Albuquerque The Magazine, July 2020 by Gena Goodson

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7 JUL Y 202 0 | ISS UE

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Your health and safety is our number one priority. During the temporary closure, we teamed up with domestic and international industry leaders to assemble, train, and implement new procedures that not only keep you safe but still give you an incredible club experience.

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Love About

Things We

1 The Anticipation 2 First Looks 4 The Power to Do Good

30 The Journey 31 32 5 Supporting Local Economies 33 6 People Helping People 34 35 7 Books that Fuel Packing Our

Our Wanderlust

Vanity Cases

9 Pre-Trip Shopping 10 Supporting Local Economies 11 Virtuoso Advirors’ Expertise Every Step of the Way 12 Local Color

14 Lingering Over Lunch

The People We Meet

15 Stargazing 16 Bumping into Belugas 17 Simple Gestures Long Weekends 19 Hotel Bars...

20 ...And The Drinks They Serve 21 Italy Forever 22 Connections Around the World 23 Raising Global Citizens 24 Beach Butlers Hotel Perks 26 Room Service 27 A Discovery in Every Port 28 Local Experts 29 Adrenaline Rushes

Travel

Animal Encounters

Learning New Tricks Nights on the Town

All The World’s A Feast Iconic Architecture

Insider Access

36 Art Appreciation 37

Gathering Inspiration

39 Beach Time

Hotel Pools

40 Souvenir Shopping 41 Hotel Pets 42 Market Browsing 43 Coffee Culture 44 Settling in with the Family 45 Spa Time 47 Department Stores

Vintage Vacations

48 Kids Programs 49 And A Few More...

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Let our experienced team tailor a travel experience for you! Alfred Volden ASA, CTIE

I’m the owner of All-World Travel, so presently I focus a little less on new business and a little more on managing the spectacular advisors we work with. You can still contact me, though; I can definitely route you to the right person for your specific travel ideas.

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CorporateTravel Advisor I’m the corporate travel specialist and International airfare. I have been in the travel industry for 38 years. After 9 years as a leisure agent, I found my niche assisting with all the tasks related to the fast paced world of business travel.

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Cheryl Strotz CTC, MCC

I started in the travel business in 1980. In 1984 I open Abbott World Travel and sold it to Classic Travel in 1991. Classic Travel became All World Travel Feb. 2014. I continue to enjoy my work and my clients.

Elisa Eaglin Travel Advisor

I have been in the Travel industry since 1976. I love to design travel itineraries and I am excited to be able to highlight the many fabulous luxury travel partners that we work with. I look forward to helping you plan your next travel experience.

Julie Fulwiler Travel Advisor

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DEPARTMENTS page 77

Finding Four-legged friends Beginning last March, the coronavirus pandemic led to stay-at-home orders for much of the country. In ABQ, like most places, that meant plenty of Netflix watching, garage organizing, and (let’s face it) unnecessary trips to the refrigerator. It also slowed life down, which may have led to many of us rediscovering the fun things in life, like pets. With many local shelters forced to close, people in Albuquerque stepped up to help by adopting or fostering pets in record numbers. Here’s a look at some of the animal welfare agencies, and a visit with a few families who chose to face quarantine with a new buddy.

PAGE 119

BEST OF RIO RANCHO Civic pride in Rio Rancho runs deep. And so, it’s no surprise that thousands of readers weighed in for our 2nd Annual Best of Rio Rancho voting process. We’ve tallied all the ballots, and present to you the winners and finalists in each of 88 categories, a list that represents the top spots in town to eat, drink, play, revive, beautify, repair, indulge, splurge and renew. The entire spectrum is covered, from categories like Best Girlie Store to Best Place To Get A Steak. In all, the winners give a pretty clear picture of everything that shines about the City of Vision.

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DEPARTMENTS 34 Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note 37 Tapas

P. 37 P. 152

Our city continues to implement the use of solar energy; gardening turns out to be an antidote of sorts for the pandemic; a local pizza product makes its way into retail stores; a call for help on a whimsical wine pairing turns up serious results; the biggest ballooning outfit in the world (and ABQ) goes COVID-safe.

46 Faces and Places 59 Datebook

141 People

142 Albuquerque the Interview Jeff Boman heads up a new hospital unit created to take on COVID-19, and has found ways to stay safe, save lives, and find time to celebrate even the small victories that come in these times of crisis.

P.152

148 Personality

Stereotypes aside, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a stretch to think a math professor might also be a champion powerlifter. Meet Precious Andrew, who combined two of her passions to create a life filled with victory and success.

152 Behind the Scenes

When the call came to help in these pandemic times, few people took up the challenge like Erin Chisholm, who gathered volunteers and donations to help feed thousands of New Mexico families.

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JUNE 2020 Volume 18 Number 3

RV THERE YET?

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Taylor Hood taylor@abqthemag.com PRODUCTION MANAGER

Sheridan Young sheridan@abqthemag.com PHOTO DIRECTOR

Don James don@abqthemag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Candice Callado candice@abqthemag.com STAFF WRITER

Zane Beal zane@abqthemag.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Michael Jacobs michael@abqthemag.com TIEMPO EDITOR

Mel Minter mel@melminter.com

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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.

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DEPARTMENTS P. 162 P. 168 P. 156

155 Culture 156 Creatives

Longtime Albuquerque illustrator Ted Slampyak has played a big role in Breaking Bad and other iconic TV shows, which use his storyboard illustrations as a roadmap to kick off production.

160 Tiempo

Former teen fiddling sensation Emily Anslover has evolved into one of the state’s most in-demand musicians; in 2008, John Nichols helped a local non-profit raise money with a concert, and has since created a passion of connecting live music to charitable causes.

P. 160 161 Dish

168 My Favorite Recipe

170 Bites

Sammie Quillin talks about his work on behalf of military veterans, and how to make a sweet potato pie by touch and feel.

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

Sammie Quillin talks about his work on behalf of military veterans, and how to make a sweet potato pie by touch and feel.

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

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DEPARTMENTS 193 Fun

194 ‘Til You Drop

How to look camera-ready for those teleconference sessions; a guide to houseplants that can enliven your home office.

198 Paws Button

An update on the new residents (and newborn arrivals) at the soon to be re-opened ABQ BioPark, where staff members have been tending to the zoo’s nearly 1,000 animals through the slow times of the pandemic.

200 Pet of the Month This month’s winner: Cooper

203 Piece of the Past Intact since the 1860s, the Gutierrez-Hubbell House in the South Valley has served as a post office and stagecoach stop, and today is still in use as a cultural center and meeting place.

P. 198 P. 203

204 Passenger Window The majestic family of bats flying in their winged bicycles over Montañ0 Boulevard is a result of the power of publicly-funded art.

207 Photo Contest

This month’s winner: Acequia and the Cottonwoods, by Jeff Puterbaugh

208 25 Things You Didn’t Know About Me Placitas is neither town nor village, but with 4,000+ residents, modern homes and a rich and colorful history, the community just northeast of ABQ has grown to define itself.

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JULY 2020 Volume 18 Number 3 PUBLISHER

Larryl Lynch larryl@abqthemag.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Gena Goodson gena@abqthemag.com

SENIOR ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Philip Kjelland philip@abqthemag.com Megan Life megan@abqthemag.com PROJECT COORDINATOR

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EDITOR'S NOTE

ell, it seems we are all finding a way to adapt to a coronavirus world and start functioning as a society again. The most stringent part of the quarantine—if not the coronavirus itself—seems to be behind us. Breweries and restaurants are reopening. People are slowly returning to work. Even the BioPark is open with capacity limitations. People seem genuinely relieved to be out living a version of their old lives again. But not everyone is happy about quarantine lifting. There is at least one unhappy camper in my household. She is three years old. She loves television and wrestling. She has big brown eyes and snorts and snores all day and night. Her name is Puddles and she is my wonderful little pug. For Puddles, the quarantine has been a dream come true. Her family stays at home and alternates between snuggles on the couch and walks around the block. But now… her two little boys are still around, but the big human (me) is gone at work again! Boo. Puddles’ feelings aside, the return to a bit of normalcy got us wondering: how have the animals been handling this crisis? So, we began contacting animal shelters around the city and we were a bit surprised to learn that adoption numbers for pets, in general, have remained steady, even as the shelters closed their doors. When the call went out from the major animal shelters in search of foster homes for their animals, Albuquerque stepped up. Now that’s a silver lining. And it makes sense, right? People are home more. Many of them are home alone without a nearby support system. A new

animal friend is exactly what the doctor ordered, literally. We didn’t just speak with shelters. We spoke with three professionals in the field—a psychologist, an animal therapy tester, and a veterinarian—to learn a little bit about the benefits of adopting or fostering a pet during a time like this. Spoiler alert: animals are great for relieving stress, staying active, and even lowering blood pressure. And we spoke with some folks who decided to adopt at this time. Check out all of their stories on page 77. Continuing in the vein of animals dealing with the pandemic, flip over to page 198 for this month’s Behind the Scenes segment. We returned to the ABQ BioPark Zoo to learn a little bit about how the zoo handled quarantine, if it had any effect on the animals, and what the zoo staff had to do to get ready to reopen. So yes, that’s right. This issue isn’t just cats and dogs. We checked up on the penguins, lions, and elephants as well. With all of the excitement around reopening, however, it is still important to remember that the pandemic is not over. Cases are rising nationwide and medical staffs are still working tirelessly to save lives. So we also decided to sit down with Jeff Boman, a nurse at the University of New Mexico Hospital and the director of the COVID unit. Check out his story on page 142. In the end, ATM is all about positivity. We strive to find silver linings and feel good stories everywhere we look. With that in mind, we are proud to present to you our 2nd Annual Best of Rio Rancho voting results. The winners (and those in the Top 3) were chosen based entirely on your online ballots, and is only from among those people, places, businesses, restaurants and organizations within the geographical boundary of the City of Vision. Turn to page 119 to see who made the list. And lastly, take a tour with us to the sometimes overlooked nearby community of Placitas. Did you know it’s one of the few urban places in the United States where truly wild horses still roam free? We didn’t, either! To find out more about this beautiful and historic spot just northeast of Albuquerque, check out page 208. Thank you for reading this issue of Albuquerque The Magazine. We love it here, and we know you do, too. Sincerely,

Taylor Hood Editor-In-Chief

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

ALBUQUERQUE REACHES FOR THE SKY The steam turbine seems rather old-school, having propelled war ships and producing electricity since its invention in 1884. Today turbines accounts for about 80 percent of U.S. electricity generation. Solar energy, on the other hand, seems much more modern. But actually, it was invented first, back in 1883. Though the rise of solar use has been slow, it’s become steady—and Albuquerque has shown a commitment to the technology’s growth.

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According to a new study by Environment New Mexico Research and Policy Center, Albuquerque is #3 in the United States for photovoltaic solar systems installed per capita. Last year, our city ranked #10. The improvements come in large part as a result of efforts to convert large segments of municipal energy consumption to solar. In two years, ABQ has built 29 new solar sites and is currently working to convert its entire fleet of vehicles to plug-in hybrids. —ZB

Private planes, by and large, are the province of the uber wealthy and hyper privileged. Most people won’t get any closer to flying in one than whatever opportunities might be afforded by our most decadent and outrageous fever dreams. Not so for a few dozen young canines, who have recently taken posh flights across the United States. But whereas a lot of private flights are a matter of hedonistic indulgence, these pups were flying in style for a good cause, fulfilling the mission of Canine Companions for Independence in a time of unprecedented restriction.

In May, Canine Companions partnered with Jeff Stewart—owner of Blue Star Gas—who flew four puppies on his personal plane from Sonoma Jet Center to Cutter Aviation in Albuquerque. These efforts allowed Canine Companions to pursue its mission to help people with disabilities despite the precautions in place to fight a global pandemic. Canine Companions for Independence is a nonprofit organization that, according to their mission statement, “provides expertly trained assistance dogs to children, adults, and veterans with disabilities at no charge.” With COVID-19 limiting travel, Canine

IPCC Store Renamed “What’s in a name?” So starts the famous line of Shakespearean dialogue. Oft repeated, but no less true today than when it was first penned sometime in the late 16th century—sometimes, a change of name has nothing to do with a change in content or character. Such is the case with the store inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (IPCC). The shop has undergone a

handful of name changes since it was first opened in 1976. Most recently, it went under the title of Shumakolowa Native Arts. But going forward, it will be called the Indian Pueblo Store. “This name change allows us to clearly align our efforts to the amazing work of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center,” Monique Fragua, IPCC’s VP of Commercial Enterprises, said in a press release. “Both at our Center and online, we connect guests in a real and meaningful way to the people and art of the Southwest by showcasing the legacy of Pueblo artistry and Native American craftsmanship.” With the name change, everything important about the store will remain unaltered. In particular, it will remain a Native-owned source for authentic Native American artwork, crafts, music, prints, and books. —ZB

July is usually the hottest month of the year in New Mexico as the average high temperatures climb in the hot zone of 84°F (28.9°C) to 96°F (35.6°C).

Companions has partnered with charitably-minded private pilots to transport puppies from their national headquarters in Northern California to homes across the United States, where they will be raised and trained as future assistance dogs. —ZB

START BR A GGING

ABQ

Charlene Rimbert

Senior Account Director United Private Networks “Albuquerque has some beautiful golf courses. At least once a week, my husband and I play golf. We love to play them all, but our usual spot is Paradise Hills. When we get done, we look forward to a green chile burger and an iced cold beverage there at the course.” Start Bragging ABQ is a campaign to tell everyone what you love about our city. Got a brag about ABQ? Send it to us at editor@abqthemag.com. WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

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A Pie

Worthy

of High Praise

(Editor’s Note: Last month marked the launch of WisePies frozen pizza, an ABQbased brand that transitioned to retail stores from their roots as a sit-down restaurant chain. They’re now carried in the frozen aisle of Smith’s grocers locally, as well as in retailers in Arizona, Colorado, Wyoming, Nevada, Utah, California, Idaho and Montana.)

Thanks to a quick eye, ABQ frozen pizza brand WisePies got in front of a half-million sets of eyes last month. The exposure came courtesy of Dave Portnoy, the bad-boy founder of sports media group Barstool Sports. In case you’re not among his 2.5 million Instagram followers, Portnoy also moonlights as a pizza critic, reviewing pies on the street, often with celebs like Kevin Hart, Dana White, Evander Holyfield, T-Pain, and Guy Fieri. Then, the coronavirus happened. WisePies president Season Elliott picks up the tale from there: “One of my millennial-aged children mentioned that Dave Portnoy had switched to frozen pizza reviews because of the stay-at-home order,” says Elliott, who has led WisePies’ transition from a fast-casual restaurant chain to retail frozen pizza. “We decided to send him ours, knowing it was a long shot.” The story could have ended there—except for some week-old baby chickens. (Yes, you read that correctly.) As Portnoy reviewed national-brand frozen pies for his millions of online followers (think Red Baron and Tombstone), Elliott watched and pondered how

ATM DEFINITION OF THE MONTH 42

to get him to review her nascent ABQ pie, which was due to hit retail stores in nine states in the coming weeks. Then Portnoy—infamously colorful, as evidenced by his eviction from the 2019 Super Bowl that stemmed from his feud with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell—opened a most unusual overnight package, filled with live baby chicks. As Portnoy’s furry new roommates scattered, Elliott noticed something else of his. “I saw a sideways—but very clear—address label on the box,” she says. “I shipped our pizzas out to him the very next day. I believe in the power of the universe.” A couple days later, Portnoy did a 4-minute review of WisePies Hatch Green Chile Four Cheese pizza, which has since been seen by 527,000 people (and counting) on social media, to go along with more than 400 almost unanimously positive comments. The most telling part of the review occurs as Portnoy begins to give a numerical rating. “I’m going to go...,” he says, before pausing and continuing to chew. Ten full seconds go by as he savors the bite. Then, Portnoy: “I like this a lot.”

Teamask (n.)

So, naturally, he takes another bite. Then, with his mouth full, comes the final verdict: “Seven point two.” Of the 62 total frozen pies reviewed by Portnoy (who received the pizzas packed in dry ice and heated them in his oven), the WisePies entry rated higher than all but 15. Among those that got dusted in pizza flour by the Hatchbased pie? Yup, Red Baron’s (6.2) and Tombstone (3.1), along with Mama Celeste (6.4), Freschetta (5.7), Trader Joe’s (5.2) and (It’s-Not-Delivery-It’s) DiGiorno’s (2.8). What did Elliott think of the ratings? “There was never any doubt he was going to love it,” she says. “To get the incredible score of 7.2 and rank higher than the biggest frozen pizza brands was not a surprise. I knew he was going to fall in love with our beloved Hatch green chile.”

COVID-era face masks that are decorated with the logo of your favorite sports team. Usage: “It’s a shame that Larryl has to cover his handsome face, but we have to admit, his Raiders teamask is quite cool.”

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• Temperature scanners for all passengers, pilots, crew, and staff • Increased safety procedures, including requiring all staff members to wear masks and gloves during flights and greater sanitation practices for the balloons, vehicles, and buildings • Clear vinyl partitions in the basket to help separate groups

Above It All

Albuquerque is known around the world for its hot air balloons. And 2020 is known around the world for the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in stay-at-home orders, social distancing, and quarantine. Now, local business Rainbow Ryders, the largest hot air ballooning company in the United States, has found a way to combine ballooning and social distancing. “[On] a hot air balloon

START BR A GGING

ABQ

ride, you are out in the open, and what better way to distance from the crowds,” says Scott Appelman, president and founder of Rainbow Ryders. Of course, it’s not as simple as just saying you are open for business. Appelman and his crew have taken special steps to ensure everyone is as safe from coronavirus as they are from any aerial dangers. New safety policies include: • Reduced pricing for private flights • Hand sanitizer stations in the Rainbow Ryders’ buildings and balloons • Complimentary face masks with all flight purchases

Currently, Rainbow Ryders is offering shared capacity group balloon rides for $139 per person, and private flights for $250 per person (with a two-person minimum). Appelman is happy to be back in the skies and says Rainbow Ryders is ready to help Albuquerqueans find a safe and fun way to get out of the house and maintain social distancing. “People have counted on us for 28 years and now they can rest assured we will fly them safely through COVID with the best and most innovative safety measures for staff and customer.” —TH

Gardens Help Handle the Pandemic

John DuBois

Business Development Officer Nusenda Credit Union “The Bosque is a magical place. My family and I enjoy walking along the river canal to start our hike, so we can see the sliders (turtles), muskrats, fish, and the occasional porcupine on the canal trail! Even my 3-yearold, Parker Wallace DuBois, loves to play in the river. This outdoor feature is fun for all ages.” Start Bragging ABQ is a campaign to tell everyone what you love about our city. Got a brag about ABQ? Send it to us at editor@abqthemag.com.

Gardens are a space to cultivate and experience life vibrantly, and what better time to contemplate our relationship with the land than amid the current pandemic scenario? Turning to the earth for pure enjoyment, nourishment, or global solidarity isn’t novel during times of chaos or collective fear. Throughout history, many crises have pushed us to search for self-sufficiency, medicinal relief, social-bonding, and overall well-being in the safety of our backyard plots. This year, though, with most households quarantined and many following stay-at-home orders, tending to a pandemic garden seems like an ideal, practical, and therapeutic answer to a challenging time. For Dara Saville, Executive Director of the Yerba Mansa Project and founder of Albuquerque Herbalism, a pandemic garden represents a “safe shelter for the more existential work of sorting out how we feel about our lives past, present, and future.” In such unprecedented moments, the value of gardening—not only as a means of growing food but also as an

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

opportunity to reflect upon the direction of our lives—is far more apparent. Driven to help others create and expand their connection to the land, Dara describes her garden as living artwork, a living system where everyone—plants, animals, and human beings alike—works together to create something unique. “The garden is a perfect example of how you can have all these different participants, this diversity contributing to and strengthening the rich tapestry of life.” Indeed, gardens are an opportune metaphor for the harmoniousness we all seek as a global community. To learn more about Dara Saville and her projects, visit albuquerqueherbalism.com. —XAF

On July 16, 1945, the first Atomic Bomb was detonated at the Trinity Site in New Mexico.

WORD ON THE

Street TAYLOR RANCH ROAD

It’s not a long road (only half-a-mile, beginning to end), but it cuts through the heart of Taylor Ranch, passing by Mariposa Park and earning its name. For longtime residents of the area, Taylor Ranch Road is a well-known residential street. But the origin of the road’s name might not be as widely recognized. It’s probably best to start at the beginning. In 1939, Joel and Nina Mae Taylor left the snowy winters of Chama, New

Mexico and bought an 800-acre lot of land on the west side of the Rio Grande near Albuquerque. The couple built a small two-room adobe house on the property and made it a wintery getaway from the harsh cold of Northern New Mexico (this story is also the origin of the street name “Winter Haven Road” which runs along the Rio Grande near Taylor Ranch). Despite their part-time residency in the area, the couple became prominent

in the community and began spending more and more time in the area. In 1973, the Taylors sold 300 acres of their land to the Bellamah Corp. (who also has a street named after them), which then created the Taylor Ranch subdivision. Joel passed away in 2002 and Nina Mae in 2004, but their charitable foundation still oversees much of the sale of land in Taylor Ranch. —TH

Home Fireworks:

What You Need to Know to Stay Safe this 4 th of July Everyone knows that watching fireworks is a vital part of celebrating America’s birthday. Scattered early-evening pops and bangs mean that cooking up a batch of star-spangled cookies, firing up the grill, and getting your sparklers out is just around the corner. Of course, watching the usual stunning firework display across our city’s sky might look different this holiday, due to the continuing coronavirus pandemic. With social distancing protocols in place and mass gatherings postponed or canceled throughout the city, locally organized firework shows have also been put on halt (we’ll miss you this year, Freedom Fourth). But this certainly doesn’t mean that you can’t distill your patriotic spirit into fun (and safe) celebrations to make this 4th of July the best-ever. Whether your at-home festive ideas include a cozy movie night outdoors or

a full-blown 4th of July fete with friends and family, if home-fireworks are part of the plan, read up on these guidelines from the City of Albuquerque on firework safety and ordinance. After all, having good food, sharing quality time, and keeping you and your loved ones safe and sound will promise an Independence Day well spent.

gal. If it reads, “WARNING” it’s illegal. • Discharging fireworks in Open Space areas, City Parks, or the Bosque is prohibited. • Always purchase fireworks from local vendors within the city limits to ensure they are legal.

Legal vs. Illegal

• Homemade fireworks? Not a smart idea. An explosion, injury, or disastrous fire can occur from attempting a DIY version. Stick to buying from local vendors instead. • Make sure you have a hose or bucket of water close by for cooling off sparklers or putting out an accidental fire. • Children should never play with or discharge fireworks. • Always follow directions thoroughly.

