 initiative—a long-term public works project that could result in $100 million in improvements to the city.

A PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

s the old saying goes, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” That same philosophy applies to the approach for revitalizing downtown Albuquerque. In fact, the plan adopted by the city’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency (MRA) extends for more than two decades — which is why it is officially known as Downtown 2050. The longterm payoff is expected to be well worth the investment, turning an oft-maligned section of the Duke City into a consistent attraction beyond the weekend bar scene. “That’s a big part of why we put together this plan, which is to make downtown a 24-hour-a-day destination for various purposes, rather than a place you just go to on Saturday nights after 10 p.m,” says MRA director Terry Brunner. “So that means you have a 24-7 downtown that is about live, work and play. It should be a good place to raise a family and be able to have activities during the middle of the day, which has not necessarily been the most recent emphasis.” The Downtown 2050 initiative focuses

on a few key elements: Wayfinding and district identity; parking and mobility improvements; upgraded public spaces; housing and redevelopment; support for local businesses and arts, culture and placemaking. The details behind the implementation are meticulously laid out in a 120-page document viewable to the public on the City of Albuquerque website. No single city was used as the model for the plan. “We’re taking from a lot of different ar-

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eas. We see some common themes across cities that have done redevelopment of their downtowns, and we probably are hitting on the same themes that they’ve been looking at. I think all downtowns across the country had this post-COVID issue of people working from home, not seeing their downtown as the commercial focus that it used to have in the same way. So we’re the same here in New Mexico,” Brunner says. “…Across America, you’re seeing downtowns (now) as more of a live-workand-play environment where they’re building housing because people want to live in that core downtown. And then there’s more boutique business activity.” Downtown 2050 is funded by something called tax increment financing (TIF), which takes a portion of gross receipts and property taxes that are generated downtown and reinvests them back into the same area. Brunner says the TIF

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has resulted in approximately $500,000 in funding so far, and over the course of the program it could provide more than $100 million. While some aspects of the renovation won’t be fully realized until many years down the road, others are already in progress. One of those is parking: While the downtown area boasts more spaces than the average person might realize, these are not utilized equally, according to a study released by MRA. The goal is to make parking more accessible, with better signage and a “park once” philosophy that allows people to leave their vehicle and feel as though they can walk safely throughout downtown from these locations. “Parking is just a huge part of the downtown environment and really dictates a lot of what happens downtown,” Brunner says. “We have our parking garages, we have our on-street parking, we have more than 20,000 spaces downtown. What other downtowns have done is really use parking as a way to encourage how people interact with downtown, where they park and how they get to retail or how they get to their jobs.” The other area of immediate focus in-

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volves wayfinding, which focus on making downtown Albuquerque easier to navigate. In addition to adding more maps and signage throughout the area, dividing downtown into districts helps to provide identity. An app could also be in the works to help with both wayfinding and parking. “We’ve always just classified it as just ‘downtown,’ and it could be 12 blocks long or it could be 20 blocks long — it’s whatever somebody defines it as,” Brunner says. “What other downtowns have done is try to create districts and a logical boundary around different districts and experiences that people can have for tourists and locals. So when you’re at the Convention Center and you’re from out of state, you walk out the door and you know that over there is the warehouse arts district where you can go see art, or over here is the district where you can go see some retail and some shopping.” Brunner points to a couple of other recent investments from the project that downtown visitors might notice during their travels. At the corner of 1st and Central, an approximately 24-foot ramp has been built to make the transition from the Rail Runner to downtown safer and easier

for pedestrians. “We’ve now built one of three ramps that we’ll have there that allow for passage in between (east downtown) and downtown above ground and at the level of the railroad tracks so that we can get more people moving back and forth between EDO and downtown,” Brunner says. “There’s less of a barrier.” Additionally, the recently-launched Fresh Coat program helps to upgrade the look of the Route 66 corridor by funding exterior painting and murals at businesses in the designated area. These are just a few of the steps to improve downtown, with more to come in the next couple of decades. “We really need people to get excited about downtown and be optimistic about it,” Brunner says. “And whether you’re a downtown business or you’re just a community member in Albuquerque, I think unfortunately there can be a lot of negative information out there and perception about downtown. “I think a lot of what our 2050 plan says is we have to have a bit of a mindset shift into being optimistic about our downtown and seeing what the possibilities are there.” –TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

BEHINDTHESCENES

LOCAL LOVE BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 3 PAGES PARTNER CONTENT

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PARTNER CONTENT

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

ABQ Childcare 10111 Constitution Ave NE 505.299.0633 Abqchildcare.com For more than 50 years, ABQ Childcare has proudly served families throughout the greater Albuquerque metro area. What began as a commitment to providing quality early childhood education has grown into four established locations dedicated to supporting children and families from every background. Our story is deeply rooted in New Mexico. Our administration team and center directors were raised in Albuquerque, attended local schools, and have witnessed the city’s growth and transformation over the past two decades. Over time, we’ve expanded our operations to better meet the needs of today’s families by offering flexible schedules and building meaningful partnerships with local businesses and organizations. One of the highlights of the past year has been creating unique opportunities for our school-age summer program to explore everything that makes New Mexico special. Students visited the Albuquerque Sunport, toured a local tortilla-making company, explored the beauty of the Sandia Mountains, and welcomed local small businesses into our centers to lead hands-on activities and crafts. As we look to the future, our goal remains the same: continue growing alongside our community, expanding opportunities for local families, and creating meaningful experiences that celebrate everything we love about Albuquerque and New Mexico.

Vila Diaz-Vega Owner of Freedom Tax Services 3244 San Mateo Blvd NE 505.553.2947 freedomtaxnm.com For nearly two decades, I have been dedicated to helping individuals and small businesses gain confidence and peace of mind through professional tax and accounting services. As the founder of Freedom Tax & Accounting Service in Albuquerque, my mission has always been to provide honest, accurate, and personalized financial guidance that empowers clients to make informed decisions and achieve long-term success. At Freedom Tax & Accounting Service, we offer a full range of financial solutions, including individual and business tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, tax planning, business formation and financial consulting. Looking ahead, our vision is to continue expanding our year-round financial services, including proactive tax planning, business consulting, and retirement strategies. We are committed to growing both personally and professionally while continuing to deliver the personalized service, accuracy, and integrity that have become the foundation of our business. We are also pleased to announce our expansion to an additional office in Rio Rancho. For me, this profession is about much more than numbers. It’s about building lasting relationships, providing trusted guidance, and helping people create stronger financial futures. My goal is to be more than a tax preparer—I strive to be a trusted advisor who supports clients every step of their financial journey, throughout the year and for years to come.

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Joanie Marie Zagorsky Founder and President GolfNWellness 505.385.5594 GolfNWellness.com

Marc Anthony Benavidez, Golf Pro

Most golf businesses focus primarily on equipment, technique, or lowering a golfer’s score. GolfNWellness looks at the whole golfer: body, mind, and spirit. Our goal is not simply to help someone play a better round today. It is to help that person remain active, hopeful, confident and capable of playing for many more years. Our approach brings golf professionals, wellness specialists, educational resources, inspirational guidance and supportive products together under one brand. GolfNWellness provides access to golf instruction, swing analysis, private lessons, clinics, corporate golf experiences, educational resources and wellness-focused programs. The golf industry is changing as its population ages. Golfers are looking for more than technical advice.They want to know how to protect their bodies, recover more effectively, improve mobility, remain mentally focused, and continue playing without unnecessary pain or physical limitations. GolfNWellness is responding by connecting golf performance with fitness, wellness, mindset, faith,and longevity. The way we respond to challenges on the golf course often mirrors the way we respond to challenges in life. We can become frustrated and remain focused on what went wrong, or we can release the last shot, trust what we have learned and move forward. GolfNWellness encourages golfers to care for their bodies, strengthen their minds, nurture their faith and continue pursuing the game with purpose and joy.

Tracy Nguyen Owner of Goldust Nail Lounge 10131 Coors Blvd NW, Ste B-1 505.991.9999 goldustnailounge.com I (Tracy) am a registered nurse, licensed nail technician, licensed nail instructor and esthetician instructor in New Mexico. My journey as an entrepreneur started with my passion for wellness and beauty. I realized this was my calling when I saw how much confidence and joy self-care services could bring to people. Whether it’s a perfect manicure or a deeply relaxing scalp massage, these small moments of self-care empower people to feel their best. In 2022, I opened Goldust Nail Lounge, which quickly became a top-rated salon, earning the title of “Best Nail Salon” in Albuquerque for four consecutive years. Goldust Nail Lounge specializes in high-end nail services, including manicures, pedicures and seasonal treatments like the Peppermint Swirl Pedicure. My mission was to create a space that delivered high-quality nail care while maintaining a clean and relaxing atmosphere. My success is rooted in my unwavering dedication to quality, continuous learning and a genuine passion for self-care and wellness. I’ve always believed in prioritizing the customer experience, investing in my team and staying ahead of industry trends. My long-term vision is to continue bringing innovative wellness treatments to Albuquerque while mentoring the next generation of beauty and wellness professionals. My business is built on passion, innovation and care. As a female entrepreneur, nurse and beauty professional, I am committed to elevating the industry and making high-quality self-care accessible to everyone. SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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CREATIVES P. 146 // STORYTELLERS P. 148 // TIEMPO P. 150

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

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

Cutting New Traditions

A desire to use traditional Japanese kimonos as the material for other clothing items and accessories led Eri Yost to upcycle the traditional cloth, thus creating a line of original offerings that draw on the design from her native Japan. The result? Her bags, purses and even jewelry boxes have become hot items at maker markets around ABQ (p. 142).

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

he national garment of Japan, the kimono, is typically worn for special celebrations; birth, death, weddings and important ages in a child’s life. The silk garments can carry meaning in their design and colors. Blue and white “seigaiha” waves, for example, represent peace and happiness. Purple colored kimonos were used to represent someone’s status on the imperial court. But the culture surrounding the kimono has slowly become less and less important, explained Eri Yost, a local artist originally from Japan. Growing up in Japan, she likened the kimonos to wallpaper. “They’re not special, I never thought of them as beautiful.” But to an American audience, the silk garments with their many different patterns are seen as somewhat exotic. While kimonos and garments similar to them aren’t necessarily practical in the Albuquerque heat, Yost saw something more in their patterns. Formally educated in calligraphy, Yost has spent the last two years transforming kimonos into bags, purses, jewelry boxes and just about anything else she can think

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of. “When I got married to my husband, who is American, he would always say ‘oh, that’s beautiful!’” she said. “I thought, oh, maybe in another country people think about them (as) beautiful.” Both her mother and grandmother, now 94, were kimono teachers who taught others all there is to know about self-dressing, dressing others and storing kimonos. They have, over their many years of work, accumulated hundreds upon hundreds of kimonos. Yost, the only daughter of her family

who herself had two boys, had little need of so many garments, especially in the United States. “(My grandmother) retired within the last three years, and then my mom later. She called me and says ‘Please, get the kimonos,’ because I have two brothers, they don’t need them.” But I don’t need it because kimono is very heavy, and I don’t know how to wear it, and I’m living here. So no, mom, I don’t need it.” But, as parents trying to clean out their houses often do, Yost’s mom sent her a kimono anyway. An incredibly special kimono that she wore on her twentieth birthday, an important, celebratory birthday in the culture that requires men and women to wear a kimono much longer in the sleeve than others. While she didn’t want to wear that special, $10,000 kimono that she had only ever worn once, it did give her an idea: she

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PHOTOS BY DON JAMES/ATM

SMOOTH AS SILK

LOCAL ARTIST ERI YOST UPCYCLES TRADITIONAL JAPANESE GARMENTS FOR BAGS AND MORE

CREATIVES

could use it to make something that she did want to wear. “I asked her, can I cut this kimono? I want to remake something. No. it’s very expensive, made by a very special artist too, the kimono,” she said. Sometime later Yost went to Japan to visit her family, and her mom had already prepared several kimonos for her to take home. She again asked if she could cut them, the answer was of course no. But she did anyways, and sent her mom back an early version of her triangle purse she titles “fortune cookie.” While sad that the kimono was cut, she loved the bag. Before her kimono upcycling venture, Yost had no background in working with textiles, let alone a familiarity with cutting up existing garments and turning them into something new. While right now her primary products are fortune cookie garments and small ring boxes, her “macaroons,” she has a lot of ideas for the future, including matching collars and belts. She also made sandals, upcycling her husband’s old denim jeans and t-shirts. She’s

learned it all from watching YouTube videos. “Eight hours each day, I watched,” she said. At the time, she also didn’t have any special sewing machines or the needles needed for working with silk. On the day of our interview with Yost, she was wearing triangle earrings and a skirt both hand made from old kimonos. For that first kimono that was sent to Yost, shipping cost $300 alone. While she took several from her mom for that first trip, there was only so much space in her luggage. Last year, she took four trips to Japan, roughly a 12-hour flight from Albuquerque, sometimes staying only for three nights before her trip back. But there’s also the matter of storage, Yost explained. Kimonos have to be packed and stored in a very particular way, using special packing paper, and in a cool, dry space. Traditionally, silk kimonos are stored in special wooden chests that block out pests and bugs and have to, on occasion, be aired out, which takes up both room and time.

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Out of the material she’s able to use from one kimono, Yost is able to make about three fortune cookie purses. But now, she’s not without help. With her grandmother, mother and now their students all donating kimonos for her upcycling, she’s since decided to rent out warehouse space in Japan to store all of those donated kimonos, which she has found more cost and space effective than having them shipped to her house or taking multiple trips to Japan each year, and having them take up space at her own or her family’s home. She’s also hired a few people in Japan to help produce the products, and depending on the month, is able to produce many more bags than she would otherwise. In July, she made 80 bags and 60 or 70 ring boxes. Yost sells her products through local meets like the Growers’ Market and the Rail Yards Market, and through her Etsy shop under the name byOBIKA. –DANIEL LARLHAM J r.

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STORYTELLERS

A MONTHLY ROUND UP OF ABQ’S LOCAL MEDIA MESSENGERS

TABLE FOR TWO CORNERPOST: ONE UNFORGETTABLE YEAR by Shane Urioste and Monique Swafford 192 pages $14.99

SUNNY SMITH (MIDDLE) IS PICTURED HERE WITH THE AUTHORS OF CORNERPOST: ONE UNFORGETTABLE YEAR, SHANE URIOSTE AND MONIQUE SWAFFORD.

fter more than 45 years as an entertainment writer, movie critic, and ghostwriter, Sunny Smith certainly knows a good story when she hears one. When she first met Albuquerque filmmaker Shane Urioste, he told her about an idea for a novel—and even floated the idea of writing it together. Smith never quite committed and now jokes that maybe she should have, considering how much she loves the story. But it’s just as well, as Urioste found his perfect co-writer in longtime friend Monique Swafford, and that ‘idea,’ Cornerpost: One Unforgettable Year, came to life. We asked Smith to share the story behind the authors, and why she feels this book is “so pure New Mexico.” Here is her narrative on the ABQ writers and their project: Eighty percent of Americans want to write a book, only about 15% of people actually start the process, but less than 1% become a published author. Two local friends from Albuquerque just accomplished this goal.

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Shane attended Manzano High School, and has been a lifelong filmmaker here. Monique grew up in Carlsbad. Shane had been friends with Monique’s husband, Grant, as a young adult, though Grant sadly died of colon cancer in 2020 at just 40 years old. After his death, Monique and Shane ran into each other and Shane mentioned that he had an idea for a book and wanted a writing partner. Despite having no experience, they gave it a try and found a very unconventional way to forge their skills together. The pair started an interesting tradition of meeting at Los Cuates restaurant on Lomas Boulevard every Thursday in the lounge to eat, drink, and write. Most would not think of this as a wise endeavor—the distractions had to be numerous. But they swear the restaurant served its own inspiration. They claim that the traditional Mexican music helped, and they even mentioned Miguel the bartender in the acknowledgements and named a character after him. Shane always had strong feelings that it would be best to write with someone. As he explains it, working collaboratively was a

divine blessing. “Our long history and friendship helped us to share our thoughts and ideas. It was like magic. The universe was writing with us. The cold mug of beer, fun atmosphere, and excellent New Mexican food didn’t hurt either.” Those native to New Mexico will surely relate to Cornerpost: One Unforgettable Year. The novel follows Jay, who takes a DNA test that shows he has deep roots in Northern New Mexico—ones he’d never heard about. He leaves his life in California and embarks on a road trip to explore his unknown heritage. Anyone considering moving here will be enlightened to what makes family and tradition so unique in New Mexico. Read the book and just try to resist the urge to get coffee and a cinnamon roll at Frontier. Orale!” —SUNNY SMITH POSTSCRIPT: Shane and Monique continue to meet at Los Cuates every Thursday and are now writing a science fiction book. — SS

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STORYTELLERS WHAT: Albuquerque foodie-turnedinfluencer posts about local eateries and beyond WHO: Ever Orlando Salaiz Acuna WHERE: Find his content on Instagram and TikTok under the handle @ siempre101ever

Salaiz Acuna, all it took was a small first step. “I started last year, but I never really started. I was too shy to post my videos. But then one day Percy’s Oven came into town to do a pop-up. When that happened, I thought, ‘Maybe I’ll just record a video and see what happens.’ I posted it and it got like 37,000 views.” Salaiz Acuna, a student at UNM, began posting videos on his favorite Albuquerque eateries much more consistently in March. With about a video a day, his TikTok account has grown to about 2,800 followers, up from just over 500 in December. His inspiration to begin this journey, he says, comes from fellow Burqueño influencer, 505 Travels. But crucial to his vision as an influencer, Salaiz Acuna has increasingly used his platform in hopes to enact change. He’s highlighted restaurants, among his favor-

event” at My Mom’s Restaurant, which has been featured on his page more than once. “Even if we can’t all buy something or even if we can’t all go at the same time personally, we can repost each other’s videos, we can support each other that way. We can highlight these businesses as much as possible to help them out,” he says. In June Salaiz Acuna began to spotlight members of the city’s LGBTQIA+ community as a way to honor Pride Month. However, those short interviews did so well that he’s planned to continue making them at least for the rest of the year. “People were commenting on my videos and I was like, ‘Oh, I didn’t know this was going on. I didn’t know this was a thing. I didn’t know we had drag kings.’ That was something that I wanted to showcase here and bring into positive light.” –DANIEL LARLHAM JR.

COURTESY PHOTO

RISING STAR IN THE ABQ CONTENT SPACE ites, who are struggling and at risk of shutith so much negativity circling the ting down. At the time of our interview, web, it’s hard to take a leap into W Salaiz Acuna was planning an “creator content creation. But for Ever Orlando

WHAT: A long running (20+ years) radio show about plant care advice WHO: Richard Hobson, owner of Jericho Nursery WHERE: Listen to Garden Talk live every other Saturday at 11am on KKOB. Back episodes of the show can be found wherever podcasts are found

f a good gardener has a green thumb, then Richard Hobson has two green hands. Hobson, owner of Jericho Nursery, has spent nearly a half century learning about, caring for and selling plants. For the last twenty-one years, he’s helped Albuquerqueans manage their lawns and gardens through his terrestrial radio show “Garden Talk”, on 96.3 KKOB. Folks from all over the area call into the bimonthly show with all sorts of questions about what they can plant, how they should plant it and why it won’t grow. Most often, says Hobson, his advice comes down to watering practices. “It’s water and I wish it weren’t. But it is. And I said in last week’s show, ‘You can’t overwater, and I encourage you to try,’” Hobson said. On a good day, Hobson hopes to give “rapid fire” advice to 16 callers, his absolute best was just over 20 callers in a single one-hour show. “Now, sometimes, I find myself begging for calls. I think people are listening and a

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lot of people don’t really want to be on the radio. Once they hear ‘he wants us to call’, They’ll light em’ up, and I’m looking for that formula.” After being a frequent guest host of the program, Hobson officially took over the show from his previous employer, Rowland Nursery, in 2005 before he and his wife opened Jericho Nursery. At the time, he knew little to nothing about producing or getting sponsors, but he knew he knew plants. While he’s proud of what he’s managed to build at Jericho and loves the business, he says he loves doing the show even more. “I would ask the public, what would you have me spend time talking about? What is it you want to know the most? What is it that this platform, that again I’m so honored and blessed to have, serves you the best? How can I best serve the listening audience. If I can do that, that’s pretty fulfilling. I’ve arrived.” –DANIEL LARLHAM JR.

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IT’S RICHARD FROM JERICHO I

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TIEMPO ABQ’S THRIVING LOCAL MUSIC SCENE

BOUNTIFUL HARVEST

NM JAZZ FESTIVAL HITS 20

t’s been a milestone of a year for jazz in New Mexico. The New Mexico Jazz Workshop (NMJW) reached its 50th birthday and merged with the Outpost Performance Space, a mere 38 years old. NMJW’s Music under the Stars series launched its 35th season while the Outpost’s Summer Thursday Night Jazz series is right behind it at 30 years of age. To cap the eventful year, there’s the New Mexico Jazz Festival, which launches its 20th season in late August and runs through September. Over the course of these 20 years, the festival has established itself as a premiere and beloved event presenting world-class musicians from near and far. This year’s festival is no different, featuring more than 20 events (several of them free) at multiple venues stretching from Albuquerque to Taos, including live performances, movies, and the premiere of a landmark recording. Tom Guralnick, festival director and one of its founders, as well as executive director of the Outpost, when asked how it felt to reach these milestones, said, “It’s pretty cool. It feels like a lot of work is what it feels like. But you know, good work.” Guralnick shares the work of putting the jazz festival together, collaborating with an impressive collection of sponsors and presenting organizations across the state that includes The Lensic Performing Arts Center, the City of Albuquerque, Albuquerque Museum, Guild Cinema, Santa Fe Music Collective, Unit B, The Lensic, Entropy Gallery, Taos Jazz Bebop Society, and Eremite Records.