• All aerial fireworks (think roman candles or missile-type rockets) and ground audible devices (firecrackers and chasers) are illegal. • Flitter sparklers, cone fountains, and wheels are among the legal fireworks. To see the full list of permissible fireworks, visit City of Albuquerque’s Firework Ordinance & Safety online. • If the label reads, “CAUTION” it’s le-

Safety & Tips

—XAF

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

START BR A GGING

ABQ

Rathi Casey

Partner and CEO UKUU Creative â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love exploring new outdoor spaces in Albuquerque. I stumbled upon the Sandia Lakes last October and had the opportunity to view the Balloon Fiesta from a completely different perspective! I also love visiting local hotels and B&Bs. We have some of the best staycation spots in the country!â&#x20AC;? Start Bragging ABQ is a campaign to tell everyone what you love about our city. Got a brag about ABQ? Send it to us at editor@abqthemag.com.

In July 1947, a rancher in Roswell discovered unusual debris in his sheep pasture and put Roswell on the international UFO community radar. Our Roswell readers will be happy to know that July 2 is now World UFO Day. JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

What A Grape Idea

When our ‘stay-at-home’ breakfast needed a new twist, we turned to a few ABQ online friends We’ve all spent quite a bit of relaxing time at home during this roller coaster known as the coronavirus. But let’s face it—it’s also brought on plenty of boredom. And so, the mind wanders. Which brings us to a curious thought the Albuquerque The Magazine team had one morning over breakfast: what wines might pair best with…wait for it…Frosted Strawberry Pop-Tarts? Perhaps it was a tongue-in-cheek question (or maybe we just had a need to know). So, we tossed it into the information pinball machine known as social media, and some surprisingly passionate answers bounced back—both from the magazine’s local Facebook fans and from a few serious winemakers in Albuquerque. First, the wine drinkers at home weighed in. ATM subscriber (and owner of Merry Maids cleaning service) Michael Blomker stated that, to pair wine perfectly with the sweet pop-tarts, “You’ll want to stick with recent vintages. Older wines won’t hold up to the sweetness.” Excellent point—this guy knows his pairings, we thought. Another opinion came from Facebook friend Saygen Davila, a certified ABQ Sommelier, who said the real key can be found in the flavor combinations. “For a strawberry poptart, a German Riesling would do the trick,” he says. “They tend to be drier than the Americans

(wine), but still have a nice fruit-forward finish.” Okayyy, duly noted. This has now officially become a serious subject. Then came this from Joseph Baca, a local wine expert of sorts who was once the spirits-and-wine columnist for ATM: “That’s easy. Any Sémillon wine (Sauternes), Riesling, or Moscato,” he said, clearly using the lofty language of the vine-educated. Pondering his suggestion, we figured we had uncovered some deep, palate-shaping secrets. Then Baca shifted gears on us: “Or, since you’ve started drinking wine for breakfast during the quarantine,” he continued, “you may resort to any of the Mad Dog 20/20 Dragon Fruit flavors.” Very funny, Joseph. Who drinks wine before the morning sun even lifts above the Sandias?? (Insert wink emoji here.) But that aside, we knew we were onto something now. So, we continued by posing the vinowith-tarts question to some local ABQ winemakers, who also put a thought-provoking spin on the pairing possibilities. “I recommend VARA Silverhead Brut Rosada Cava. The fine bubbles and rich mouthfeel of the medium-dry glass of bubbles will wash down that tart perfectly,” says Jessie McKeon, an ‘official taster’ and do-everything gal at VARA Winery & Distillery in the North

Valley. “The most civilized way to start your day is with something sparkling.” McKeon then added something that sounded like sweet music to us: “It’s breakfast, so you won’t be judged.” Do we like her, or what? Finally, someone who truly understands us. Sigh. Further validation also came from VARA’s President & CEO, Xavier Zamarripa, who similarly recommended the Cava, but pointed out this creative twist: “You can add the excess (pop-tart) sprinkles to your glass,” he says, “and watch them dance.” Our hearts fluttered. A drink AND a show. Who knew? Lastly, the folks at Casa Rondeña Winery chimed in, and they also took the question seriously, offering up a pairing suggestion from their lineup of fine local vino. “We’d like to recommend our 2019 Merlot Rosé, which was released in February,” says John Calvin, the owner, vintner and founder of the gorgeous, lush, tree-lined winery in Los Ranchos. “Like a delicate flower, this wine blooms with subtle aromas of sunshine-soaked strawberry fields.” Sounds like we could enjoy this pairing forever. Or at least, until the pandemic forces us to—bite your tongue—go back to work. But for now, salud! (And please, pass the pop-tarts.) —LL

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

ALBUQUERQUE BUSINESS FIRST

PHILANTHROPY summit

TWEET BEAT

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 8 A.M

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

Join us for this expanded event, honoring New Mexico givers and the hardworking nonprofits that move our community forward. How will the future of philanthropy and giving be changed by Covid-19? Hear expert advice from New Mexico leaders who have sat on both sides of the funding-fundraising table. Our panel will answer your questions about giving and receiving in the land of Enchantment. NWS Albuquerque @NWSAlbuquerque Another gorgeous sunset from #abq this evening #nmwx

See panelists and register: https://bizj.us/1q4kye

Sponsorships available: contact Will Martinez at wmartinez@bizjournals.com

PRESENTING SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Elise Kaplan @EliseKapNM Yesterday in journalism: Traveled through the most dramatic landscapes to the homestead of the Navajo Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first chairman. Here I am talking to his great grandson, while 14 dogs, several goats and this cow mingle.

Dyl Greenhaus @DylanGreenhaus Since times are tough right now for small businesses, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to create a thread of some of my favorite local places to eat at here in #Albuquerque. I strongly encourage everyone to contribute to this thread to help spread awareness about these stellar establishments. What do you have to say about #abq? Follow us at twitter.com/abqthemag

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

2019 Warriors for Warriors On November 2, Kirtland Air Force Base brought together the warriors of our Air Force and the warriors fighting cancer for this marquee event. Attendees listened to speeches from survivors, enjoyed food and drink, and got a chance to mingle with the crew and view the aircrafts of the 58th Special Operations Wing. 1. Agastya Seward, Victoria Marasco Faces & Places celebrates gatherings 2. Michael Webb, Torie Clarke for charity and other events. Since the 3. Mitchel Waring, Elisabeth Waring COVID-19 crisis currently prevents such 4. Kenny Johnson, Gabriela Gonzalez gatherings, please enjoy some of our favorite F&P events from the past year. 5. Kevin Norman, Matt Finkelstein, Karen Finkelstein, Jerry Linenger As soon as these events begin again, we 6. Lizbeth Barrios, Nancy Gonzalez promise to be there. 7. Elaine Lujan, Laurie Lujan

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

Ever wish you had a personal expert on speed dial?

Someone to help with the challenges and uncertainty on the road ahead? Upgrade NM is a coalition of trusted and proven business and technology experts in New Mexico— here to help when you need it the most! We’ll assist with all of your business needs ranging from technology and financial cost controls to systems designed to do more with less! Take charge of your destiny. Don’t be caught off-guard by slowdowns, or worse, shutdowns! We’re the coalition of experts you can trust!

Just the piece you were missing. Learn more today! www.upgradenm.com

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

Convoy of Hope Community Event On November 2, the City of Albuquerque and local businesses partnered to give out $1 million in food, gifts, and services to Albuquerqueans in need. The event was part of a nationally marketed campaign to build better communities through giving. 1. Nannette Serrano, Justin Serrano Faces & Places celebrates gatherings 2. Maria Sizemore, Linh Tran, Rebecca Gomez for charity and other events. Since the 3. Jessica Gomez, Ivy Lindberg, Abbie Lindberg COVID-19 crisis currently prevents such 4. Jonathan Millar, Darrol Hanush, Andrew Sanchez gatherings, please enjoy some of our 5. Kim Serna, Heather Ortiz, Tracy Marquez favorite F&P events from the past year. 6. Justin Vigil, Wayne Davis, Dylan Julian, Alex Hill As soon as these events begin again, we promise to be there. 7. Allie Kibbe, Cali Archibeque, Becky Dickinson

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

Our non-essential clients kept their conversations going through social media during these past few months. Thanks for hanging through the tough times with us.

siarza.com 505.234.6900

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

Toys for Tots Show and Shine Benefit Vroom! New Mexico Motor Events returned to hosting duties for the longest running Toys for Tots event in the city on December 8 at Elks Lodge #2500. Attendees were encouraged to bring their cars, motorcycles, trucks, unicycles, etc. to display at the event. The United States Marine Corps also collected $25 donations and/or pre-wrapped Christmas gifts for local children in need. 1. Amy Lawson, Jonathan Alcala, Jacob Divett, Dustin Mortensen Faces & Places celebrates gatherings 2. Paul Caputo, Joe Cowling, Jack Ming for charity and other events. Since the 3. Mike Gonzales, Rio the Roadrunner, Andres Trujillo COVID-19 crisis currently prevents such 4. Leticia Munoz, Danna Moore, Carol Dooley gatherings, please enjoy some of our 5. Tyler Sanchez, Renate Schuler, Matt Morrow favorite F&P events from the past year. 6. Art Baca, Kenneth Caudle As soon as these events begin again, we promise to be there. 7. Krystle Shaw, Mychelle Gray, Jennifer Chapin

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WHERE

TAKING CARE OF YOU IS OUR SPECIALTY

Robert W. Walters, M.D. - David Davis, M.D. - Matthew Thompson, M.D. - Michael B. Chang, M.D. Daniel A. Davis, M.D. - Natalie Mills, PA-C - Monica M. Romero, M.D. - Megan Pribyl, PA-C Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center of NM stands with New Mexico as we join in the fight against COVID-19 that is spreading widely in the U.S. and endangers the lives of many New Mexican’s. Our certified Dermatologists and Dermatology PA’s have implemented telemedicine to treat our patients without putting their health at risk. Telemedicine may be of particular use for patients at higher risk of infection (the elderly and those with other health issues) and for non-urgent appointments. We are available to you, always, for your dermatologic concerns.

For a virtual or telephone call visit, call our office at 505-243-7546. Monday through Friday from 8 AM until 4 PM Visit us online at nmdermcenter.com • 505-243-SKIN (7546) • 6200 Uptown Blvd. NE Ste. 410

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

Charles Dickens Winter Ball and Showcase Albuquerqueans dressed up in their best Dickens-esque/Steam Punk costumes for Holiday Dance Studio’s annual “Dickens Ball.” There was plenty of merriment to be had as attendees danced the night away with free waltz lessons and a gourmet dinner. Local non-profit 505 Steampunk: Society of Brass and Steam partnered with the dance studio to add a whimsical flair to the evening. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Joey Hudson, Mary Anne Haynes, Tanith Hudson, Lynn Sewell Sooz Kalila, Matthew Kirkpatrick, Carilyn Rome, Todd Stackhouse Shannon Driscoll, Jeff Robbins, Sherri Tull Elene Gusch, Bob Gusch, Lorry Gelet, Dave Gelet Scott Bragunier, Colette Vanderpool, Sharon Geilenfeldt, Zephaniah Pilcher Karl Seitz, Xin Zhang, Angel Battaglia, Alexa Estrada Arup Maji, Dipa Maji, Jill Ritz, Nick Ritz

Faces & Places celebrates gatherings for charity and other events. Since the COVID-19 crisis currently prevents such gatherings, please enjoy some of our favorite F&P events from the past year. As soon as these events begin again, we promise to be there.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

7th Annual Homie Holidaze Professional skateboarding brothers and ABQ natives, Daniel and Andrew Lutheran, hosted the 7th annual Homie Holidaze event on December 21 at North Domingo Baca Park. The free, family-friendly event featured food, drinks, music, group photos, and skate competitions, all to benefit the local youth skateboard community. 1. Andrew Lutheran, Daniel Lutheran 2. Haley Sedam, Lylah Lutheran, Alyssia Sanchez, Sharon Lutheran 3. Crystal Foust, Heart Foust, Tiger Foust, Jacob Foust 4. Marie Pirko, Mike Pirko, Steve Renfro, Jackson Renfro 5. Roone Fairbanks, Sasha Sanchez 6. Travis Waller, Monico Candelaria 7. Zeke Duran, Mariah Duran, Elijah Duran

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

EXPERIENCE THE BEST I N L I M O U S I N E T R A N S P O R TAT I O N

RESERVATIONS | 505.836.4035 303 Arvada Avenue NW | Albuquerque, NM luckyboyzlimos@me.com | info@luckyboyzlimos.com www.luckyboyzlimos.com

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Safety in Numbers

The phrase ‘Safety in Numbers’ has new meaning – think about it. We’re limiting attendees to limit the spread.

Join us for a personal tour today and see for yourself! Call 505.856.1818 or visit SportsandWellness.com to get started.

Five Clubs, Unlimited Possibilities. D E L

N O R T E

D O W N T O W N

H I G H P O I N T

*Restrictions and terms may apply. JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

M I D T O W N

2020 Wellbridge.

R I V E R P O I N T

WHERE TRADITIONS BEGIN.

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

Editor’s Note: The events listed may have adjustments to days and or times, or may be canceled or postponed altogether, due to COVID-19 concerns, stay-at-home directives, and the outline by state officials to avoid large gatherings. We recommend contacting the event in advance for the latest scheduling information.

TOP PICK monday 6–monday 20 | pickup 7:30–9:30 am Keshet Summer Dance Challenge. Order your Curbside Pickup for an activity bag each Monday. Bags will have arts activities to experience from home. Dancers ages 6 and over get a daily online Zoom Warm-Up, sharing artwork and experiences online. Preschool-age packets available. Info: Keshet Center for the Arts, 4121 Cutler Ave. NE. Pre-registration required: keshetarts.org/dance/youth-camps. Cost per week: sliding scale per budgets

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

wednesday 8 | 12 noon–1:30 pm

Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body. Get tips from the latest research in this Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter webinar. Learn how research in diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement can help you form a plan for healthy aging. Info: c o m m u n i t y re s o u rc e f i n d e r. o r g , 8 0 0 - 2 7 2 3900. Free.

wednesday 8 | 12 noon

Kristy Hinds Streamed. After years of globetrotting, Kristy Hinds once again calls New Mexico home. She has recently released “Strange Religion,” an EP of mutinous pop, jazz-inflected and built on top of Latin, reggae and funk rhythms. Info: Tickets: Free. This event will be streamed from the AMP Concerts Facebook page: facebook. c o m /A M P Co n c e r t s . Donations encouraged.

friday 8 | 7 pm

Lane 8 Concert. Daniel Goldstein, better known by his stage name, Lane 8, is an American musician, electronic music producer, and DJ. Currently residing in Denver, he was named a future star and an artist to watch. Info: El Rey Theater, 622 Central Ave. SW, elreytheater. com, 242-2353.

saturday 11– sunday 12 | various times

Trolls Live. Get ready for another hair-raising adventure when Poppy, Branch and all their Trolls friends come to life on stage in their first ever live tour. Great for the whole family. Info: Santa Ana Star Center, 3001 Civic Center Circle NE, Rio Rancho, ticketcity.com.

saturday 11 | 4 pm

Author Event at Page One Books. Author Darynda Jones of Portales will talk about and sign her new mystery novel, “A Bad Day for Sunshine,” which is set in New Mexico. Info: Page One Books, 5850 Eubank Blvd. NE, Suite B-41, page1book.com, 2942026. Free to attend.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

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

saturday 11

New Mexico United. The USL has announced a provisional return to play for the 2020 season as of July 11. Games will be held in strict alignment with all public health guidelines. This may require no fans in attendance and broadcast only, or limited attendance. Check the website for schedule details. Info: newmexicoutd. com.

thursday 16 | 7:30– 9:30 pm

Masters of Hawaiian Music. Three Masters, featured regularly at Maui’s renowned “Slack Key Show,” bring Hawai’i’s unique folk styles, with origins in the early 19th century Hawaiian paniolo (cowboy) culture, to 21st century stages. Info: National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th Street SW, ampconcerts. org. Tickets: $27.

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

thursday 16 | 8 pm

Cody Johnson. Johnson’s passionate, rowdy concerts have drawn comparisons to Garth Brooks, and the music from his previous albums, inspired by ‘90s country foundations but built for the 21st century, has made him a familiar presence on Texas and Oklahoma red-dirt radio. Info: Sandia Resort & Casino, 30 Rainbow Road, ticketcity.com.

saturday 25 | 6 pm

Santa Fe Flute Immersion 2020. This concert is a Core Repertoire for Flute and Piano. Info: Immaculate Heart Chapel, 50 Mount Carmel Road, Santa Fe, nmpas.org. Free and open to the public.

please note

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

sunday, july 5–saturday, august 29 | various times

Cloud Dancers Therapeutic Horsemanship. We can’t wait to get going again; the horses are so lonely. We are taking applications for new riders for classes that may start between July and September. We’d love to have you come ride with us. Info: clouddancersthp.org, 926-1426.

monday 6–monday 20 | pickup 7:30–9:30 am

Keshet Summer Dance Challenge. Order your Curbside Pickup for an activity bag each Monday. Bags will have arts activities to experience from home. Dancers ages 6 and over get a daily online Zoom WarmUp, sharing artwork and experiences online. Preschool-age packets available. Info: Keshet Center for the Arts, 4121 Cutler Ave. NE. Pre-registration required: keshetarts.org/dance/youth-camps. Cost per week: sliding scale per budgets.

monday 6–saturday, august 1 | times tbd

Keshet Community Dance Classes: Summer Session. Online live Zoom Classes for ages 8 years old through adults offered in ballet, contemporary, hip hop and jazz. All abilities, all ages. Weekly Dance Party each Thursday at 4:30 pm. Subsidized pricing available. Registration ongoing. Info: keshetarts.org, 224-9808. Online pre-recorded classes available: Keshet Dance YouTube channel.

tuesday 7–tuesday 28 | 9–10 am

Fine Wine Dance Classes: Moving FWD. Online Zoom Classes specifically for ages 55 and over, exploring movement and choreography, this class focuses on improvisation and body awareness. No experience necessary. Registration is ongoing. Info: keshetarts.org, 224-9808.

wednesday 8 | 12 noon–1:30 pm

wednesday 8 | 12 noon

wednesday 8 | 6–7 pm

Kristy Hinds. A lone New Mexico woman serves sonic justice through reggae, bolero, and swing territory guided by her trusty flair for sardonicism. Info: Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge Drive NE, ampconcerts.org. Tickets: Free.

friday 8 | 7 pm

thursday 9–thursday 30 | 9–10 am

Fine Wine Dance Classes. See description on Tuesday, July 7. Info: keshetarts.org, 224-9808.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

friday 10 | 7:30 pm

Albuquerque Science Fiction Society Meeting. Portales author Darynda Jones, who has completed her “Charley Davidson” paranormal series, will discuss her new mystery set in New Mexico, “A Bad Day for Sunshine.” This club offers author readings, films and discussions. Info: Activity Room, St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 5301 Ponderosa Ave. NE, bubonicon.com, 266-8905. Free to newcomers.

saturday 11 | 1–4 pm

Time Travel at the Presidio. The Presidio was a Spanish military reservation and a post exchange for service members. The store provided goods such as clothes, munitions, and food to the soldiers stationed in remote areas. Viewers interact with characters from this time period through historic games, trade, activities, clothing, and arts. Info: Casa San Ysidro, 973 Old Church Road, Corrales, cabq.gov. Free.

saturday 11–sunday 12 | various times

Trolls Live. Get ready for another hairraising adventure when Poppy, Branch and all their Trolls friends come to life on stage in their first ever live tour. Great for the whole family. Info: Santa Ana Star Center, 3001 Civic Center Circle NE, Rio Rancho, ticketcity.com.

saturday 11 | 4 pm

saturday 11 |

monday 13 | 6–7 pm

Kristy Hinds. See description on Wednesday, July 8. Info: Cherry Hills Library, 6901 Barstow Street NE, ampconcerts.org. Tickets: Free.

thursday 16 | 7:30–9:30 pm

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

thursday 16 | 8 pm

friday 17 | 9:30 am–12 noon

Colcha Community Stitch-Along. Colchera is a traditional New Mexican style of embroidery. Bring your current colcha project along and enjoy this informal, community work session to share ideas, resources and encouragement. Led by Annette Gutierrez Turk. Info: Domenici Education Building, National Hispanic Cultural Center, nhccnm.org, or call Elena at 246-2261. Free.

tuesday 21 | 8:30–10 am

Business LeadHERship Training and Mastermind. Every month Dr. Kate meets other entrepreneurs and business owners for a cup of coffee and conversation where they share and exchange strategies about leading businesses. Monthly themes will include one of the 12 pillars of Sustainable Leadership for Success. Info: register at meetup.com, free.

friday 24 |

New Mexico Young Actors Registration Discount. Our fall 2020 semester is scheduled to begin August 10 with auditions for The Musical Adventures of Oliver Twist and Robin Hood, and our drama class will meet on August 14. Register by July 24 and save $20 on the registration fee. Info: nmyoungactors.org.

saturday 25 | 6 pm

Santa Fe Flute Immersion 2020. This concert is a Core Repertoire for Flute and Piano. Info: Immaculate Heart Chapel, 50 Mount Carmel Road, Santa Fe, nmpas.org. Free and open to the public.

ONGOING: daily | various times

Al-Anon Family Groups and Alateen– Meetings. An anonymous fellowship of relatives and friends of problem drinkers, meetings are held on various days, times and locations throughout Albuquerque and New Mexico. We come together to share our experience, strength and hope to recover from the effects of another person’s drinking. Info: Al-Anon Information Service, aisnm.org, 262-2177.

daily |

Albuquerque Apparel Center and AAC School of Fashion Design. Melissa Lea, president and founder of AAC and awardwinning fashion designer, offers a variety of industry-based fashion design classes, seminars, retreats, and more. Couture, costume, and custom clothing design services, alterations, and patternmaking services are also available. Info: abqapparelcenter.com, 803-6966. Agora Crisis Center Volunteers. Are you a compassionate, non-judgmental person who wants to help others? Learn new skills, make friends, earn class credit, and be a part of a rewarding organization. Info: Agora Crisis Center, agoracares.org.

daily |

Animal Humane’s Free Behavioral Helpline. This free service is available to all pet owners who are experiencing behavior problems with their dogs and cats. Animal Humane New Mexico’s trained behavior coaches answer questions and provide tips on everything from housetraining to living with multiple animals. Info: 9387900.

Ronald McDonald House. Ronald McDonald House Charities of New Mexico provides a home-away-from-home for families with ill children. Operating the 30-bedroom house and the Ronald McDonald Family Room on the sixth floor of the UNM Children’s Hospital, volunteers make a vital difference in the lives of the people they serve. Info: Traci, 842-8960, volunteer7@ comcast.net, rmhc-nm.org. Explora. The museum brings out new activities in the “Working Together to Build a Village” exhibit area in its Rotary Pavilion, offering hands-on activities related to construction, architecture, and engineering, and Sketch Aquarium and Curious Bubbles in the Explora Theater. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 224-8300. Cost: Included in admission.

daily |

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

“We Are of This Place: The Pueblo Story” Art Exhibit. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center celebrates its 40th anniversary with this permanent museum exhibit that represents all 19 Pueblos and builds upon the IPCC’s 40-year history of telling the story of Pueblo people in their own voices. Hear stories in Pueblo languages from artists and elders, interact with art and artifacts, learn about the Pueblo people’s history of resilience, and experience traditions that have been passed down for generations. Info: Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th Street NW, indianpueblo.org, 843-7270. Free with museum admission: adults, $8.40; seniors and NM residents, $6.40; students and children, $5.40.

daily |

Donate Blood. Someone needs it every day. Info: 843-6227, unitedbloodservices. org.

daily |

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

daily |

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

Watermelon Mountain Ranch Animal Center. New Mexico’s largest no-kill animal shelter seeks loving homes for rescued dogs and cats. Adoptions are at select Petsmart locations and Watermelon Mountain Ranch on various days from 10 am–8 pm. Donations, fosters, and volunteers are always welcome. Info: wmranch.org, 771-0140, wmranchnm@aol. com.

daily | 9 am–3 pm

Veterans Presentation. Listen to veterans tell about historical events or their personal experience in the service to our country. Speakers represent WWII, Korean, Vietnam, and War on Terror experiences. Also tour the museum, gardens and amphitheater. Info: New Mexico Veterans Memorial Park, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE, 256-2042. Free admission. Donations requested.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

daily | 9 am–5 pm

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

daily | 10 am–5 pm

Adopt a Pet. Find your best pet ever. Adopt a dog, cat, puppy or kitten from Animal Humane New Mexico. Adoptions include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and a microchip. Info: 615 Virginia Street SE, 10141 Coors Blvd. NW, animalhumanenm. org.

daily | various times

Explora’s Experiment Bar. Fruit and veggie batteries, thaumatropes, invisible writing, electromagnetics, DNA extraction or spin art? Visit Explora’s website to see which of our hands-on activities are happening. Activities change weekly. Mondays through Saturdays at 10 am and Sundays at noon. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 224-8300. Free with general admission.

mondays | 5–6 pm

Geeks Who Drink. Test your knowledge while enjoying a unique evening’s experience. Free of charge and open to anyone 21 and older. Prizes awarded to winning teams. Only one table allowed per team. Warning: this quiz contains adult themes and adult language. Info: O’Niell’s Heights, 3301 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, oniells. com, 293-1122.

every second monday | 6:30–8 pm

Outcomes, Inc. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Discussion/Support Groups. Info: Heights Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 8600 Academy Road NE, 243-2551 to reserve a space. Free childcare provided. Free.

mondays | 5:30 pm

every third monday | 6–7:30 pm

every second monday | 6:30 pm

every fourth monday | 6:30– 8:30 pm

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

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

Outcomes, Inc. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Discussion/Support Groups. Info: West Mesa Community Center, 5500 Glenrio NW, 243-2551 to reserve a space. Free childcare provided. Free.

Bead Society of New Mexico Monthly Membership Meeting. The BSNM’s purpose is to promote the members’ and the public education, appreciation, and involvement in the field of beads and bead-related subjects. No meeting in July or December. Info: North Domingo Baca Multigenerational Center, 7521 Carmel Drive NE, beadsocietynm.org.

feel the rush of 12mph. Steal away a day on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. It’s a breathtaking journey that zig zags through steep mountain canyons, the high desert, and lush meadows. The train departs from Antonito, Colorado or Chama, New Mexico and returns to the origination point after a hearty lunch in Osier. Feel the rails underneath. Hear the bright steam whistle. And leave all those worries behind.

book now at cumbrestoltec.com 1-888-286-2737

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JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

America’s most historic scenic railroad

5/22/20 10:02 AM

mondays–fridays | various times

Ninja Park Obstacle Course Fitness Center. TAK Fit is Ninja Park’s fun and functional fitness style that utilizes calisthenics exercise, dynamic lifts, and obstacles to create a unique and balanced workout that you will not find anywhere else. Join and have fun getting fit. Ages 16 and older. Classes are 6:30 to 7 am, 12:30 am to 1 pm, and 6:30 to 7 pm. Info: ninjaparkabq.com, 883-9203.

mondays–saturdays | 10 am–5 pm

Exquisite Turquoise in the Castle. This extraordinary German-style castle is the museum setting, featuring rare turquoise specimens, lapidary demos, history and geology, a mine tunnel replica, hands-on activities for kids, and silver smithing. Info: The Turquoise Museum, 400 2nd Street SW, turquoisemuseum.com, 433-3684. Tickets: $16, discounts for AAA, over 55 and military.

tuesdays | 2–3 pm

tuesdays | 7:30–10 pm

Caregiver Support Group. Caregiving for a loved one can be overwhelming and isolating. This group provides a compassionate space for caregivers to gain emotional support and information. Facilitated by Erin Tarica, LMSW. Info: Jewish Community Center, 5520 Wyoming Blvd. NE. Preregistration required by calling 348-4451. Free.

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

tuesday and thursdays | 9–10:30 am

tuesdays | 6 pm

Fine Wine Dance Classes: Moving FWD. Classes specifically for ages 55 and over, exploring movement and choreography as a community. No experience necessary. Drop-in class $7.50 with discount; Session package discounts available. Registration is ongoing. Info: Keshet Center for the Arts, 4121 Cutler Ave. NE, keshetarts.org, 224-9808.

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

tuesdays | 6:30–9:30 pm

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

tuesdays–saturdays | 9 am–5 pm

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

tuesdays | 6:30–9:30 pm

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

reopening!

Blue Portal is reopening on June 4th!

ALBU

QUER

QUE

A Gallery With A Purpose Creative Senior Artisans since 1978

Blue Portal is one of eight philanthropic programs operated by Assistance League of Albuquerque. Since 1978, Assistance League of Albuquerque has operated Blue Portal - An Arts And Crafts Gallery that returns 100% of the price of the items it sells to the senior artisans who create them. Hours: 11am - 3pm Thurs-Saturday 1pm-4pm on Sunday 2107 Church Street NW Albuquerque, NM

Blue-Portal online shopping link located on our website.

(For Local Pickup ONLY) Starts June 4.

LEARN MORE ABOUT US AT ASSISTANCELEAGUEABQ.ORG 68

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JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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

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

tuesdays–sundays | 10 am–5 pm

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

tuesdays, thursdays, fridays, sundays | 11 am

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

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

Catopia Fun Events. Come to relax, have snacks and drinks, and play with our wonderful adoptable cats. We also offer events like Painting with Cats, Henna Cattoos, Cat Photography, Music Nights, and “Ask the Vet.” Info: catopiacatcafe.com, 508-4278.

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

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

tuesdays, thursdays, and saturdays | various times

Ninja Park Obstacle Course Fitness Center. First place winner of the 2015 Women’s Area Qualifier in the Ultimate Ninja Athlete Association (UNAA) competition, Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor Jessica Lucero teaches fun and challenging back-to-back classes every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday: Body Blast, 6 to 7 pm; Obstacle Technique and Efficiency, 7 to 7:30 pm; and Foam Rolling and Stretching, 7 to 7:30. Try one, two, or all three classes for free (firsttime participants only). Info: 883-9203, ninjaparkabq.com.

every first tuesday | 1–2:30 pm

Spanish Language Alzheimer’s Support Group. This meeting is for Spanishspeaking individuals caring for a family member with dementia. Info: Alamosa Community Center, 6900 Gonzales Road SW, Suite C, 363-8499 or (800) 2723900.

every first and fourth tuesday | 10 am–2 pm

Rug Hookers Demonstration. Join the Adobe Wool Arts Guild for a monthly demonstration of rug hooking in the Heritage Farmhouse. Info: ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. NW, 848-7180, abqbiopark.com. Tickets: Included with admission.

every second tuesday | 11 am–1 pm

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

every second tuesday | 6–7 pm

Outcomes, Inc. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Discussion/Support Groups. Info: Tijeras-East Mountains, Los Vecinos Community Center, 478 1/2 Old Highway 66, Tijeras, 243-2551 to reserve a space. Free childcare provided. Free.

every fourth tuesday | 7–9 pm

Duke City Story Slam. This monthly storytelling event is where people tell true-life stories, without notes, on that month’s theme. Attendees can reserve a 5-min Open Mic slot between the featured storytellers. A friendly panel of judges scores each story; the winner takes home a prize. Info: Canteen Brewhouse, 2381 Aztec Rd. NE, storytellersofnewmexico.com, facebook. com/newmexicostorytellers.

wednesdays | 10 and 11 am

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

wednesdays | 10:30 am

Good Morning Storytime with Ms. Dakota. Join for a story, a snack and a fun activity. For toddlers and preschoolers. Info: Barnes and Noble Coronado Center, 6600 Menaul Blvd. NE, bn.com, 883-8200. Free.

wednesdays and saturdays | 11 am

Sculpture Garden Tours at Albuquerque Museum. Enjoy a pleasant stroll in our sculpture garden with a friendly docent who will share stories on the artists and their works. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, cabq.gov, 2437255. Tour included with paid general admission, $4-$6.

wednesdays | 12 noon–1 pm

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

wednesdays | 12:30 and 1:30 pm

Music in the Sky: Weekly Music Time. Activities for toddlers and parents include music and movements. Info: Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE, 768-6020. Admission is free for the children and an adult.

wednesdays | 6–9 pm

Albuquerque Dance Club. ADC offers social dancing every Wednesday to a variety of music mix including swing, country, Latin, ballroom, and tango. No partner needed, over 21 only, ID required. Info: The Dirty Bourbon, 9800 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 299-3737. $5 cover.

every last tuesday | 6–7 pm

wednesdays | 9 pm

wednesdays | 9:30 and 11 am

every first wednesday | 9 am–5 pm

Murderinos Book Club. This free true crime book club monthly and Book Club purchases get 10% discount at Bookworks. Info: Bookworks, 4022 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, bkwrks.com, 344-8139. Free to attend. Stories in the Sky: Weekly Story Time. Activities for toddlers and parents include stories about science, flight, geography, the seasons, the environment, astronomy and more. For toddlers through age 6. Info: Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE, 768-6020. Admission is free for the children and an adult.

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

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

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every second wednesday | 6:30–7:30 pm

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

every second wednesday | 6:30 pm–8:30 pm

Rio Rancho Art Association (RRAA) Monthly Membership Meeting. RRAA’s mission is the cultural and educational enrichment of the community and surrounding areas by providing opportunities for artists and the public to collectively participate in fine art events and programs. Info: Don Chalmers Ford Community Room, 2500 Rio Rancho Blvd., 301-2009, rraausa.org.

every second and fourth wednesday | 10 am–2 pm

Quilters Demonstration. The New Mexico Quilters will be working on their Botanic Garden quilt and other projects in the Heritage Farmhouse. Info: ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. NW, 848-7180, abqbiopark.com. Tickets: Included with admission.

every fourth wednesday and thursday | 12 noon–2 pm and 6–8 pm

Polka Dot Powerhouse Albuquerque Monthly Business Connects. Polka Dot Powerhouse is a closely linked family of extraordinary women—a world of fun, business growth, and connection. Learn, network, and be inspired with other area professionals, business owners, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. Guests are invited to attend their first meeting for free. Info: Managing Director Barbra Portzline, bportzline@comcast.net. Register at polkadotpowerhouse.com.

thursdays | 10 am–12 noon

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

thursdays | 10:30 am

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

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

thursdays | 3–5 pm

Class with Explora Maker-in-Residence. Explore the science of sound and make a musical instrument with Daveed Korup. Most Thursdays 3-5 pm; call to confirm. Limited places, first-come first-served at class time. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 224-8300. Included with general admission $6-$10.

every thursday | 6 pm

Stand-up Comedy at The Stage. This is a fun date night. Enjoy great food and drinks, and the nation’s best comics. Seating is first come, first served. Doors open at 6 pm, comedy starts at 7:30 pm. 21 and over. Info: Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel, 54 Jemez Canyon Dam Road, Santa Ana Pueblo, 771-5680. Tickets: $10.

every thursday | 6–9 pm

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

every first thursday | 9:30 am–12 noon

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

every first thursday | 6:30– 8:30 pm

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

every second thursday | 6–8 pm

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

every fourth thursday | 10 am–2 pm

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

Party in the Fireroom or on the Patio. Pueblo Harvest Café hosts live music in its cozy Fireroom or on the patio. While you listen and dance, enjoy a taco bar, all-youcan-eat horno-baked pizza, handcrafted cocktails, local craft beer, and a creative menu of appetizers from our acclaimed culinary team. Info: Pueblo Harvest Café, 2401 12th Street NW, puebloharvestcafe. com, 724-3510. No cover.

fridays | 10:30 am

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

fridays | 12 noon–1:30 pm

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

fridays | 1 pm

Mural Discovery Tour. The IPCC houses 19 murals by Pueblo artists. Our guided tour provides an introduction to the art, traditions, and core values of Pueblo culture, and a who’s who of Pueblo artists, such as Pablita Velarde, Helen Hardin, and Jose Rey Toledo. Reflect upon the murals and uncover layers of meaning in each, with representations of traditional Pueblo life, including dance, the seasons and our connection to animals, as well as the contemporary vision of emerging artists. Tours can be scheduled for groups in advance by calling 212-7052. Info: Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th Street NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org. Free with museum admission: adults, $8.40; seniors and military, $6.40; New Mexico residents, $6.40; students and children, $5.40; children under 5, free.

fridays | 7–10 pm

Dance Party. Learn a new dance and meet new people each week at ABQ’s newest studio, with three beautiful ballrooms and state-of-the-art floating dance floors. Enjoy refreshments and an introductory dance class from 7–8 pm. Info: Holiday Dance Studio, 5200 Eubank Blvd. NE, 5084020, holidaydancestudio.com. $10.

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

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

every first friday |

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

every first friday | 1:30 pm

Tamarind Institute First Friday Tours. See the workshop facility, learn about fine art lithography, the current programs and the history of Tamarind (a division within the College of Fine Arts at UNM), a collaborative process video, and a printing demonstration. Reservations: tamarind. unm.edu. Info: Tamarind Institute, 2500 Central Ave. SE, 453-2159. Free.

every first friday | 8–10 pm

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

every other friday | 7–9 pm

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

every third friday | 7–9 pm

Cactus and Succulent Society of New Mexico. Discuss cacti and succulents; enjoy a program presented on a particular subject relevant to these plants. Program usually involves a slideshow. Not necessary to be a member to attend. Info: Albuquerque Garden Center, 10120 Lomas Blvd. NE, 296-6020 new-mexico.cactussociety.org.

saturdays | 8 am–12 noon

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

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saturdays | 10 am

Downtown Walking Tour. Learn about our diverse settlers who arrived with the railroad in 1880. Hear stories about the merchants, politicians and pioneers who shaped our city. Allow 2 hours and wear comfortable shoes. Every Saturday through November. Info: Meet Trudy Merriman at the SW corner of Central and 1st Street, albuqhistsoc.org, 289-0586. Free.

saturdays | 10:30 am

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

saturdays | 12 noon–2 pm

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

saturdays | 12 noon–3 pm

Class with Explora Maker-in-Residence. See description above on Thursdays 3–5 pm. Most Saturdays. Info: Explora, 1701 Mountain Road NW, explora.us, 224-8300. Included with general admission $6-$10.

saturdays | 1–2:30 pm

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

saturdays | 2–5 pm

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

saturdays | 2:30–4:30 pm

Tango Club of Albuquerque’s Weekly Practica. Argentine Tango practice. No partner necessary. Info: Lloyd Shaw Dance Center, 5506 Coal Ave. SE, abqtango.org. Tickets: $2.

saturdays | 3:30 pm

saturdays | 5–8 pm

Cooking Classes at Cinnamon Sugar and Spice Café. Try a fun and exciting handson cooking class. Enjoy a meal prepared by you in a commercial kitchen with the guidance of a chef, sip wine, and top it off with dessert. Info: 5809 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, 492-2119, cinnamoncafeabq.com.

saturdays | various times

Prehistoric Preschool for Families. See description on Thursdays 10–12 am. Info: New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, 1801 Mountain Road NW, 841-2848, nmnaturalhistory.org. Tickets: see cost information online.

every saturday and sunday | 12 noon and 2 pm

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

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

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

every saturday and sunday | various times

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

every first saturday | 10– 11:30 am

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

every first saturday | 10 am–12 noon

Military History Lecture. Listen to an interesting presentation of military history events and activities that affected New Mexico. Lectures include the History of the NM National Guard, Bataan Death March, WWII Army Air Corp bases in New Mexico, and others. Info: New Mexico Veterans Memorial, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE, 256-2042. Admission: Free. Donations requested.

every first saturday | 12 noon–3 pm

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

every second saturday | 10–11:30 am

Outcomes, Inc. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Discussion/Support Groups. Info: St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 2701 American Road, Rio Rancho, 243-2551 to reserve a space. Free childcare provided. Free.

every second saturday | 10 am–12 noon

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

every second saturday | 1 pm

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

for children to gain confidence in their reading. Several libraries. Please register in advance. Info: Southwest Canine Corps of Volunteers, 768-5136.

second and fourth saturday | 12 noon–1 pm

Watermelon Mountain Ranch Volunteer Orientation. Come out to the main facility in Northern Rio Rancho to find out all about the volunteer program and the opportunities to work with the animals in our care. Info: Watermelon Mountain Ranch, 3251 Westphalia Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho, wmranch.org. Near V. Sue Cleveland Highschool.

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

ABQ Dance Club. This non-profit dance club provides dancing to a variety of music - swing, country, ballroom, Latin. Couples and singles are welcome, no partner or experience needed. Lessons and refreshments included. Info: Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4915 Hawkins Street NE, asdc.org, 299-3737. Fee $8.

every last saturday | 7–9 pm

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

sundays | 9 am–1 pm

Free Sunday Mornings at Albuquerque Museum. Admission is free every Sunday morning. View the latest exhibition, try out interactive displays, stroll through the sculpture garden, and stop by the cafe for brunch. Info: Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, cabq.gov, 2437255. Free. $5 exhibition surcharge applies during free days at Albuquerque Museum.

sundays | 9 am–1 pm

Free Admission Day. Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum. Check out this award-winning, world-class facility highlighting the art, culture, history, science and sport of ballooning and other lighter-than-air craft. Info: 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE, 7686020, cabq.gov/balloon.

Old San Ysidro Church Tours. See the beauty and learn the history of one of Corrales’ most significant historic buildings. Historical Society Docents are on hand to welcome guests, give tours, and answer questions. Watch the Old Church video, view historical artifacts, and take home souvenirs ranging from local flavor cookbooks to church retablos, jewelry, and more. Info: 966 Old Church Road, Corrales, 890-3846, corraleshistory.org. Free.

sundays | 8 pm

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

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

Ballroom, Latin and Swing Dancing. Join USA Ballroom Dance. Free beginner lessons start at 5:30 pm. Info: Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4915 Hawkins Street NE, 288-0313. Cost: members, $5; non-member, $8.

every second and fourth sunday | 10–11 am

Yoga with Cats. Enjoy cats frolicking and lounging as you participate in a yoga class for all skill levels. Info: Catopia Cat Cafe, 8001 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Suite C-5, call 508-4278 to reserve your spot. $14 per class.

every second and fourth sunday | 2–4 pm

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

various days | various times

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

sundays | 10:30 am

Chatter Sunday. These Sunday morning concerts include readings and refreshments. Info: Las Puertas, 1512 First Street NW, chatterabq.com. Cost: regular, $15; 30 and under and students, $9; children under 13, $5.

sundays | 12 noon–5 pm

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

sundays | 1–4 pm

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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JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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FINDING A FURRY FRIEND

BY TAYloR HooD PHoTos BY DoN jAmEs

t seems like many of us have been making new friends during the stay-at-home orders of the Great Pandemic of 2020. For some, that’s been the slew of binge-ready TV shows (Tiger King, anyone…er…everyone?). Or how about the refrigerator, who was like that friend we all knew was bad for us, but that we ended up hanging out with anyway, bringing sweat pants and baggy clothes along for the ride? But with isolation and loneliness a very real thing, many in ABQ found a more normal type of new friend during quarantine—a buddy with paws. With shelters closing because of the pandemic, local dogs and cats needed foster homes, and locals stepped up in record numbers to take in the furry pets.

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

s AnimAl HumAne new mexico

hen the pandemic made its way into New Mexico, people and businesses began scrambling to adapt to what was going to be a long quarantine. Animal Humane New Mexico, the state’s largest pet adoption organizanUMber of aniMals adopted froM foster hoMes dUring aniMal hUMane’s closUre. cats–30 dogs–36 pUppies–21 total pets adopted – 87

tion, was no different. But for AHNM, it wasn’t as simple as locking the doors and shutting off the lights. They had over 100 resident animals who still needed to be taken care of. Patrick Fisk, the Adoptions Operations Manager, took the lead on the project of finding suitable accommodations for AHNM’s many animals. “Our goal was to get all of the animals into foster homes,” Fisk says. “We got a great outpouring of support from the community. We were able to get over 90

Adoptions Operations Manager Patrick Fisk and his team were able to get 90 percent of the Center’s resident animals into homes before closing down.

percent of our animals out the door. It got to the point where we had more applications than need.” While Animal Humane New Mexico’s numbers were lower than an average year, Fisk points out that they were still very positive. “We saw a small decrease in numbers just because we weren’t bringing any animals in, but it was still huge to get the pets we had adopted.” Fisk says that 87 of the 120 animals who

project fetch calendar year 2019 dogs–726 pUppies–335 cats–352 kittens–244 total–1,657

Josh and his daughter consider adopting a new dog from Animal Humane New Mexico.