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This year’s performers cover a wide range of jazz styles, from traditional to pioneering, as well as a helping of Latin jazz. Live concerts include Spanish Harlem Orchestra, William Parker Heart Trio, Django Festival Allstars (DFA), Blues Night with Judith Hill, Michael Matison, and Levi Platero, The Rodriguez Brothers, Fred Hersch Trio, esperanza spalding, René Marie and Experiment in Truth, NEA Jazz Master Chucho Valdez, Melissa Aldana, Bad Plus Farewell Tour, John Maestas “Juan Tigre,” Sylvie Courvoisier– Mary Halvorson Duo, Mingus Dynasty featuring pianist Helen Sung, Brian Blade and The Fellowship Band. Also appearing is the late pianist Cecil Taylor via a free LP Release and Listening Party at the Outpost, where the soon to be released double-LP album Cecil Taylor 1979 at the KiMo Theatre (Black Editions Archives 2026) will make its premiere on September 2, along with a panel discussion with bassist William Parker and Eremite Records producer Michael Ehlers. The concert was presented by NMJW, then headed by Guralnick. “We recorded that concert for ‘Jazz Alive,’ which was an NPR program, and we edited it to the right length for ‘Jazz Alive.’ And it actually never got on ‘Jazz Alive,’” he says. “It’s a great recording.” When Ehlers, who’s into avant-garde Black music of the ’70s, heard about the recording, he got the ball rolling with Black Editions Archives. In addition, Guild Cinema will show two movies, “Imagine the Sound” and “Chasing Trane,” that focus on the free jazz movement of the ’60s and John Coltrane, respectively. For details and tickets, visit newmexicojazzfestival.org. (DFA and Fred Hersch

are also appearing at Unit B and Taos Jazz and Bebop Society, whose websites have those details and tickets.)

NEW RELEASES Award-winning singer/songwriter Lucky Mays’ new release, “Shapeshifter” (Trizzer Records), offers 11 new originals, with characteristically deft production by Mays, who’s on multiple instruments, accompanied by a posse of Albuquerque’s first-call musicians. Mays does some shapeshifting himself on the 11 tracks, with touches of rock, pop, soul, country, and americana—all in the service of well-crafted tunes that explore a wide range of human experience. The starkly beautiful album opener, “Pale Horse,” tells the story of a marriage gone deadly wrong on the high desert and a woman’s resilience. “Desert Sons (Ride On)” finds hope and healing on a motorcycle on the open road. “Wings,” a tender love song to his granddaughter, encourages her to fly over life’s challenges. Across the eight remaining tracks, Mays explores vengeance, the persistence of hope in desperate times, the loss of a loved one, the winding road of love and its varied destinations, the cathartic power of music, and ends with a comforting personal message from beyond. Mays finds hope in the face of life’s vicissitudes and invites the listener to ride into that hope with him. Available September 4 on the usual streaming services and Bandcamp. You can celebrate the album’s release along with Mays and friends on Friday, September 11, at 6:30 p.m. at Rust Is Gold Coffee, 3732 Eubank Blvd. NE. “Midnight at Dawn,” the latest from

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Lucky Mays

singer/songwriter Michael Rudd, whose album “Going to the Mountain” was chosen by Americana Highways Readers’ Poll as a Top Ten Album of 2025, delivers a collection of moody, close-to-the-bone songs that find Rudd again tangling with existential challenges and singing for dear life. He’s on acoustic and electric guitar, backed by Pat Malone, electric guitar (lead); Mark Clark, drums and percussion; Kevin Zoernig, piano and Rhodes

piano; Susan Hyde Holmes, upright and electric bass; and Brant Leeper, Hammond organ, clavinet, and piano. The characters in these songs are “Chained to a Stone” (and you thought Sisyphus had it tough) or discovering that “Time Is a Heavy Weight” and on a quest for peace and freedom. Some are only partly successful (“Made It Out of Jersey”), while others find a spark of love in a desperate dream (the haunting “Springtime in Aus-

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chwitz”). Yet there is redemptive love to be found (“Turn the Light Down Low” and “I’ll Be There for You”) and even a transcendence (“Carry Me Home”). These characters live on the margins of society but close to Rudd’s heart, and he does them the favor of telling their stories with a genuine regard for their humanity and their predicaments. Available September 25 on the usual streaming services and Bandcamp. —MEL MINTER

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 editor@abqthemag.

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PHOTO BYDAVID ROSENFIELD

Michael Rudd

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EATS P. 158 // EATS, ETC. P. 162 // MY FAVORITE RECIPE P. 166 // BITES P. 168

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

A TASTE OF WHAT’S HAPPENING IN ABQ’S WORLD OF WINE, SPIRITS, AND CULINARY DELIGHTS

Date Night Done Right

The vibe at Wolf ‘n’ Swallow is cozy, eclectic, and just polished enough to make the perfect date spot. You know—”special” without feeling stuffy or uptight. Plus, the menu has plenty of unique flavors to keep things interesting—and your belly happy (p. 158).

PHOTOS BY DON JAMES/ATM

WOLF 'N' SWALLOW

Elevated food meets playful preparation at Wolf 'n' Swallow, where the dishes are anything but your mom's recipes.

here comes a point during an initial visit to Wolf ’n’ Swallow where one has no choice but to embrace the “chaos cuisine” crafted by husbandand-wife duo Ryan Houlihan (aka Chef Houla) and Jennifer Jane. “Not everything is a hit for everyone, but it’s pretty rare,” Houlihan says. “People most of the time are just like, ‘This is weird and good.’ I’m like, ‘That’s what I wanted to hear: weird and good.’ ” Long before they opened their restaurant and wine bar at 414 Central Ave. SE in August 2025, Houlihan and Jane were operating Wolf ’n’ Swallow as a pop-up business — both in New Orleans and the Duke City. The concept evolved over the years, eventually striking a balance between comfort food and elevated char-

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cuterie backed by an extensive wine list designed to complement those creative offerings. The couple developed an affinity for charcuterie during the pandemic, as they received Community Supported Agricultural (CSA) boxes, learned to preserve food and make their own butter, bread and cheese. Essentially, “doing everything from scratch,” Jane says. Opening a restaurant allowed an opportunity to expand on those ideas. For Jane, that meant incorporating an exclusively all-natural wine program, something that no other restaurant in town has. Natural wine is made using as little intervention as possible, meaning there are no pesticides, herbicides or additives. As a result, don’t be surprised if none of the wine list selec-

tions seem familiar. “My goal is to inspire people to try something new with an open mind, because natural wine isn’t that popular in grocery stores,” Jane says. “I want you to come in and try something new and experience some new flavors, some new grapes, some new regions. “I try to have as much weird stuff as possible. Like, you pretty much know if you’re going to get a chardonnay here it’s not going to be a buttery California chardonnay. It might be from California, but it will be very different than anything you’ve had. I try to surprise people. Keep it approachable. Keep it natural. And hope that people have some fun with it.” The food menu changes on a regular basis, but the “chaos cuisine” philosophy is

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EATS

always on display through small bites such as Deviled Eggs (these aren’t your mom’s, as the menu states) with various fillings, specially prepared oysters, seasonal mushrooms and conserva (tinned seafood). Three charcuterie boards with a rotating selection of house-made meats, cheese and pickles pair nicely with wine and are ideal for sharing. There are also a variety of specials available on a near-weekly basis — such as the ever-popular caviar hot dog. “We borrow and use ideas and flavors from everywhere and anywhere,” Houlihan says. “I use local produce as much as possible. But I’m going to take it and do Ethiopian spices on it. Or I’m going to take it and do it in a style that’s more

WHAT’S IN A NAME? One evening in New Orleans, Jane and Houlihan sat down with some wine and a thesaurus and brainstormed on restaurant names. Their final choice is still fitting.

FOR THE FURRY FRIENDS During peak patio season, pets can get in on the charcuterie fun with a board that includes dog treats and sliced meat.

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COURT IN SESSION This fall, the courtyard located behind the restaurant is expected to open, giving diners a fun, new space to enjoy their bites and drinks.

CHANGE IN ROUTINE Keep an eye on the Wolf ’n’ Swallow schedule for a variety of special events like bar takeovers, food pairing dinners and caviar nights.

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Wolf ’n’ Swallow 414 Central Ave SE wolfnswallow.com

Greek or German. It comes down to being able to not limit myself in any way because I’ve been taught by so many amazing immigrants throughout my life about how their culture cooked their food. So I just took all those little pieces of that and found a way to put it together and make it fun and make it work. That’s kind of the idea of chaos cuisine.” Caviar is featured prominently on the Wolf ’n’ Swallow menu. The restaurant’s flagship offering is known as Bowfin, or “Cajun caviar” in slang terminology. That’s one of three tiers of caviar typically offered in a flight, giving diners the opportunity to explore different flavors of a delicacy that doesn’t often seem all that approachable. “It’s a way to be able to show people that caviar isn’t something that they have

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to be scared of, and that it doesn’t have to be that bougie,” Houlihan says. “You can just come in, hang out and relax and eat some caviar.” Between renovating the space, constantly keeping the menu fresh and introducing people to new concepts It’s been a whirlwind first year for Houlihan and Jane, but the journey has been well worth the effort. “The neighborhood community’s kind of the best part. People who live here, other businesses, everyone’s really supportive,” Jane says. “We actually get a lot of people that are passing through, and everyone’s just like, ‘I’m so happy we found you.’ … It’s definitely been a chaotic first year, but you know, we’re used to a little bit of chaos.” —TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

FEATURED DISHES DEVILED EGGS, $16

Not your mom’s — filling and toppings change weekly. Currently its gochujang + African red pepper filling / corn tortilla crisp / rainbow trout roe / scallion

TEMPURA LOCAL MUSHROOMS, $18

Mushrooms grown by Enchanted Farms. Toppings for this dish change often. Currently pickled garlic scape / crème fraîche / date syrup / herbs de provence / toasted almond. One thing to note: a fryer is dedicated glutenfree, so the tempura mushrooms are celiac safe!

WOLF HAPPY MEAL, $22

Served for Golden Hour: 4-6 p.m., Wednesday through Friday. Spicy fried chicken or lion’s mane sandwich drizzled in house Thai sauce, topped with a Napa cabbage togarashi shichimi spice Kewpie slaw, sambal mayo on a sesame bun (with a gf option). Comes with fries and a choice of beer or ginger beer. Upgrade $2 for a sparkling French Brut pairing.

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Eats, Etc.

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

hile Sal’s technically opened under its current moniker in 2021, the establishment has essentially been serving its brand of Italian cuisine since the 1980s. Originally a co-venture between business partners Mimmo Leo and Sal Cerami, the restaurant changed its name from Mimmo’s to Sal’s after Leo retired just around the same time the COVID-19 pandemic hit. After a brief hiatus, Cerami re-opened with plenty of familiar faces and dishes. There were a few changes, of course, including a change in hours (Sal’s is open from Thursday through Sunday instead of seven days a week). Longtime cook Mike Morris, who learned all the recipes from Leo, remains at the helm in the kitchen. Cerami claims Morris is essentially cooking from memory at this point. “He’s good at improvising, and we make other dishes just off the cuff if we

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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

Choose from traditional New York-style pizza or Sicilian pizza at Sal’s.

need to, but he’s very good in the kitchen,” Cerami says. The menu is highlighted by a selection of pizzas (traditional New York style or Sicilian), pastas (the Eggplant Parmigiana is a popular order) and a variety of chicken-based entrees. There’s also subs, seafood, calzones and cannolis, among other things, for dessert. A robust bar menu features a robust offering of rotating beers and wines. “We never really had a philosophy except to give people their money’s worth,” Cerami says. ”For the most part, there’s no one that has less expensive dishes than us. We cook everything from scratch. We make our sauces every day… there’s not much pre-made. The food is pretty tasty and fresh and we’re only open four days a week. So whatever comes Thursday, usually by Sunday it’s mostly gone and that’s what we just keep repeating at this point.” It’s a formula that’s been undeniably

successful. Sal’s has a generational customer base that spans four decades, with parents, children and their grandchildren dropping in for their favorites on a regular basis. That’s why, according to Cerami, the menu remains “95% the same” as it was in the beginning. “There is a philosophy of making a new menu and a new season and all that jazz, but at the same time, people feel comfortable walking in a restaurant, they know what they’re going to get,” Cerami says. –TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

SAL’S RISTORANTE AND PIZZERIA 3301 Coors Blvd NW, Ste 21 (505) 831-4191 salsabq.com

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Eats, Etc.

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

ne common reaction from those who visit Lobo Taco is “this tastes like home.” More than anything, that’s a credit to the culinary skills of co-owners Sergio Martinez and Juna Martinez, who have a lifetime of combined experience in the kitchen. Whether it was within the industry ( Juna previously worked at a few restaurants) or at home, it was clear the family always had a knack for food. “(My dad) would make tacos and I’m like, ‘This is really good, you should open a restaurant or something,’” says Jose Martinez, the owners’ son. “I would say the way my mom and my dad cooks is just different — the seasoning is different from other places.” Lobo Taco began as a food truck, often making stops at softball and volleyball tournaments on the weekends. During the week, Sergio would work construction to help make ends meet. That “no

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

Birria tacos are one of their most popular dishes, but you can get birria on just about anything at Lobo Taco.

days off ” approach eventually changed when the family opened a brick-and-mortar location on 4th and Griegos. Now the restaurant is the full-time job, and the establishment is closed on Mondays and Wednesdays for rest. It should come as no surprise that the Mexican-style tacos are consistent favorites, whether it’s Al Pastor, Carne Asada or Birria. The La Mamalona Burger, which includes all the normal fixings plus carne al pastor, a hot dog frank, ham and green chile, attracts its fair share of attention as well. “It’s just a big burger and people like it,” Jose says. “It’s a lot of fun.” The menu also includes three breakfast plates — Jose recommends birria on the Chilaquiles — three burrito options, a variety of burgers and other intriguing offerings such as a Loaded Hot Dog ( with bacon, beans, cheese, grilled onions, grilled jalapenos, grilled tomatoes and meat

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

of choice). Additionally, the restaurant serves menudo on weekends only, and it consistently sells out. That feeling of home extends beyond the taste of the food. Customers have forged a special bond with the Martinez family since Lobo Taco officially opened in January 2022. “A lot of the customers, they literally just walk to the kitchen and go say hi to my parents,” Jose says. “They just know them.” —TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

LOBO TACO 4520 4th St NW (505) 364-9569 Instagram: lobotaconm

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Crea my

SPIRITSPOTLIGHT

Joe’s Pasta House on Holly Avenue brings a taste of a longtime Rio Rancho favorite to Albuquerque’s Heights. The restaurant’s second location, now celebrating its first anniversary, came to life under new ownership with a fresh opportunity to grow—and a vibe all its own. Bright, airy, and energetic, the space feels polished without losing its neighborhood personality. The bar, in particular, lands somewhere between vacation hideaway and beloved local haunt— the kind of place where familiar faces and colorful characters make every visit feel like an episode of your favorite show. You might just expect to hear a cheerful “NORM!” shouted from across the room on any given night. Behind the bar, longtime bartender known as Rio shakes up one of the restaurant’s most popular indulgences: the Deluxe Espresso Martini. A decadent blend of coffee liqueur, vodka, rum, simple syrup, and a splash of half-and-half, it’s equal parts cocktail, coffee, and dessert—and an easy favorite as the temperatures begin to drop. For Rio, it’s the quintessential fall sip. “It’s warm and comfortable—just like a cozy blanket on a cold night.” Consider us tucked in. –GG Deluxe Espresso Martini $16.00 Joe’s Pasta House 6650 Holly Ave NE, Ste. C4 (505) 808-2993 joespastahouse.com

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

DELUXE ESPRESSO MARTINI

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A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS WITH

AUSTIN CALABAZA

hough he is an introvert at heart, Austin Calabaza has the innate ability to flip the switch when it’s time to connect with people. Through a combination of preparation, passion and the ideal motivational playlist, Calabaza is able to transform his mentality into one that fits his current position of community outreach director. It’s a little bit of a study in contrasts, but it works. “Because of the type of person I am, I do like to kind of prepare in advance just so I can ground myself. I like to have things laid out. It just kind of centers me,” he says. “And then of course, kind of shifting into that mode of, ‘OK, I have to do a presentation’ — kind of hyping myself up with different types of genres of music. It really just kind of depends.” The career shift started during COVID, when he took over a marketing position at Casa Verde Salon and Spa following the exit of another employee. “I started to do recruiting events with different cosmetology schools, promoting the salon, why they should work for us, the different types of training options that we have,” Calabaza says. “So from there, it kind of grew into something that

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I loved. I was able to come out of my comfort zone.” Calabaza continued that journey when he accepted a position with the Better Business Bureau of New Mexico and Southwest Colorado, a non-profit organization that specializes in helping people find and recommend businesses, brands and charities. Calabaza is often out in the community, educating consumers and business owners about the services the BBB offers. This can include explaining the organization’s letter grade rating for businesses, how to file a complaint, submit a review or even report a potential scam. “I (recently) did a presentation in Northern New Mexico for Taos and Questa, and it was on red flags for fraud, common things that you may see, how fraud is advancing,” says Calabaza, who still maintains a part-time role with Casa Verde. “And those presentations will vary just depending on what our consumers and our partners need. My biggest thing that I have committed to my role is meeting people where they’re at. Our service area is very unique in the sense that we have the whole state of New Mexico and 10 counties in Southwest Colorado.” A Dallas native, Calabaza moved to the

Land of Enchantment about 15 years ago to be closer to family; his father grew up on the Santo Domingo Pueblo in northern New Mexico, and his mom hails from Navajo country in Arizona. That too, is about connection. “For my dad’s side, I’m about 45 minutes away. For my mom’s side, I’m about five hours away versus 10 and 15 hours,” he said. “So it’s a lot nicer (to) be there for them more and also connect with my culture on both sides of my family.” That same theme applies to cooking, because few things bring people together like a meal. When he’s seeking something that feels like New Mexico, Calabaza turns to his red chile pork stew — a communal recipe that he learned from his aunts. Calabaza will often blend the chile himself for ideal flavor and consistency, and the meat is boiled beforehand to ensure tenderness. “It just always made me think of coming home to my village and just coming back to New Mexico and hearing all of the laughter in our family’s house with all of my aunts and uncles,” Calabaza says. “And of course, time has passed and some members have left, but it just always made me think of reconnecting.” —TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

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PHOTOS BY DON JAMES/ATM

Community Outreach Director, Better Business Bureau New Mexico/Southwest Colorado

ARECIPEFORSUCCESS

Red Chile Pork Stew Ingredients FOR THE RED CHILE 1½ POUNDS DRIED RED CHILE PODS 1–2 TBSP. GARLIC POWDER, OR TO TASTE 1–2 TBSP. GROUND CUMIN, OR TO TASTE WATER, AS NEEDED FOR SOAKING AND BLENDING FOR THE PORK STEW 2 POUNDS PORK STEW MEAT 4–6 CUPS WATER, OR ENOUGH TO COVER THE PORK 1–2 TBSP. BEEF BOUILLON POWDER, OR TO TASTE 1 TSP. GARLIC POWDER ½–1 TSP. GROUND CUMIN PREPARED RED CHILE, TO DESIRED CONSISTENCY SALT, IF NEEDED

Yield: 6–8 servings Prep Time: 20–25 minutes Cook Time: Approximately 1½ hours

Directions Prepare the Red Chile Remove the stems and seeds from the dried red chile pods. Place the chile pods in a large bowl or pot and cover with hot water. Let soak for 10–15 minutes, or until softened. Working in batches, transfer the softened chile pods to a blender. Add garlic powder, cumin and a small amount of water. Blend until smooth, adding water a little at a time as needed. Continue adding chile and water until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency. For a smoother chile, continue blending or strain the mixture after blending to achieve your preferred texture. Set aside. Prepare the Pork Stew Place the pork stew meat in a large pot and add enough water to cover the meat. Bring to a boil. As the pork cooks, skim off and discard any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. Once the broth is mostly clear, add the beef bouillon powder, garlic powder and cumin. Reduce the heat and simmer until the pork is tender, approximately 45–60 minutes. Stir in the prepared red chile, adding enough to reach your desired flavor and consistency. Continue simmering over low heat for approximately 20–30 minutes, allowing the chile to incorporate into the broth and the flavors to come together. Taste and adjust the bouillon and seasonings as needed. Add a small amount of water if the stew becomes too thick, or simmer uncovered a little longer if you prefer a thicker consistency. Recipe Note This version of red chile pork stew is made slightly thicker in consistency. The amount of water used while blending the chile and simmering the stew can be adjusted to personal preference. The red chile can also be blended and strained to your preferred texture. Because this is a traditional, cook-by-taste recipe, the seasoning measurements are approximate and can be adjusted as needed.

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Serving Suggestion Serve hot with Pueblo oven bread or warm tortillas on the side, perfect for dipping and soaking up the red chile.

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

ABC CAKE SHOP

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

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

ABQ SWEET SPOT

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

3128 SOCIAL HOUSE 3128 Central Ave SE (505) 461-3128 IG: @3128socialhouse

This European-inspired gastropub features tried and true favorites—like a house burger made with ground New Mexico beef and a rotating selection of fish—that all come with a bit of an upscale twist. Choose from a diverse array of innovative cocktails—and mocktails, too!—at this trendy Nob Hill spot.

THE 377 BREWERY 2027 Yale Blvd SE (505) 916-0331 the377brewery.com

1405 Central Ave NE (505) 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.

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

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

ABUELITA’S NEW MEXICAN KITCHEN 6083 Isleta Blvd SW (505) 877-5700 abuelitasnewmexicankitchen.com

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

ALBUQUERQUE CITY LIMITS

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

66 DINER

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

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

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

AJIACO COLOMBIAN BISTRO 3216 Silver Ave SE (505) 266-2305 ajiacobistro.com

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

ALQUDS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & GROCERY 5555 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 888-2921 alqudsnm.com

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

AL’S BIG DIPPER

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

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

ALDO’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZERIA 1690 Pat D’Arco Hwy, Unit E plus 1 other metro location (505) 892-2026 aldosalbuquerque.com

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

ALICEA’S NY BAGELS & SUBS

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

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.

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BITES

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

MANGO MÍA! While this drink isn’t your standard Boba Catch fare, its visual appeal is undeniable. “We’re kind of branching into a little bit more of like a classic New Mexican drink here,” says shift lead Nathan Herrera. “Everyone really loves it because it has the vibrant colors of the chamoy on the outside of the cup as well as the tajin. So it just really makes it pop in a way.” Made with real frozen mango, layered chamoy, tajin, mango popping boba, mango jelly and topped with a tamarindo stick — this season offering has quickly emerged as a summer favorite. It’s a concoction that came from the mind of a Boba Catch team member, the type of creativity that is encouraged by owner Tracy Nguyen. “We did start off with it being seasonal, but we’ve gained so much attention with it,” Herrera says. “But if it was up to me personally, I would keep it forever.” –Tristen Critchfield

Boba Catch

1630 Rio Rancho Blvd SE, Ste. 107, Rio Rancho (505) 585-9779 bobacatch.com

AMADEO’S PIZZA AND SUBS 585 Osuna Rd NE plus 2 other metro locations (505) 344-5555 amadeospizza.com

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

AMORE NEAPOLITAN PIZZERIA 6110 Alameda Blvd Ne, #3 (505) 554-1967 amoreabq.com

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

ANA’S KITCHEN

6004 Edith Blvd NE (505) 341-0055

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

MANGONADA XTREME, $8.99

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

ANNAPURNA’S WORLD VEGETARIAN CAFÉ$ 5200 Eubank Blvd NE, Ste. E7 plus 2 other metro locations (505) 275-2424 chaishoppe.com

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

$$$$

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

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

317 Central Ave NW (505) 808-1707 arepaselpana.com

Authentic Venezuelan fare is on the menu at Arepas El Pana. Whether you order empanadas, pollo guisado, yuca fries, and—of course—arepas, you know everything is made from scratch and with love.

ARTICHOKE CAFE

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.

ANTIQUITY RESTAURANT

AREPAS EL PANA

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

$$$

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

ASIAN NOODLE BAR 318 Central Ave SW (505) 224-9119 asiannoodlebar.com

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

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BITES ASIAN PEAR

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

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

A TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN 2720 Central Ave SE (505) 503-8428 atasteofthecaribbeannm.com

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

AZUMA SUSHI & TEPPAN

4701 San Mateo NE Plus 1 other metro location (505) 880-9800 azuma-sushi-teppan-abq.com

Pioneering the sushi game in Albuquerque for the past 20 years, Azuma is guaranteed to have your favorite roll, plus a housemade creation you won’t be able to resist. If you’re in the mood for dinner and a show,

step on over to the teppan side and be dazzled and delighted.

BACA BOYS CAFÉ

102 4th St NW (505) 200-0065 FB: @bacaboyscafe

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

THE BAKEHOUSE OFF THE WHEATEN PATH

515 Wyoming Blvd NE (505) 312-8252 IG: @thebakehouseoffthewheatenpath

Opened strictly as a gluten-free bakery, The Bakehouse Off The Wheaten Path offers delectable baked goods–like oatmeal cream pie or cinnamon rolls–for those with dietary restrictions. But really, anyone is welcome to enjoy–gluten-free or not. Vegan options are also available.

BANDIDO HIDEOUT

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

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

BANH ME & U

5011 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 259-4701 banhmeu.com

Vietnamese comfort food meets a trendy yet laid-back vibe at locally-owned Banh Me & U, where diners are encouraged to sip on refreshing tea beverages while enjoying homemade banh mi sandwiches—plus newly added pho and spring rolls—in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

BARELAS COFFEE HOUSE

1502 4th St SW (505) 843-7577 FB: @thebarelascoffeehouse

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

BASIL LEAF VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT $$ 1225 Eubank Blvd NE (505) 323-2594 basilleaf.us

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

BEDROCK KITCHEN

5333 4th St NW (505) 545-9460 bedrock-kitchen.com

According to owner Rhoby Schempp, Bedrock Kitchen provides its customers with a “solid foundation” for the day with nutritional breakfast and lunch options. Their meals range from vegan and vegetarian to clean meat dishes.

BELLE’S URBAN DELI

3650 Corrales Rd, Ste. G (505) 548-2009 Bellesurbandeli.square.site

Is there anything better than a good sandwich? How about a sandwich made on in-house made Japanese milk bread with truly unique flavors, like lox and goat cheese. Add to that a pickle bar where you can try everything from the classic dill to fermented green chile - how could you resist?

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BITES BEN MICHAEL’S RESTAURANT 2404 Pueblo Bonito Ct NW (505) 267-6827 FB: @BenMichaelsRestaurant

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 (505) 869-2210

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

BEST LEE’S

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

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

BIG MIKE’S BURGERS AND MORE 19388 NM-314 (505) 864-7918 bigmikesburgersandmore.com

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

BLACK MESA COFFEE COMPANY

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

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-toorder turkey sandwich will fill you up far more reliably than the bag of pretzels you’ll get on the plane. Baked goods, including the popular banana bread, are made inhouse daily. Five menu items, including brownies and cookies, are gluten-free.

BLADES’ BISTRO

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

$$$

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

BLAKE’S LOTABURGER

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

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

BREKKI BREKKI

8338 Comanche Rd NE, St. H plus 1 other metro location (505) 308-8871 brekkibrekki.com

$-$$

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

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

BURRITO EXPRESS

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

938 Eubank Blvd NE (505) 271-2268

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

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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

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

CAFE 6855

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

A sister restaurant to Vernon’s Speakeasy, Café 6855 has gourmet dishes, expertly prepared and served in an elegant atmosphere. The menu is populated with gourmet sandwiches, salads, and cafe specialties that redeploy Vernon’s ingredients to thrilling effect. 2115 Golf Course Rd SE, #102 (505) 994-9436 cafebellacoffee.com

With made-to-order panini and tasty salads filled with the freshest seasonal ingredients, this restaurant’s farm-to-table concept is a smart—and delicious—one.

CAFE CHICA

1700 Central Ave SW, Ste. A (505) 499-5111 wearecafechica.com

As a specialty dessert and coffee shop that focuses on Italian pastries, Cafe Chica is known for its signature sweet treats, from bombolonis (Italian doughnuts filled with various pastry creams) to tiramisus. Everything is made from scratch as much as possible—even the bread for its sandwiches.

CAFE ISTANBUL

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

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

THE BURRITO LADY

BURRITOS ALINSTANTE

CAFÉ BELLA COFFEE

Brekki Brekki does right by brunch (and your stomach) by offering a wide range of hearty, craveable dishes—from their chilaquiles to strawberry cheesecake pancakes. Not to mention the fact that they’re currently open til’ 4pm every day— with a full drink menu, to boot.

BURGER BOY

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.

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

CAKE FETISH

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

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

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ROLL WITH IT

Cafe Istanbul

CRISPY CHICKEN SHAWARMA, $8.99

1410 Wyoming Blvd NE, Ste F (505) 294-9900 Instagram: cafeistanbulnm

(coconut and pecans and crowned with chocolate French buttercream).

CAFÉ LUSH

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

Cozy and full of fan favorite breakfast and brunch items like sandwiches, enchiladas, and loaded salads, Café Lush is something of an institution (and it’s even had its 15 minutes of fame in “Better Call Saul”). Ingredients are fresh and locally sourced— and the service? Top notch.

CAMPO AT LOS POBLANOS 4803 Rio Grande Blvd NW (505) 344-9297 lospoblanos.com

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

The Crispy Chicken Shawarma has enjoyed some viral fame of late, with foodies sharing their experience with the Middle Eastern sandwich on various social media platforms. Cafe Istanbul’s version has grown quite popular as a result — and for good reason. It starts with the 100% Halal chicken, which is specially marinated overnight. While the final product may resemble a burrito — “A lot of people come in and are like, ‘Oh, this is the burrito shawarma,’” says manager/partner Ibrahim Al Rahmoun — the bread is grilled instead of deep fried to achieve the ideal level of crispiness, and seasoning is added during that process. Some establishments might overfill the sandwich with a variety of ingredients, but the beauty of Cafe Istanbul’s version is the simplicity. “With our chicken shawarma sandwich, we only put garlic and pickle (with the chicken) — that’s it,” Al Rahmoun says. “That’s what made it go viral because of the crunch of it, the taste of the chicken and the garlic and the pickle.” —Tristen Critchfield

$$$

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

CARRIE’S RESTAURANT

330 Tijeras Ave NW (505) 302-6929 clydehotel.com/eat-drink/carries-restaurant

From the cozy digs of The Clyde Hotel, Carrie’s Restaurant will take care of you and your appetite, thanks to their unique New Mexican comfort food. Whether you’re there for the chicken pot pie or the blue corn-encrusted ruby red trout, Carrie’s old-fashioned hospitality will encourage you to savor every bite—and save room for dessert.

CANVAS ARTISTRY

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

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

CASA TACO

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

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

CENTRAL BODEGA

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

boasts a lush patio, fabled margaritas and authentic eats, including a trademark on the sopaipilla burger.

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

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

One of the original New Mexican eateries in the North Valley, this expansive property

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

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

CERVANTES NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT 5801 Gibson Blvd SE (505) 262-2253 cervantesabq.com

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

CESAR’S MEXICAN & GREEK 5300 Lomas Blvd NE (505) 256-8017 cesarsmexicanandgreek.com

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

CHAR

125 2nd St NW (inside Hotel Andaluz) (505) 923-9080 hotelandaluz.com/sip-and-savor/char

$$$

Housed inside downtown’s historic (and swanky) Hotel Andaluz, Char offers a refined take on modern New Mexican dining. Expect wood-fired flavors, chile flights, elevated plates, and a stylish atmosphere perfect for date nights or special occasions.

CHEBA HUT

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

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

CHEESE AND COFFEE

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

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.

BITES CHELLO GRILL

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

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

CHEZ AXEL

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

$$$

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

CHILE CHICKEN NASHVILLE HOT CHICKEN 3005 Eubank Blvd NE (505) 293-1700 chilechicken.com

As the legend of Nashville chicken goes, revenge is a dish best served fiery hot. This Southern staple comes to the Duke City in red hot fashion. Frying up proteins like chicken and catfish, diners can choose

sauces ranging from mild to really cluckin’ hot for a customizable, unforgettable meal.

CHILI HILLS

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

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

CHOCGLITZ & CREAM

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

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

CHURCH STREET CAFÉ 2111 Church St NW (505) 247-8522 churchstreetcafe.com

“Hearty” and “homestyle” are the key words here, a hands-down favorite of

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

Certified fair-trade chocolate and a chocolatier with 45 years of experience means you’ll find some of the best sweettooth satisfying offerings (including ice cream flavors such as raspberry red chile and Mexican coffee).

CHRISTY MAE’S RESTAURANT

early-dinner lovers. Old-fashioned staples are the standards, so look for chicken salad, potpies, country-fried steak with homemade mashed potatoes, and beef stew.

5809 Juan Tabo Blvd NE (505) 492-2119 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

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

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

CODA BAKERY

201 San Pedro Dr SE, Ste. B-1 (505) 232-0085 codabakery.com

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

CORN MAIDEN

1300 Tuyuna Trail, Bernalillo (505) 867-1234

$$$

Located at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa on the Santa Ana Pueblo, Corn Maiden is a destination in and of itself and provides fine-dining, Southwestern style–all while centering a garden-to-table menu that celebrates indigenous New Mexican cuisine and flavors.

COPPER CANYON CAFE

5455 Gibson Blvd SE (505) 266-6318 coppercanyoncafeabq.com

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

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BITES THE COUNTY LINE BBQ 9600 Tramway Blvd NE (505) 856-7477 countyline.com

It doesn’t take long for the barbecue to arrive at your dinner table, whether it’s wood-burning oven cooked and slowroasted 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

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

Their headline seafood boils are super customizable, allowing you to choose from a trio of house combinations or mix and match your own selection of crab, lobster, mussels, scallops, clams, or shrimp by the pound.

CRAVIN’ COOKIES AND MORE 10420 4th St NW (505) 298-2597 cravincookiesandmore.com

Serving up specialty cookies, muffins, breads, pies, and pretty much any dessert you can dream of, Cravin’ Cookies and More offers 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 (505) 232-3474 crazyfishabq.com

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

THE CROWN ROOM

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

$$$$

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

CURRY LEAF

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

Curry Leaf is the only restaurant in New Mexico to offer both North and South

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India cuisine. This means that, while you can get familiar favorites like tandoori chicken, you can also explore the world of chicken chettinad and dosas—a type of crepe made with fermented lentil and rice flour, filled with stuffing like potato, spiced vegetables, or ground lamb.

THE DAILY GRIND

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

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

DAGMAR’S SPECIALTIES

2704 Southern Blvd SE, Rio Rancho (505) 615-5651 FB: DagmarsSpecialties

Rooted in tradition, Dagmar’s is an ode to German foods—from bratwurst to their ever-popular breakfast schnitzel. Their kitchen also whips up delectable baked goods like strudels and classic German breads (or brot)—so make sure to bring a big appetite and plenty of room when you visit.

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BITES DAMACIOS BAR & TAPAS 722 Central Ave SW (505) 595-7383 damacios.com

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

DAVE’S HIGH DESERT GRILL 5200 Eubank Blvd NE, Ste. B5 (505) 433-2380 davesrestaurants.com

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

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

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

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

DELICIAS CAFÉ

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

DAVE’S VALLEY GRILL

DEBAJO TAPAS Y VINO

6001 San Mateo Blvd NE (505) 830-6561

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

DG’S DELI

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

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

D.H. LESCOMBES WINERY & BISTRO $$$ 901 Rio Grande Blvd NW Plus 1 other metro location (505) 243-9916 lescombeswinery.com

With generations of experience in winemaking coursing through this North Valley staple’s doors, D.H. Lescombes Winery & Bistro specializes in pairing wine with its expertly crafted and entirely housemade 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.

DR. FIELD GOODS

1909 Bellahmah Ave NW (Sawmill Market) drfieldgoods.com

Located inside of Sawmill Market, Dr. Field Goods is a farm-to-table fusion concept that takes New Mexican flavors in stride with classic American dishes like burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, and fries. Burger patties and dogs are made in-house, and customers also have the option to take home and fix their choice cut of steak or pork chop (but you can also allow a professional to handle the cooking).

DION’S

6308 4th St NW plus 14 other metro locations (505) 345-4900 dionspizza.com

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

DOG HOUSE DRIVE IN 1216 Central Ave SW (505) 243-1019

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

DON CHOCHE TACOS Y CERVEZA 7319 4th St NW, Unit 1 (505) 433-2242 donchochetacosycerveza.com

Starting as a food truck, Don Choche Tacos y Cerveza established residency in the Los Ranchos area in 2009. Tacos are the signature here and can be ordered with various fillings such as asada, barbacoa, fried shrimp, and green chile brisket, just to name a few. A trip to this classic Mexican eatery wouldn’t be complete without stopping at the salsa bar packed with interesting and delicious choices. Dine inside or on the renovated and shaded patio.

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OKTOBERFEST ENERGY As a veteran chef who began his journey in the food industry at age 14, Tom White is well-versed in putting a creative touch on a dish. When creating a sandwich, the process can be a little bit different. “Sometimes just putting something together that’s kind of well balanced and sounds interesting but doesn’t get too weird for people can be a challenge,” says White, a co-owner at Canteen Brewhouse. White seems to have found that sweet spot with the Brewmeister, a hearty offering that includes Black Forest ham, bacon, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, mixed greens and stone ground mustard on a German pretzel bun. According to White, it’s a Top 3 seller at the brewery. He recommends washing it down with a “poppy pilsner.” “It’s just an ode to the roots of German beer and what not. I spent a lot of time in Germany over the years,” White says. “It’s something typical of what you would find in the Bavarian area.”—TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

Canteen Brewhouse

2381 Aztec NE, one other location (505) 881-2737 canteenbrewhouse.com

DONUT MART

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

BREWMEISTER, $12.95

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.

DOROTHEA

5900 Eubank Blvd NE, Ste E6 (505) 291-1116 dorotheafinegreek.com

Tradition meets the finest and freshest ingredients at Dorothea, a Greek restaurant in the NE Heights that serves up classics like gyros—plus luxurious favorites like lobster pasta—in a refined but inviting setting. (Pro tip: ask for the grilled Whole Fish Branzino, flown in straight from the Mediterranean Sea.)

DOWN N DIRTY SEAFOOD BOIL 4200 Wyoming Blvd NE (505) 345-0595 FB: @downndirtyseafoodboil

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.

house-made tortillas, and plenty of blue corn.

DUGGAN’S

EAST OCEAN CHINESE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

227 Lead Ave SE (505) 312-7257 dugganscoffeeshop.com

This breakfast and lunch spot serves up news-themed entrees like the Journalist Salad and Fact Checker Green Chile Chicken Soup in an intimate setting. Cups are filled with locally roasted Trifecta coffee.

DURAN’S CENTRAL PHARMACY 1815 Central Ave NW (505) 247-4141 duransrx.com

Where in the city can you get amazing huevos, kitschy printed dish towels, an emergency rubber chicken in a box, and a flu shot? There is only one answer, Duran’s Central Pharmacy.

DURAN’S STATION

4201 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 830-0007 IG: @duransstation

Traditional New Mexican food served up with a side of homestyle cooking. An offshoot of Duran’s Pharmacy, Duran’s station has built a reputation for amazing red chile,

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3601 Carlisle Blvd NE (505) 889-9315 eastoceanalbq.com

East Ocean Chinese Seafood Restaurant was the first of its kind in Albuquerque. Most dishes are served family style and are made fresh to order. Those looking for traditional Chinese dishes should try the Roast Duck. Seafood eaters will enjoy the Honey Crispy Walnut Shrimp.

EL BRUNO’S RESTAURANTE Y CANTINA $$ 8806 4th St NW (505) 897-0444 elbrunos.com

El Bruno’s got its start in Cuba, NM, in 1975. At the Albuquerque location, the triedand-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 (505) 344-0448

Those with a bottomless appetite might meet their match with any of El Camino’s

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EL CHARRITOS

4703 Central Ave NW (505) 836-2464

Whether you like the standard New Mexican fare of enchiladas, rellenos, and tacos or if you’re looking for something off the beaten path like steak picado, green chile chicken fried steak, or even a deepfried Monte Cristo sandwich, you’re sure to leave El Charritos satisfied with a full belly.

EL MOLCAJETON

4921 Jefferson St NE (505) 881-5332

Enjoy a variety of poultry, seafood, and beef (Cielo, Mar, y Tierra) with vegetables, cheese, and salsas all served piping hot on a traditional molcajeton. El Molcajete has everything from steak to octopus and anything else you could desire - or some simply delicious tacos if that’s more to your taste.

EL PAPATURRO

6601 4th St NW, Ste. H (505) 503-1575 elpapaturrorestaurantnm.com

El Papaturro serves traditional El Salvadoran food. In fact, you’ll even find a dish called Tipico Salvadoreno! The menu is rooted in family recipes and includes everything from your classic pupusa and other Central American favorites as well as carne asada, frito pie, and chicken wings.

EL PATIO DE ALBUQUERQUE

3851 Rio Grande Blvd NW, Plus 1 other metro location (505) 433-4499 elpatioabq.com

El Patio is an Albuquerque institution, and for nearly 50 years, they’ve been serving up classic New Mexican fare like fromscratch sopaipillas, alongside their popular Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas and Carne Adovada Huevos Rancheros. Needless to say, this local favorite is a must-try for Burqueños and visitors alike.

EL PATRON

10551 Montgomery Blvd NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 275-0223 elpatronabq.com

tacos, enchiladas, chile rellenos, and housemade chips. Wash them down with a tasty margarita.

EL PINTO

10500 4th St NW (505) 898-1771 elpinto.com

Food and atmosphere go hand-in-hand at this Duke City staple, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Enjoy fresh salsa, enchiladas, burritos, carne adovada, and many more New Mexican dishes while sipping a margarita on one of the many beautiful patios. Reservations are recommended.

EL ROI CAFE

616 Lomas Blvd NW Ste. A (505) 401-9313 elroicafe.com

El Roi Cafe offers a blend of Native American and New Mexican cuisine aimed to pay tribute to owners’ favorites growing up. Diners will find various options, including mutton stew, Indian tacos, and fry-bread green chile cheeseburgers.

EL SABOR DE JUAREZ

A customer favorite, El Patron’s menu includes dishes such as mouthwatering

$$$

3527 Gibson Blvd SE (505) 265-3338

Its name means “the flavor of Juarez,” and since 1980, this restaurant has served just that. Try the family recipes for menudo and carne desebrada (shredded roast beef sautéed with jalapeño, tomato, and onions).

EL SARAPE

3248 Isleta Blvd SW (505) 877-8871 elsarapeabq.com

Specializing in authentic food from all regions of Mexico, you can count on dishes such as nopalitos (cactus sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and garlic), fresh salsa, burritos, chile rellenos, and seafood specials with shrimp, oysters, calamari, and fish.

ELOY’S NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1508 Wyoming Blvd NE (505) 293-6018

Opening 52 years ago, Eloy’s New Mexican Restaurant’s claim to fame is its consistent food and service, offering the same recipes that made it famous all those years ago. Try the No. 1 Eloy’s Deluxe Dinner, with a little bit of everything.

EMBERS STEAK & SEAFOOD 11000 Broadway Blvd SE (505) 244-8288 isleta.com

$$$

Whether you are dining inside or al fresco on the rooftop patio, Ember’s boasts some of Albuquerque’s most beautiful 180-degree views of the Bosque, making for the perfect setting to catch the sunset next to the warmth of the glowing fire pits.