*project fetch eMploys the Use of a Mobile Unit to retrieVe aniMals froM More reMote areas spanning froM raton to lordsbUrg.

went into foster care were adopted by their foster parents. It is Fisk’s opinion that the stay-athome order really drove the outpouring of support. “I think it was a combination of things. For one, people saw the quarantine coming and they wanted to find a way to help their community. Then also, inside your house, you need something to do to pass the time and fostering a cute little kitten can provide that.” Fisk also says that the foster program over the last several months has allowed the adoption staff to see how the animals will act in a home and it allowed the AHNM employees to work remotely. Though, he points out, it did have a draw back. “When I have a bad day at work, I get to go play with a kitty or dog. Working remotely, that just isn’t the case, unfortunately.” Animal Humane New Mexico opened again on May 1, though with a revamped process. To find out more about adopting visit animalhumanenm.org.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

city of Albuquerque AnimAl welfAre DepArtment

he quarantine has resulted in a time of great change for the City of Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department. When the stay-at-home order came down in March, the staff had a tall task before them. They had to find shelter and care for their hundreds of animal residents. But, like many of the animal shelters here in Albuquerque, they sent out a call to the city, looking for foster parents to take in their potential pets. And Albuquerqueans turned out in droves to help. By the time they had processed all of the foster parent applications, and moved the animals out into temporary homes, Animal Welfare had placed over 600 animals into foster care. The move paid off. Many of the foster parents had what the Animal Welfare Department refers to as “foster failures.” A bit of a misnomer, “foster failure” means that the foster parents decided to adopt permanently. Then the Department faced another big change; they got a new Direcrecently naMed national aniMal care and control association’s “agency of the year.”

tor. Carolyn Ortega came in roughly a month into the quarantine. It might seem like a difficult time to take over a city department, but Ortega says it had quite a few silver linings. “It definitely had its upside,” she says. “We were closed down, so I got a chance to walk through some of the processes and get to know the people and the animals. It was a nice way to start.” On top of that, the adoption rate remained relatively steady, giving her a chance to focus on other procedures. For Ortega, the move to Animal Welfare was a complete joy. “When I feel Mobile Unit offerings: - Insert tracking chips - Vaccinate yoUr pets - If the person qUalifies, they get a VoUcher for free spay and neUter

New to the job, Animal Welfare Department Director Carolyn Ortega excelled during a difficult time.

even a little stressed out, I can go hug and pet a dog or kitty.” And as far as dealing with foster parents goes, well, Ortega is no stranger to foster pet care. She is currently fostering a potbelly pig named Porkchop on her farm in Los Lunas. “He has been helpful in getting through coronavirus,” she says. “All my animals have. It’s a lot of fun. What a life it is.” While many industries have suffered greatly during these coronavirus times, Animal Welfare and its adoption rate has remained steady. Ortega says that’s because, being at home, having a new pet around is beneficial for both the hu-

And then for the animal, hopefully they have a chance to charm the person and find their forever home.” Strawberry was in foster care until her temporary parent decided to take her in permanently.

oVer 1200 pets taken in since beginning of May 600 aniMals in foster care 358 adoptions 193 reclaiMs

man and the animal. “People who would normally be going to work are now staying home,” she says. “Now if they adopt or foster, they have a reason to be home and a companion, which is so helpful.

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

s Watermelon mountain ranch

or Watermelon Mountain Ranch, New Mexico’s largest no-kill animal shelter, the Governor’s stay-at-home orders meant quick action and a lot of help were needed. “There wasn’t a whole lot of time to change when we shut down,” says Executive Director Sara Heffern. “It was very ‘spur of the moment’ and we had to rely on the team to be flexible and patient as we were shutting things down and moving animals into foster care. And our teams rose to the challenge. They took on more shifts and worked harder. These guys and gals have put their heart and soul into this.” Their quick action and community support meant that, while the shutdown definitely hurt, Watermelon Mountain Ranch was still able to care for all of the furry friends in their care. “The community has really been amazing,”

Executive Director Sara Heffern is proud to say that Watermelon Mountain Ranch’s adoption numbers have increased in recent months.

Watermelon mountain ranch is neW mexico’s largest nokill animal shelter, meaning they care for their residents for life, or until adopted.

says Heffern. “We’ve actually seen our numbers go up since COVID shut everything down. We’ve even seen longterm dogs and cats who have been with us for years get adopted.” Though Watermelon Mountain Ranch has been adopting out animals, bringing in more animals, and increasing the size of their foster teams, they have also dealt with some fairly large changes. They have shifted to an appointment-only model and are only open on certain days. “With the changes in schedule, it’s really amazing that we are still able to find homes for so

many of our animals,” Heffern says. Heffern says that, for the Watermelon Mountain Ranch team, the support during this time is not really surprising. “People just have the time [for pets] now,” she says. “A lot of people that went into quarantine were alone. They didn’t have friends and family with them. So being able to have a companion to keep them sane during quarantine was a big deal for their mental and physical health. And for those with kids,

it’s a huge deal for relieving stress and getting energy out.” The silver linings extend to the animals as well. Heffern says she has been overjoyed to see animals who have lived at the ranch for years finally getting their chance to find a home. And the community is getting a chance to find that furry best friend they have always wanted. “It’s been very gratifying to see the community come together to support the shelter pets,” Heffern says.

Watermelon mountain ranch by the numbers: 80 animals in foster care 20 adoptions per Week (higher than their typical Weekly average) 200 dogs at the facility at any given time 100 cats at the facility at any given time 0 animal transfers turned aWay since covId shut the city doWn

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

say

What

Dede Brownstein

Laura Heitman

Q: What are the benefits of Pet Therapy and can having an animal around really improve health?

Q: Are there positive mental health effects associated with owning a pet? What are they?

dede broWnstein

laura heitman

pet therapy tester

therapist and school social Worker

“Animal Therapy involves taking dogs into places to help people deal with stress. That may be to a nursing home or hospital, but the program has really expanded to include being at airport to help people cope with a fear of flying, or going to high schools and colleges during Finals Week to help relieve stress, and even Reading to the Dogs, where kids get to practice their reading skills with a dog listening. That is a great one because obviously dogs have no judgement. Animal Therapy is beneficial in a lot of ways. The dogs love it—if they don’t then they shouldn’t be doing it. It’s a lot of work, and the dog will often crash once they get home, but the attention they get can really help their mood and their anxiety. For people, they’ve done tests that show that simply petting a dog for a time can lower blood pressure and even help with depression.”

“Owning a pet has a multitude of benefits in managing feelings of anxiety and depression. Caring for a pet can increase one’s sense of purpose and value as we tend to the needs and care for our pets. Pets can increase opportunities for social interactions and can be a bridge to building social relationships. Caring for the needs of our pets can often increase our own physical activity and time spent outdoors. Interacting with our pets decreases our own physical responses to anxiety and depression through touch. Petting our pets can help us regulate and stabilize the highs and lows of our emotions. It provides an opportunity to be mindful and practice positive relationship-building skills. Part of how we show care for others at this time is to isolate ourselves from each other, so quarantine has presented unique challenges to both our economic stability and how we engage in these relationships. Having a pet increases our ability to feel connected when we are unable to engage in the other relationship building social activities. They act as an antidote to our increased stress of uncertainty and changing lives. Our pets can be a dependable loving relationship available to us right in our very own home.”

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

Kim Hamel

Q: Does adopting or fostering a pet have any effect, emotional or physical, on either the animal or their human? kim hamel

clinic and shelter veterinarian

“Well, we know that pets do a lot better when they are out of the shelter. Minimizing their length of stay in sheltering facilities is the best way to keep them healthy. Even temporary stays in foster homes reduce cortisol levels in animals—that’s their stress hormone— and they recover faster from illness or injury in a home setting. So just giving animals a temporary reprieve from the shelter can drastically improve their physical health, their emotional health, and their overall well-being. Animal Humane New Mexico does a lot of short term and longer-term foster placements for pets. We have several programs designed to get animals into homes, even if the stay is only temporary. Projects like “Fetch Some Fun,” in which pets are placed into shortterm housing with volunteer caregivers, have been very helpful, especially during this COVID-19 crisis. For humans, pet ownership also offers emotional and medical benefits. There are studies that show that humans who own, or even foster pets, have reduced blood pressure and better overall health. Also, young children raised with pets are less likely to develop allergies.”

Recent chARleS higginS

Pet: cheyenne Age: 18 monthS AdoPted At: AnimAl humAne new mexico

Outreach Specialist for Albuquerque Healthcare for the Homeless, Charles Higgins loves to hike. And these aren’t just strolls around the block. He often does the Sandia Crest Trail hike, which can take upwards of 11 hours to complete. It can get pretty lonely out there on the trail, so Higgins decided to adopt a dog. Enter Cheyenne, an 18-month-old Huskie Shepard with an energetic personality and a lot of love to give. “She fell in love with us first,” says Higgins. “She just became family instantly. I mean she cries whenever either myself or my partner leave the house.” Higgins says he was keeping his eye out for a hiking partner for some time. By a stroke of amazing luck, he and his companion met Cheyenne through a friend who was fostering. After taking some time to get to know each other, Higgins decided Cheyenne was exactly who he was looking for. And the rest of the family agreed. “We have an older dog and three cats,” he says. “One of our cats, Titania, and Cheyenne cuddle every night.”

SAmAnthA SAnfoRd

Pet: Ivy Age: 10 monthS AdoPted At: wAteRmelon mountAin RAnch

When Samantha Sanford found out she was going to be working remotely from home for the rest of the year (at least) she knew there was one thing that she needed: a new puppy. “I looked for quite a while,” she says. “I felt it was the right time, but I wanted to find a dog that was hypoallergenic.” It wasn’t long before she discovered a lovable, large, wire-haired, terrier mix named Ivy. Sanford says the situation is working out great for both dog and human. “I am working from home, so I have plenty of time to be with Ivy,” she says. “I can take the time to bond, and play, and train. It’s great!” But there was another member of the household that Ivy had to impress. “She is perfect,” says Sanford. “And she gets along with my cat, Church, which is the most important thing.” Church and Ivy haven’t exactly become best friends, says Sanford, but Church likes anyone who doesn’t bother him, and Ivy tends to leave him alone.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

Recent SonjA dewing

Pet: Bo Age: 2 yeARS AdoPted At: BeRnAlillo county AnimAl cARe

Sonja Dewing is typically a lonely person. She is an author and so is used to spending long stretches of time by herself, roaming the halls of her imagination. But when quarantine hit, she began to realize that being alone and being trapped alone are two very different things. So she decided to adopt an energetic and loving two-year-old Rottweiler mix named Bo. “After self-isolation started and I realized I was going to be in the big house all by myself, I figured I should probably get a companion,” says Dewing. And Bo has been a perfect new friend. “He is very energetic, but I have had plenty of time to train him and bond with him,” she says. Dewing says her favorite thing about Bo is that he makes her laugh. “He is a surfer,” she says. “He loves to run into the living room and slide across the floors. Or he runs into my room and jumps on his bed and rides it across the room. He is just so much fun.”

AnyA AngelicA RAel

Pet: SunfloweR Age: 5 monthS AdoPted At: wAteRmelon mountAin RAnch

When cosmetologist Anya Angelica Rael decided to get another pet, she knew two things: it had to be loving, and it had to get along with her Chihuahua, Ducky. “I’ve always loved animals,” says Rael. “I wanted to get my little Chihuahua a friend. I mean, quarantine or not, I wanted to give another ‘furbaby’ a home.” Rael says that Sunflower has settled right in and she and Ducky are already best friends. “They’re doing fantastic,” she says. “They are super loving and friendly with each other.” Though Rael was going to adopt no matter what, she says that the quarantine did speed things along and that it is really nice to have such a loving animal in the house (plus, she loves Sunflower’s soft ears.) “She’s very affectionate and loves to be the center of attention. She has a gentle, loving personality. I love her sense of wonder as well, she loves new things! So cute.”

AliciA fAjARdo

Pet: StRAwBeRRy Age: 8 weekS AdoPted At: AnimAl welfARe dePARtment

When elementary school teacher Alicia Fajardo agreed to foster two-monthold Strawberry, she wasn’t sure it was going to work out. She had two cats already, but when one of them passed away, she decided it was time to give a new kitten a try. “One of our other cats recently passed away so we wanted to do a test run to see if our other cat could adjust to the change,” she says. “After the first day Spooky [her other, older cat] and Strawberry were licking each other. So they sort of adopted each other right away.” For Fajardo, adopting Strawberry was more about healing from a loss than getting through the pandemic, but she says it was an excellent time to adopt. “It kind of really helped because we got to spend that extra time with both cats and get a chance to bond.” Farajado says she loves Strawberry’s big eyes and playful personality. “She has really made Spooky a lot more playful.” JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

ZANe’s ZANy Zoo atm staff Writer zane beal tells us the joys of living With dozens of four-legged roommates

Six years ago, I came back from a two-month stint in the Alaskan bush to a pleasant surprise. My then-fiancé, Becky, had gotten me a leopard gecko. Today, it’s the founding member of a collection some might (spuriously) call excessive—a swarm of animal companions that made for good company in the lonely days of the COVID-19 lockdown. Acquiring critters, both humdrum and exotic, is one of the unspecified— but entirely predictable—hazards of marrying a biologist. Nowhere in her marital vows did my wife actually admit she intended to build a minor menagerie, but I should have seen it coming. Thing is, when we got hitched, we didn’t have a lot of extra money for animals. But whereas I am a writer, my

wife is a fully functional human being. She’s earned a lot of success over the succeeding years and put a lot more of the monetary rewards of that success towards buying lizards than I ever would have guessed. In addition to our two dogs, my wife and I now share our home with 29 reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods— most of them properly caged and deliberately acquired. All this company

made lockdown, well...interesting. Naturally, the dogs loved it. Our border collie, Wallace, and our classic Heinz 57 model, Wren, benefitted from a sudden bounty of extra walks, pats, and treats. They received it all with that delightfully stupid look of slack-jawed, loose-tongued canine joy that says,

quite simply, “I deserve this.” The reptiles and arthropods are considerably more inscrutable beasts. Having those pale, hairless apes that sometimes feed them crickets and fruit paste around 24 hours a day might have been a treat—or a source of unbridled horror. Kenyan sand boas and crested geckos don’t prance and wiggle their tails in unhinged ecstasy like the pooches. They just flick their tongues and lick their eyeballs—gestures I personally find incredibly hard to interpret. Still, whether they have the wherewithal to recognize it or not, our scaly and chitinous companions profited from all the extra stay-at-home time. Additional mistings for our subtropical critters? Check. Extra crickets for our insatiable tiger salamander? Yep. Supplemental exercise time for our ball python? Aye. Something to fill long hours trapped in narrow company like a researcher in a subarctic wilderness? Definitely. —ZB

The New AdopTioN process While the exact process for adoption does change slightly depending on Which agency you go through, there is a basic neW procedure. If you are looking for a neW furry friend, simply folloW these steps: - first, go to the organizations Website and select an animal from the photos. most organizations update their photos daily. - contact the organization by phone and set up a time to visit. let them knoW Which animal from the Website you have fallen in love With and they Will make sure he or she is available. - before the appointment time, fill out the application and either email it or bring it With you. - head in at your scheduled time and spend a little time With your preferred pet. experts say that playing With a pet for just a feW minutes can greatly reduce stress and anxiety levels by releasing oxytocin, also knoWn as “the love hormone.” WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

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THE VOTES ARE IN FOR OUR 2ND ANNUAL POLL OF THE BEST PLACES TO EAT, DRINK, SHOP, PLAY AND REJUVENATE IN RIO RANCHO

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BEST OF THE REST: O’HARE’S GRILLE & PUB (4100 SOUTHERN BLVD SE, 896-0123, OHARESGRILLEPUB.COM), BLUE GRASSHOPPER (2 LOCATIONS, BGHBREWERY.COM)

BEST HAIR SALON

Attractions Hair Studio 3751 SOUTHERN BLVD SE 891-8771 Owner Safia Ayazi leads the experienced, versatile team at Attractions Hair Studio, which is a Rio Rancho institution in itself. She and her team not only cut and color hair expertly, but also build relationships with whole families—some of the regulars at Attractions have been getting their hair cut by Safia and her team for a decade. Known for their skill and kindness, the hair stylists at Attractions are what keeps people coming back. BEST OF THE REST: SALON DELUXE (3301 SOUTHERN BLVD SE, 896-0586, SALONDELUXE.VCARDINFO.COM), FLAMING LOX (2006 SOUTHERN BLVD SE, 818-2618)

BEST PET BOARDING Pet Paradise

580 QUANTUM RD. NE 891-4100, PETPARADISE.COM This facility has amenities to make owners green with envy when they drop off their dogs. “Paradise” truly is the buzzword, thanks to a trio of yearround heated pools — the only ones of their kind in Rio Rancho or Albuquerque. There are also multiple indoor and outdoor play areas, climate-controlled indoor suites and training classes. There’s more: dogs can socialize and make new friends during day camp or get pampered with a “spa day” while boarding.

BEST OF THE REST: MONTE VISTA PET LODGE (365 UNSER BLVD SE, 998-1494, MVPETLODGE.COM), ZOEY’S TLC BED & BREAKFAST (114 INDUSTRIAL PARK PL NE, 892-5811)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO BEST APPETIZER MENU Slate Street Billiards 2003 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 994-0363, SLATESTREETBILLIARDS.COM Slate Street is known across the city for their delicious chicken wings, but the rest of their appetizer menu is nothing to scoff at. With mouth-watering classics like nachos stacked high with queso, jalapenos, and olives, stuffed potato skins bursting with bits of bacon and cheese, and perfectly crispy mozzarella sticks or fried mushrooms, pre-pool snacks are a must here. If you’re undecided, go with the Porky Fries or Tots, a bed of fries or tots smothered in green chile pulled pork gravy, Monterey jack cheese, and dusted with fresh chives. BEST OF THE REST: TURTLE MOUNTAIN BREWING COMPANY (905 36TH PL. SE, 994-9497, TURTLEMOUNTAINBREWING.COM), O’HARE’S GRILLE & PUB (4100 SOUTHERN BLVD SE, 896-0123, OHARESGRILLEPUB.COM)

BEST PET SUPPLY STORE Pet Food Gone Wild 2415 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 994-0101, PETFOODGONEWILD.COM This holistic premium dog and cat food store, which celebrated its eighth anniversary this year, offers natural and healthy products to pet owners in the Rio Rancho area. That means byproducts such as corn, wheat and soy are nowhere to be found — and even gluten-free pet food lines are available. The food can be geared to sick pets as well, whether they’re suffering from pancreatitis, kidney issues or another type of ailment. Ultimately, better nutrition equals better pet longevity, something any pet owner can point to as a positive. BEST OF THE REST: BOOFY’S BEST FOR PETS (8201 GOLF COURSE RD NW C-2, 8900757, BOOFYSBEST.COM), PETSENSE (4300 RIDGECREST DR SE, STE Q-2, PETSENSE. COM, 892-4232)

BEST DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT Prairie Star

288 PRAIRIE STAR ROAD 867-3327, MYNEWMEXICOGOLF.COM Diners looking to mark a special occasion have long flocked to this elegant restaurant and wine bar on the grounds of the Santa Ana Golf Club. In addition to fine dining, Prairie Star is known for wine, with the city’s largest by-the-glass selection (32 varietals). BEST OF THE REST: M’TUCCI’S MODERNO (1908 WELLSPRING AVE. SE, 891-2432, MTUCCIS.COM), JOE’S PASTA HOUSE (3201 SOUTHERN BLVD SE, 8923333, JOESPASTAHOUSE.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO BEST BUFFET Namaste

1580 DEBORAH RD SE 896-3126, NAMASTENM.NET It’s hard to beat an all you can eat buffet, especially when it’s filled to the brim with Indian delights like tandoori chicken, dal, saag, chutney, raita, and two rotating meat dishes from Namaste’s regular menu. If you’re lucky, they’ll even have their special Green Chile Chicken Curry on offering. BEST OF THE REST: JOE’S PASTA HOUSE (3201 SOUTHERN BLVD SE, 892-3333, JOESPASTAHOUSE.COM), SANTA ANA STAR CASINO HOTEL (54 JEMEZ CANYON DAM ROAD, 867-0000, SANTAANASTAR.COM)

BEST ESTHETICIAN

Monica Montoya Fresh Face Therapeutics 4041 BARBARA LOOP, SE UNIT E 920-2185, FRESHFACETHERAPEUTICS.COM With nearly a decade of experience under her belt, Monica Montoya, the owner of Fresh Face Therapeutics, knows exactly what her patients need in order to reach their personal skincare goals. Montoya’s treatments are all natural, and span a range of services, from chemical peels to microdermabrasion and more.

BEST OF THE REST: AMANDA MEDINA (HALO MED SPA, 203 RIO GRANDE BLVD NW #3, 433-4043, HALOMEDSPAABQ.COM), ASHLEE COSTALES (PRICKLY + PEAR SKIN, 10700 CORRALES RD, 489-8034, PRICKLYPEARHAIRSKINBODY.COM)

BEST COLUMNIST

Gary Herron Rio Rancho Observer

Gary Herron is an avid sports fan, which makes his writing voice particularly personal. The author of several sports books, including 50 Years of the Pit and Baseball in Albuquerque, Herron brings decades of experience and a love of the local sports scene to everything he writes. He has been a radio personality, a journalist, an author and an expert in everything from high school sports to MMA. BEST OF THE REST: JOLINE GUTIERREZ KRUEGER – ALBUQUERQUE JOURNAL, STEPHEN MONTOYA – ALBUQUERQUE JOURNAL

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO BEST NAIL SALON Demi’s Nails

2345 SOUTHERN BLVD. SUITE C6 892-2426 With 15 techs working with 900 different gel polish colors, the crew here can do one of a kind art for your nails—fingers and toes! The Demi’s team can work with acrylic, gel, or regular polish to give customers intricate nail designs. They accommodate bridal parties as well and even do waxing and eyelash extensions. BEST OF THE REST: PAM’S NAIL SPA (1751 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE SUITE #104, 994-0020), KIM VI NAILS & SALON (1290 NM-528, 892-0642)

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT

Slice & Dice Board Game Pizzeria 5720 MCMAHON BLVD NW SUITE B 361-2058, SLICEANDDICEPIZZERIA.COM Board games and pizza! Now that’s a combo the kiddos are sure to love. And with classic games like Clue on hand as well as new favorites like Settlers of Catan, there’s something for everyone at Slice and Dice. Did we mention that their pizza is great, too? Bring your full house out to try their Full House pizza, or build your own, if you’ve got picky eaters. Any way you slice it, this place is a great time for the whole family. BEST OF THE REST: JOE’S PASTA HOUSE (3201 SOUTHERN BLVD SE, 892-3333, JOESPASTAHOUSE.COM), IRONWOOD KITCHEN (5740 NIGHT WHISPER RD. NW, 890-4488, IRONWOODKITCHEN.COM)

BEST COMFORT FOOD

K’Lynns’s Southern & Cajun Fusion 4300 RIDGECREST DR. SE, SUITE O 453-3068, KLYNNSFUSION.COM The dishes are plentiful at this diner’s ode to Cajun-style cooking, which draws raves from homesick Southerners with authentic dishes like collard greens, oxtail, and fried green tomatoes.

BEST OF THE REST: UNCLE T’S SANGWICHES (1520 DEBORAH RD. SE SUITE O, 404-9345, ALLTHESANGWICHES.COM), O’HARE’S GRILLE & PUB (4100 SOUTHERN BLVD SE, 896-0123, OHARESGRILLEPUB.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO BEST LOCAL TO HAVE LUNCH WITH Mayor Gregg Hull

Accessible, fun, smart, and with a deep passion for his city; those are all things you want in a mayor, and in a lunch partner. Now in his second term as Mayor, Gregg Hull is seen all over the City of Vision, and he loves discovering Rio Rancho restaurants, so if you do get a chance to have lunch with him, take his recommendation on where to eat. BEST OF THE REST: RIO RANCHO POLICE DEPT., ANDRES TRUJILLO (NM RUNNERS)

BEST BARBERSHOP

Randy’s Barbershop 2104 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 896-8188 Walking into Randy’s, you’ll get the feel of an old-time, community-building barbershop. The men sitting in line, waiting for their cut are laughing and having a good time; pitching in to the conversations going on between the barbers and the other customers; smiling as they wait their turn. Ask any one of the regulars at this old-fashioned-in-thebest-way, manly little shop why they keep coming back, and they’ll all mention the same thing: the people. At Randy’s, every barber will give you a detail-focused, crisp cut for a cool $15, plus a shape up with a straight razor before sending you on your way. BEST OF THE REST: TYMELESS BARBER SHOPPE (5740 NIGHT WHISPER RD. NW, 5542062, TYMELESSBARBERSHOPPE.COM), ROB’S FAMILY BARBERSHOP (3301 SOUTHERN BLVD SE #303, 221-5044, ROBERTSFAMILYBARBERSHOP.COM)

BEST GREEN CHILE Hot Tamales

1520 RIO RANCHO BLVD. SE 962-0123, HOTTAMALESNMRESTAURANT.COM Green chile is taken seriously here, on plates ranging from breakfast (such as the Green Chile Stew Omelet) to lunch or dinner (Mama’s Green Chile Enchilada Casserole). They even sell it to-go—by the quart! BEST OF THE REST: TWISTERS (2435 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE, 892-4121, MYTWISTERS.COM), THE LOCAL BREWHOUSE (300 UNSER BLVD. SE, 994-2007)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO BEST TAP BEER SELECTION The Local Brewhouse 300 UNSER BLVD. SE 994-2007 With 32 beers on tap—many of them rotating seasonal beers—it’s easy to see why the City of Vision flocks to The Local Brewhouse when they’re hoping for some good brews. Pair that with their food menu— which includes Taco Tuesdays and a Sunday promotion that involves free chile cheese fries or a cup of Green Chile Stew with the purchase of an alcoholic beverage—and their nice patio, and you can’t go wrong.

BEST OF THE REST: TURTLE MOUNTAIN BREWING COMPANY (905 36TH PL. SE, 994-9497, TURTLEMOUNTAINBREWING.COM), FREIGHT HOUSE KITCHEN + TAP (200 S CAMINO DEL PUEBLO, BERNALILLO 588-2143, FR8HOUSE.COM)

BEST COLLISION REPAIR SHOP Car Crafters

2 LOCATIONS CARCRAFTERS.COM How’s this for passion? Car Crafters owner Jim Guthrie initially started a body shop in his parents’ garage until the overcrowding in the neighborhood cul-de-sac forced him to pursue his calling elsewhere. Fortunately, Guthrie was able to convert his passion into a successful career. Since 1982, Car Crafters—with two Rio Rancho locations and seven overall—has offered all types of collision repair (dents, scratches, hail and more) from a capable staff of I-CAR trained and ASE certified technicians. Car Crafters is no one-trick pony, however. Mechanical services, glass repair and much more are also available. BEST OF THE REST: QUANZ AUTO CARE (204 FRONTAGE ROAD, 897-1955, QUANZAUTOCARE.COM), HAROLD’S BODY SHOP (3811 EDITH BLVD NE, 345-6170, HAROLDSBODYREPAIR.COM)

BEST ASIAN CUISINE Pho Bar

3301 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 994-9150, PHO-BAR.COM Pho is broadly defined as noodle soup with meat. But the options at this Southern Boulevard favorite go far beyond that, with varieties like beef tripe, brisket, or even filet mignon. For the indecisive, try the six-meat combination bowl. All come with a colorful medley of sprouts, basil, cilantro and jalapeño. BEST OF THE REST: KYOTO SUSHI & STEAKHOUSE (355 NM-528, 892-8668, KYOTOYABA.COM), VIET RICE (1340 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE, 892-7423, VIETRICE. CAFE)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO BEST DESSERT

ChocGlitz & Cream 10660 UNSER BLVD. NW 898-4589, CHOCGLITZANDCREAM.COM The decadent chocolate creations sit in glass cases like sparkling jewelry at this locally-owned sweets shop on the southern edge of Rio Rancho. Never thought you’d crave a caramel apple or handmade fudge? Guess again. BEST OF THE REST: FLYING STAR (6 LOCATIONS, FLYINGSTARCAFE. COM), PALETA BAR (2003 SOUTHERN BLVD SE SUITE 118, 234-1116, THEPALETABAR.COM)

BEST PRODUCT MADE LOCALLY Paulita’s New Mexico 896-1078, PAULITASNEWMEXICO.COM

Paulita’s might very well lead the state in care packages. In addition to destinations throughout the United States, the store’s flagship dehydrated green chile has traveled to locales such as Okinawa, Afghanistan, France and Germany, to name a few. “It’s a product that travels well,” says owner Paula Nieto Porter. “Very inexpensive. We’re able to ship our products because they are lightweight, and you don’t have to worry about freezing or special packaging.” Most importantly, the taste isn’t lost in translation. “It’s very unique in the fact that when you rehydrate our product it’s like having actual fire-roasted green chile from New Mexico,” Porter says.

BEST OF THE REST: ACEQUIA WINERY (240 RECLINING ACRES RD, 898-0933, ACEQUIAWINERY.COM), THE BEES KNEES WAX BOUTIQUE (1515 GOLF COURSE RD SE SUITE 202, 702-6935, THEBEESKNEESWAXBOUTIQUE.COM)

BEST NACHOS

Ironwood Kitchen 5740 NIGHT WHISPER RD. NW 890-4488, IRONWOODKITCHEN.COM Made-from-scratch is the term most often associated with the Mexican and American cuisines on the Ironwood menu. That especially applies to the nachos, which come loaded, layered, and ready for only the heartiest appetites. BEST OF THE REST: SLATE STREET BILLIARDS (2003 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE, 9940363, SLATESTREETBILLIARDS.COM), TURTLE MOUNTAIN BREWING COMPANY (905 36TH PL. SE, 994-9497, TURTLEMOUNTAINBREWING.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO BEST CHICKEN WINGS Slate Street Billiards 2003 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 994-0363, SLATESTREETBILLIARDS.COM Wings are the thing at this Rio Rancho grub pub. In fact, co-owner Todd Mack says his team seeks out the biggest, most plump wings that food distributors have to offer. Then the Slate Street team whips up an offering of 10 in-house sauces, and all you need are napkins. BEST OF THE REST: BLUE GRASSHOPPER (3 LOCATIONS, BGHBREWERY. COM), TURTLE MOUNTAIN BREWING COMPANY (905 36TH PL. SE, 9949497, TURTLEMOUNTAINBREWING.COM)

BEST SANDWICH

Dagmars’ Delectables 2704 SOUTHERN BLVD. S.E. 891-7995 A Dagmar’s novice might go straight for the coconut cream strudels and the glistening apple cheese Danish, but the real prizes here are the sandwiches. Just like with her sweeter creations, every combination is good—brats, schnitzel brotechen with mustardy German potato salad, liverwurst or braunschweigen on a more straightforward sandwich bread with butterkase. The Bavarian flavors are so authentic, your feet might just start tapping out a schuhplattler.

BEST OF THE REST: UNCLE T’S SANGWICHES (1520 DEBORAH RD. SE SUITE O, 404-9345, ALLTHESANGWICHES.COM), 1933 BREWING COMPANY (PERMANENTLY CLOSED)

BEST DOG TRAINING Sit Means Sit

10408 2ND ST. NW, ALBUQUERQUE 916-1748, SITMEANSSIT.COM Not comfortable sending your unruly canine away to learn behavior and obedience? Sit Means Sit also comes to you with in-home dog and puppy training programs. More traditional 15- and 20-day boarding programs are also offered, as well as a doggy boot camp that comes complete with homework after each weekly lesson. Whatever your preference, there is training that can suit your needs — including packages that offer lifetime training options. Rehabilitation is a speciality, as some of the most aggressive animals have emerged from the program as therapy dogs.

BEST OF THE REST: PET PARADISE (580 QUANTUM RD. NE, 891-4100, PETPARADISE.COM), GOOD BUDDY (661 QUANTUM RD NE #V102, 221-7314, GOODBUDDYDOGTRAINING.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO BEST BAKE SHOP

Les Blonde Bakery 903-8868 Owner Kerian Myerson’s homemade cheesecakes became so popular with family that she decided to open Les Blonde. Her decadent and meticulously crafted goodies have since become a smash hit at wedding receptions and birthday parties. BEST OF THE REST: DAGMAR’S DELECTABLES (2704 SOUTHERN BLVD. S.E., 891-7995), LILY AND LIAM BISTRO (1751 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE, 3403309, LILYANDLIAMBISTRO.COM)

BEST PLACE FOR A SHOPPING SPREE Cottonwood Mall

10000 COORS BYPASS NW 899-7467, COTTONWOODMALL.COM If the credit lines are open and the accounts are flush with cash, this is your best shop-til-you-drop option, with more than 135 stores and specialty retailers such as Dillard’s, JC Penney, Forever 21, Ulta Beauty and the Disney Store on site. Just as important, there’s plenty to help the little ones avoid mall fatigue while you make the rounds, including kid-focused community events, play area, food court and a Regal Cinema movie theater. BEST OF THE REST: KOHL’S (3715 ELLISON RD NW, 792-3961, KOHLS.COM), BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY (3400 CALLE CUERVO NW, 899-3112, BURLINGTON.COM),

BEST RED CHILE Burrito Express

1592 SARA RD. 896-1592, BURRITOEXPRESSINC.COM This place takes their burritos pretty seriously—they have 23 varieties of breakfast burritos that are served all day, and 26 lunch burritos on top of that—but they take their red chile just as seriously. Each one of the burritos can be made with chile if your heart desires, and it should, because this red chile is to die for! BEST OF THE REST: HOT TAMALES (1520 RIO RANCHO BLVD. SE, 9620123, HOTTAMALESNMRESTAURANT.COM), TWISTERS (2435 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE, 892-4121, MYTWISTERS.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO BEST JEWELRY STORE Harris Jewelers

909 36TH PL SE 892-3841 HARRISJEWELERSNM.COM Initially founded in 1945, Rio Rancho’s first jewelry store adheres to its “Unique to the Universe” motto. If something from their large store inventory doesn’t catch your eye, a custom jewelry design service can help you find the right bling for that special someone. Even if a new piece isn’t on the agenda, the Harris team has you covered with a wide range of services including ring sizing and cleaning, pearl restringing, engraving, jewelry repairs, timepiece services and laser welding. BEST OF THE REST: CREATIVE JEWELERS (10200 CORRALES RD # C3, 897-1251, NMCREATIVEJEWELERS.COM), SANDIA JEWELERS (2704 SOUTHERN BLVD SE SUITE 2, 891-9923, SANDIAJEWELERS.COM)

BEST NEW RESTAURANT Lily and Liam’s Bistro 1751 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE 340-3309, LILYANDLIAMBISTRO.COM Lily and Liam’s opened in late fall of 2019, but it already has a fierce following. But what do you expect when the owners of the restaurant, married couple James and Megan Garrigan, have over 20 years of restaurant experience on their side. James also has experience at another neighborhood stand-by, Joe’s Pasta House, which helps the couple create their own “hometown staple” atmosphere. With food that tastes as delicious as the place feels to be in, it’s a no brainer. BEST OF THE REST: UNCLE T’S SANGWICHES (1520 DEBORAH RD. SE SUITE O, 404-9345, ALLTHESANGWICHES.COM), JERUSALEM—TASTE OF THE HOLY LAND (1690 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE STE B, 8961964)

BEST LOCAL COFFEE SHOP Café Bella Coffee

2115 GOLF COURSE RD. SE, SUITE #102 994-9436, CAFEBELLACOFFEE.COM Coffee is king, but food is also royalty at this spacious center of Rio Rancho’s caffeine universe. Alongside espressos and coffee shakes are food items, like all-day breakfast sandwiches, salads, and scores of pastries and sweet treats.

BEST OF THE REST: BAD ASS COFFEE (965 W HWY 550, SUITE F, BERNALILLO, 867-1778, BADASSCOFFEE.COM), WHISPERING BEAN (10701 CORRALES RD SUITE #3, 697-9919, WHISPERINGBEAN.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO BEST COCKTAILS

Slate Street Billiards 2003 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE SUITE 139 994-0363, SLATESTREETBILLIARDS.COM It’s a pool hall with hardy food and a giant beer menu, but this Rio Rancho favorite is most beloved for its cocktail menu. Their Bloody Marys are famous in the City of Vision due to both the in-house Bloody Mary mix and the drink’s built-to-suit style. Customers can get them simply garnished with green olives, or go for the full experience with bacon, olives, sausage, lemon, lime, celery, onion, and a drumstick.

BEST OF THE REST: THE LOCAL BREWHOUSE (300 UNSER BLVD. SE, 994-2007), O’HARE’S GRILLE & PUB (4100 SOUTHERN BLVD SE, 8960123, OHARESGRILLEPUB.COM)

BEST WAITSTAFF

M’tucci’s Moderno 1908 WELLSPRING AVE. SE 891-2432, MTUCCIS.COM Several members of the restaurant’s ownership group started as M’Tucci’s staff members, so it should be no surprise that service and attention to detail are held in high regard here. With the restaurant’s four separate dining spaces (including a mezzanine and outdoor patio), and a full-service cocktail bar, it certainly takes a crack team to keep things on course. BEST OF THE REST: VIET RICE (1340 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE, 892-7423, VIETRICE. CAFE), LILY AND LIAM’S BISTRO (1751 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE, 340-3309, LILYANDLIAMBISTRO.COM)

BEST GIRLIE STORE Cato

1324 RIO RANCHO BLVD. SE 892-1599, CATOFASHIONS.COM With more than 1,000 stores in 31 states, Cato’s is an established commodity on the women’s fashion scene. It’s no different at the Rio Rancho location, which is lauded for its wide range of available sizes, from junior/misses all the way to plus. Whether it’s attire for work or play, Cato delivers the goods with trendy fashions and exclusive styles. BEST OF THE REST: TJ MAXX (3575 NM-528 NE, 771-4839, TJMAXX.TJX. COM), SALLY’S BEAUTY SUPPLY (4 LOCATIONS, SALLYBEAUTY.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO BEST GUN SHOP

Bulldog Firearms 2502 SOUTHERN BLVD. 994-9243, BULLDOGFIREARMSNM.COM For more than 10 years, Bulldog Firearms has been building quality relationships with distributors throughout the United States. That’s good news for its customers, who can find reasonable prices on guns from all the major manufacturers. And if the store’s inventory doesn’t meet your needs, Bulldog Firearms will have the gun you want shipped to you. Oh, and did we mention the in-house gunsmith? “He’s more of a machinist than a gunsmith, meaning that he’s good with machinery in general,” says manager Jon Patik. “I don’t know if there’s any other gunsmith in the state that can outpace our gunsmith.” BEST OF THE REST: RIO RANCHO ARMORY (1702 SOUTHERN BLVD SE, 715-5505, RIO-RANCHO-ARMORY.BUSINESS.SITE), FULL METAL JACKET (CLOSED)

BEST STEAK

Juniper Steakhouse Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel 54 JEMEZ CANYON DAM ROAD 771-7145, SANTAANASTAR.COM/JUNIPER-STEAKHOUSE Hand-cut, dry-aged steaks are cooked to perfection at Juniper Steakhouse, and can come crusted in Stilton blue cheese, doused in a creamy Bearnaise sauce, seasoned with black peppercorn, or accompanied by a plump, buttery lobster tail, a couple of giant sea scallops, or even jumbo prawn scampi. It’s not hard to see why it’s Rio Ranchoans’ go-to for steak night. BEST OF THE REST: 1933 BREWING COMPANY (PERMANENTLY CLOSED), CHILI’S (6 LOCATIONS, CHILIS.COM)

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

Unleashed Sports Nutrition 2003 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 892-4800 UNLEASHEDSPORTSNUTRITION.COM Recommendations don’t come lightly from the staff at Unleashed Sports Nutrition, which takes a personalized approach to helping its customers find a supplement that helps them achieve the results they need. According to their website they, “teach you how to implement our products into your everyday workout routine and also how to diet with it to get the best results possible.” BEST OF THE REST: UNIVERSAL TRANSMISSION (3148 NORTHERN BLVD NE , 896-0555, UNIVERSALTRANSNM.COM), TURBO THREADS (1503 GOLF COURSE RD SE UNIT C, 999-1234, TURBOTHREADS.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO

BEST HAIRSTYLIST/COLORIST

BEST RIO RANCHO EVENT

3751 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 891-8771

3001 CIVIC CENTER CIR NE, SUITE 2 663-7786, NEWMEXICORUNNERS.COM

Gina Clark Attractions Hair Studio

As one of the star stylists at Attractions Hair Studio, Gina Clark has earned her reputation as Rio Rancho’s “Queen of Color.” She is up on all the newest hair trends, and her customers love her. From highlights to accent colors, in icy blonde all the way to neon green and electric blue, Gina knows how to get that perfect shade for all hair types. BEST OF THE REST: MINDI BLEA (HAIRAPY SALON, 5633 PARADISE BLVD NW, ALBUQUERQUE, 787-9561, HAIRAPYBYMINDI. NET), JAN RICAR (ATTRACTION HAIR STUDIO, 3751 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE, 891-8771)

BEST VIEW OF THE SANDIAS

NM Runners Arena Soccer

Any true Rio Ranchoan knows that New Mexico Runners games are the place to be—these professional indoor soccer games are exciting and quick, and fans pack in wearing red and black to cheer on the Runners. Co-Founders Andres Trujillo and his father Edwin Trujillo are dedicated to community engagement and creating a family-friendly atmosphere. The Runners play in the Major Arena Soccer League and typically have about 7 home games at the Santa Ana Star Center every season. BEST OF THE REST: MAYOR’S SUNDAY IS FUNDAY, PORK AND BREW FESTIVAL

Santa Ana Golf Course

Early Learning Preschool

BEST PRESCHOOL

BEST STAYCATION SPOT

288 PRAIRIE STAR ROAD 867-9464, MYNEWMEXICOGOLF.COM

2704 SOUTHERN BLVD SE # 10 892-5105, ELPRIORANCHO.COM

1300 TUYUNA TRAIL 867-1234, TAMAYA.REGENCY.HYATT.COM

Featured in Golf Digest, Golf Magazine, and the New York Times (who said Santa Ana Golf Club is “one of America’s three best links-style golf courses) and chosen as the location for the 2009 PGA Professional National Championship, Santa Ana Golf Club is considered one of the best courses in the state. The course includes 27 championship links-style holes, eight lakes, and a practice facility.

Built for the express purpose of advocating for and including parent involvement in children’s preschool education, Early Learning Preschool has a model that looks a little different from most typical preschools: it’s a parent co-op. But in the eyes of most Rio Ranchoans, that’s a good thing—the chance to get to participate in their child’s early learning, to be physically present in the classroom as a parent helper, helps them better continue the circle of learning at home on their own.

Tucked away on a 550-acre plot in the heart of Santa Ana Pueblo, the Hyatt Regency Tamaya is a luxury resort stay at its finest. The list of amenities feels endless, but of special note are the Tamaya Mist spa treatment, which features treatments infused with Native ingredients, the award-winning Twin Warriors Golf Club, the Tamaya Stables, which features a dozen rescued horses, and Corn Maiden, a fine dining establishment.

BEST OF THE REST: BOSQUE BREWING (834 US-550BER, BERNALILLO, 361-1876, BOSQUEBREWING.COM), THE LOCAL BREWHOUSE (300 UNSER BLVD. SE, 9942007)

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BEST OF THE REST: COVENANT SCHOOLS (1601 BARBARA LOOP SE, 994-4600, COVENANTSCHOOLS.COM), SHINING STARS PRESCHOOL (4477 9TH AVE NE, 892-7735, SHININGSTARS.RRPS.NET)

Hyatt Regency Tamaya

BEST OF THE REST: SANTA ANA STAR CASINO HOTEL (54 JEMEZ CANYON DAM ROAD, BERNALILLO, 867-0000, SANTAANASTAR.COM), CHOCOLATE TURTLE BED AND BREAKFAST (1098 W MEADOWLARK LN, CORRALES, 898-1800, CHOCOLATETURTLEBB.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO

BEST HUMANITARIAN GROUP

BEST CITY PARK

RIORANCHOROTARYSUNRISE.ORG

2441 WESTSIDE BLVD. 994-6338 APARKABOVE.ORG

Rio Rancho Sunrise Rotary

The mission of Rotary clubs everywhere is to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty. The Rio Rancho Sunrise Rotary carries that banner in our community and gives back in ways that include: funding scholarships, giving community awards, and hosting youth exchange programs. Plus, their popular Sunrise Stars and Stripes flag rental program helps raise money for special projects in the community. BEST OF THE REST: HAVEN HOUSE, CITY OF VISION CIVITANS

BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP Quanz Auto Body 204 FRONTAGE RD. NE 897-1955, QUANZAUTOCARE.COM Quanz Auto Care extends its “full-service” guarantee beyond comprehensive auto care. Here, the drivers are just as integral a part of that package. Since 1980, more than 100,000 vehicle owners have had their needs covered, from collision repair to claims management to dent removal and more. Collision repair is at the heart of what this business does well, as a team of specially certified professionals utilize the most technologically advanced methods available to return each vehicle as close to its previous status as possible. Additionally, on-site car rental is available for those who need transportation while their vehicle is being repaired. BEST OF THE REST: CAR CRAFTERS (32 LOCATIONS, CARCRAFTERS.COM), CHRISTIAN BROTHERS AUTOMOTIVE (2014 SOUTHERN BLVD SE, 485-1100, CBAC. COM)

A Park Above

A Park Above is an experience for everyone to enjoy. The first fully inclusive and accessible playground in New Mexico, this city park was constructed with children with disabilities in mind. From the easily accessible splash pad, to the inclusive playground equipment, to the wheelchair-friendly dog park, A Park Above is 6-acres of fun for everybody. BEST OF THE REST: HAYNES PARK (2006 GRANDE BLVD SE, 891-7240, RRNM.GOV), RIO RANCHO SPORTS COMPLEX (3501 HIGH RESORT BLVD. SE, RRNM.GOV)

BEST HIKING/RUNNING/ BIKING

BEST LANDSCAPING COMPANY

Tough but rewarding, this 2.1-mile hike will have you scrambling up the rocky side of Cabezon Peak, the tallest of the volcanic necks in the Rio Puerco Valley, just outside of Jemez. If you can make it up the sheer cliff face and set foot on the summit, Cabezon will offer you a breathtaking view of the valley below. The trail itself is also full of gorgeous scenery—junipers and pinons, full of birds like meadowlarks, quail and hawks, and other fauna, like prairie dogs, rabbits, and kangaroo mice. If you dare to scale the Big Head, be sure to come prepared: the terrain is tricky, there’s little to no cell service on the ascent, and if you don’t bring your own water, you’ll be out of luck--this place is as dry as they come.