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BITES FANO BREAD COMPANY 4605 McLeod Rd NE (505) 884-5555 fanobread.com

For more than 16 years, Fano has made the freshest bread in the city. Whether it’s the rustic loaf, the green chile cheese bread or raisin cinnamon bread, you’ll think you’re touring the streets of Italy with each bite.

FAN TANG

3523 Central Ave NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 266-3566 fan-tang.com

With authentic family recipes that include coffee chicken (rubbed in Satellite coffee, then stir-fried with flavorful sauce) and creative additions like soul dumplings (made with tofu, kimchi, and cashew pesto), this spot is sure to satisfy.

FARINA ALTO PIZZERIA & WINE BAR 10721 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 298-0035 farinaalto.com

The Northeast Heights version of Farina offers the same urban atmosphere as the East Downtown (EDo) Farina, minus the elbow-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 (505) 243-0130 farinapizzeria.com

Whether you like yours bianco or covered in carne, you’ll get a pie cooked to perfection at this relaxed-but-hip urban eatery.

FARM & TABLE

8917 4th St NW (505) 503-7124 farmandtablenm.com

$$$

This North Valley eatery’s ever-changing menu features seasonal produce, which often comes from the restaurant’s own farm. If the produce doesn’t come from the farm, it’s sourced from a slew of local vendors. Enjoy grass-and-alfalfa-fed steaks and produce-focused dishes that use local kale, chard, okra, chile, and tomatoes.

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FIESTA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT & CANTINA 4400 Carlisle Blvd NE (505) 881-0478

Fiesta’s Restaurant & Cantina has been family-owned 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.

FIVE STAR BURGERS

5901 Wyoming Blvd NE (505) 821-1909 5starburgers.com

From bison, salmon, turkey and crab to lamb, chicken and Black Angus beef, burger addicts will love Five Star’s 100 percent natural meat. Hand-formed patties or vegetarian options paired with wine from St. Clair Winery or beer from Marble Brewery are a match made in heaven.

FLATIRON BITES AND BREWS 6001 San Mateo NE, Ste F3 (505) 585-0023 eatflatiron.com

A welcome addition to the ABQ brewpub scene, Flatiron bites and brews knows how to build a flavorful burger, which they achieve by using a mix of brisket-chuck beef, resulting in the perfectly juicy patty.

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PIÑON PERFECTION Tomasita’s only offers a few desserts, but the ones that stick around are proven favorites. That holds true for the Piñon Cheesecake, a staple since it debuted at the Santa Fe location sometime in the early 1980s. The recipe came from a longtime bartender, and it’s remained the same ever since. “(It) is a classic example of if it’s not broke, don’t fix it,” says owner George Gundrey. It’s essentially a classic cheesecake, but the piñon nuts — along with some caramel sauce — give it a special finishing touch. “It just makes it New Mexican,” Gundrey says. Because Tomasita’s entrees are accompanied by a sopaipilla and honey butter, many patrons often elect to bypass dessert. In this case, not only does the cheesecake sell on site, Gundrey says, but it also tends to be the choice for a large number of to-go and DoorDash orders. “People love it, but it’s a hard sell,” Gundrey says. “So if you’re going to get a dessert, it’s got to be good.” —TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

Tomasita’s

4949 Pan American Freeway NE, one other location (Santa Fe) (505) 344-1204 tomasitas.com

PIÑON CHEESECAKE, $7.50

Also available on the menu are chicken sandwiches, wings, and plenty of shareable plates.

FOODTOPIA

FLIX BREWHOUSE

If you have never had a deep-fried quesadilla, let Foodtopia be the place to introduce you to the dish. Additional tasty treats include a poblano chile relleno, and a whole variety of Mexican-style tacos, burritos, tortas, and enchiladas brought you from the Zacatecas heritage of owner and chef Leticia Gonzalez.

3258 La Orilla Rd NW, B-1 plus 1 other metro location (505) 445-8500 flixbrewhouse.com

Flix is a one-of-a-kind concept; a movie theater that serves full meals and an inhouse brewed beer menu in its stadiumseating “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.

FLYING STAR CAFE

8001 Menaul Blvd NE plus 5 other metro locations (505) 293-6911 flyingstarcafe.com

With menu options ranging from breakfast served all day to flavor-packed salads and sandwiches, handmade desserts to die for, and beautiful patio dining, Flying Star is the place to treat yourself to good vibes and great food.

4959 Pan American Fwy NE (505) 554-3698 foodtopiarestaurant.com

FRANK’S FAMOUS CHICKEN AND WAFFLES

400 Washington St SE (505) 712-5109 franksfamouschickenandwaffles.com

3509 Central Ave NE (505) 433-5911 frenchish.com

FRONTIER RESTAURANT 2400 Central Ave SE (505) 266-0550 frontierrestaurant.com

$$$

Famous for its legendary Frontier Rolls, hot-off-the-iron tortillas, burgers, New Mexican favorites, hash browns, freshsqueezed orange juice, and more, the Frontier is Albuquerque’s melting pot—it’s a guarantee you’ll see someone you know there.

FUEGO 505

Owner and former Lobo basketball player Frank Willis wanted to give Albuquerque the soul food he had while growing up in Los Angeles. He fiddled with flavors, making sure they were perfect, before opening his restaurant to dish out favorites like chicken and waffles, fried pickles, mac ‘n cheese, and collard greens.

FRENCHISH

inspiration from an eclectic mix of French and Midwestern U.S. cuisines, with an active focus on clean, simple foods.

5750 McMahon Blvd NW (505) 705-8439 fuego505.com

Traditional meets trendy at this Westside rotisserie grill and bar. Gourmet tacos, bowls, and hot-fired skewers (including exotic meats like rabbit, elk and rattlesnake) pair nicely with whiskeys from their extensive list. Salads, hand-shaken cocktails, local craft beers and a large patio round out the scene.

Envisioned as a casual neighborhood restaurant, frenchish’s menu draws

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BITES FUN NOODLE BAR

5317 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 801-6888 funnoodleabq.com

The perfect place to go with family and friends to enjoy fresh Asian cuisine. Fun noodle bar provides you with an authentic and, well, fun experience. Fresh dumplings and hand-pulled noodles are a homerun.

GARCIA’S KITCHEN

2924 San Mateo Blvd NE plus 5 other metro locations (505) 888-3488 garciaskitchen.com

This Albuquerque institution serves up classic New Mexican dishes, from freshly made tortillas to an extensive burrito list. You’ll leave one of the multiple locations with a full belly and content heart.

GARDUÑO’S OF MEXICO RESTAURANT AND CANTINA 10031 Coors Blvd NW plus 2 other metro locations (505) 880-0055 gardunosrestaurants.com

Garduño’s consistently earns enthusiastic kudos for its mouthwatering enchiladas, burritos, salsa, and knock-your-socksoff margaritas. And, with three locations around town, you’re always near a fiesta.

GIMANI

2100 Louisiana Blvd NE #810 gimanimenu.com

GOLDEN CROWN PANADERIA 1103 Mountain Rd NW (505) 243-2424 goldencrown.biz

Golden Crown Panaderia is known for taking creativity in baking to the next level. Try the original biscochitos or cappuccino, chocolate and sugar-free versions. Don’t miss out on homemade green chile bread, pizza, and creative bread sculptures.

GRASSBURGER

5600 Coors Blvd NW, Ste. C3 plus 1 other metro location (505) 361-2368 eatgrassburger.com

GRANDMA’S K & I DINER 2500 Broadway Blvd SE (505) 243-1881 grandmaskandidiner.com

This South Valley diner is known for its heaping plates of classic American comfort food—they’ve even been featured on “Man vs. Food” for their massive “Travis on a Silver Platter” dish.

THE GROVE CAFÉ AND MARKET 600 Central Ave SE, Ste. A (505) 248-9800 thegrovecafemarket.com

There’s a lot that sets the burger joint apart—including its community involvement, its vegan and gluten-free burger options, and its commitment to a no-corn syrup menu.

The brunch and lunch favorite is wellknown 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.

THE GRILL ON SAN MATEO

GOBBLE THIS

3300 San Mateo Blvd NE (505) 872-9772

A choice of mesquite-grilled chicken, rib eye, hot dogs, and burgers (beef and garden) accompany bottomless housemade 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.

308 San Felipe St NW (505) 975-3969 gobblethis.biz

A fusion of ingredients from El Salvador, Los Angeles, and New Mexico make up the recipes at Gobble This. Owner and chef Nestor Lopez goes out of his way to make the food and atmosphere like being

Pizza by the slice is made twice as nice thanks to Gimani’s handcrafted sourdough recipes—which feature tantalizing flavor combinations like lemon and ricotta, or pepperoni and hot honey. For added foodie flair, order a gelato—available in either fior di latte (fresh mozzarella), hazelnut, or a swirl of the two, each topped with extra virgin olive oil and flaky sea salt. Yum!

GINO’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA 3908 San Mateo Blvd NE (505) 883-6000 ginosnystylepizza.com

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

GIOVANNI’S PIZZERIA

921 San Pedro Dr SE (505) 255-1233 giovannispizzaalbuquerque.com

Giovanni’s isn’t easy to spot at first, but once you’ve had a big slice of fold-inhalf New York-style pie, you’ll never miss it again. Whether you like it covered in spinach, pesto and tomatoes, cheese-only, no cheese at all, or plain pepperoni, you’re sure to find your pizza match.

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GYROS MEDITERRANEAN 106 Cornell Dr SE (505) 255-4401 egyros.com

Tried-and-true Greek recipes, such as traditional Kota Reganato (oven-roasted chicken with oregano, garlic and lemon), fresh Greek salads, Patates, and, of course, sweet baklava, served in a friendly, laidback collegial atmosphere.

GYRO SHACK

2100 Eubank Blvd NE (505) 361-1920 gyroshack.com

Serving up their signature gyro and pita sandwiches, Gyro Shack is a no-fuss, made-from-scratch Mediterranean establishment, boasting two locations across the metro area. Friendly service is built into the experience—in addition to the perfect combination of “fast food” and quality. The secret ingredient, however,

lies in a proprietary Tzatziki sauce, which like everything else, is made fresh daily.

HANNAH & NATE’S MARKET CAFÉ 4512 Corrales Rd plus 1 other metro location (505) 898-2370

Offering breakfast and lunch, Hannah & Nate’s is all about flavor—whether it’s the flavor of traditional New Mexican cuisine, cuisines from throughout the world or the family recipes served.

HELLO DELI

7600 Jefferson St NE (505) 797-3354 hellodeliabq.com

Home to one of the most delicious breakfast burritos around, Hello Deli serves sandwiches and even Frontier’s sweet rolls.

HERENCIA

11225 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 292-3776 herencia.res-menu.net

Longtime local favorite Herencia serves up modern Mexican plates—with a refined touch. From savory bocadillos or starters to tenderloin medallions smothered in luscious chipotle crema, the menu delivers upscale eats in a comfortable setting while offering generous portions—and warm hospitality.

HIBACHI ONE

3230 Coors Blvd NE (505) 839-0808 hibachioneabq.com

In addition to their tableside teppanyaki service, Hibachi One visitors can take advantage of private rooms. Hibachi options like shrimp, scallops, and filet mignon are available wherever you’re sitting in the house, as is a full menu of sushi, sashimi, and rolls.

HIGH POINT GRILL

9780 Coors Blvd NW (505) 312-8519 highpointgrill.com

Those perpetually on the hunt for the perfect burger will find plenty to love at High Point. With a foundation of 100-percent Akaushi, American Prime Wagyu beef, the burgers at High Point Grill are some of the city’s most popular. Its Southwest burger, for instance, features a red chile crusted patty, extra hot local green chile and cheddar cheese.

HIGH NOON RESTAURANT AND SALOON 425 San Felipe St NW (505) 765-1455 highnoonrestaurant.com

$$$

Located in a 300-year-old house in the heart of Old Town, High Noon has a menu stocked with New Mexican fare such as burritos and enchiladas, but you can also

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BITES find baked brie and buffalo burgers here. Reservations are recommended.

your choice of protein and spice level, from no chili at all to Thai hot.

HORIZON BAGELS AND CAFE

HOT TAMALES

4000 Louisiana Blvd NE (505) 221-0668

New York is a long way from here, but it’s a little closer with Horizon’s delicious bagels. Of course there has to be the NM touch - like a red chile bagel with green chile cream cheese. You can also fill your belly with corned beef hash, matzo ball soup, and fresh cinnamon rolls.

HORSE AND ANGEL TAVERN 5809 Juan Tabo Blvd NE (505) 299-0225

Whether you want a simple sandwich for lunch, appetizers and a beer in the afternoon, or steak and enchiladas at midnight, this Heights tavern is the place to be any time of the day.

HOT PINK THAI

2626 San Pedro Dr NE (505) 872-2296

For dine in or takeout at lunchtime, you’ll get $1.50 off dishes over $10 and a free vegetable egg roll. Favorites include pumpkin curry, pad thai, and drunken noodles. Most dishes are customized with

1520 Rio Rancho Blvd SE, Rio Rancho (505) 962-0123 hottamalesnmrestaurant.com

This Rio Rancho restaurant serves bona fide New Mexican with hand-blended red chile and fire-roasted green chile: Green Chile Stew Omelet, Hot Tamale Bowl, and Fajitas are just a few of the spicy dishes.

HUMBLE COFFEE COMPANY 4200 Lomas Blvd NE (505) 289-9909 bakerad.com/humble

Humble prides itself on keeping it simple. Here you’ll find the most classic coffee drinks (ones that aren’t overly sweet) in an attempt to highlight the coffee bean itself. They use single-origin beans so customers can taste the difference between other beans. Both locations are perfect for sipping delicious coffee and gathering with friends.

HURRICANE’S CAFE 4330 Lomas Blvd NE (505) 255-4248

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.

IHATOV BREAD AND COFFEE 3400 Central Ave SE (505) 539-5445

Bread and coffee are the foundation of this diverse bakery. IHATOV is whipping up approximately 20 types of bread inspired by different locations. Must-try items include the buttermilk biscuit and the croissants.

ISLETA GRILL

4047 NM State Highway 47 (505) 869-2046 FB: Isleta Grill

A popular breakfast-and-lunch counter on the Isleta Pueblo serving up tortilla burgers, Indian tacos and Frito pies, along with an assortment of made-to-order sandwiches (BLT, Club, etc.). The graband-go morning menu includes breakfast burritos and quesadillas in two sizes.

With Route 66 serving as the city’s heart, it’s always good to hop over to a good ol’

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BITES I SCREAM ICE CREAM 2000 Carlisle Blvd NE (505) 268-0139

This 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’s even a free play area for kiddos—plus the state’s largest transistor radio collection (believe it or not)!

IL LOCALETTO ROSSI 106 Buena Vista Dr SE (505) 355-5953 IG: @LocalettoRossi

Loosely translated as ‘little red house,’ Il Localetto Rossi is a bit of a hidden gem, located just across from UNM in what used to be Thai House. Standout items on the menu include lasagna, finished with homemade alfredo sauce and roasted marinara, along with gnocchi cacio e pepe— that’s from-scratch potato dumplings with black pepper, fresh cheese, and truffle oil for non-Italian speakers. Mamma mia!

IL VICINO

3403 Central Ave NE plus 2 other metro locations (505) 266-7855 ilvicino.com

ITALITY

2500 12th St NW (505) 451-2861 italitynm.com

Plant-based cooking meets Pueblo culture at Itality, where every plate is made from scratch using Native-inspired recipes. Standout dishes include the Ital NDN Taco, a Pueblo-style fry bread topped with red chile, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and avocado, plus an in-house pumpkin sauce.

THE IVY TEAROOM

4515 Corrales Rd (505) 585-3061 indigocrowcafe.net

$$$

This café is cozy, thanks to the fact that it’s housed in an old adobe building. When it’s cold, patrons warm up by the indoor fireplace; when it’s warm, they enjoy meals such as lobster ravioli, tarragon chicken salad, and New Mexico chicken fried steak under the stars on the outdoor patio. Reservations are recommended.

IRONWOOD KITCHEN

5740 Night Whisper Rd NW, Ste. 250 (505) 890-4488 ironwoodkitchen.com

This family operation’s goal: to serve meals made with whole foods at affordable prices. Try the green chile cheeseburger, with freshly-ground chuck, topped with fresh vegetables and roasted green chile.

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JINJA BAR & BISTRO WESTSIDE 5400 Sevilla Ave NW (505) 792-8776

JOE’S PASTA HOUSE

$$$

6521 America’s Parkway (505) 884-8937 japanesekitchen.com

JAVA JOE’S

INDIGO CROW CAFÉ

The menu here lists more than 100 items, most of them mouthwatering comfort foods: sandwiches, burgers, New Mexican dishes, handmade pizzas, and breakfast served all day long.

JAPANESE KITCHEN

INDIAN PUEBLO KITCHEN

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.

Offering 20 varieties of tea and a monthly menu that highlights the season, the Ivy Tearoom has something for everyone. With ten suites, three cottages and a large parlor, there is an opportunity for an immersive tea experience. Bookings are recommended for large groups and special occasions.

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.

$$$

7007 Jefferson St NE (505) 341-2546 jimmyscafeonjefferson.com

Whether you’re looking for a good place to gather some friends for tasty drinks and appetizers or a laid-back place to bring the family, Jinja has the atmosphere for you. You won’t find one specific menu theme at Jinja, with its blend of Chinese and Vietnamese which makes it easy for anyone to find something they like. Staples like potstickers, Kung Pao chicken, and wings with different sauces are all served up

8830 4th St NW (505) 388-8691 theivytearoom.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.

2401 12th St NW (505) 724-3510 indianpueblo.org

JINJA BAR AND BISTRO

906 Park Ave SW (505) 765-1514 downtownjavajoes.com

JC’S NEW YORK PIZZA DEPARTMENT

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 8900 Holly Ave NE, Ste. B (505) 856-1413 jinjabistro.com

Evoking a vintage ambiance, Jinja serves inspired and mouthwatering pan-Asian cuisine, such as Kung Pow Chicken (a Thai version of the Chinese favorite) and Home-Style Chicken Udon Wok Bowl.

A neighborhood Italian-American joint with an incredible dose of warmth and personality, Joe’s offers brunch, Wednesday half-off wine specials, and an expansive dinner menu to please every palate in la mia famiglia: steaks, pasta, and some of the best cannoli and tiramisu anywhere.

JUNIPER STEAKHOUSE

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. 215 Central Ave NW, Ste. B (505) 766-6973 jcnypd.com

3201 Southern Blvd SE Plus 1 other metro location (505) 892-3333 joespastahouse.com

54 Jemez Canyon Dam Rd. (505) 771-7145 santaanastar.com

$$$

Inside the Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel, Juniper Steakhouse offers a fine dining experience in an entertaining atmosphere. With popular options like the prime rib and filet mignon, diners can also opt for a seafood entree. The food is enticing; they also have a full bar with an extensive wine list and handcrafted seasonal cocktails.

KABAB & CURRY

3617 Wyoming Blvd NE (505) 292-2059 kababcurryalbuquerque.com

If you’ve never had green chile naan, better believe that you’re missing out. With its owners carrying over 40 years of experience, Kabab & Curry brings mouthwatering, authentic Indian dishes to ABQ. Here you’ll find authentic favorites like goat curry, lamb vindaloo, chicken tikka masala, and more—all baked by the warm glow of the tandoor oven.

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BITES KABAB HOUSE: AUTHENTIC PERSIAN CUISINE 8104 Wyoming Blvd NE, Ste. A (505) 312-8949

Authentic, made-to-order Persian food is constantly sizzling on the grill here. The koobideh kabab is made with minced ground beef or ground chicken, onion, and house spices. Each dish is a healthy size and comes with soup, salad, and rice. Top everything off with a glass of delicious banana milk, or majoun, which is banana milk with almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and honey.

KAKTUS BREWING CO. 471 S Hill Rd, Bernalillo (505) 818-7285 kaktusbrewery.com

Tucked away from it all, Kaktus specializes in European-style pints, and a menu featuring pizzas and apps uniquely topped with game meats like elk, boar, bison, and duck. Special events on weekends abound.

KAP’S COFFEE SHOP & DINER 5801 Central Ave NE (505) 232-9658 kapscoffeeshopanddiner.com

fried steak or chicken fried chicken with an egg on top or some golden brown, griddlecooked flapjacks.

KAWAII BOBA-CAFÉ

KATHY’S CARRY OUT

Boba tea is just the beginning of the menu at this westside cafe. While the expansive tea menu allows for plenty of customizations, what really sets this cafe apart is their food menu featuring ramen, kimchi, and other Asian staples. Located conveniently next to Flix Brewhouse, this spot is a magnet for Albuquerque’s anime fans and cosplayers.

823 Isleta Blvd SW (505) 873-3472 FB: Kathy’s Carry Out

A half-century of success in the heart of the city’s South Valley that’s renowned for $2 tacos on Wednesdays (yes, Wednesdays), stuffed sopaipillas, smothered burritos and burgers. Take-home pints also available for beans, rice, carne adovada, etc. Indoor and outdoor seating, plus a drive-thru.

KATRINAH’S EAST MOUNTAIN GRILL 150 State Rd, 344 A (505) 508-0601 kawaiibobacafeabq.com

This contemporary diner specializes in homemade dishes, such as gyros, 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).

Serving the Duke City and hungry travelers since 1968, Kap’s is the place to go for a great meal. Enjoy a hearty plate of chicken

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3200 La Orilla Rd NW, Ste. E (505) 281-9111 eastmountaingrill.com

KIMO’S HAWAIIAN BBQ 3239 Girard Blvd NE (505) 582-2797 kimosabq.com

Hawaii comes home. What began as a food truck is now a brick-and-mortar location also. Try fresh-from-the-isles Kalua Pork and Huli Huli Chicken plates served with sides like steamed cabbage, rice, and macaroni salad.

KŪKRI

505 Central Ave NW (Located inside 505 Central Food Hall), Plus 3 other metro locations (505) 582-8891 kukriabq.com

Hot and spicy halal chicken tenders inspired by global flavors are Kūkri’s

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BITES specialty, but their menu boasts a diverse array of poultry picks, from sliders to salads. With multiple spice levels to choose from, just don’t forget to try their specialty lemonades (you’ll be glad you did; it cools down the kick!).

K’LYNN’S SOUTHERN & CAJUN FUSION $$ 4300 Ridgecrest Dr SE, Ste. O, Rio Rancho (505) 453-3068

Kathrine Johnson-Bey brings Cajun cuisine from the bayou to the desert in this Rio Rancho fusion restaurant. From fried oysters to hand-breaded crawfish tails, alligator po boys to collard greens, this unique eatery is a can’t-miss.

KOSMOS RESTAURANT 1715 5th St NW (505) 369-1772 kosmosabq.com

Part art gallery, part restaurant, Kosmos is a feast for the senses. The inventive staff brings together high-grade dinner style burgers with dishes sparked by the flavors of the Near East.

LA MEXICANA TORTILLA COMPANY 304 Coal Ave SW (505) 242-2558

Family owned and operated since 1932– that’s nearly a century, believe it or not–La Mexicana Tortilla Company makes fresh, hand-made corn and flour tortillas daily for both the restaurant itself and distributes their tortillas to nearly sixty other restaurants across the state. Of course, La Mexicana also offers New Mexican classics, ranging from green chile cheeseburgers to stuffed sopaipillas, available dine-in or carry-out.

LA QUICHE PARISIENNE BISTRO 5850 Eubank Blvd NE, Ste. 17 (505) 242-2808 laquicheparisiennebistro.com

Long considered an authentic French staple of downtown ABQ, La Quiche has comfortably settled into the Heights and the baked goods will comfort your lazy weekend brunch cravings with true Parisian cuisine from the mainland.

LA REFORMA

8900 San Mateo Blvd NE, Ste. I (505) 717-1361 lareformabrewery.com

On the taco front, La Reforma is virtually unimpeachable, offering options like braised pork shoulder carnitas, tempurabattered white fish pescado, and rotisseriebroiled al pastor for carnivores, along with tempura-battered avocado (aguacate) for those looking for something plant-based.

LA SALITA

1950 Juan Tabo Blvd NE (505) 299-9968 lasalita.com

The name may mean “little room,” but this New Mexican restaurant always has a full house. The chile rellenos, chile con queso, sopaipillas, and shredded beef burrito (a Wednesday special) have earned loyal customers for 37 years.

LA GUELAGUETZA MEXICAN RESTAURANT$ 816 Old Coors Dr SW (505) 916-0095 la-guelaguetza-mexican-restaurantllc. business.site

2400 12th St NW plus 3 other metro locations (505) 352-8282 thelagunaburger.com

Every half-pound burger is made fresh upon ordering, topped with Hatch green chile, and slipped on a butter-toasted bun made specifically for Laguna Burger by Sara Lee. Also on the menu: freshly-cut fries, foot-long chile cheese dogs, and zingy breakfast burritos.

LAZY LIZARD GRILL

2000 Bellamah Ave NW (505) 318-3998 hotelchaco.com

$$$

The food here needs be good, because first and foremost, it competes with the view. Like the name implies, Level 5 sits on the 5th floor of Hotel Chaco and offers a near-360 degree view of the city. 312 Central Ave SW (505) 242-2992 library-abq.com

Featuring more than a great party, the Library offers drink specials and halfpriced appetizers during happy hour, as well as salads, hamburgers, sandwiches, wraps, and specialty items.

LANTERN RIDGE FARM

12540 N Highway 14, Sandia Park (505) 395-7774 lanternridgemarket.com

$$$

Lantern Ridge Farm has it all - a tasty breakfast menu, amazing lunches, gourmet dinners, beautiful scenery, and a market. Whether you’re looking for classic huevos rancheros, filet mignon, or dried pasta, you’ll find it here.

LIMONATA CAFÉ

3222 Silver Ave SE (505) 266-0607 limonatacafe.com

From the King Cobra Pizza and madefrom-scratch Jalapeño Poppers to their impressive selection of microbrews, the Lazy Lizard Grill has customers always coming back for more—and has the food and atmosphere to back it up.

Channel your inner Italian at this street food-inspired café, where the breakfast and lunch menus feature perfect pastries, craveable cappuccino and trattoriainspired 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.

LE CHANTILLY FINE PASTRIES

LINDA’S DOLCI

12480 North Hwy 14, Sandia Park (505) 281-9122 lazylizardgrill.com

8216 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 293-7057 lechantillybakery.com

This French-style bakery features breakfast pastries, muffins, strudel, cookies, and tarts—not to mention delicious quiche, croissants, sandwiches and cakes. Try homemade soups such as creamy chicken and artichoke, then satisfy your sweet tooth with a tower of chocolate decadence.

LE TROQUET

228 Gold Ave SW (505) 508-1166 abqfrenchrestaurant.com

The Parisian bistro, open for lunch or dinner, offers classically simple French dishes made by Chef Jean Pierre Gozard. From Boeuf Bourguignon to quiche and

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LEVEL 5 AT HOTEL CHACO

THE LIBRARY BAR & GRILL

If you’re looking for something especially authentic, La Guelaguetza is the place for you. This restaurant will provide you with no frills and traditional Mexican food. Options range from Birria, to mole, to cocktail shrimp and everything in between. Located on Old Coors La Guelaguetza gives a homestyle feel to all the favorites.

LAGUNA BURGER

delectable desserts, expect a tres bien atmosphere with a comprehensive wine list.

8520 Montgomery Blvd NE, Ste B4 (505) 355-5945 lindasdolci.com

A sweet slice of Italy isn’t so far away, thanks to Linda’s Dolci—Albuquerque’s traditional pasticceria. Take home biscotti, crostata (Italian pie), and graffe (Italian doughnuts)—and more—at this seriously authentic bakery, where everything is made from scratch using traditional recipes.

LINDO MEXICO

7209 Central Ave NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 266-2999 lindomexicogrillandseafood.com

This once smaller operation has since been in business for 20 years. With extreme passion to express the heritage of certain

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BITES dishes through authentic tastes, owners are proud to have an atmosphere that values family and traditions. Some popular items include mole, tacos, guacamole and their chile rojo. All made fresh in house.

LILY AND LIAM BISTRO

1751 Rio Rancho Blvd SE, Ste. 101, Rio Rancho (505) 340-3309 lilyandliambistro.com

The NM Dutch Baby (loaded with green chile, of course) is a Lily and Liam staple that has regulars coming back time and again. As a family-run business, it makes perfect sense that your whole family will love this homegrown spot.

LITTLE BEAR COFFEE

LITTLE GEMS

2632 Pennsylvania St NE Plus 1 other metro location (505) 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. 6565 Americas Pkwy #110 (505) 225-3768 eatlittlegems.com

Full of bright and playful flavors, Little Gems specializes in creative, ingredientdriven salads and seasonal bowls that pack big flavors into colorful (and healthy!)

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dishes, making it a go-to for quick lunches or light, guilt-free dinners.

salsa and tons of delicious New Mexican dishes in humongous portions.

THE LOCAL BREWHOUSE

LOS OLIVOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT

300 Unser Blvd SE, Rio Rancho (505) 994-2007

Even situated in the large metro area, The Local Brewhouse still has that small town, neighborhood charm. Their menu features brewpub classics and 32 local, regional, domestic, and international beers and ciders on tap, more than a dozen of which are brewed in house.

LOS COMPADRES RESTAURANT 2437 Central Ave NW (505) 452-8091 compadresabq.com

Family recipes like the No. 16 Taco Plate, tacos with carne y papas (beef and potatoes) and the restaurant’s Menudo, have kept locals coming back for more than 15 years.

LOS CUATES

8700 Menual Blvd NE plus 2 other metro locations (505) 237-2800 loscuatesrestaurants.com

7900 Zuni Rd SE (505) 503-7879

Virtually everything on the menu at Los Olivos is Hernandez family recipe. Focused on traditional Mexican flavors, diners can enjoy authentic tacos, tortas, burritos, and soups, as well as different salsa for every dish.

LOS POOKIES MEXICAN RESTAURANT 5626 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 588-2911

Los Pookies serves up both authentic and inventive Mexican family recipes from the heart. Known primarily for their birria, Los Pookies has ultimately generated plenty of buzz from their popular birria ramen and birria pizza (there’s even birria egg rolls on the menu). Also available on the menu are Mexican classics like molcajete, enchiladas, and tacos.

LOYOLA’S FAMILY RESTAURANT

Popular since it opened over 25 years ago, Los Cuates serves its own ancho-chile

4500 Central Ave SE (505) 268-6478 loyolasfamilyrestaurant.com

You’ll find both American and New Mexican goodies here, from fried chicken,

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BITES roast beef and sandwiches to tasty local favorites such as burritos and posole.

LOS RANCHOS BAKERY

6920 4th St NW (505) 859-4727 FB: @LosRanchosBakery

Specializing in sourdough loaves, Los Ranchos Bakery starts everything from scratch, also providing custom cakes, cinnamon rolls, pies, and scones, a cult favorite. Coffee is also a part of the menu, and all syrups are made in-house. Everything is ultimately small batch, so it’s best to get while the getting (or rather, baking) is good.

LUCKY GOOSE

4416 Wyoming Blvd NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 580-9693 lucky-goose-llc.square.site

6225 4th St NW (505) 343-0466 luigisitalianfood.com

Enjoy more than 250 made-from-scratch Italian dishes, including pizza, chicken Florentine, spaghetti and meatballs, and green chile chicken lasagna.

M’TUCCI’S

4939 Pan American Fwy NE plus 3 other metro locations (505) 554-2660 mtuccis.com

The menu at the Westside’s authentic Italian staple features refined comfort food classics, from meatball marinara to pot roast. Other menu items are crafted from choice Berkshire pigs that the eatery imports from northern Iowa and southern Minnesota farms. In fact, a unique pork dish is incorporated into a featured dinner special every night. Wash down your pasta, pizza, or salad with a carefully crafted cocktail from the bar.

MAC’S STEAK IN THE ROUGH 4515 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 888-3611 macsnm.com

911 Four Hills Rd SE (505) 299-9555 canyonclubgolf.com

Taquitos, onion rings, guacamole salad, and an original “steak in the rough”—slivers of beef served with French fries, coleslaw, a roll, catsup, and a fresh green scallion… these are just a few of the reasons Mac’s has been in business for so many years.

This newly remodeled property was rejuvenated thanks to its own club members, and now boasts modern décor, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Members can enjoy creative dishes like Pork Alexander, New Mexico Eggs Benedict with green chile Hollandaise sauce, or the Turkey Lurkey, including green chile and Pepper Jack cheese in the dining room or al fresco on its large, shaded patio overlooking the mountain vistas. Dining-only memberships available.

MARIO’S PIZZA

Don’t be fooled by the all-vegan menu at Lucky Goose—these tasty versions of your favorite comfort foods—think burgers, fries, dogs, and even shakes—could easily pass as the real thing (but we promise— they’re not).

LUIGI’S RISTORANTE AND PIZZERIA

MANZANO GRILLE THE CANYON CLUB AT FOUR HILLS

2401 San Pedro Dr NE plus 3 other metro locations (505) 883-4414 mariospizzaabq.com

Gourmet pizzas, big bowls of pasta, custom calzones and New York-style sandwiches are the norm at this tasty Italian eatery.

MARISCOS ALTAMAR

1517 Coors Blvd NW plus 1 other metro location (505) 831-1496 mariscosaltamarabq.com

With live music on the weekends, colorful murals, and authentic Mexican seafood dishes such as tostada de ceviche with shrimp, fish, and snow crab, dining at Mariscos Altamar is well worth the trip.

MARY & TITO’S CAFÉ 2711 4th St NW (505) 344-6266 maryandtitos.com

From their famous carne adovada to their authentic New Mexican chips and salsa, Mary & Tito’s Café makes sure guests leave full and happy. This homey café also became the only Albuquerque restaurant to win a James Beard Foundation America’s Classics Award in 2010.

MATA G VEGETARIAN KITCHEN 116 Amherst Dr SE (505) 266-6374 mata-g.com

An authentic vegetarian restaurant with a wide variety of vegetarian breakfasts, soups, salads, sandwiches, and hot specials.

MATI PERUVIAN CUISINE

303 San Pedro Dr NE (505) 516-9618 Facebook: Mati Peruvian Cuisine

Mati Peruvian Cuisine is arguably ABQ’s touchstone for Peruvian food—thanks to a diverse menu that aims to introduce restaurant goers to this complex South American cuisine. Popular dishes include four types of Peruvian ceviche and the

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

Aji de Gallina, a mildly spiced chicken with yellow chile pepper and potatoes—along with the Loma Saltado, or marinated strips of sirloin served with red onions and tomatoes.

MARIGOLD CAFE

161 Lang Ave NE, Ste. C (505) 433-4427 marigoldabq.com

This cozy cafe is serving up a much-loved fusion of Indian and American cuisine. The marigold cafe is a local family-owned business that uses only the highest quality ingredients and spices.

MAZAYA CAFÉ

120 Harvard Dr SE (505) 582-2447 mazayacafe.com

Mazaya Café is dedicated to adding an authentic Mediterranean dining experience to the medley of options in the Nob Hill area–without breaking the bank for its diners. If you are looking to fill up, fresh-grilled kebabs, a half-dozen wraps, shawarma, and three kinds of fried or steamed dumpling plates headline the restaurant’s entrée menu.

MESA PROVISIONS

3009 Central Ave NE (505) 494-5264 mesaprovisions.com

With an emphasis on seasonally and locally influenced ingredients, you can always expect to find something fresh on the menu at Mesa Provisions. And although they have a wide variety of culinary offerings, year-round staples such as the half-smoked chicken or the green chile cheddar biscuit will have you coming back for more.

MERAKI COFFEE + MARKET 5900 Eubank Blvd NE (505) 291-1116 drinkmerakiabq.com

Meraki in Greek is the word that describes the attention and love put into something you are preparing for others. With all real ingredients (no fake butter, sugar substitutes, etc.) it is clear the passion runs through each item that is made at Meraki. Everything is made early in the morning and most ingredients are sold instore exclusively. Whether you’re looking for a classic cappuccino or smoked salmon toast with homemade tomato jam, you are sure to find that every dish is extremely high quality and delicious.

MICHAEL THOMAS COFFEE ROASTERS (505) 504-7078 202 Bryn Mawr Dr SE michaelthomascoffee.com

Michael Thomas’ fresh-roasted coffees can be purchased in bulk or by the cup. Favorites include the Banda Bear Blend

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BITES 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.

MICHES

3925 Las Estancias Way (505) 407-2058 michesabq.com

Ceviche nachos are the standout item here at Miches, but really, seafood lovers can’t go wrong with their extensive menu that also features tostadas and fish tacos. Come for the seafood and stay for the micheladas, or Mexican beer cocktails— which are just about as fresh and authentic as it gets.

MISSION WINE & DINE 3423 Central Ave NE (505) 263-0731 missionwinerynm.com

3351 Candelaria Rd NE, Ste. A (505) 881-2233 mickschilefix.com

One of the city’s true spots for getting something hot: try The Shocker (an eight-pound breakfast burrito), huevos rancheros, or the Frito pie, all with homemade red or green chile.

MILLY’S

2100 Candelaria Rd NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 884-0707 millysrestaurants.com

If you’re not sure what to eat, have a little of everything with an American-New Mexican–Greek menu. This breakfast and lunch spot melds salads and sandwiches with traditional New Mexican and Greek entrees.

MONROE’S RESTAURANT

6051 Osuna Rd NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 881-4224 monroeschile.com

3916 Central Ave SW (505) 836-9886

More than 50 years after opening its doors south of Old Town, Monroe’s continues to serve reliable New Mexican favorites to a local fan base, and service around here is a team effort, so no glass goes unfilled.

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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.

MR. TOKYO

11200 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 292-4728

Soak up the cool Zen-like atmosphere while enjoying six versions of fried rice, sushi, sashimi, tempura, hibachi, grilled udon, soups, and teriyaki spiced with fiery Thai chili peppers.

THE MOUSE HOLE CHEESE SHOP

This Nob Hill restaurant concept pairs its own sustainable wines with unique, locallyinspired dishes—ranging from popular classics like the Green Chile Smash Burger to higher-end creations like Lobster Roll Sliders. Everything can be expertly paired with a glass of vino (or two), although diners are encouraged to experiment and delve deeper into New Mexico’s rich culinary history through an eclectic menu.

MICK’S CHILE FIX

MONTE CARLO STEAKHOUSE

300 Broadway Blvd NW, Ste A (505) 554-2994 mouseholeabq.com

A cozy cheese shop where you can shop for cheese—and eat it, too. They boast a rotating selection of artisanal cheeses, along with curated boards, sandwiches, jams, and other bites.

MUSTANG CAFÉ

8601 Lomas Blvd NE (505) 275-4477

Perfect for anyone shopping at the Rich Ford car dealership—or anyone at all— is this 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.

NAAN & DOSA

6501 Wyoming Blvd NE (505) 797-4243 naananddosa.com

Many Indian restaurants only serve either Northern or Southern Indian food. Not Naan and Dosa. Named for the traditional breads from both regions of the country, take your pick of the leavened flatbreads (naan) or eight different types of rolled dosas. Also try their lunch buffet Tuesdays through Saturdays, featuring a sampling of their menu.

NAGOMI RESTAURANT

2400 Juan Tabo Blvd NE (505) 298-3081 nagomirestaurantabq.com

The Nagomi menu is virtually overrun with Japanese culinary classics. Nagomi is also one of the few places in Albuquerque where you can go to indulge in shabushabu, a Japanese-style hot pot.

NAKA SUSHI

1035 Juan Tabo Blvd NE (505) 200-9152 nakasushiabq.com

A little bit of Thai, a little bit of Korean, and a little bit of Japanese, but entirely delicious. Naka Sushi fuses multiple Asian

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flavors to make fresh sushi, bento boxes, and other Asian dishes, all in a location with a vibrant, appealing ambiance.

NAMASTE

1580 Deborah Rd SE, Rio Rancho (505) 896-3126 namastenm.net

Offering authentic Nepalese and Indian dishes—including chicken tikka masala and lamb curry—Namaste also serves traditional food with a New Mexico twist, such as the green chile chicken curry.

NAPOLI COFFEE

3035 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 884-5454 napolicoffee.com

A diversified menu of caffeinated companions means something for everyone at Napoli Coffee. Currently located on Menaul, Napoli aims to please and cater to guest requests, so the possibilities and drink combinations are seemingly endless. In addition to coffee, they also offer a variety of freshly made sandwiches, wraps, and breakfast burritos.

NARUTO

2110 Central Ave SE (505) 369-1039 narutonoodle.com

Who knew Ramen noodles could be so creative, so diverse, and so darn good. Naruto is reinventing the Ramen noodle with specialized dishes that can’t be found anywhere else in the city.

NEW MEXICO BEEF JERKY COMPANY 1425 4th St NW (505) 242-6121 newmexicobeefjerkycompany.com

Beef jerky? Check. Chicharrones? You better believe it. Tacos, burgers, and burritos - who knew that the New Mexico Beef Jerky Company had so much awesome food to offer? You don’t stay in business for 45 years without good reason, so be sure to swing by this classic joint to get your New Mexican food fix.

NEXUS BREWERY

4730 Pan American Fwy NE, Ste. D plus 1 other metro location (505) 242-4100 nexusbrewery.com

If the made-to-order fried chicken and waffles and mac and cheese has you drooling, reach for one of Nexus’ brewed in-house beers.

NEXUS BLUE SMOKEHOUSE

1511 Broadway Blvd SE (505) 445-1545 smokehouse.nexusbrewery.com

Tender and mouthwatering meat, Nexus uses the blue smoke method. With favorites like burnt ends and pulled pork sandwiches, tangy sides, and perfectly

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BITES paired brews, Nexus Blue Smokehouse achieves top of the line status.

NOODLE WORKS

5901 Wyoming Blvd NE, Ste. S (505) 990-0055 noodleworksnm.com

Every noodle at Noodle Works hand stretched, hand spun, and hand sliced in house fresh for every meal. With unique dishes and signature takes on popular favorites, almost everything on the menu can be modified or elaborated with noodles.

OAK TREE CAFE

4545 Alameda Blvd NE (505) 830-2233 cafeoaktree.com

Owner Robert Carson is a constant presence at this homestyle joint that consistently serves up delicious burgers, sandwiches, and craft salads. With local beer on tap, this isn’t your typical cafe— and as a family-owned establishment for generations, it’s perhaps best kept that way.

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OHANA HUT

5750 McMahon Blvd NW (505) 433-2648 ohanahut.com

Family owned and operated Ohana Hut means “Family Hut.” It specializes in Hawaiian, Japanese, and Korean flavors to create an Asian fusion menu with a New Mexican twist.

OLD TOWN PIZZA PARLOR 108 Rio Grande Blvd NW (505) 999-1949 oldtownpizzaabq.com

3339 Central Ave NE, Ste. C-3 (505) 750-4656 olodessertstudio.com

4100 Southern Blvd SE, Rio Rancho (505) 896-0123 oharesgrillepub.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.

With a menu that is centered around the idea that variety is the key to success, O’Hare’s offers pub fare in a family-friendly atmosphere. Try the Corned Beef and Cabbage special, O’Hare’s Double Decker Reuben, or the staple Fish and Chips, for a truly Irish experience.

ONI

This comfy, funky, family-owned restaurant serves tasty pies, huge calzones, and portions of pasta that won’t ever leave you hungry.