661 QUANTUM RD. NE 433-1449, DIAZLANDSCAPING.NET

Cabezon Peak Trailhead

Diaz Landscaping

This fully insured, full-service landscaping company specializes in making properties look spectacular throughout the year. Whether it’s putting down gravel or concrete, irrigation installation or simply all-round mowing, trimming and maintenance, Diaz Landscaping will give you a yard worth bragging about. BEST OF THE REST: 2 BROTHERS LANDSCAPING (1012 CASA ROJA PL. NW, 2612681, 2BROTHERSLANDSCAPINGNM. COM), ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION (10220 SILVER GRADE CT NW, 967-7509, ACCESSABILITYNM.COM)

BEST OF THE REST: MARIPOSA TRAILS, CORRALES HEIGHTS TRAILS

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO

BEST MVD SERVICES

BEST PLACE TO ADOPT A PET

4000 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 218-7448, MVDEXPRESS.COM

3251 WESTPHALIA BLVD. NE 771-0140, WMRANCH.ORG

Thanks to an online appointment scheduling tool that allows you to select the service you need in a timeframe that fits your schedule, a trip to the MVD is a relatively painless experience. Couple that with consistently minimal wait times, and customers can get on with their lives in short order. This particular location (off 528 & Southern Boulevard SE) is ideal for exactly that, as it is conveniently situated near several shops and restaurants.

BEST OF THE REST: MVD (4114 SABANA GRANDE AVE SE, 891-5014, CI.RIO-RANCHO.NM.US)

Established in 1996, the Land of Enchantment’s largest no-kill animal shelter has rescued and found homes for more than 150,000 animals since its inception. Rescue efforts have expanded over the years, moving beyond most New Mexico counties to southern Texas and Juarez. Watermelon Mountain Ranch works tirelessly to educate the community on the pitfalls of pet overpopulation, a mission that includes getting the area’s youth involved by allowing them to volunteer at the 10-acre facility and adoption sites.

BEST PLACE TO LOSE TRACK OF TIME

BEST HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE

BEST VEGAN/VEGETARIAN OPTIONS

755 LOMA COLORADO BLVD. NE 891-5013, RRNM.GOV

851 LONGHORN RD SE 903-2985

1580 DEBORAH RD. SE 896-3126, NAMASTENM.NET

MVD Express

Loma Colorado Library

Yes, the Loma Colorado Library has a giant selection of books, a media center, a kids’ corner, and all of the amenities that make a modern library function. Featuring a large, open floor plan and a reading corner with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer spectacular views, it’s the perfect place to just curl up with a good book and lose track of time. BEST OF THE REST: SLATE STREET BILLIARDS (2003 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE, 9940363, SLATESTREETBILLIARDS.COM), PREMIERE CINEMAS (1000 PREMIERE PKWY SE, 994-3300, PCCMOVIES.COM)

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JK Cleaning Service

A clean house is a happy house. It’s much easier to kick off your shoes and relax at the end of the day if you’re not surrounded by clutter and looming chores. That’s where The Happy House cleaning service comes in. The dust everything from ceiling fans to furniture, clean appliances like stoves and refrigerators, remove hard water stains and mildew from toilets and showers, vacuum, and even fold clothes. BEST OF THE REST: THE HAPPY HOUSE (1775 MESA GRANDE LOOP NE, 3822872), MERRY MAIDS (877-476-0278)

Watermelon Mountain Ranch

BEST OF THE REST: RIO RANCHO ANIMAL SHELTER (3441 NORTHERN BLVD NE, 8915075, RRNM.GOV), ARGOS DOG RESCUE (ARGOSDOGRESCUE.ORG)

Namaste

More than a dozen of their entrees are either vegan or vegetarian, like the Mushroom Mattar Makhani, (mushrooms and green peas cooked in tomato sauce and homemade yogurt sauce). Using native spices imported from Nepal, the dishes here are as authentic as they are tasty.

BEST OF THE REST: PHO GARDEN (1751 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE #106, 404-0774, PHOGARDENNM.COM), LILY AND LIAM’S BISTRO (1751 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE, 3403309, LILYANDLIAMBISTRO.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO

BEST LOCAL ATHLETE

BEST CAR WASH

Focused on building her strength both inside and out, Clarissa Gannon is a personal trainer, nutritionist, and NPC ((the major sanctioning body for would-be professional bodybuilders and organized amateur bodybuilding) figure competitor. She has said that the most important part of her athletic career is getting to “share this lifestyle with my family and set a positive example for my children.”

2421 NM-528 404-9141, MISTERCARWASH.COM

Clarissa Gannon

BEST OF THE REST: MARCUS WILLIAMS, LUIS MARTINEZ (NM RUNNERS)

Mister Car Wash

Options abound for maintaining a clean vehicle, whether you want to remain in your car during a swift exterior wash (four different versions are available) or munch on some popcorn during a full-service experience, which includes interior vacuuming, dusting and window cleaning. The Unlimited Wash Club is a great option for keeping your ride shiny through New Mexico’s unpredictable weather, as members can get washes as often as they like for a monthly fee. The best part: No longterm contract is required for this club. BEST OF THE REST: BRENDA’S CAR WASH (2002 UNSER BLVD SE, 270-4913, BRENDASPOWERCARWASH.BUSINESS.SITE), WONDER WASH CAR WASH (1197 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE, 994-1036)

BEST UNDISCOVERED RESTAURANT

Jerusalem—Taste of the Holy Land 1690 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE STE B 896-1964 Tucked into the strip mall across from the Intel building, Jerusalem—Taste of the Holy Land is Rio Rancho’s latest hidden gem. Though it opened almost a year ago, in August of 2019, this restaurant offers all of the best of the Middle East—baba ganoush, shawarma, gyros—along with some dishes you might not have heard of before, like the Palestinian Freeken soup. They also serve a mean lamb shank. BEST OF THE REST: EL AGAVE MEXICAN RESTAURANT (1520 DEBORAH RD SE STE E, 994-8809, ELAGAVEFAMILYMEXICANRESTAURANT.COM), PALETA BAR (5 LOCATIONS +2 MORE IN RR/BERNALILLO, 1 IN LOS LUNAS AND 1 IN SAN DIEGO, THEPALETABAR.COM)

BEST AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

Boys and Girls Clubs of Central New Mexico 4600 SUNDT RD NE 892-3191, BGCCNM.ORG Long regarded as one of the most important national charities by the general public, the Boys and Girls Club does the essential work of providing after-school and summer programs for kids ages 5-18. The Central New Mexico branch of the organization goes above and beyond in this respect, working with five different schools in Rio Rancho and Albuquerque to make sure kids have a safe, fun place to learn and grow, and be taken care of. BEST OF THE REST: CALVARY (138 FRONTAGE RD NE, 896-2990, CALVARYRR.COM), RIO RANCHO HIGH SCHOOL E-SPORTS

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BEST BARTENDER

Angel at Slate Street Billiards 2003 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 994-0363 SLATESTREETBILLIARDS.COM With a wide variety of beers on tap and a full bar (plus $3 well drink and free pool on Wednesdays) it takes a deft and professional hand to tend the bar at Slate Street Billiards. And that’s where Angel comes in. A favorite of the regulars, Angel’s bright smile and welcoming attitude makes the jobs look easy (which it definitely is not.) She is able to mix nearly any drink in the book and get it to the customers quickly. BEST OF THE REST: SAMANTHA AT THE LOCAL BREWHOUSE (300 UNSER BLVD. SE, 994-2007), TOSH WHITEMAN

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO

BEST LUNCH SPOT

BEST DRY CLEANER

1751 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE 340-3309, LILYANDLIAMBISTRO.COM

3301 SOUTHERN BLVD SE 896-9320

Lily and Liam’s Bistro

Positioned right across from the Intel building, housed in the same space that the old Subway inhabited, the cozy, lightfilled Lily and Liam’s Bistro has quickly become a popular lunch spot in Rio Rancho. And for good reason: the only thing more pleasant than the atmosphere at Lily and Liam’s is the food itself—clean, simple, well-prepared. Try the Croque Monsieur or the Short Rib Split-Top.

BEST OF THE REST: DION’S (4 LOCATIONS, DIONS.COM), PHO BAR (3301 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE, 994-9150, PHO-BAR.COM)

BEST HAPPY HOUR

The Local Brewhouse 300 UNSER BLVD SE 994-2007 A relatively new addition to Rio Rancho, The Local Brewhouse has settled right in thanks to their happy hour specials. Their massive selection of both cocktails and beer make for endless combinations of happy hour deals and invite customers to return regularly to see what’s new. BEST OF THE REST: SANTA ANA STAR CASINO (54 JEMEZ CANYON DAM ROAD, 867-0000, SANTAANASTAR.COM), SLATE STREET BILLIARDS (2003 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE, 994-0363, SLATESTREETBILLIARDS.COM)

BEST CHEF

Thomas J. Montoya Uncle T’s Sangwiches 1520 DEBORAH RD. SE SUITE O 404-9345, ALLTHESANGWICHES.COM The difference between your typical sandwich and a “sangwich,” head chef Thomas J. Montoya says, is a lot of love. “We grew up with my grandma calling them sangwiches,” Montoya says. “I don’t really know where it came from, but when she made us a sangwich, we felt loved and that’s what we want for our customers to feel.” And guests definitely feel that love when they dine at Uncle T’s Sangwiches, regardless of which sangwhich they pick. BEST OF THE REST: M’TUCCI’S MODERNO (1908 WELLSPRING AVE. SE, 891-2432, MTUCCIS.COM), LILY AND LIAM’S BISTRO (1751 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE, 340-3309, LILYANDLIAMBISTRO.COM)

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E.A. Cleaners

A dry-cleaning business handles all of the articles of clothing we are most proud of—our business suits, our favorite dresses—all the things which are fine and special in our closets. Rio Rancho has trusted E.A. Cleaners with the delicate work of cleaning and pressing these garments for over a decade, and the extreme care they take is evident in every job they accept. Quick turnarounds, safe products, and excellent customer service make this Rio Rancho’s go-to dry cleaner.

BEST OF THE REST: HOUSE OF DRY CLEANING (1520 DEBORAH RD SE # F, 8910277, HOUSEOFDRYCLEANING.COM),RIO RANCHO ALTERATIONS (2345 SOUTHERN BLVD SE C5, 892-2109)

BEST RIO RANCHOAN WHO MADE IT BIG Ryan Cook

You can probably find plenty of people who will quibble over what it means to “make it big.” But if eight seasons as a center in the national football league doesn’t count, we’re not even speaking the same language. After playing for UNM, Ryan Cook found himself a 2nd round pick for the Minnesota Vikings during the 2006 NFL draft. Over the next eight years, he played for the Vikings, Miami Dolphins, and the Dallas Cowboys, before retiring in 2013. BEST OF THE REST: BLAKE SWIHART, ALAN BRANCH

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO

BEST FLORIST

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT

1000 GOLF COURSE RD. SE 896-2662 RIORANCHOFLOWERSHOP.COM

3201 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 892-3333, JOESPASTAHOUSE.COM

This Rio Rancho-based florist boasts a variety of gift ideas to fit any budget and style. Flowers & Things offers same-day delivery locally — including to funeral homes and hospitals — but can also assist with sending arrangements out of the country. Can’t make it into the store? Twenty-four hour online ordering is also available. Shoppers have more than just flowers from which to choose: any combination of plants, gift baskets, balloons, candles and stuffed animals are sure to brighten that special someone’s day.

The food is authentic Sicilian, and no patron is ever a stranger for long at this longtime eatery on Southern Boulevard. Owner’s Joe and Kassie Guzzardi are a constant dining room presence, helping to make sure guests and staff are both fully immersed in the experience.

BEST PLACE TO SPEND A RAINY DAY

BEST CHIPS AND SALSA

BEST BREAKFAST BURRITO

4051 SARA RD SE 994-9364, CAZUELASMEXICANGRILL.COM

2435 SOUTHERN BLVD 892-4121, MYTWISTERS.COM

Cazuela’s makes their own tortilla chips from scratch, and the triangles of deepfried corn tortilla are the perfect match for their tomato-based salsa, which is smoky and fresh. Like any good chips and salsa, the refills keep coming at Cazuela’s (until you politely refuse), which is for the best, since you’ll want as much of the stuff as you can get your hands on.

The ABQ-based chain has one location in Rio Rancho and another in Bernalillo, both serving up morning burritos that come in a dozen varieties. Some even include hard-to-find ingredients like bell peppers and sour cream.

Flowers & Things

Deep Blue Scuba 5001 CENTRAL AVE NW 888-0808 DBSNM.COM

New Mexico may be land-locked, but the high desert isn’t without its love of the open ocean. Where better to spend a rainy day than immersed in a pool, decked out in scuba gear, preparing for an 80foot deep dip into Blue Hole out in Santa Rosa? At Deep Blue Scuba, expert staff guide you through the basics of scuba diving or lead you in advanced levels of certification like Rescue Diving, depending on your skill level. BEST OF THE REST: PREMIERE CINEMA (1000 PREMIERE PKWY SE, 994-3300, PCCMOVIES.COM), TEN PINS AND MORE (1416 DEBORAH RD SE, 477-2061, TENPINS-MORE.COM)

Joe’s Pasta House

BEST OF THE REST: M’TUCCI’S MODERNO (1908 WELLSPRING AVE. SE, 891-2432, MTUCCIS.COM), ALDO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA (1690 RIO RANCHO DR SE, 8922026, RIORANCHO.ALDOSNYPIZZA.COM)

Cazuela’s Mexican Grill

BEST OF THE REST: BURRITO EXPRESS (1592 SARA RD., 896-1592, BURRITOEXPRESSINC.COM), HOT TAMALES (1520 RIO RANCHO BLVD., 962-0123, HOTTAMALESNMRESTAURANT.COM)

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Twisters

BEST OF THE REST: BURRITO EXPRESS (1592 SARA RD., 896-1592, BURRITOEXPRESSINC.COM), BLAKE’S LOTABURGER (29 LOCATIONS, LOTABURGER.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO

BEST PET GROOMING

Tail Waggers Mobile Pet Grooming 342-5766, TAILWAGGERS06@Q.COM For 15 years, Linda Simon has provided full-service grooming, sanitary trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, bathing and more for small-to-medium dogs. “I’m mobile and I provide one-on-one care with no cages or kennels. I go to people’s houses,” she says. “Usually what happens is when you take a dog to a groomer, they put them in kennels or a cage. And I don’t. I do one-on-one.” BEST OF THE REST: ALL ANGELS PET SALON (1703 GOLF COURSE RD SE, 8963030, ALLANGELSPETSALON.COM), PAWSH (10200 CORRALES RD SUITE E6A, 508-0155)

BEST DISPENSARY Ultra Health

2 LOCATIONS ULTRAHEALTH.COM Ultra Health on the Westside takes its patients’ health seriously, offering resources for patients and caregivers, and even for physicians who might be curious about the healing benefits of cannabis. They even have a partnership with Peace Medical Cannabis Cards, so that registration is as easy as possible for those they serve. Their store, which is clean, well-organized, and filled with helpful experts, stocks several strains at any given time, as well as edibles, topical remedies, and even CBD products. BEST OF THE REST: VERDES FOUNDATION (2 LOCATIONS, VERDESFOUNDATION.ORG), URBAN WELLNESS (3 LOCATIONS, URBANWELLNESSNM.COM)

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BEST TAKE-OUT

Sal-E-Boy’s Pizzeria Permanently closed

New York style thin crust pizza that’s ready to come home with you. But this legendary Southern Boulevard spot (which celebrates its 35th anniversary this year) also serves up a Sicilian-style, thick pan pizza. Plus, the calzones. Plus, the wings. Call in your order. Fughedaboutit! BEST OF THE REST: BEST LEE’S (2003 SOUTHERN BLVD SE #127, 892-7887), VIET RICE (1340 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE, 8927423, VIETRICE.CAFE)

BEST BURGER

Ironwood Kitchen 5740 NIGHT WHISPER RD. NW 890-4488, IRONWOODKITCHEN.COM What’s the key to a great burger? At Ironwood Kitchen, it’s starting with the right ingredients. Their “The Sixth Guy Burger” starts with 100-percent chuck ground by a local butcher, charbroiled, then griddle-cooked to perfection. The work results in a tender, juicy burger, which comes topped with your choice of fine ingredients like avocado, mushrooms, or, of course, green chile. BEST OF THE REST: SLATE STREET BILLIARDS (2003 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE, 9940363, SLATESTREETBILLIARDS.COM), THE LOCAL BREWHOUSE (300 UNSER BLVD. SE, 994-2007)

BEST BREAKFAST SPOT Uncle T’s Sangwiches

1520 DEBORAH RD. SE SUITE O 404-9345, ALLTHESANGWICHES.COM Uncle T’s Sangwiches may be new on the block in Rio Rancho, having only opened their doors in the neighborhood last June, but when it comes to breakfast, they’re not messing around. Chef Thomas J. Montoya serves up two perfectly scrambled eggs along with applewood smoked bacon, hand-peeled New Mexico green chile, topped with cheddar cheese and a schmear of cream cheese served on a flattened everything bagel with a side of homemade hashbrowns. BEST OF THE REST: WECK’S (11 LOCATIONS, WECKSINC.COM), CORRALES BISTRO BREWERY (4908 CORRALES RD, CORRALES, 897-1036, CBBISTRO.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO

BEST BUSINESS OWNER Mark Morgenstern UFC Gym Rio Rancho 1650 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE 994-4269, UFCGYM.COM Thanks to fitness, Mark Morgenstern’s life took a turn for the better. Before opening UFC Gym Rio Rancho, Mark struggled with serious drug addiction and was often in trouble with the law. He’s taken the lessons recovery has taught him and applied them to his business. He says fitness is “very much the same as drug rehabilitation, if you are ready to change, you need a good support system.” It’s obvious from the loyalty of his members that they feel that support from him every time they come in to train.

BEST OF THE REST: SALINA PALMERTON – MASSAGE ENVY (4229 CRESTVIEW DR SE, 892-3689, MASSAGEENVY.COM), TRANG AND FONG NGUYEN — PHO BAR (3301 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE, 994-9150, PHO-BAR.COM)

BEST FITNESS CLASSES Crossfit Thunderhawks 6080 ZENITH CT NE #102 385-7179, CROSSFITTHUNDERHAWK.COM Known for its family-focused fitness programming, Crossfit Thunderhawks is a gym that makes working out fun for kids and adults alike. “Our mission has always been to get whole families in here,” says co-owner Javier Hernandez. He and his wife, both doctors, also teach kids who attend the gym about nutrition and overall health. Crossfit Thunderhawks offers Rio Ranchoans a fun way to keep the kiddos (and the adults) healthy. BEST OF THE REST: UFC GYM (1650 RIO RANCHO BLVD SE, 994-4269, UFCGYM. COM/LOCATIONS/RIO-RANCHO/), VIVIFY HOT YOGA (1137 COMMERCIAL DR SE #101, 994-9451, VIVIFYNM.COM)

BEST PIZZA

BEST LOCAL WINERY

BEST LATE NIGHT EATS

4 LOCATIONS 994-9364, DIONS.COM

6275 CORRALES ROAD 898-9165, CORRALESWINERY.COM

2003 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 994-0363, SLATESTREETBILLIARDS.COM

This New Mexico-bred chain has a solid foothold in Rio Rancho, with four locations. The menu is straight-forward (pizza, subs, salads), but the consistency and flavor are never off-base. Plus, who else has a Ranch dressing with a cult following?

The only thing that beats the wine at this vineyard is the stunning view of the Sandias. Do yourself a favor and spend an evening tasting their crowd favorite, the Rojo Blendito, or sampling the Petit Verdot, which some have said rivals similar vintages found in the Napa Valley. Plus, their accommodating staff make Corrales Winery an ideal place to unwind with a few friends (and a few glasses).

With more than a dozen pool tables and a lively digital jukebox, this spot stays jumping well into the night. Thankfully, the kitchen keeps late hours, too. Full menu service on weekends goes until midnight, with tasty dishes like corn elotes, tortilla burgers and Philly cheesesteaks.