OLO DESSERT STUDIO

O’HARE’S GRILLE & PUB

600 Central Ave SW, Ste. #100 (505) 503-6722 oniabq.com

Warm, umami scents fill the air at Oni, which has an abundance of ramen and other Japanese options. A house favorite is the Shoyu Ramen, which features cherry wood smoked pork belly, seasonal vegetables, and a pork bone broth that’s cooked in-house.

O’NIELL’S PUB

3301 Juan Tabo Blvd NE (505) 293-1122 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,”

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BITES and homemade fish and chips). Added: an outdoor patio and more beer choices.

burritos, fries… the list of great droolworthy dishes goes on and on.

O RAMEN

PADILLA’S MEXICAN KITCHEN

2114 Central Ave SE (505) 508-1897

Yes, the Duke City has the real thing. O Ramen’s Tonkotsu (pork bone broth) spends 18 hours on the stovetop before it blesses your bowl; expect plenty of options for vegetarians and Japanese curry lovers, to boot.

ORCHID THAI CUISINE 4300 Central Ave SE (505) 265-4047 orchidabq.com

Orchid Thai has been serving hungry Albuquerqueans traditional dishes like Pad Thai at its Nob Hill location for more than a decade. But this award-winning eatery goes beyond the traditional with unique dishes like deep-fried sesame duck, green tea curry, and Szechwan eggplant, all made from scratch.

THE OWL CAFÉ

800 Eubank Blvd NE (505) 291-4900 owlcafealbuquerque.com

1510 Girard Blvd NE (505) 262-0115

It might not get any more New Mexican than it does at Padilla’s—from huevos rancheros and tamales to chile rellenos and egg-topped blue corn enchiladas. You may have to shake your head after a taste of the chile just to remind yourself you’re not in your grandmother’s kitchen. A sopaipilla dripping with honey will seal the deal for your traditional meal.

PAISANO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 1935 Eubank Blvd NE (505) 298-7541 paisanosabq.com

Family recipes have kept Paisano’s going for more than 35 years, but the hand-rolled pasta, hand-stuffed ravioli, homemade sausage and marinara haven’t hurt business, either. It’s also the only place in town to get wheat-free pizza and pasta.

World-famous green chile cheeseburgers, milkshakes, fajitas, quesadillas, meatloaf,

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THE PALETA BAR

2325 San Pedro Dr NE plus 14 other metro locations (505) 884-0049 thepaletabar.com

A hidden Albuquerque gem, The Paleta Bar has taken a tried-and-true, frozen Mexican dessert to new heights. Since 2017, this paleta wonderland has been slinging refreshing Mexican popsicles in endless combinations of flavors.

PAPA FELIPE’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT $$ 9800 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 292-8877 papafelipes.com

Papa Felipe’s exceeds expectations by offering traditional New Mexican cuisine (enchiladas, stuffed sopaipillas, tacos) as well as simple twists on favorite dishes (green chile carne adovada, Tampico Tacos, Green Tamale Pie).

PAPA NACHOS

7648 Louisiana Blvd NE (505) 821-4900 papanachosfood.com

Great homemade Mexican food based on tried-and-true family recipes is the specialty here: burritos, fish tacos, and the namesake nachos will all make your panza happy.

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BITES PARS CUISINE

4320 The 25 Way NE, Ste. 100 (505) 345-5156 parscuisine.us

For more than 20 years, Pars has served Persian and Mediterranean menu items in a unique atmosphere. Choose to sit on the floor under a large tent, and enjoy the talents of belly dancers, and enjoy tasty kebabs, gyros and more.

PELICAN’S RESTAURANT

9800 Montgomery Blvd NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 298-7678 pelicansabq.com

$$$

For 30 years, customers have fallen for Pelican’s—hook, line and sinker. Favorite entrées include Alaskan king crab, Australian lobster tail, and their delicious prime rib.

PEREA’S NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1140 Juan Tabo Blvd NE (505) 293-0157

Even after multiple relocations over the course of it’s 40-plus year history in Albuquerque, Perea’s keeps their loyal customers and newcomings coming back with their hearty New Mexican comfort foods.

PEREA’S TIJUANA BAR 4590 Corrales Rd (505) 898-2442

Open for lunch only, the family-owned and -operated business specializes in real, 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

10401 Golf Course Rd NW plus 3 other metro locations (505) 792-5255 pericosmexicanrestaurant.com

Serving delicious New Mexican food at affordable prices made Perico’s instantly popular, and the “home of the ½ lb burrito” is now an Albuquerque institution with three locations, catering services, and 22 different burritos.

PHAT STAX BURGERS 114 Tulane Dr SE (505) 503-6564 FB/IG: @ phatstax505

Phat Stax Burgers is big on flavor without the shortcuts, living up to its name with towering and indulgent burgers that demand (at least) two hands—and a knapkin or two. Juicy patties, creative toppings (think teriyaki grilled pineapple and BBQ pulled pork), plus loaded fries and more, make up a menu that unapologetically leans into indulgence.

PHO LINH

9100 Central Ave SE (505) 266-3368 pholinhabq.com

Authentic Vietnamese cuisine is the name of the game at this restaurant. Look for pad thai, special noodles (with grilled barbecue shrimp), spring rolls, curry, and papaya salad.

PIATANZI

1403 Girard Blvd NE (505) 792-1700 piatanzi.com

A neighborhood Italian eatery with artisan flair, Piatanzi serves up big bites on smallish plates that please families and adventurous foodies alike, in a venue that scores big points.

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BITES PIZZA 9

5241 Ouray Ave. NW, Ste. A plus 3 other metro locations (505) 831-6463 pizzanine.com

POKI POKI CEVICHERIA 3517 Wyoming Blvd NE (505) 503-6806 pokipokinm.com

Chicago-style pizza at 10 locations around the city, along with the option of glutenfree crust—that’s what Pizza 9 brings to the, er, table. Don’t forget the wings, salads, breadsticks and calzones to complement any meal.

Think deconstructed sushi if you’ve never had the traditionally Hawaiian poké. Completely customizable bowls with Latin and Asian fusion are the specialty here. Seven types of fish, 12 sauces, and 22 toppings make for endless combinations atop rice, chips, or a salad.

PIZZERIA LUCA

POLLITO CON PAPAS

8850 Holly Ave NE (505) 797-8086 pizzerialuca.com

With imported Italian flour, cheese, and pepperoni, Pizzeria Luca offers authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant has a subway-inspired interior and features delicious and affordable lunch specials.

PLANTY SWEET

2506 Washington St NE (505) 433-7111 plantysweet.weebly.com

Planty Sweet is the city’s first 100% vegan and gluten-free bakery and dessert shop, and the quality of the products available is hard to deny. Not only do their artisanal baked goods taste fantastic, they are impeccably presented, each crafted to please the eye as much as the taste buds.

6105 Gibson Blvd SE (505) 765-5486 pollitoconpapas.com

Get ready for a punch of Peruvian cuisine. The menu is dotted with combinations of chicken, potatoes, and cilantro rice. The chicken is brined in vinegar and cumin for about 10 hours, then fired on a spit. The traditional drink, chicha, makes the perfect complement to any dish. The southeast part of town just inched a bit closer to South America.

PONDEROSA BREWING CO. 1761 Bellamah Ave NW (505) 639-5941 ponderosabrewing.net

A sister brew pub to Pints Brewing in Portland, Oregon, Ponderosa features a wide selection of American and German

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standard beers, with a classic menu of burgers, salads, and innovative appetizers.

PRAIRIE STAR RESTAURANT 288 Prairie Star Rd (505) 867-3327 mynewmexicogolf.com

Taking a drive past Bernalillo is a pleasure when you know the visit will include amazing made-from-scratch dishes such as herb-grilled ribeye with chipotle cheddar gratin and New Mexico bisonraised tenderloin. Reservations are recommended.

QUARTER CELTIC BREWPUB 1100 San Mateo Blvd NE, #50 plus 1 other metro location (505) 503-1387 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. Musttries include the classic fish and chips, ruben, shepherd’s pie, and poutine with green chile.

RAMONA’S MEXICAN CAFE

7600 Jefferson St NE, Ste. 29 plus 1 other metro location (505) 295-3945

For home-cooked food regional with local roots, look no further than Ramona’s

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BITES Mexican Cafe. A hybrid of Mexican and New Mexican cuisine with the likes of tacos, enchiladas, burritos and quesadillas on the menu. The restaurant’s menu primarily features recipes from the owner’s mother, including Chile Colorado and the Norteño Plate.

RANGE CAFÉ

4400 Wyoming Blvd NE plus 5 other metro locations (505) 293-2633 rangecafe.com

Locals flock to the Range Café when they’re in search of good, made-fromscratch comfort food, including meatloaf sandwiches, huevos rancheros, enchiladas, ice cream, and the gooey Life by Chocolate dessert.

RED ROCK DELI

2414 San Mateo Pl NE (505) 332-9656

So authentic that the menu is derived from a family cookbook written entirely in Polish, Red Rock Deli boasts Polish and Chicago-style deli delights, especially their handmade pierogies with ingredients sourced from Chicago.

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RELISH GOURMET SANDWICHES 8019 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 299-0001 relishsandwichesabq.com

It’s no wonder this sandwich shop has been voted “best” by publications throughout Albuquerque—it serves only the best Boar’s Head meats and all of their dishes are accompanied by homemade sides or soups. Try the Cubano. You won’t be disappointed.

RESTORATION PIZZA

5161 Lang Ave NE, Ste. A (505) 582-2720 restorationpizza.com

special dinners on the calendar, Restaurant Forty Nine Forty offers a plethora of plates, such as roasted sea bass, on a rotating, seasonal menu.

RICHARD’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 3301 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 881-1039

Mexican favorites—such as carne adovada, relleño, tacos, and green chile enchiladas— cooked in the healthiest, most nutritious, yummiest way possible. Open for breakfast and lunch.

RIO BRAVO BREWING COMPANY

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.

1912 2nd St NW (505) 900-3909 riobravobrewing.com

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RIO TACOS

4940 Corrales Rd, Corrales (505) 554-3866 fanciecorrales.com

$$$

What began as a taco stand eventually evolved into a more high-end, fine dining experience, now known as Restaurant Forty Nine Forty. With a dry-aged meats program, plus Sunday Brunch and plenty of

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. 4545 Alameda Blvd NE (505) 630-7960 riotacosco.com

From tastebud-worthy birria to classic carne asada, Rio Tacos is a lively, laid-back spot for all your serious taco cravings— or otherwise. Their diverse, Mexican street food-forward menu also features

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BITES quesadillas, chilaquiles, and tortas—plus breakfast for those early-morning burrito hankerings.

SA THAI

ROMA BAKERY & DELI

With a modern aesthetic and authentic cuisine, SA Thai checks all the boxes. From classic Pad Thai to Khao Soi, every dish is created with fresh ingredients and made to match your spice preference.

501 Roma Ave NW (505) 843-9418 romabakeryanddeli.com

6400 Holly Ave, Ste I (505) 508-2972 sathaiusa.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.

SADIE’S OF NEW MEXICO

ROSE GARDEN

A staple in New Mexican cuisine, Sadie’s features enchiladas, carne adovada ribs,

6541 Paradise Blvd NW, Ste. E plus 1 other metro location (505) 897-8880 rosegardenabq.com

6230 4th St. NW plus 2 other metro locations (505) 296-6940 sadiesofnewmexico.com

tacos, burritos, and of course, worldfamous chips and salsa. Reservations are recommended.

SAGGIO’S

107 Cornell Dr SE plus one other metro location (505) 255-5454 unmsaggios.com

This university joint is known for its pizza, particularly the pepperoni and green chiletopped pie, but the pasta, sandwiches, and salads shouldn’t be slept on!

Over 100 menu items and great customer service ensures locals always return. Rose Garden never disappoints with a wide range of appetizers, soups and entrees. Owner, Mieng Lu, says the Kung Pao chicken, orange chicken and beef lo mein are just a few of his favorites.

RUMOR PIZZA

724 Mountain Rd NW plus 1 other metro location (505) 808-9877 rumorpizza.com

It’s not just a rumor: the pies at Rumor Pizza are seriously top-notch—arguably better than your average American chain. Made with organic ingredients and featuring unique pairings, Rumor’s menu offers ten core pizzas to choose from, ranging from classics like pepperoni to a funghi pie, made with two types of mushrooms and topped with whipped mascarpone and chives.

RUSTIC BUBBLE TEA CAFE

840 Juan Tabo Blvd NE, Ste. B (505) 508-1813

Rustic Bubble Tea Cafe has all of the fundamentals of a bubble shop down, of course - the hint is in the name - but what sets the independent Albuquerque startup apart is the Vietnamese-inspired menu that accompanies its decadent beverages.

RUTILIO’S FAMILY RESTAURANT 455 N Main St, Belen (505) 864-0093

Belen Mayor Rudy Jaramillo’s carne adovada is what put Rutilos on the map. This hangout serves their perfect pork with rice and beans, stuffed inside burritos and sopaipillas, and layered inside enchiladas and quesadillas. Add Rutilios breakfast burritos and classic New Mexican combos, and guests are sure to find something worth campaigning for.

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BITES SAHARA MIDDLE EASTERN EATERY 2622 Central Ave SE (505) 255-5400 saharamiddleeasterneatery.com

Delectable Middle Eastern plates served up Manhattan-deli style. The chicken shawarma plate, complete with greens, pita, hummus, and award-winning tabbouleh, is always a good bet. Complete with beer and wine, and belly dancing on weekends, this is a fave of students, locals, and out-of-towners alike.

SAIGON RESTAURANT

6001 San Mateo Blvd NE, Ste. D4 plus 1 other metro location (505) 884-0706 saigonrestaurantnm.com

Vicky Truong’s secret to 12 years of success has been consistency. Truong maintains an extensive menu that caters to every type of eater. From summer dishes such as noodle bowls to winter mainstays like beef noodle soup, Truong will make sure you find your favorites.

SAKURA SUSHI & GRILL

6241 Riverside Plaza NW (505) 890-2838 abqsakurasushingrill.com

Favorites at Sakura are the Stone Pot Bibimbap (which is cooked at the table in a stone pot), the Tiger Roll, the Short Rib, the Baked Lobster Roll, the Sushi Tacos, and the impressive list of sake imported from Japan.

SALATHAI

2000 Carlisle Blvd NE (505) 265-9330

Made-from-scratch, fresh, ingredients and keeping it simple are owner Pitak Pitakkan’s rules to cook by. Pitakkan cooks every menu item himself so don’t go to Salathai in a hurry. Pitakkan’s grandmother taught him to make curry and his curries are a longtime customer favorite.

SAMURAI GRILL AND SUSHI BAR 9500 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 275-6601 abqsamurai.com

$$$

What’s your pleasure, sushi or teppan? Here, you can have either expertly crafted right in front of you. It’s also where you can get fresh sushi favorites such as the California roll, the dragon roll, and a veggies-and-sushi “Viagra salad” special.

SANTIAGO’S NEW MEXICAN GRILL 1911 Eubank Blvd NE (505) 292-8226

It’s in the sauce—Papa Jim’s Taco Sauce, at least—which comes with items such as burritos, tacos, and salsa. This Santiago Scramble—a pile of scrambled eggs, cheese, corn tortillas, chorizo, and hash browns—is great morning fuel. The tamale and enchilada take-and-bake casseroles will please any partygoer. And take a jar of that taco sauce home—after all, you can.

SAVOY BAR & GRILL

10601 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 294-9463 savoyabq.com

$$$

Resembling a California wine-country bistro, Savoy Bar & Grill is one of Albuquerque’s premier fine-dining establishments. Specializing in food and wine pairing, Savoy’s menu is a toast to the art of balance of food and wine.

SATELLITE COFFEE

2300 Central Ave Plus 5 other metro locations (505) 254-3800 satellitecoffee.com

Satellite Coffee perhaps harkens back to the classic cafes of yesteryear, as the coffee here is roasted fresh in small batches daily, available alongside refreshing smoothies and plen-tea of tea options for enthusiasts. But make no mistake: Satellite is 100% local and serves all-day breakfast and lunch bites like carne adovada burritos and sandwiches such as the turkey pepper

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BITES jack. At the end of the day, it’s coffee done well and done right.

SCARPA’S BRICK OVEN PIZZA 5500 Academy Rd NE (505) 821-1885 scarpaspizza.com

That brick oven is cornerstone to this neighborhood favorite, producing pizzas such as the shrimp pesto, the Greek, and the chipotle chicken. But Scarpas also knows pasta, including red chile cream pasta and pasta sorento with oak-roasted chicken.

SEARED

119 San Pasquale Ave SW (505) 999-8414 searedabq.com

During the day, the space is Cheese & Coffee, but at night, it gets a makeover and becomes Seared, a fine dining establishment serving up steak, pork loin, and Atlantic Salmon among other things.

SEASONS ROTISSERIE AND GRILL 2031 Mountain Rd NW (505) 766-5100 seasonsabq.com

$$$

As the name suggests, Seasons varies its menu in accordance with what’s going on throughout the year, using the finest,

freshest ingredients. Depending on what time of year you venture in, you’ll find butternut squash ravioli, grilled Atlantic salmon, and bleu cheese-crusted beef filet. Reservations are recommended.

SERGIO’S BAKERY & CAFE 2740 Wyoming Blvd NE (505) 554-2602 sergiosbakeryandcafe.com

Truly a hidden gem for freshly made Italian goods, Sergio’s Bakery and Cafe walks on the savory side of life with ease. Stuffed calzones, chicken wings, subs—plus a weekend pasta dinner menu—are just a few options you’ll find at this neighborhood spot that keeps locals coming back for more. Prego!

SHARK REEF CAFÉ

2601 Central Ave NW (505) 848-7182

To conclude your tour of the Albuquerque Aquarium, grab a seat at this full-service restaurant, where the dining room features a view of the oceanic reef exhibit. Catering to visitors, families, and daytime dates, the menu offers simple, fun options. Call ahead for special events, like themed dinners and holiday celebrations.

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SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT 3310 Central Ave SE (505) 265-9166 shogunabq.com

When your order of sushi comes around the bend on its floating wooden boat, you couldn’t be happier, whether you’ve ordered the “Super Crunch” (shrimp tempura roll), or the “TNT Roll” (fish, zucchini, and onion, baked with spicy mayo and smothered on a California roll).

THE SHOP BREAKFAST AND LUNCH 2933 Monte Vista Blvd NE (505) 433-2795 theshopabq.com

The Shop Breakfast and Lunch serves up breakfast and lunch (as the name implies) but with a focus on local sourcing and seasonal favorites. The dishes at The Shop deftly combine Creole and Latin American influences with a dose of New Mexican comfort. The flavors really pop.

SIXTY SIX ACRES 2400 12th St NW (505) 243-2230 sixtysixacres.com

A modern take on a classic bar and grill, Sixty-Six Acres has something for everyone. With unique appetizers, salads, and bowls, plus craft cocktails, you’re sure

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BITES to find something to satisfy. Located in the Avanyu Plaza, you can enjoy your meal with a beautiful view of the Sandias.

SLATE STREET BILLIARDS BAR & GRILLE $ 2003 Southern Blvd SE, #139, Rio Rancho (505) 994-0363 slatestreetbilliards.com

Come for the pool, stay for the nachos. And the burgers. And the wings. Rio Rancho’s favorite pool hall also has great Happy Hour pricing and plenty of special events.

SLATE STREET CAFE 515 Slate Ave NW (505) 243-2210 slatestreetcafe.com

Slate Street Cafe is a sleek, contemporary eatery that combines big city ambiance with inspired, modern cuisine. From the smoked salmon frittata to build-your-own bruschetta to mouthwatering Ahi tuna, their culinary flair will tantalize and delight from breakfast through dinner.

SLICE AND DICE PIZZERIA

5720 McMahon Blvd NE. Ste. B plus 1 other metro locations (505) 261-2058 sliceanddicepizzeria.com

With both a sweeping library of board games and full menu of hot pies and subs,

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Slice and Dice is a venue for everyone from seasoned players to wide-eyed beginners (or people just hungry for some pizza). They provide a space where you can gather with a few friends and take in the twin delights of pizza and board games.

SOO BAK SEOUL BOWL 111 Hermosa Dr SE (505) 268-0017 soobakfoods.com

Serving up a style of food known as “koi fusion”, Soo Bak offers a wide variety of delicious entrees including eight different varieties of kimchi. Try the Soy Crunch Kimchi, which comes with pickled chayote squash, onions, some jalapenos, and fish sauce, apple juice, soy sauce, and vinegar.

SQUEEZED JUICE BAR

7900 San Pedro Dr NE, Ste. A-12 plus 1 other metro locations (505) 821-1437 squeezedjuicebars.com

Incredibly innovative, modern mixed juices, smoothies, and other healthy delights for people on the move and looking for exercise recovery. Three to five pounds of fruit are squeezed into every drink, and it’s all extract, no fillers, and sure to brighten your day.

ST. JAMES TEA ROOM

320 Osuna Rd NE, Ste. D (505) 242-3752 stjamestearoom.com

$$$

Albuquerque’s long-standing, go-to teahouse, this enveloping, intricately detailed, and authentically British tearoom provides old-fashioned conversation and honest service.

STARR BROS. BREWING

5700 San Antonio Dr NE, Ste. B1 (505) 492-2752 starrbrothersbrewing.com

With dishes ranging from American favorites to Southern fare, Starr Bros. Brewing is more than an award-winning brewery. It has turned heads with Poutine Burqueno: a New Mexican take on the Canadian greasy-spoon classic. The house burger, with high-quality beef and homemade green chile aioli, is a customer favorite.

STEEL BENDER BREWYARD 8305 2nd St NW (505) 433-3537 steelbenderbrewyard.com

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.