Dion’s

BEST OF THE REST: TURTLE MOUNTAIN BREWING CO (905 36TH PL. SE, 994-9497, TURTLEMOUNTAINBREWING.COM), VILLAGE PIZZA (2 LOCATIONS, VILLAGEPIZZANM.COM)

Corrales Winery

BEST OF THE REST: PASANDO TIEMPO WINERY (277 DANDELION RD, 228-0154, PASANDOTIEMPOWINERY.COM), ACEQUIA WINERY (240 RECLINING ACRES RD, 8980933, ACEQUIAWINERY.COM)

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Slate Street Billiards

BEST OF THE REST: TACO CABANA (6 LOCATIONS, TACOCABANAABQ.COM), CHILI’S (6 LOCATIONS, CHILIS.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO

BEST PLACE TO OVERINDULGE

BEST NUTRITION STORE

Paleta Bar

Unleashed Sports Nutrition

5 LOCATIONS THEPALETABAR.COM

2003 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 892-4800 UNLEASHEDSPORTSNUTRITION.COM

The Paleta Bar has taken a tried-andtrue, frozen Mexican dessert to new heights. Since 2017, this paleta wonderland has been slinging refreshing Mexican popsicles in endless combinations of flavors. Their menu is fun and tasty, full of fresh ideas that are outside of the (ice) box, like their signature Paleta Shake, an enticing blended drink made from agua fresca, fresh fruit, chamoy, and a whole paleta, which brought the shop viral video fame when their first location opened. BEST OF THE REST: M’TUCCI’S MODERNO (1908 WELLSPRING AVE. SE, 891-2432, MTUCCIS.COM), BOSQUE BREWING (834 US-550, BERNALILLO, 361-1876, BOSQUEBREWING.COM)

If there’s one thing Unleashed Sports Nutrition knows about, well, it’s nutrition. “All the product that we offer, we’ve tested ourselves,” says sales associate Leo Herrera. “We make sure that everything we have on the shelf is effective. We don’t just offer something because it’s trendy. We only offer stuff we know is gonna work for our customers.” BEST OF THE REST: G&M MEDICAL (1316 JACKIE RD SE #500, 415-0719, GMMEDICALCENTER.COM), FUSION WELLNESS CENTER (1709 GOLF COURSE RD SE #104, 362-0496)

BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST BEST MANLY STORE

Jessica Chavez Lotus Tree Massage

BEST DOGGY DAYCARE

2108 SOUTHERN BLVD SE 891-2300, STORES.TRUEVALUE.COM

1728 ABRAZO RD. NE, SUITE D 859-5152, LOTUSTREEMASSAGENM.COM

365 UNSER BLVD. SE 998-1494, MVPETLODGE.COM

Rio Rancho True Value

What’s more manly than a hardware store? Not much. And when it comes to hardware stores in Rio Rancho, True Value leads the way, with a large selection of tools, equipment, and things like welding and plumbing supplies. Plus, the guys can always come to True Value to talk shop with the experts on hand there—which is definitely not the same as asking for help, thank you very much. BEST OF THE REST: BULLDOG FIREARMS (2502 SOUTHERN BLVD., 994-9243, BULLDOGFIREARMSNM.COM), CABELA’S (5151 LANG AVE NE, 336-2700, CABELAS.COM)

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Jessica’s clients at Lotus Tree Massage cannot stop singing her praises—she’s professional, and she’s very good at her job. Offering everything from hot towel massages to deep tissue massage to Mommy and Me maternity massages, Jessica finds your most tense areas and works them out for you—exactly what you’d want out of a good massage therapist. BEST OF THE REST: GAIL PHILLIPS (ON THE MEND MEDICAL MASSAGE), SHANNON CLARK (SOUTHWEST MEDICAL MASSAGE HEALING, 4351 JAGER WAY NE)

Monte Vista Pet Lodge

If you need to leave your furry family member for the day—fear not, the friendly, experienced staff here treats all of its guests like family. The 6,500-squarefoot facility with outdoor play yards offers doggie day care, dog boarding, dog grooming and cat boarding. There are even accommodations for animals with special or medical needs, including a licensed veterinary technician on staff. BEST OF THE REST: PET PARADISE (580 QUANTUM RD. NE, 891-4100, PETPARADISE.COM), DOG DAYS DOGGIE DAY CARE (2612 SOUTHERN BLVD SE STE F, 8923644, DOGDAYSDOGGIEDAYCARE.COM)

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

BEST OF RIO RANCHO

BEST LOCAL INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT

BEST SECOND-HAND STORE Furniture Cottage

2345 SOUTHERN BLVD. SE 892-2800,

Sweet and Savory Pantry @SWEET.SAVORY_PANTRY

Beware: this Instagram account will make your mouth water! The Instagram account @sweet.savory_pantry has over three thousand followers, and for good reason—the feed is full of delicious-looking pastries and cakes, lunches and dinners, with a few quotes about cooking peppered in for good measure. They also host giveaways and post recipes for their followers to try out themselves! BEST OF THE REST: @NMRUNNERS, @VIVIFY_HOT_YOGA

The furniture and home decor pieces for sale here aren’t referred to as “used.” Furniture Cottage prefers the term “preloved” instead. It’s an apt description, as the items for sale, which have been found at a variety of estate sales, auctions and internet and classified ads, are carefully examined to make sure they’re worthy of re-sale. And while plenty of recognizable names — think Thomasville, La-z-Boy, Ethan Allen, etc. — are available at a price that belies the brand, shoppers will also find unique and vintage pieces on hand, as well. BEST OF THE REST: UNDER CHARLIE’S COVERS (160 S CAMINO DEL PUEBLO STE B, BERNALILLO, 404-2097, UNDERCHARLIESCOVERS.COM), ASSISTANCE LEAGUE (5211 LOMAS BLVD NE, 265-0443, ASSISTANCELEAGUEABQ.ORG)

BEST GIFT SHOP

BEST BREWERY

BEST SWEETS SHOP Les Blonde Bakery

Believers Christian Gifts

3 LOCATIONS MARBLEBREWERY.COM

903-8868

2003 SOUTHERN BLVD SE 545-6883, BELIEVERSCHRISTIANGIFTS.COM

Marble Brewery Maybe it’s their award-winning beers, their cheerful service, or their community involvement, but there’s definitely something Rio Ranchoans love about Marble Brewery, and specifically Marble’s Westside taproom. The taproom has all of Marble’s award-winning beers on tap, a merchandise store, live music, and food trucks (often Ohana Hut or Cheesy Street.) BEST OF THE REST: TURTLE MOUNTAIN BREWING CO. (905 36TH PL. SE, 9949497, TURTLEMOUNTAINBREWING.COM), BLUE GRASSHOPPER (2 LOCATIONS, BGHBREWERY.COM)

If you’re looking for a killer cheesecake in Rio Rancho, Kerian Myerson is the lady to talk to—they were so popular that she opened up a whole bakery devoted to them—Les Blonde. But the cheesecake isn’t the only thing worth trying here—far from it. Their menu includes everything delicious from breads—like Challah, Italian, and Rosemary Olive Loaf—to baked goods—like cinnamon rolls and Macarons. BEST OF THE REST: CHOCGLITZ & CREAM (10660 UNSER BLVD. NW, 898-4589, CHOCGLITZANDCREAM.COM), DAGMAR’S DELECTABLES (2704 SOUTHERN BLVD. S.E., 891-7995)

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

Since August 2015, this locally owned and operated business has specialized in a wide variety of gifts with a primary goal of spreading the message of the Christian faith. The store has something to offer for any age group, including Bibles, inspirational readings, DaySpring Cards, apparel, jewelry, pictures, crosses and numerous other keepsakes. Inevitably, you’re bound to find something that will brighten your day — or someone else’s. BEST OF THE REST: FLOWERS & THINGS (1000 GOLF COURSE RD. SE, 896-2662, RIORANCHOFLOWERSHOP.COM), HARRIS JEWELERS (909 36TH PL SUITE A, 8923841, HARRISJEWELERSNM.COM)

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BEST OF RIO RANCHO

BEST GROCERY STORE Albertsons

2 LOCATIONS ALBERTSONSMARKET.COM With two Rio Rancho locations, Albertsons provides a friendly and convenient shopping experience on each visit. Sign up for a rewards membership to earn free groceries and discounts on gas, and make sure your kitchen is well stocked with fresh produce, meats from the deli and bakery-fresh goodies. BEST OF THE REST: SMITH’S (1000 RIO RANCHO DR NE SE, 892-1791, SMITHSFOODANDDRUG.COM), SPROUTS (10701 CORRALES RD, 890-7900, SPROUTS.COM)

BEST POLITICIAN

Mayor Gregg Hull

Though not born in Rio Rancho, Gregg Hull and his wife Carrie have made it their home for the last 25 years. Now in his second term, Mayor Hull has made quality of life improvements, actively encouraging citizen participation in city government, and city infrastructure the backbones of his tenure. BEST OF THE REST: SCOTT FORRESTER, JAY BLOCK

BEST VISUAL ARTIST

Kate Buckles Kate Buckles Photography KATEBUCKLESPHOTOGRAPHY.COM Through the lens of her camera, Rio Ranchoan Kate Buckles captures the many precious moments of her customers’ lives. As a family portrait photographer, her work goes on display in family homes for decades. Her kind demeanor and her seasoned professionalism make sessions with her pleasant and fun. She helps show our families as we see them— beautiful and well-loved. BEST OF THE REST: JEREMIAH GARDNER, ROY SIEZAK

BEST TACO

Cazuela’s Mexican Grill 4051 SARA RD SE 994-9364, CAZUELASMEXICANGRILL.COM At Cazuela’s, the tacos start with yellow corn tortillas, hard or soft—your choice. Then they’re stuffed with tender carne asada, flavorful carne adovada, melt-inyour-mouth carnitas, chicharrones fried to just the right crispiness, or slow-roasted barbacoa. Finished with a side of beans and rice, these tacos will have you back again and again just to get another taste. BEST OF THE REST: HOT TAMALES (1520 RIO RANCHO BLVD., 962-0123, HOTTAMALESNMRESTAURANT.COM), SANCHEZ TACOS (TRUCK—CHECK SOCIAL MEDIA FOR LOCATIONS, SANCHEZTACOSNM.COM)

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ABQ THE INTERVIEW P. 142 | PERSONALITY P. 148 | BEHIND THE SCENES P. 152

RAISING THE BAR Precious Andrew is a rising star in the world of competitive powerlifting. But before she started training with weights, she trained her mind in the field of mathmatics, which led to her current job as a math professor (p. 148).

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

PHOTO BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM

STORIES BEHIND INDIVIDUALS WHO MAKE ALBUQUERQUE GREAT

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH OUR LEADERS AND DIFFERENCE-MAKERS

Jeff Boman The head of a new COVID-19 Unit at UNM Hospital is working hard to keep everyone safe as he learns to celebrate even the small victories.

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

or Jeff Boman, the news of the arrival of the coronavirus in New Mexico was heartbreaking but not unexpected. A nurse and unit manager at University of New Mexico Hospital for the last five years, he had received the best training in the state, and that included disaster training. So, while nobody was truly prepared for the pandemic, Boman found himself in a spot with the best preparation possible. UNMH acted quickly to implement changes in advance of COVID, and that included converting Boman’s unit from a High-risk Obstetrics Unit (which typically deals with complication during pregnancy) to a Progressive Care Unit for COVID-positive patients. Now, his job is to both heal the sick and get his staff trained to run a difficult and dangerous new unit dealing with a virus about which very little is known—all while keeping morale up and being as prepared as possible. Being prepared and staying safe are of utmost importance to Boman. He and his wife, Keri, have six kids between the ages of 8 and 21 (Gage, Kalista, Aiden, Colton, Carson, and Bryce). Keeping COVID out of his home is a priority for this family man. And, Boman says, “so far, so good.” His kids understand that there is a virus out there and that their dad is on the frontlines, but he says they don’t really understand the seriousness of it. “I went to bed early one night and my youngest came into my room and asked if I had the ‘rona virus.’ So they get it, but they don’t fully understand,” says Boman. That innocence is by design. Boman says he would rather have his kids thinking about next weekend’s hiking or dirt biking trip than worrying about their dad. Boman says that while we are still in the thick of the pandemic, it is important to stay positive and optimistic. The community support has been a huge help. Despite reopenings across the state, that support is also still necessary, because frontline workers like Boman have a long road ahead. JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE: So, what exactly does your job entail? JEFF BOMAN: The job entails being the coordinator and manager of the unit. Traditionally, we are a high-risk obstetrical unit, but starting April 1 we became a 100-percent COVID-positive unit. So, it’s all progressive-care COVID positive patients. That means any patient that is not needing ICU level care that is COVID positive. And it is for both men and women. ATM: It sounds like a pretty dangerous job. JB: You know, I thought it was at first,

but after I’ve been in this for a while and I’ve seen all the measures that UNM has put in place, I really kind of feel comfortable doing this. ATM: How many staffers do you have on the unit working under you?

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JB: Typically about 10 COVID-positive patients.

ATM: What has UNM done to prepare the staff for this and make sure you have all the PPE you need?

THE SMALLEST BEAUTY

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members learned how to train other staff members about the correct use of PPE, and then that information is disseminated to all staff, especially our supervisors on the unit, to make sure that they are ensuring that staff are using PPE correctly. ATM: Does that involve the famed N95 mask? JB: Yes. There is a specific class for fitting an N95 mask. If a provider or somebody who works outside of my unit comes to my unit and needs to get fitted for a mask, a supervisor will fit them since they’ve had that training. On top of that, it’s really determining whether that patient requires an N95 level of protection or if a surgical mask and gown and gloves is going to be sufficient for caring for that patient. ATM: How do you determine that level of patient? JB: So, it’s a combination of things. We determine if somebody needs an N95 based on their symptoms, their oxygen requirement, how much they are coughing, if they are able to maintain their oxygenation on their own or if they need supportive measures. These are all things that come into account for determining if someone needs an N95 requirement for the staff.

PHOTO BY REECE MARTINEZ/ATM

ATM: And how many patients do you have on the unit?

JB: UNM has actually done a lot of research about PPE; effective levels of PPE; what exactly is needed. They’ve sent out a lot of information about making sure that the staff and myself are comfortable with the PPE that we have and understanding how the virus is transmitted and how to protect ourselves. We actually started off with extra training sessions that were mandatory for every single staff member and department. And then with that, my staff

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

JB: We have about 35 employees right now, all rotating in and out. But we usually staff fewer than we have now.

ATM: How did things change on unit when COVID hit?

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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

3121 SAN MATEO NE • 505.881.3336 | 1416 JUAN TABO NE • 505.338.0038

us. My unit specializes in high risk obstetrics. We are a progressive care unit, which means we are not an ICU level, we don’t typically use ventilators, but most other things are on the table. Specifically, we specialize in high risk obstetrics, which means if someone has a high-risk pregnancy or their life or baby’s life are on the line, we are the unit that handles that. Transitioning to the unit that specializes in progressive care for COVID positive patients was a big change for us, because now we are transitioning into something that cares for these COVID positive patients. It’s a virus that really very little is known about worldwide. More is being discovered every day. Really learning how to care for these patients who have the

PHOTO BY REECE MARTINEZ/ATM

JB: That was actually a big change for

ABQ

COVID virus, supporting their respiratory symptoms. It was a lot to take in very quickly. ATM: Do you use ventilators now? JB: Not really on my unit, but that is because UNM has really ramped up the ICU. I’ve been here for five years and it’s really impressive to see how they’ve expanded their number of ICU beds so that progressive care units don’t have to care for ventilator-dependent patients, which really is ICU level care. I’m not sure of the exact number, but it’s been a lot. We are operating at 130-something percent ICU capacity. So, I know they have really expanded the amount of care for the ICU nurses and for the ICU patients. Most hospitals have a finite number of ICU beds. And that was the case for UNM. I think we had around 76 beds, but now we have 100 and something, so special care has really stepped up. ATM: Did UNM prepare for COVID before it hit, or did you start when it finally arrived? JB: That’s one of the things that I really like about UNM Hospital. I think that being the state’s only level 1 trauma center and the state’s “safety net hospital,” we really do prepare for these kinds of situations. It wasn’t specifically COVID we were prepared for, but we deal with potential natural disasters and other situations that may come about and impact our community. So, when COVID came around, while we hadn’t dealt specifically with coronavirus, we did have systems in place where we were able to step up and handle the challenge. ATM: Did UNMH predict that COVID might get here and prepare accordingly? JB: We actually started having meetings in early January discussing the virus and how it would impact the different service lines and how we would respond to it before we actually even had a plan in place. ATM: There has been a lot of talk nationwide about supply shortages. How have you guys been set on supplies?

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JB: As far as ventilators, we have been doing great. I know there has been a shortage nationwide, and we’ve definitely been using a lot of ventilators, but we’ve had spares every single day. For N95s, really, our infectious disease doctor and epidemiologist, Megan Brett, has really come forward with the research to support not using an N95 with every single patient, which was the early CDC recommendation. And it’s really protected our supply to ensure that we have them for every patient that we’ve needed them for. ATM: So is it accurate to say UNM has avoided some pitfalls by really staying on the cutting edge of coronavirus research and safety guidelines? JB: I think that is definitely accurate.

I think that’s one of the great things about UNM. We are presented with so many unique challenges and supported by the University that we really do have

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a lot of academic research and support going into it. ATM: Have you seen any examples of the community stepping up to support the frontline workers? JB: Oh my gosh, yes. It’s actually been

almost every day. We’ve had another department, a congressman, a senator, somebody providing our unit with dinner or lunch or some kind of support from the community. We’ve received hundreds of “thank you” cards and “get well” cards, and there has been so much support from the community that its really been wonderful. ATM: And has the University been pretty supportive? JB: Absolutely. Our administration has been by pretty routinely to answer any questions that the staff have. Our supply department has really stepped up to make sure that we have any kind of PPE or disinfectants that we might need.

Other departments in the University have come forward to contribute for meals. So, we have really seen a lot of support from the University. ATM: It seems like a very high stress unit. How do you keep up morale? JB: I think that women’s special care, in general, has always had good camaraderie. I think that’s really come forward in the last few months. But specifically, I really think that seeing all the support from both the community and the hospital has helped the morale in the unit. Then also, seeing patients celebrate their recoveries. We created a big board and put a blue heart up for every patient that’s discharged, and celebrating those victories has really helped the morale. ATM: Are you seeing an improvement in terms of numbers, or are we still in the thick of it? JB: I would say that we are definitely still in the thick of it. In general, though,

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ABQ

we are seeing fewer cases on my unit specifically. The ICU is still pretty full. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to gauge because we are back in the traditional trauma season. We are having a lot of patients coming in for things like gunshot wounds and things not related to COVID, but that do take up our hospital beds.

JB: We absolutely do. Aside from our precaution measures that we take on every single room, some departments in the hospital have been converted to negative air flow, so that any viruses or germs are sucked up through the ventilation and out through the filtration system. But really, in addition to that I think that designating specific places to put our COVID patients has really helped segregate that population. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;TAYLOR HOOD

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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

ATM: And then are you going to great lengths to keep COVID and non-COVID patients separated?

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

Heavy Goals Precious Andrew realized as a kid that she had a gift for mathematics. Later, she grew to love weightlifting. Now she’s fashioned careers from both.

P PHOTO BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM

icture a math professor in your mind, and you’re unlikely to arrive at the image of tattoo collector Precious Andrew. Imagine a powerlifter, and you’re similarly unlikely to envision her compact, 5-foot, 4-inch frame, which run counters to the body type typical of her sport. However, the 34-year-old is both and more.

Andrew moved to Albuquerque when she was 12 years old. As she entered college at the University of New Mexico, she, like many, didn’t know what she wanted to study. Starting with a lower level Math 100 class, she excelled in the subject matter. “I have always loved math specifically because it’s a bit like solving a puzzle. There’s this aha moment when the lightbulb goes off and you realize you’ve solved the problem,” she says. “I also enjoy the fact that one can always prove that they are correct. Answers are not subject to anyone’s opinion.” Her professors saw her talent and encouraged her to continue into advanced coursework. She went on to complete her undergraduate studies at UNM and, with her

high GPA, landed a graduate teaching fellowship to continue her studies. “This was too good of an opportunity to pass up,” she says. During her first semester teaching in 2007 as a teaching assistant, she discovered she had a true passion for the profession. “I love being able to motivate students who would otherwise be uninterested or feel that math isn’t a topic they can succeed in,” she says. “I think it’s important for students to see that with hard work and motivation, the STEM world is open to anyone and everyone. Being a woman, being tattooed, being a powerlifter, I feel I’m a good demonstration that no matter how you look or what your interests are, if you have ambition and a pas-

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sion for mathematics, you can and should pursue it and will have opportunities.” After completing her master’s degree, and teaching algebra, trigonometry, and calculus at the main campus as a term instructor for several years, this fall she’ll move to UNM Valencia campus and become an assistant professor. In college, she also discovered powerlifting, which has remarkable similarities to math: Both are fundamentally about problem solving. She started getting in shape with simple cardio and light weightlifting, then five or six years ago Andrew started leaning into larger weights. “I just enjoyed lifting heavy,” she says. “The more challenging it was, the more fun it was for me. And it was more fun for me to reach for heavier weights than to reach a body physique goal.” Powerlifting is a sport of brute strength over short bursts of time. With chalked hands to keep the massive weights from

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slipping and veins bulging with effort, competitors heft incredible weights in the deadlift (in which they pick up a weighted bar from the ground to hip level), squat (in which they pick up a weighted bar and complete a leg squat while balancing it), and bench press (in which they press a bar up from their chests lifting with their arms). Andrew felt drawn to powerlifting because, “I’m in competition with myself. I always try to do better than last time,” she says. “I’ve always liked challenging myself. That’s just always been inherent in me.” In 2017, friends from her gym talked her into signing up for her first competition. She signed up the night before and surprised by walking away with second place in her 72-kg (158-pound) weight class. “I didn’t even really know the rules for the competition,” she laughs. “I had to get someone to loan me the high deadlift socks, and I was a little off on the move during the bench press. But luckily that competition was beginner friendly.” Her powerlifting prowess allowed her to advance quickly from beginner-friendly to expert-only competitions. She competed in the 2019 USA Powerlifting Raw Nationals in Chicago. She placed 22 out of 72 competitors, without even working with a professional coach. In March 2020, she placed second in her weight class at the prestigious USA Powerlifting Arnold Battle of the Regions. “I didn’t have any expectations except to out-do myself,” she says. She did just that, by setting several personal competition records at the Arnold. She topped out at a 155 kg (342 pound) squat and a 95 kg (209 pound) bench press there. She previously set her best deadlift competition best at 190 kg (418 pounds – more than two-and-a-half times her bodyweight) at nationals. Since she’s been training at home during the COVID-19 quarantine, she’s achieved a 102 kg (225 pound) bench press. It’s her favorite lift of the moment. The designation shifts based on the lift in which she’s progressing the most. To make that progress, she focuses her four-times-a-week workouts on a single lift. “Most of the workout is one of those movements. I usually do eight sets of that, then I do some accessory work that corresponds with it,” she says. So, a day working on the bench press would begin with heavy bench press lifts, followed by some speed bench (lighter weight and faster WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

PHOTO BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM

movements), then push-ups, dips, and other exercises. Getting ready for competitions is more about slowing down than speeding up. “The week before I get into the gym to do something but it’s light, but then I take off four days before the event from working out,” she says. She designs all her training programs herself based on information she’s gathered from friends and competitors over the years, and Internet research. As for nutrition, “The nice thing about power lifting is that you can eat whatever you want,” she says. Andrew takes a different approach to competitions from other entrants. “Some people take it so seriously!” she says. She aims for fun instead. For example, she and a friend coordinate outfits for meets. At last fall’s nationals they donned galaxy-patterned socks and astronaut backpacks for their outer-space themed outfits. As she steps up to the weight rack in competitions, with all eyes on her both, “I just try to remind myself it’s just like any other time I’ve JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

done the lift,” she says. Lifting in front of a crowd does sometimes give her performance jitters. However, “teaching helps with that, I’m used to being in front of the crowd.” Although the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed some of her planned competitions for this year, she has her sights set on regionals in Phoenix, Arizona, in August, and the national competition in October. When she’s not in the classroom or the gym, she loves traveling to “as many places as she can afford.” Last year, she flew to London, then hopped over to Ukraine and Poland. Along the way, she added to her tattoo collection. She likens tattoos to collecting art, though this art is done on the canvas of her ever-evolving body. “I like that they’re unique,” she says. “They’re a personal expression.” Just like everything else about stereotype defying Precious Andrew. —ASHLEY M. BIGGERS

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BEHIND SCENES THE

YOUR SNEAK PEEK AT JOBS THAT FLY BELOW THE RADAR

In It Together It started with the idea of helping a few neighbors. But soon Erin Chisholm was delivering thousands of meals across New Mexico—and even enlisted the help of the State Auditor.