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BITES STICKY RICE

7600 Jefferson St NE, #5 (505) 797-1288

Likely the only authentic Laotian sticky rice to be found anywhere in ABQ, this menu offers moist, slow roasted chicken and a few frills at prices you can’t beat with a chopstick. The family meal is a steal.

STONE FACE TAVERN 8201 San Pedro Dr NE (505) 822-8855

Whether as a sports bar, live music venue, upscale grill, or just as a place that offers a little fun in the sand, Stone Face Tavern has something for everyone. Inside these doors, guarded by stone gargoyles, you’ll find large, shareable appetizers and entrees, plenty of beets on tap, and both outdoor and indoor volleyball courts.

STORMING CRAB

5001 San Mateo Blvd NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 407-2032 albuquerque.stormingcrab.us

Specializing in large, customizable seafood boils, rich in Cajun and Atlantic coast flavor, Storming Crab’s selection of dinner combos encourages diners to build their own. Black and green mussels, shrimp,

crawfish, white clams, and crab legs can be ordered by the pound.

SUSHIBUCKS

STRIPES BURRITO CO

This Asian-inspired restaurant with New Mexican flair provides customers with fast service and quality food. Sushibucks offers over 30 sushi rolls, including baked and norice offerings. Diners can also order udon, bulgogi, and bibimbap for those not feeling sushi.

2204 Menaul Blvd NE plus 7 other metro locations (505) 881-5151 stripesco.com

Stripes is serving up classic burritos all day long. From bacon to carne adovada, the flavor-packed favorite will surely hit the spot. What’s the hardest choice you’ll have to make? Red or green!

SUNNYSIDE UP BREAKFAST & LUNCH CAFE 6909 Menaul Blvd NE, Ste. A (505) 888-3447 sunnysideupabq.com

Located right by Uptown, patrons can find everything from eggs (prepared in various ways) to waffles to cocktails and more served up from breakfast through lunch. Specific menu items include Strawberry Banana Waffle, Bacon Avocado Scramble and Arizona Turkey.

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2106 Central Ave SE, Ste. A (505) 243-8089

SUSHI KING

9421 Coors Blvd NW (505) 890-6200 sushikingabq.com

As one of the originators of sushi in Albuquerque, it’s no wonder Sushi King is beloved by so many. By merging tastes of Japan and America with rolls like the New Mexico Roll and the Lady in Red, you really can’t go wrong.

SUSHI XUAN

417 Tramway Blvd NE, #3 (505) 200-2477 sushixuanasiangrill.com

You’ll find more than just tasty sushi here. Diners dig into Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai dishes too. Sushi Xuan has multiple shipments of fresh fish during the week,

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BITES and only uses Japanese Kokoro rice, and organic veggies whenever possible.

SUSHIYA

2906 Juan Tabo Blvd NE (505) 275-4777 sushiyanm.com

This family-owned and operated restaurant strives to serve up sushi the way you’d find it on the southern California coast. A clean and comfortable atmosphere pairs well with friendly service and some of the thickest cuts of salmon in the city.

SNAPDRAGON TEA

115 Harvard Dr SE, Ste. 7 (505) 750-2040 snapdragontea.com

$-$$

Perfect for brunch or an afternoon jaunt, Snapdragon Tea offers baked goodies like scones and kolaches alongside a plethora of tea options for even the most discerning of aficionados. Reservations are required for their three-course afternoon tea menus (served Fridays-Sundays), but walk-ins are welcome for the daily a la carte.

TAAJ PALACE

1435 Eubank Blvd NE (505) 296-0109 taajpalacenm.com

Taaj Palace is a multifaceted field of flavor and texture, built around the fiery core of the tandoor oven, that serves up a variety of delicious curries, including the widely popular chicken makhani (butter chicken), where tandoori chicken is presented swimming in a creamy tomato sauce.

TACOS EL MUCHACHO ALEGRE

3107 Eubank Blvd NE, Ste. 16 (505) 221-2112 IG: @tacoselmuchachoalegre505

Family recipes are the source of many of the authentic Mexican dishes at Tacos El Muchacho Alegre—like, for example, the popular Carne Asada taco, which comes loaded with all the classic fixings. Everything here is homemade, from the corn tortillas to all the salsas and sauces, although owners will claim that the secret ingredient is really simple: love.

TACO SAL

9621 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 298-2210

This family-owned and operated restaurant offers tasty, traditional New Mexican (burritos, chile rellenos, enchiladas, tacos, huevos rancheros, and more) with its own chunky salsa, made with real green chile.

TACO SHEL

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

Be sure to bring cash when you come to this New Mexican staple. You’ll be glad you

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did, because whether you prefer tamales, enchiladas, sopapillas, or any other New Mexican classic, you can be sure that it will have been made fresh, in-house with affordable prices at Taco Shel.

TAJ MAHAL CUISINE OF INDIA 1430 Carlisle Blvd NE (505) 255-1994 tajmahalabq.com

Taj Mahal is filled with all of your Indian favorites, from fresh naan (try the garlic version) to tasty saag paneer. The line goes out the door for the popular lunch buffet.

TAKO TEN

12501 Candelaria Rd NE, Ste. B (505) 508-3518

Chef and owner Dominic Valenzuela takes a creative spin on tacos, or takos if you will, by curating a unique menu, which includes a Vegan Sweet Potato Tako. Try the salsa bar!

TAMASHI

6400 Holly Ave NE, Ste. G Plus 1 other metro location (505) 717-2457 tamashiabq.com

Award winning sushi at reasonable prices, unique appetizers, and hand picked alcohol are just some of the reasons to eat at Tamashi. Did we mention they also have killer ramen? With so much variety, you’re sure to become a regular.

TAP N TACO

1120 Pat D’Arco Hwy (505) 800-5966 tapntaco.com

This spot specializes in Mexican street tacos, quesadillas, papa asada, nachos, and fries, with protein options for everyone ranging from asada to vegetarian. If you’re a fan of salsa bars, Tap N Taco has one with just about everything you need to elevate your food. Not only are the taco options pleasing to the palate but there’s an aesthetic appeal too.

TASTE OF INDIA

1605 Juan Tabo Blvd NE (505) 294-6342 tasteofindiaabq.com

Family recipes modified for American tastes; Taste of India typically dials back the spice a bit. But it’s no misnomer to think of Taste of India as just what the name advertises: a taste of regional flavors, conveyed by people who grew up with them

TASTY NOODLES AND DUMPLINGS 2325 San Pedro Dr NE, Ste. 1E (505) 219-3988 tastynoodlesanddumplings.com

features more “traditional” Chinese fare and an adventurous Chef’s Special menu on request.

TASTY POT

8050 Academy Rd NE, #101 (505) 717-2190

The popular chain Tasty Pot offers ten signature hot pot options, in addition to twelve flavors of soup bases–such as beef, lamb, and tomato–allowing seemingly endless customization and flavor combinations. Various proteins from lobster to beef are also available to put into your hot pot to make it your way. Of course, it wouldn’t be New Mexico without a little (or a lot) of chile–and the Tasty Pot in Albuquerque keeps it local by offering a special green chile hot pot.

TEN 3

30 Tramway Rd NE (505) 764-8363 ten3tram.com

Whether you’re looking for fine or casual dining, TEN 3 is an experience. With a take on modern American and Mediterranean cuisine, choose from a menu of delicious appetizers, salads, and entrees while dining 10,300 feet above sea level. TEN 3 is a treat for your eyes and taste buds as you sit at the top of Sandia Peak.

TEOFILO’S RESTAURANTE 144 Main St NW, Los Lunas (505) 865-5511 teofilos.com

This restaurant’s generations-old madefrom-scratch recipes will draw you to Los Lunas, along with the warm chips, chile rellenos, crème cake enchiladas, and more, all handmade from scratch.

TERIYAKI MADNESS

11032 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 508-0430 teriyakimadness.com

For those looking for a break from the old guard of fast casual Asian cuisine, Teriyaki Madness offers fresh, simple teriyaki bowls. The secret is in their house made sauce, officially known as MAD sauce.

THAI BORAN

3236 La Orilla Rd NW, Ste. A (505) 492-2244 thaiborannm.com

Steeped in spicy tradition, Thai Boran has quickly gained traction as one of the top Thai restaurants Albuquerque has to offer. Thai Boran, which means “Old Thai”, features 53 items on its menu, including five soups, six curries, and five unique dishes off the “Chef’s Collection” section.

This Uptown spot known for their handpulled noodles and made-to-order dumplings and Bao (soup dumplings) also

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BITES THAI CUISINE II

4201 Central Ave NE (505) 232-3200 thaicuisinenm.com

House in perhaps the most curious A-frame along Route 66, this is the secondcoming of a much-beloved Westside Thai staple, and judging by the fandom, it’s simply better. Be wary of the heat in these dishes, and if you’re vegan/vegetarian, be very, very thankful.

THAI KITCHEN

10707 Corrales Rd (505) 890-0059 thaikitchenabq.com

Art Xaiyasiha is one of two siblings who crafted one of the Duke City’s first great Thai restaurants, Siam Cafe. Thai Kitchen is his very own venture, featuring his takes on authentic dishes that taste “just like they do back home”.

THAI HOUSE

2000 Carlisle Blvd NE (505) 247-9205 thaihouserestaurantabq.com

has a secret weapon in its native Thai chef who brings her vast knowledge of Thai cuisine to the metro.

THEOBROMA CHOCOLATIER

THAI SPICE

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.

7441 Paseo Del Norte NE (505) 503-1521 thaispiceabq.com

An extensive menu features authentic Thai favorites like Pad Thai or Thai fried rice. Lunch special includes an egg roll, entrée, and coconut milk tapioca pudding punctuated with an origami rose–topped straw.

THAI VEGAN

5505 Osuna Rd. NE plus 1 other metro location (505) 884-4610 thaivegannm.com

Utilizing local organic produce, you’ll get some of the healthiest food around, all without sacrificing taste. This non-vegan favorite has hearty offerings and a soy chicken that satisfies even the pickiest of meat eaters.

12611 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 293-6545 theobromachocolatier.com

THUNDER ROAD STEAKHOUSE AND CANTINA AT ROUTE 66 CASINO HOTEL

14500 Central Ave SW, Laguna Pueblo (505) 352-7888 rt66casino.com

Nestled inside this busy casino, you’ll find dishes that are a confluence of cultures at Thunder Road: made-from-scratch salsas, fresh tortillas, Pastel de Tres Leches Cake, Yucatan Tacos, Smoked Baby Back Pork Ribs, and much more.

With an impressive stay in ABQ (Thai House is approaching its 40-year anniversary), this South Asian restaurant

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BITES WAFFLETOPIA

3710 Campus Blvd NE (505) 492-2007 lawaffleriaabq.com

You’ve never experienced waffles of this magnitude. A residential hometurned-restaurant, anticipate artisan flare (lavender whipped cream, goat cheese, and caramel apple toppings) and plenty of goods for vegans and celiacs.

TOMASITA’S

4949 Pan American Fwy NE (505) 344-1204 tomasitas.com

Known widely for its Northern New Mexican food and margaritas, Tomasita’s prides itself on authenticity and locally sourced ingredients. The food and friendly service will not disappoint.

TURTLE MOUNTAIN NORTH

7835 Enchanted Hills Blvd NE, Rio Rancho plus 1 other metro location (505) 404-0414

The newest location of a beloved original, Turtle Mountain North features double the beer taps and double the kitchen size. Keeping classic brewery finds on the menu, they have expanded to include harder-to-execute menu items such as glazed salmon steaks, and Jagerschnitzel.

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New menu items paired with a longer wine and beer list takes Turtle Mountain to an elevated level.

TRIANA

TURQUOISE DESERT TAPROOM

Named after the historic district in Seville, Spain, Trianas brings traditional tapas to Nob Hill. Their seasonal menus ensure only the freshest ingredients go into their beautiful, eye-catching small plates, making every bite a flavorful experience.

4405 Jager Way NE E, Rio Rancho (505) 835-4701 turqouisetap.com

Turquoise Desert Taproom is a serious step-up from your typical sports bar food. They’re a from-scratch kitchen, and their pretzels and hamburger buns are made inhouse, making it both an upscale restaurant and a more casual sports bar. With all of the fan favorites, like wings, nachos, and fish and chips, Sunday football games are also sure to be screened on one of their nine flatscreen TVs during the season. It’s seriously the best of both worlds.

TRAIL RIDER PIZZA

12165 NM-14, Ste. B2, Cedar Crest (505) 281-6068 trailriderpizza.com

The fact that this spot is a 98% from scratch kitchen should be reason enough to stop by, and with 14 types of specialty pizza, there’s bound to be something for everyone.

111 Carlisle Blvd NE (505) 503-6202 triananobhill.com

TULA’S KITCHEN

8100 Wyoming Blvd NE Plus one other metro location (505) 418 4488 tulaskitchen.com

$-$$

Brought to you by the same folks behind the Dion’s dynasty, Tula’s Kitchen is a fresh dining concept that pairs laid-back New Mexican eats (think green chile cheeseburgers) with craveable, global flavors. Sharing is encouraged—although certainly not required.

TULLY’S ITALIAN DELI

1425 San Mateo Blvd NE A (505) 255-5370 tullysdeli.com

Old-school deli charm meets high quality ingredients at Tully’s Italian Deli. Known for its stacked sandwiches, Italian-imported ingredients, and no-frills authenticity, this

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BITES longtime ABQ staple is part grocery, part restaurant, and part bakery. Whether it’s a mouth-watering sub topped with prosciutto, mozzarella, and all the fixings— or a from-scratch cannoli—Tully’s keeps things simple, fresh, and oh so satisfying.

TWO CRANES BISTRO + BREW 901 Rio Grande Blvd NW, Ste. A (505) 295-3970 twocranesnm.com

Comfort food with a high-end twist is all the rage at this spot, where you’ll find enticing dishes like Chorizo Rellenos wrapped like egg rolls and grilled salmon with a Michelin Star-level presentation.

TWO FOOLS TAVERN 3211 Central Ave NE (505) 265-7447 2foolstavern.com

Dubliner or not, there’s soul-warming Irish fare to be found at this authentic Irish eatery. Two Fools Tavern is known to have good food, drink and conversation. Its atmosphere earns an A plus for feeling just like a traditional Irish pub, and its food most definitely does not fall short. If Irish classics like Scottish Eggs and Guinness Beef Boxty don’t do it for you, the 300 brands of whiskey will certainly make you feel like you’re right in Dublin.

URBAN 360 PIZZA

2119 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 717-2384 urban360pizza.com

Urban 360 Pizza is a one-stop-shop for traditional pizzas like your classic Margherita or pepperoni, unconventional options like orange chicken or gyros pizza, burgers, Asian food and more. This place has something for everyone no matter what you’re craving. With new menu items added all the time, there’s plenty of reason to come back again and again.

URBAN HOTDOG COMPANY

10250 Cottonwood Park NW, Ste. 400 H plus 1 other metro location (505) 898-5671 urbanhotdogcompany.com

6601 Uptown Blvd NE (505) 884-4714 uptown-sportsbar.com

VEGOS

2904 Indian School Rd NE (505) 554-1041 vegosabq.com

New Mexican staples made for vegans and vegetarians without skipping out on any of the flavor. Vegos aims to bring traditional flavors and textures found in New Mexican food while keeping it entirely plant based. However, don’t get discouraged if youre all about meat, Vegos makes it a priority to try and tailor food to everyone’s liking no matter the diet.

VERNON’S SPEAKEASY

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).

UPTOWN SPORTS BAR

American fare alongside a wide selection of local and national beers.

6855 4th St NW (505) 341-0831 vernonsspeakeasymenu.com

$$$

This unmarked restaurant requires a secret password to gain entrance. Once inside, you’ll discover a world of perfect steaks and gourmet seafood, paired with an unbeatable loungey atmosphere. Reservations are recommended.

A huge sports venue with wall-to-wall televisions and all the extras—solid

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BITES VIC’S DAILY CAFÉ 3600 Osuna Rd NE (505) 341-9710 vicsdailycafe.com

With a full range of breakfast items, New Mexican favorites, and comfort food, this is a one-stop shop for tasty options like breakfast burritos, meatloaf, and coconut cream pie.

VICK’S VITTLES COUNTRY KITCHEN 8810 Central Ave SE (505) 298-5143 vicksvittles.com

Rustle up your posse and head to Vick’s for heaping helpings of Texas-New Mexico fusion and breakfast served all day— except Wednesdays, when Vick’s is closed. Country comfort meets southwestern flair in an environment that welcomes suits and cowboys alike. Prepare to be stuffed.

VIET TASTE

5721 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 888-0101 pwbportal.us/viet-taste-abq

With more than 100 menu options— noodle and rice dishes, eight varieties of Pho, coconut shakes, and many more— this restaurant is true to its name, offering a real taste of Vietnamese cuisine.

VIET PHO

4208 Menaul Blvd NE (505) 717-2359

This Vietnamese-based cuisine restaurant offers a homey feel and Southeast Asian comfort food. Try the popular Beef Pho Soup or go for a lighter dish like the Shrimp Spring Rolls.

VIET RICE

1340 Rio Rancho Blvd SE, Rio Rancho (505) 892-7423 ordervietrice.com

This family owned and operated restaurant brings storied Vietnamese cuisine to the City of Vision. Their most popular dish is rice noodles with meatballs or brisket, but the dish is heavily customizable, from the kind of noodle to the proteins, including vegetarian options.

VILLAGE PIZZA

3200 La Orilla Rd NW, E-2 plus 1 other metro location (505) 219-3766 villagepizzanm.com

Family owned and operated, Village Pizza offers salads, nachos, calzones, pasta, and of course, signature pizzas, along with an all-you-can-eat buffet.

VINAIGRETTE

1720 Central Ave SW (505) 842-5507 vinaigretteonline.com

Getting in touch with your “green” side has never been as hip as it is at Albuquerque’s newest 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.

VINTAGE 423

8000 Paseo Del Norte Blvd NE (505) 821-1918 vintage-423.com

Decorated with plush booths, black and white photos of vintage cars, a glass wine cellar wall, and an outdoor patio with couches and fireplaces, Vintage 423 is a go-to location for good eats and happy hour—all year long.

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WECK’S

4500 Osuna Rd NE, #100 plus 7 other metro locations (505) 344-1472 wecksinc.com

YASMINE’S CAFÉ

For nearly 20 years, Weck’s has served up huge, tasty portions of breakfast and lunch. Examples: The Original comes with one pound of potatoes mixed with eggs, cheese, and chile; the “Scratch Made” Buttermilk Pancakes are more than seven inches wide.

WESTERN VIEW

6411 Central Ave NW (505) 836-2200

potato salad, and the homemade banana pudding.

1600 Central Ave SE (505) 242-1980

Yasmine’s is one of the few places in Albuquerque with shawarma—pitas filled with marinated chicken or beef that’s been pressed, stacked and cooked slowly on a rotisserie. Also try lamb and beef shish kababs, baba ghanoush, fatah, and four varieties of baklava.

YUMMY NOODLE HOUSE

With a cozy diner feel and a long history, Western View is turning out plates of diner classics and New Mexican staples— finely seasoned with a sprinkling of Greek options—for diners hungry for both hearty home cooked meals and classic countertop service.

6001 Winter Haven Rd NW, Ste. E (505) 595-3296 yummynoodlehouse.com

WHOLE HOG CAFE

THE YELLER SUB

9880 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 323-1688 wholehogcafenm.com

Get award-winning Memphis-style barbecue in a family-friendly atmosphere. Can’t-miss items include the pulled pork,

This dive is exactly what it sounds like: a yummy noodle house. With 12 noodle dishes to choose from, the question isn’t “Which one should I get?” but instead it’s “What order should I get these in?” 7200 Montgomery Blvd NE (505) 888-9784 yellersub.com

BITES

has spent the last four decades perfecting everything on the menu. If you need proof - start with the customer favorite - the Steak & Grilled Onions Sub. The bread is baked fresh daily, and the potato chips, waffle fries, and onion rings are all made from scratch the old-fashioned way. The perfection shows.

ZENDO COFFEE

413 2nd St SW (505) 926-1636 zendocoffee.com

Opening its doors in 2013 on 2nd Street, Zendo Coffee’s creativity plays a huge part in the beloved menu. The variety of different items on the menu caters to just about anyone and provides a sense of comfort.

Cheyanne Bywater, new business operator, leads a happy team of sandwich professionals who genuinely love what they do. This 45-year-old sandwich institution

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LOCAL STUFF P. 212 // SHOP TALK P. 214 // PAWS BUTTON P. 216 // YOUR BEST SHOT P. 223 // A FEW THINGS P. 224

OUT AND ABOUT: YOUR GUIDE TO THE LIGHTER SIDE OF THE DUKE CITY

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

PHOTO BY LAUREN ASTON

Hold Your Hor s es

Little Sunny—whose full name is “Sunrise Surprise”—was born at Walkin N Circles Ranch in April. His mother was part of a herd of five horses rescued after being found starving and thirsty on Pajarito Mesa. “We didn’t even know she was pregnant because she was so underweight,” NM Horse Rescue Board President Lauri Michaels shares. Hence the “Surprise” in his name. Both mom and baby are thriving today thanks to the care they received on the ranch (p. 216).

CAN’TLIVEWITHOUT

MUST-HAVE ITEMS BY: JENNIFER JAMES MARKET PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER, ALBUQUERQUE BUSINESS FIRST

Few people know Albuquerque’s business scene quite like Jennifer James. Aa a longtime marketing executive and one of ABQ’s biggest supporters of local businesses, she loves shining a spotlight on the people and companies shaping our city. Off the clock, you’ll most likely find James on the fairway or savoring a well-earned glass of bourbon.

WELLER SP ECIAL RESERVE BO URBON Smooth, easy to sip, and my favorite way to celebrate a win or unwind after a busy day. Even better shared wi th good friends.

ME CHRO Y A W LS A CALL GOLF BAL — y SOFT f ball I pla ol g y nce, The onl l, long dista ence ee great f nough confid nd st e and ju eve every rou t. to beli my bes be d l cou

RALPH LAUREN BLUE PE R Fresh, tim FUME eless, and unmistak ably me. I’ve worn it for years, and has becom e my sign it ature scent.

FINE POIN SHA T R P IE Every meetin PENS g, toand c one. Th alendar sta do list, rts ey make write perfec with tl st much aying orga y and nized more satisf ying.

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MONOGRAMMED STATIONERY A handwritten note never goes out of style. My Southern roots taught me that thoughtful details always matter.

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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

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LOCALSTUFF WELOVE

Your touchstone for ABQ’s cool, fun & eclectic retail goodies that will help you live life a bit happier and smarter.

PERFECTLY PAIRED

Arguably the best part of the coffee experience is its fresh, roasty aroma. Enjoy that scent any time with this locally made coconut soy wax candle loaded with warm notes of freshly brewed coffee and cacao.

PLATA COFFEE AND UPSIDE GOODS CO. COFFEE AND CACAO CANDLE, $14 (505) 274-6288 PLATACOFFEE.COM

COFFEE-RUN APPROVED

Who says coffee runs can’t be stylish? Shield your sleepy pre-coffee eyes from the world—and ABQ’s blazing sun—with a cute cap.

HEATWAVE COFFEE THE SUMMER CLUB HAT, $42 (505) 315-9108 HEATWAVECOFFEENM.COM

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LOCALSTUFFWELOVE ALL THAT GLITTERS

This sleek gold cupping spoon lets you feel like a pro even while making your coffee at home. Don’t forget to slow down and savor every sip.

LITTLE BEAR CUPPING SPOON, $10 (505) 300-4685 LITTLEBEARCOFFEE.COM

SO FRESH & SO CLEAN

Keep your beans—or grounds—fresh at home with an attractive canister. This one keeps air and moisture out of your precious coffee while allowing CO2 to escape. Plus, it’ll hold up to 1lb of locally-roasted goodness.

NEW MEXICO PIÑON COFFEE AIRSCAPE COFFEE VAULT, $35 (505) 298-1964 NMPINONCOFFEE.COM

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SHOP TALK

6301 Riverside Plaza Ln, Suite l1 (505) 433-9490 twinsunscomics.com

or the owners of Twin Suns Comic Books and Game Center, the name doesn’t just refer to the dual suns of Star Wars’ desert planet Tatooine. Josh and Drew Allred are themselves twin sons, who grew up together collecting just about everything and have spent decades watching their hobbies, once considered “nerd culture” be pushed further into the mainstream. Their sign, in fact, had to be slightly altered just before they opened 15 years ago. Josh checked in with Lucasfilm—the production company for Star Wars—who asked them kindly to break the font up. They credit their interest in collecting things to their mom, who took them to all kinds of antique stores when they were

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JOSH AND DREW ALLRED ARE SETTING THEIR BUSINESS APART FROM THE COMPETITION

young. After graduating high school, the duo worked at the same local comic shop for ten years before opening Twin Suns. Today, they’re among the few stores in Alburquerque still buying and selling comics and among the many trading in cards like Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon. Soon, says Josh, they plan to bring in Legos, seeing a gap in Albuquerque’s market. Being around the mark of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and a few years before trading card games exploded, Josh and Drew seemingly opened their shop at the perfect moment. “We opened and then right then, they…I think it was Marvel Studios, sent us passes to go see a sneak peak screening of Avengers,” says Drew. “Everybody

who’s anybody in the comic industry of Albuquerque was there, it was very cool. But it was perfect timing for that for sure.” “But nowadays Magic is (big), they’ve done a good job growing their stuff over the last couple of years to where it’s pretty common place. A lot of people know these games. Pokémon is crazy too.” Like most trading card game shops, Twin Suns hosts game nights throughout the week. While they’ve cut back on what they offer since the pandemic, they still get a good 20-30 players coming in on Wednesday night for Commander. They also offer some things that other shops don’t, ideas that only come with a combined 50 years of experience. During the pandemic they spent much of their time driving around the city, hand

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PHOTOS BY DON JAMES/ATM

TWIN SUNS COMICS AND GAMES

SHOPTALK

delivering comic book orders. They’ve also centered their customers’ needs by selling products at market rather than retail, so scalpers don’t wipe them out. But perhaps most impressive is their dedication to organization. For the last 15 years Drew (quite the good Tetris player, he says) has spent much of his time at the shop organizing boxes upon boxes of cards and an untold volume of comics so that they know approximately where any given item is. In just Magic: The Gathering cards, Drew estimates they have over 500,000 cards in the shop dating all the way back to Alpha (the first print run of the first core set of cards released in 1993). And they’re all organized to his standard. As such, they don’t allow customers to flip through the binders of cards like other shops may, knowing that inevitably some-

thing would get disorganized. Instead, they go and grab any cards a player might need. While this might sound restrictive, it also allows Twin Suns to offer a service that very few card shops offer anymore: custom-built decks. Players can email or hand in a list of cards an employee will go through the boxes and pull them. “Most places you go, and you ask for a card that’s (worth) less than a quarter, they’ll just tell you to dig through boxes to look for it. All of our stuff is organized, and we do that more as a service. A quarter card doesn’t generate a ton of profit for the effort,” says Drew. “I usually tell people, ‘If I take a card from you that’s below a certain price, I probably lose money in the time it takes me to organize it’, you know?” “But it brings people in, they know

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we’re here. They can browse the better cards; they can buy a sealed product.” It’s this kind of extra knowledge and care that has built a dedicated customer base around the store who have, in turn, brought in some pretty interesting rarities. For Josh, a number of “Power Nines”— among the most iconic, powerful and expensive Magic: The Gathering cards— including the renowned Black Lotus are among his favorite that have come through the shop. Drew, on the other hand, recalled a nearly full set of generation 1 Transformers action figures, which came and went on the same day. His white whale? An X-Men #1, of which he saw several during the ten years he worked the first shop but hasn’t seen since opening Twin Suns. – DANIEL LARLHAM JR.

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PAWS BUTTON

KEEPING TABS ON ABQ’S FURRY FRIENDS

New Mexico Horse Rescue volunteer Wendy leads Indy the horse around the 30-acre Walkin N Circles property.

HORSEY HAVEN

t is an unfortunate truth that during times of economic headwinds, our furry companions are among the first to feel its impact. Families have less money to spend, surrenders rise and shelters receive less resources. This is especially true for horses, considerably more expensive to care for and feed than the average dog or cat. Fortunately, rescues like Walkin N Circles work closely with the state to ensure that all surrendered or abandoned horses have somewhere to go. “We are one of 13 licensed rescues in the state that coordinates to ensure that all horses obtained through (The New Mexico Livestock Board) are taken care of by one of us,” said Board President Lauri Michael. “We’re one of the largest in the state and we are one of very few that actually take horses, rehabilitates and retrains them so that they can be adopted after.” Walkin N Circles was founded in 2002 by ranch owners Colleen and John Novonty. The Novonty family eventually sold the property to the organization, who purchased with it an additional 10 acres of land. While some of the horses they receive come from owners themselves, Michael says that the overwhelming majority of the horses come through the livestock

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board, who have been abandoned, neglected or sometimes seized through court cases. The 30-acre ranch cares for 58 horses, donkeys and mules, a number higher than Michael has seen in her time with the organization. Walkin N Circles has already brought in 13 new horses this year and have adopted out nine. With few exceptions, all horses brought into Walkin N

Circles come from somewhere in New Mexico. On a temporary basis, Michael says, the ranch is able to maintain about 100 horses total. But budgetary wise, they’re right about at capacity now. For a healthy horse, Walkin N Circles spends $3500$4000 a year per animal, according to Michael’s estimates. Cost of hay and feed, important in such an arid climate as there’s very little pasture for horses to graze on, has risen in recent years. That rise in cost not only burdens the ranch directly, but as a second order effect, results in more horses being abandoned or forfeited. Many of the horses that come into the ranch are very mistrustful and much of their training is an effort to reacquaint them to humans. Michael says that the horse-to-human relationship is quite unique in nature. Being prey, horses have the natural tendency to avoid predators

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COURTESY PHOTO

LOCAL NONPROFIT WALKIN N CIRCLES WORKS TO SAVE AND REHABILITATE HORSES WHO’VE BORE THE BRUNT OF HUMAN UNKINDNESS.

like humans. Being abandoned or mistreated by humans only works to reinforce that nature. “We start from the basics, the very beginning; getting that horse to just trust again. So that means spending time with them and eventually getting a halter on them and then eventually working them in some of our smaller round pens, hence the name Walking N Circles Ranch, we work in a lot of round pens.” Then, if they’re physically able, they train the horses in the saddle so that when someone comes to adopt, that horse is already ready for the trails. But that training takes a fair amount of time and resources. With some animals coming in in an almost wild state, some require more training and time at the ranch before they’re ready for adoption. Walkin N Circles also relies heavily on volunteer work in order to operate. With only about 10 staff between their ranch and thrift store, Michael says they see about 100 individual volunteers every year, 40-50 whom are regulars. “You don’t need to have any horse experience at all,” says Michael. “The vast majority of people that come and help us have no experience with horses, but they want to come and they want to learn about horses. This is the perfect way to do it because not only are you helping with chores, but you are helping to socialize the horses.” Michael herself joined the organization in 2017, knowing very little about caring for horses. Having experience as director of marketing at Presbyterian for many years, she quickly found her place with the Walkin N Circles social media and website work while simultaneously working with the horses. “My husband and I adopted a horse a year later in 2018, and I’ve been involved ever since.” Volunteer orientations are held once per quarter on a Saturday and last for about half a day. More information on how to get involved with volunteering can be found on their website, wncr.org. As a nonprofit, they also rely heavily on the charitable nature of others, as well as the income from their thrift shop, located right off I-40 at the Edgewood exit, and selling just about everything under the sun. –DANIEL LARLHAM JR .

ABQ’SAMAZINGPETS Saachi Rose the Dog

Three-year-old mini Bernedoodle Saachi Rose only has one speed: full-throttle. At the park, she runs huge circles around her parents, but that’s not enough—she’ll even body slam her folks as she flies by. At home, Saachi squeaks with excitement when she hears her family coming home before launching into apartment zoomies. She gets plenty of that energy out exploring the Sandia foothills and playing with her favorite toy, which happens to look exactly like her. Saachi then fuels back up with frozen blueberries—a favorite treat!—every evening. And according to her parents, Saachi’s also “cute as hell.” We couldn’t agree more!

General Smithy the Cat

The name’s Smithy—General Smithy. Even though he’s technically named “Smith,” this adorable seven-year-old cat prefers being called “General Smithy.” He spends most days surveying his territory from the backyard, batting at long sticks from the roof, kneading on blankets, and bringing his family presents. Unfortunately, some of those presents are still alive and occasionally turn into an impromptu game of indoor hide-and-seek. “He’s a very thoughtful boy,” his parents say. After Smithy roams the neighborhood each night, he heads home for kitty squeeze treats—and maybe a little grooming session using his parent’s fingers.

Mazie Lou the Dog

Mazie Lou definitely isn’t your average nine-year-old pup. For one thing, she has dreams of becoming a coyote, and she also rocks a mean mohawk. Mazie’s parents adopted her from Albuquerque’s Eastside Animal Shelter in 2018, and she’s been up for any adventure ever since. She loves hiking, road tripping, splashing in the Rio Grande, tagging along to Boxing Bear Brewery, and searching for her next pup cup. She’s also never met a french fry she didn’t like. Mazie has a deep obsession with her Lamb Chop toys, but there’s nothing she loves more than snuggling up with her people.

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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PASSENGERWINDOW

FOLLOWING THE SUN

avid O. Riley’s steel sculpture on the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (IPCC) campus might look like simple lines, but it holds layers of meaning. “The spiral symbolizes the path of the sun and also resembles a helix representing the DNA of all life. It also symbolizes

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life experience,” shares Jonna C. Paden, IPCC librarian and archivist. “The “V” represents the summer solstice, and the horizontal element represents the continuation of family through the generations.” The piece is appropriately named “Summer Solstice” and was created in 1997 by Hopi/Laguna Pueblo artist David O.

Riley. Though Riley passed in 2016, the work still speaks volumes a decade later—and nearly 30 years after its creation. “It represents how we, as Pueblo people, determine the time of the solstice when ceremonies are planned to appeal for rain and abundance of plants and animals,” Paden shares. —SI

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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

The next time you find yourself on the IPCC campus, take a minute to appreciate the spiral steel sculpture, Summer Solstice.

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ADVERTISING REGISTRY 3 Advertising..................................................................................222 1003.3 The Peak.............................................................................205 103.3 ED-FM..................................................................................199 94 ROCK.........................................................................................192 ABQ Childcare......................................................................... 65,142 Albuquerque Florist......................................................................182 Albuquerque Isotopes Baseball....................................................2,3 Albuquerque Tent and Events............................Inside front cover All World Travel...............................................................................58 Angel's Nails.....................................................................................88 Ativo Senior Living of Albuquerque...........................................153 Bands of Enchantment ...................................................................83 Bear Canyon Oral and Facial Surgery..........................................54 Bedrock Kitchen............................................................................178 Bella Vida Photography................................................................136 Blackbird Coffee House................................................................124 Bosque School................................................................................128 Brew Lab 101....................................................................................27 Bubba's 33.......................................................................................206 Cafe Es Amor.................................................................................126 California Closets............................................................................33 Camille Trujillo Photpgraphy......................................................175 Casa Cocktails................................................................................183 Central Grill and Coffee House...................................................179 Chasing The Flames......................................................................194 Christina Kent Early Childhood Center......................................76

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Cornucopia Adult & Family Services.........................................155 Corrales Historical Society.............................................................72 Coyote 102.5.....................................................................................77 Cutbow Coffee................................................................................123 Danielle Lamphier-Real Broker, LLC...........................................71 Davis Kelin New Mexico Trial Lawyers.......................................39 Desert Rose Trading Co..................................................................64 Dr. Analee Maestas........................................................................155 Dr. Monica Boehmer, DDS............................................................55 Elegance Limousines.....................................................................161 Enhanced Wellness Center.............................................................19 Ex Novo Brewing...........................................................................170 Exhibit Solutions of New Mexico..................................................21 Explora..............................................................................................66 Family Resource Home Care.........................................................62 Fogo De Chao...................................................................................22 Freedom Tax & Accounting Service...........................................142 Garage Doors by Nestor...............................................................204 Genesis Health Clubs....................................................................211 Goldust Nail Lounge.....................................................................143 Golf and Wellness..........................................................................143 High Noon Restaurant & Saloon................................................152 Houston Wholesale Cars LLC......................................................4,5 Inn of the Mountain Gods.............................................................52 Isleta Grill........................................................................................193 Isleta Resort and Casino ................................................................17

Kubota Tractor, Inc...............................................Inside back cover La Mission Art & Design..............................................................207 Law Offices of David C. Chavez..................................................156 Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry............................................. Back Cover Life Spa MD....................................................................................165 Lonnie's Custom Jewelers...............................................................91 Magic 99.5.......................................................................................188 Magic Mirror Photo Booth & Events.........................................181 Merry Maids............................................................................... 10,11 Mesa Tractor.....................................................................................29 Michael Thomas Coffee Roasters................................................126 Mike's Jerky.....................................................................................185 Mix 105.1...........................................................................................68 Mrs. Sprinkles Ice Cream Parlor.................................................176 National Museum of Nuclear Science and History....................81 New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI).....................................85 New Mexico Solutions..................................................................137 New Mexico State Fair...................................................................6,7 New Mexico United.......................................................................208 New Remembers 9/11.....................................................................74 Nob Hill Oral & Facial Surgery of Albuquerque........................56 Outpost Productions/New Mexico Jazz Festival........................73 Paradise Hills Golf Course.............................................................13 PAZZI Ristorante Italiano............................................................165 Plata Coffee.....................................................................................126 Porsche of Albuquerque.................................................................25 Quezada’s Comedy Club & Cantina.............................................75 Ram Motors RV & Truck...............................................................35 Reliable Nissan.................................................................................37 Rio Bravo Brewing Company........................................................69 Rio Grande Credit Union...............................................................15 Rio Rancho Event Center.............................................................133 Route 66 Cleaners............................................................................90 Rudy's Country Store & BBQ......................................................198 Salt and Board................................................................................195 Sandia Golf Club..............................................................................63 Sandia Preparatory School.............................................................86 Satellite Coffee................................................................................174 Serial Killer Café............................................................................191 Silver Star Auto Haus......................................................................67 Slate Street Billiards.......................................................................201 Smiles by Design..............................................................................44 Soma Coffee House.......................................................................126 Southwest Eyecare...........................................................................41 Southwest Women's Oncology.....................................................8,9 Southwestern HR Consulting........................................................80 Stan's Coffee and Scones...............................................................125 Straightline Orthodontics...............................................................57 Sunshine Dental...............................................................................55 Tacos El Muchacho Alegre.............................................................70 The Cleanery.....................................................................................82 The Fertility Center of NM LLC....................................................87 The Gina Lee Fuentez Show.........................................................200 The Groove Artspace.......................................................................89 The Grove Cafe & Market............................................................197 The Montebello on Academy.......................................................154 The Scuba Company.....................................................................187 The Village Guitarist......................................................................196 The Well Coffee NM......................................................................125 Town of Taos.....................................................................................43 Turquoise World..............................................................................84 University of New Mexico Athletic Department......................221 Westside Chiropractic...................................................................203 WisePies..........................................................................................219 Zendo Coffee..................................................................................125

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YOURBESTSHOT

TIA’S HOUSE by George Evans

espite having lived all over the world, George Evans is always drawn back to Albuquerque. “I just fall apart when I leave New Mexico,” he says. He misses his family, friends, the chile, and his favorite places, but it’s something deeper too. Every time he returns, he finds a greater appreciation for what he calls “the patina of New Mexico”— that includes all the good and bad that come with it. “I can’t be separated from this place,” Evans shares. “It’s deeper than what I can articulate.” That connection was on his mind when he took this photo in Anton Chico across from the home where his grandfather, Ramon Mondragon grew up. The family affectionately calls it “Tia’s house.” Evans and his family had planned to explore the orchard near Tia’s house when an approaching thunderstorm made them stop—and made Evans pick up his camera. “In that pause, I moved around looking for a sense of home,” he says, imagining what life there must have been like here for his grandpa and great-uncles. Along with knowing his way around a 2420mm Nikkor lens, Evans is also an oil painter who has been active in Albuquerque’s art scene since 2003 as well as an art teacher for Albuquerque Public Schools (APS). He’s currently working to develop what he believes might be the first elementary school darkroom photography program in the state. His idea is to teach students the fundamentals, then “turn them loose and let them have fun.” The ability to pass this art form down to future generations feels particularly meaningful to Evans, who lives with autism and pushes back against assumptions about what that label means. “I think this whole mythology that people with autism can’t function in society is ridiculous,” he says. “Labels are just words that describe different advantages and disadvantages, and everyone has them in some form.”—SI

Enter ATM’s photo contest and see your photo featured in YOUR BEST SHOT! Submissions should include one high-resolution digital file sent by email. All photos sent to ATM will be property of the magazine and will not be mailed back to sender. All entries should include your name and phone number. Please include a bio and a brief description of how the photo was taken. Email entries to: editor@abqthemag.com

SEPTEMBER 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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AFew THINGS

YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT

I-25 Improved Project

Yes, it’s temporarily disruptive to local traffic. But it’s a fantastic sign of growth anytime ABQ has to undertake a major freeway corridor upgrade. City drivers aren’t strangers to this process, of course, having inched our way through orange-barrel renovations of both the “Big I” and so-called “Little I” (I-40/ Coors Boulevard) interchanges in the past quarter-century. With the I-25 Improved Project more than two years along (the freeway intersections of Comanche Road and Montgomery Boulevard will see major upgrades) the results are starting to show. But there’s still about six months to go before our daily drives become a breeze along north I-25 (and after feeling the Albuquerque The Magazine offices shake a time or twice from the pounding of heavy equipment right outside our windows, we’ve decided we can’t wait to be the first to try those uninterrupted u-turns!). Here’s a few factoids about the upside of all this paved progress. —SD

6. Expect new connections

2. Analysis shows the proj-

ect could have a 23.2% reduction of crashes along this portion of I-25.

3. Construction will have

employed 310 workers—95 percent from New Mexico—over the course of the 34-month project.

7. The massive interchang-

es are being designed and constructed simultaneously—a common process known as ‘design-build,’ which allows planners to use the most current construction solutions.

The anticipated final cost is $278 million.

11.

In Texas, these advanced u-turns are called “Texas Turnarounds,” but the NMDOT is reviewing public submissions for a clever New Mexico-inspired name for the new interchanges. Stay tuned for the announced nickname soon.

13. The project will not close

lanes during this year’s Balloon Fiesta. To accommodate heavy traffic, three lanes will remain open on northbound and southbound I-25.

9. As of August, 18,000 The previous Montgomery Boulevard bridge was built in 1961, and was last modified in 1988.

5. Bicyclists will get add-

ed safety from a 12-foot barrier that will separate shared-use pathways and provide connectivity across the I-25 corridor.

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to the North Diversion Channel Bicycle Trail at Montgomery Boulevard for non-motorized travel.

The project has sent nearly 500 mass text alerts to pass along key information—and nearly 78 percent of drivers report positive feedback about the texts. (You can sign up at i25improved. com)

cubic yards of new pavement has been put in— enough to fill six Olympic-size swimming pools.

10. Drivers exiting I-25 at

Comanche or Montgomery in either direction will be able to access the opposite side of the freeway without going through multiple lights at the interchange.

COURTESY IMAGE

The first studies to examine this traffic issue were done in 2011 and 2016, and the first public meetings were held in 2021.

12.