L PHOTO BY MICHAEL JACOBS/ATM

ike a growing number of feel-good stories, this one started on social media. In light of the hard times brought on by the coronavirus, someone had posted a simple reminder on Facebook: Help your neighbors. Erin Chisholm saw the post, and knowing that the pandemic for New Mexicans brought confusion, uncertainty, and scarcity, the Albuquerque business owner reacted. “I just called all my neighbors and said, ‘Hey, do you guys need anything?’” Chisholm recalls. “‘I always go to Costco, and if you need toilet paper, I have toilet paper, paper towels—just let me know.’” From there, Chisholm’s efforts began to expand. She started taking lunches to a nearby mobile home park, where a lot of elderly people live. “There was a gentleman that started crying because he didn’t have food,” she says, realizing that with so many services curtailed or completely shut down, a lot of people had lost regular and reliable access to food. “I went to the store and just bought him toiletries and whatever (food) I could get my hands on so that he had food for that week.” Suspecting she’d only caught a glimpse of the scope of need, Chisholm returned to Facebook, asking her friends to let her know if they knew anyone who needed anything. The response she received was enormous. “It went from me just making sack lunches with my kids and delivering

them to the mobile home parks, to getting like 50 people a day asking for anything— asking me for hand sanitizer, asking for groceries, anything that I could get my hands on,” said Chisholm, 36. The pandemic has been tough on all New Mexicans, but many who had already been struggling economically were now barely able to keep their heads above water. And so, the need for the sort of services Chisholm was offering quickly exceeded what any single person could keep up with. “I got so overwhelmed that I was actually forgetting people...and I wasn’t able to keep up with demand,” said Chisholm, who is co-owner of Chisholm Trail RV. “I asked Brian Colón if there was any way he could help, because obviously he’s a lot more organized than I am.”

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

Organizing causes for the greater good is one of Colón’s passions. An Albuquerque attorney by trade, he has a distinguished track record in politics and public service, having served as a board member for several non-profits, and as the past chair of the Democratic Party of New Mexico. In 2018, he was elected as the New Mexico State Auditor. A mutual friend introduced Colón to Chisholm about three years ago, and they began discussing ways she could help nonprofits in ABQ. So when the pandemic hit, it was a natural way for the two to join forces. “He and I just partnered up,” says Chisholm, “and started making care packages.” While local food banks and charity groups were continuing to do invaluable work, there was no pre-existing infrastructure in place to support the specific kind of work Chisholm and Colón were doing. They enlisted the help of other volunteers and businesses whenever and wherever possible, but as a largely organic, fully spontaneous movement, many people weren’t even aware of what they were doing. To a substantial degree, they were playing it by ear. “It got big enough where

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERIN CHISHOLM

Erin Chisholm and Brian Colón (front) rallied nearly 40 volunteers to help with their food drive.

we needed some help, and it got to a point where, between the two of us, we’d put in $25,000 to $30,000 of our own resources to try and fund the program,” Colón says. “We had served several thousand people by then.” With their personal resources nearly exhausted, Chisholm and Colón set up a GoFundMe page. People started sending in money—ultimately more than $14,000—and the program was able to continue. As co-owner of a recreational vehicle dealership, Chisholm had access to trailers. With need apparent across the state, she and Colón started routinely loading a large RV with 300 to 400 food packages and delivering them to places like Mountainair, Santa Rosa, and Las Cruces, ultimately serving people in 13 counties. Their care packages were filled with long-lasting staples—spaghetti, rice, beans, tortillas, loaves of bread—with the aim of feeding families of two or three for

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a week. “At the end, we estimated that we had done around 160,000 to 170,000 meals across the state of New Mexico, and we know that we’ve hit over 6,600 families,” Chisholm says. The program wrapped up in late May, with a final drop to the Church Rock Chapter House on the Navajo Nation near Gallup. “We took about 13 vehicles and a huge trailer full of essential products,” Colón says. “You know, everything from toilet paper and paper towels to hand sanitizer and food products to serve that community of about 2,200 people. We took enough food up there to serve them probably for a week to 10 days. And water—I mean, literally a whole pallet of water.” Chisholm and Colón acknowledge that they ran their ad hoc program on compassion and trust. In the simplest of terms, people reached out and expressed a need, and the pair responded. And they re-

ceived help from a litany of volunteers— about 15 members of the Chisolm Trail team, plus up to 40 other individuals and business throughout the community—all working to make sure total strangers had what they needed to navigate turbulent and uncertain waters. The local General Mills facility even donated tens of thousands of granola bars. Those who made the food drive possible certainly deserve praise. But Colón says the ‘hero’ tag might be better used elsewhere in this case. “All we did was answer the call. I mean, literally, we had a system where people would text us their address and we delivered those care packages to their door. No questions asked, no requirements,” says Colón. “The heroes are the ones that have the heart and the humility to be able to reach out to say, ‘We need help.’” —ZB

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CREATIVES P. 156 | SHELFLIFE P. 158 | TIEMPO P. 160

CULTURE

ILLUSTRATOR TO THE STARS Illustrator Ted Slampyak uses his abundant skills to draw the storyboard pictures for films like Terminator: Salvation and television shows like Breaking Bad (pg. 156).

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

PHOTO BYAARON HALBIG/CNM INGENUITY

A PULSE CHECK ON ALBUQUERQUEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ART, MUSIC AND THEATER SCENE

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

here’s that old line, variously attributed to everyone from Confucius to Mark Twain, that says something like, “find a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” Unsurprisingly, it gets a whole lot more complicated than that in practice. “I’m just too stubborn to do anything else—I’ve just always wanted to draw,” says Ted Slampyak, an Albuquerque illustrator and storyboard artist. It wasn’t so much a career choice as an imperative. He’s doing a job he loves, but that doesn’t mean he never has to work. “If you’re good at what you do, you spend a lot of time promoting your work,” says Slampyak. “You send stuff out to anyone that you think might have a reason to hire you, and create staples, and you

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show samples you’ve done and—even if you’re not particularly good—eventually the people you do work for will need you again and will tell other people.” The word has certainly spread about Slampyak’s talent as a storyboard creator. Storyboards are illustrations used by filmmakers to depict the projected film angles and character actions in a scene, so that everyone involved in the film—directors, camera operators, costumer designers, set builders, stunt coordinators—will have a better idea of what the actual shoot will look like in advance, and can plan accordingly. Over the years, Slampyak has contributed his talents to an impressive roster of New Mexico-set or New Mexico-filmed productions. The films Hell or High Water and Terminator: Salvation both made use of Slampyak’s skills, as did both iconic TV

series set in Albuquerque, Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. “Once I got work from enough production, I just started being known by the local people as the guy who does the storyboards,” says Slampyak. “So when new people would come in, new productions, the people they would hire would say, ‘Oh, you need a storyboard artist. We know somebody. You can take a look at their work.’” According to Slampyak, the specific process behind storyboarding any particular project is highly context-dependent. Different directors employ storyboards to different ends. Sometimes it’s as simple as building a visual reference that different departments can use to better understand what a director wants. In other cases, it helps clarify a director’s vision when it comes time to build visual effects, pre-

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PHOTO BY AARON HALBIG/CNM INGENUITY

VISIONARY

Ted Slampyak’s drawings help set the direction for shows like Breaking Bad.

ILLUSTRATIONS COURTESY OF TED SLAMPYAK

venting important details from getting lost in linguistic gray areas. Other directors use storyboards to help sort through complex sequences, light fight scenes or car chases. “Usually the process is that the director or the director of photography—or both—will sit down with me, and they’ll talk about the scenes that they need,” says Slampyak. “They might already have some sketches they’ve done, they might have a shot list, writing up a description of every shot that they want me to draw. Or, they might just give me a script for the sequence and then describe what they want to happen. Sometimes they’re very specific and know every shot. Sometimes they’re extremely vague.” When Slampyak worked on Terminator: Salvation in 2008, the film and TV world was in the midst of a writer’s strike.

That meant the production was going ahead without a full script. “On several occasions, the director would come to me and say, ‘I need this to happen, but I don’t know how to do it. Can you draw up some ideas and share them with me?’ And I would draw up a bunch of ideas,” says Slampyak. Those ideas the director liked were then passed back to the script writer, who would then put them into writing. That network of connections in the ABQ film production industry is essential. Given the level of secrecy that surrounds a lot of modern film and television projects, it’s hard to know when a viable project is in the works. “It’s a real asset to have that work history with so many of the people that get hired for those jobs here, so that they already know about me,” says Slampyak. Prior to getting into the world of sto-

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ryboard artistry, Slampyak worked as an illustrator and comic book artist. That latter experience proved beneficial when it came time to fashion a visual language to inform the filmmaking process, allowing him to quickly draw up storyboards that convey lots of movement, physicality, and emotion. It’s an intuitive way to communicate huge amounts of information. “I think a lot of illustrators are people who got into it because they believed the people around them that said, ‘follow your dreams and do what you love,’” says Slampyak. “I definitely agree with that sentiment. What gets complicated is when you realize that that’s not always easy to do. It takes some planning and a lot of boring work. But it’s what allows you to do what you love, and, you know, it’s worth it.”—ZB

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by mel minter

ABQ’S THRIVING LOCAL MUSIC SCENE

FINDING THE SWEET SPOT SERIOUS FIDDLING AROUND AT A YOUNG AGE LED TO A LIFETIME OF SWEET MUSIC

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Much-in-demand fiddling phenom Emily Anslover is one of those musicians who can make any project sound better.

practicing more than ever. They are not skipping lessons—there’s nothing else going on.” Her student band, Cactus Flowers—“I love Cactus Flowers. They’re such a joy,” says Anslover with a giggle— got started three or four years ago at the offhand suggestion of a student. With a repertoire that stretches from pop to bluegrass to country to soul, they’ve played at numerous venues around town. Though she’s been in bands all her life, it’s the first time Anslover has managed a band and, because the kids play multiple instruments, the first time she’s had to write multiple parts. Anslover has played all over town and beyond with the alt-bluegrass Silver String Band, which came together back in 2015 shortly after she stopped her car, grabbed her fiddle, and joined a couple of buskers—Lars Fabricius-Olsen and Paul Hunton—on Central Avenue. For the last three years, she’s teamed up with her good friend country artist Tylor Brandon and

has been on the road with his band, which also includes guitarist Joshue Lee, bassist Edgar Wonder, and drummer Braden Anderson, almost every weekend. Right now, the band is doing Facebook Live performances on Wednesday evenings. You can also hear Anslover on the recordings of a number of local musicians, most recently on Kyle Martin’s Raunchytonk album, where she lays down some hair-raising lines. “I’d like to get my feet more in the world of session musician,” she says. She’s quite content being a member of a band and not really interested in fronting one. “It’s never really been my vision,” says Anslover. Growing up listening to country music and watching country music bands, she says, “I feel like I always saw the fiddler on the stage, and I said, ‘that’s what I want to do, that’s what I want to be.’ I believe that every part of the band is equally important.” You can reach Anslover via her FaceWWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

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hen fiddler Emily Anslover is not pract ic ing , she’s performing, and when she’s not performing, she’s teaching in her private studio. When she’s not practicing, performing, or teaching, she relaxes by playing her guitar and singing her original songs. You could say she found her sweet spot early: her dad, who plays guitar and banjo (“My mom plays the video camera,” says Anslover), got her into classical violin lessons at age four, and Anslover never looked back. “I was brought up around music, and I always enjoyed that from a young age,” she says. She got lessons from her uncle, a fiddler, whenever she visited him in Ohio, and by age six, she was playing on stage with his band during her visits. At age eight, she started playing with her brother, John, and sister, Amy, in the Anslover Family Band. “My parents got me in fiddle contests from a young age,” says Anslover, noting that they drove her to different cities and states to compete. Fiddle teacher Gretchen Van Houten deepened her knowledge and skill in her teen years. In high school and college, she played in the Albuquerque Youth Symphony Program and the UNM Symphony Orchestra. (At UNM, she completed the course in string pedagogy under Susan Kempter.) While still in high school, Anslover placed fourth at the prestigious Walnut Valley Festival, and she held the New Mexico State Champion title for four years while in her teens. Teaching has her focus lately, given the coronavirus situation. “It’s so impressive to me that these kids are thriving during these times,” says Anslover. “They are

USING THE VIBE AND SOUNDS OF MUSIC TO RAISE FUNDS FOR GOOD CAUSES

For most of us, music provides an entertainment of one sort or another, and for self-described “music junkie” John Nichols, that has certainly been the case. But music began to take on a deeper purpose for Nichols back in 2008: as chairman of the board for New Day, a nonprofit organization that focuses on meeting the needs of young people in trouble, he hired Eric McFadden’s band for the annual fashion show fundraiser. In 2011, he decided to drop the fashion show and hold a benefit concert featuring Tedeschi Trucks Band. That was the beginning of what he calls “a life change and new awakening,” and of an ongoing annual event that has featured everyone from Los Lobos to Hot Tuna.

“The way that my work touched me in my heart at New Day was like nothing I ever experienced,” says Nichols. In 2014, he founded 5 Cent Productions, which produces benefit concerts for a variety of causes. In 2016, he retired from a successful career in finance to devote himself fulltime to volunteer and philanthropic work that leverages live music. That same year, he started the Craft for Causes program, which brings together live music and craft breweries to create memorable charitable experiences. Nichols’ connection to Tedeschi Trucks Band opened new doors. In 2011, the band’s saxophonist, Kebbi Williams, invited Nichols to get involved in Atlanta’s Music in the Park program, and he’s helped the program grow year after year. He’s also introduced Albuquerque artists such as Vicente Griego, Isaac Aragon, and Joaquín Encinias to the Atlanta audience, and these guys knocked it out of the park. In 2017, Nichols collaborated with Tedeschi Trucks Band on their Wheels of Soul tour, hoping to get craft breweries in 22 tour cities to brew a special

John Nichols hangs with some heavy players: (left to right) Joaquin Encinias, Nichols, Vicente Griego, and Tedeschi Trucks saxophonist Kebbi Williams.

Wheels of Soul beer to generate dollars for school music programs. Nichols made over 400 cold calls around the country to enlist breweries. “Literally, dude, I had one person in 400 calls hang up on me,” says Nichols. “The brewing community is one of the nicest communities.” The program, which included 42 breweries, raised $65,000. If it involves music and kids, Nichols wants to help, which is how he got involved with the National Institute of Flamenco. On a Saturday morning tour of the institute’s former home on Gold Street, “I literally watched Eva [Founding Director Eva Encinias] get 25 three-year-old kids to all do something in unison, and I was like, ‘Eva’s a ninja,’ ” says Nichols, who immediately offered his support. Over the years, Nichols has helped out a number of local artists, hooking them up with gigs; introducing them to other people in the industry; assisting with recording, touring, merchandise, and more. Currently, he’s working with Isaac Aragon, Eric McFadden, and Vicente Griego in various capacities. Aragon and Griego were scheduled to headline Ritmo, the Soul of Albuquerque, a benefit concert and New Mexico Classic Car Show with Chuck Montoya at Sandia in July. “What could be more New Mexico? People are into their cars,” says Nichols. Unfortunately, the event had to be canceled due to the coronavirus, but the project really hit Nichols’ sweet spot. First, the concert promoted local artists on a big stage. Second, it supported several worthy causes, including New Day, Animal Humane, and the National Institute of Flamenco. Third, it would bring together people from different communities. Nichols delighted in the prospect of folks from the social services world, the car world, the animal world, and the flamenco world coming together in support of community needs. “If it is a good cause, and I like the people, and the music is good, I am most likely down to help out!” he says. You can reach Nichols at nichols@ craftforcauses.org.

Be sure to check out Musically Speaking, Mel’s online music journal, at www.melminter.com. If you’d like to share something with “¡tiempo!” readers, e-mail tiempo@abqthemag.com.

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book page or by email at emilyanslover@ gmail.com.

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New Mexico, Now Available! 160

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FROM THE VINE P. 164 | MY FAVORITE RECIPE P. 170 | BITES P. 172

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PIECE OF THE PIE Director of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Albuquerque Regional Office, Sammie Quillin uses his special sweet potato pie recipe to remind him of his past (p. 170).

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

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

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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN ABQ’S BEER, WINE, AND SPIRITS SCENE

Jeff Erway of La Cumbre Brewing Company

OPEN AGAIN AFTER 81 DAYS, ABQ BREWERIES ARE MORE THAN READY TO SERVE La Cumbre founder Jeff Erway arrived in Tampa, Florida on the second week of March, excited to showcase his wares and mingle with fellow brew-

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ers and beer aficionados. The event was the Hunahpu Festival, a large beer fest which, it turns out, was ironically scheduled for Friday the 13th. Within a couple days, Erway began to realize that the rumblings regarding the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States were far more serious than anyone had initially imagined. As with many gatherings around the country,

the Hunahpu Festival was canceled one day prior to the event. Though that was a disappointment, Erway had more pressing matters to consider. “So, you had literally hundreds of brewers from across the country and across the world that had come into this beer festival in Tampa, and we were all just like, ‘What do we do now?’” He recalls. “We’d all spent thousands of WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

THE LOCAL CRAFT BEER COMMUNITY DIGS IN TO FIND SILVER LININGS IN COVID-19

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Randy Baker of Rio Bravo Brewing Company

Barbie Gonzalez of Marble Brewery

dollars getting there, hundreds of dollars getting our beer there. We were all just kind of twiddling our thumbs. “It dawned on me at that point: Oh my God, we really might have our taprooms closed.” On March 23, that became reality for breweries and tap rooms all across Albuquerque, as a result of Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s stay-at-home order, which closed all non-essential businesses. ‘Social distancing’ quickly became a household term at the businesses which remained open, like grocery stores. But for many of ABQ’s favorite socializing spots — including the city’s numerous

micro-breweries — the doors were temporarily closed. Though it has been a difficult couple of months, the brewery industry in Albuquerque is finding a way to persevere. Profits have fallen, to-go orders have increased, and the business model has been altered, perhaps for some time to come.

GETTING PAST THE UNKNOWN From the outset, there was no consensus on the best plan of attack regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, only re-

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

strictions on what each business wasn’t allowed to do. “Our team fought through fear and frustration,” says Marble president/ chief operating officer Barbie Gonzalez. “Brewery operations, for the most part, remained normal and even increased as demand for packaged beer went up. Our taprooms went through a serious transition where our operating model was strictly to go/carryout. “When the (shutdown) order was given in March, we were at the beginning of our busy season, with a 13-year anniversary celebration scheduled for April and a number of events, including

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Randy Baker of Rio Bravo Brewing Co.

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At a place like Nexus Brewery & Restaurant, a major point of attraction is the dine-in experience, where patrons can enjoy a menu full of Southern comfort food with their pints. According to owner Ken Carson, Nexus doesn’t offer cans or crowlers, so beer sales fell considerably. “I would say beer sales probably went down to 15 percent of what we normally sell by the glass,” Carson says. “Because the majority of the beer that we sell is usually in a dine-in situation, when they cut out the dine-in, it really hurt us.”

ADAPT AND SURVIVE In the early stages of the pandemic, hand sanitizer came at a premium, and retailers struggled to keep the product in stock. With ready-made equipment on hand, many local distillers and wineries began producing bottled sanitizer, including Tractor Brewing. Their production was a joint venture with Broken Trail Brewery, and it helped offset some of the profit lost elsewhere.

was by far our biggest order, obviously. We’re selling it as close to cost as possible at $30 a gallon. It’s up to World Health Organization standards.” Kinter also believes that Tractor was one of the first establishments to utilizing an online ordering system and contactless pickup for its beer — and that is something that will continue to be available for the foreseeable future. Carson said his team at Nexus also went to an online system, though that was priThe COVID-19 shutdown led local distillers to produce much-needed hand sanitizer

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

music and fundraisers, at all locations,” she said. “Both the front of house and brewery teams had to adapt quickly with no ‘pandemic guide.’” When breweries and taprooms were forced to rely on strictly to-go orders, business predictably took a drop — even for those breweries with full kitchens on site. “Basically we had to learn how to think and react on our feet,” says Rio Bravo co-owner Randy Baker, who says his business suffered a 90 percent decline in profits. “There were really no guidelines given to us other than what we couldn’t do. Alcohol being such a touchy subject in the state of New Mexico, it wasn’t like you could provide curbside service. People had to come in. We had to make sure we abided by the six-foot rule and made room for people to sit outside until they could come in and get their order in. And then trying to be as expeditious and thankful that we were getting the business that we were getting.” Red Door Brewing Co. experienced a similar decline, as it was forced to close its downtown taproom while continuing to utilize its brewery location for to-go sales. “Sales dropped 85 percent when that happened,” says Red Door operations manager Ali Cattin. “We furloughed all of our workers except for just a few to keep the taproom open.”

“I can tell you that one of our biggest sales was 7,000 gallons of hand sanitizer to Presbyterian (Healthcare Services),” says Tractor marketing director Jeremy Kinter. “That was just one order. That WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

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Some of the new products launched in ABQ in the trendy ‘sparkling subcategory’

marily for food orders. “Since we have opened our dining room to 50 percent, now the problem is keeping up with the dining room orders and doing takeout at the same time,” he says. “That’s been another new challenge that we’ve never had before.” While most brewery representatives admitted to From The Vine that to-go sales of growlers, crowlers and cans experienced a significant jump, it wasn’t enough to offset the loss of profit from in-house drinking and dining. Erway says La Cumbre was fortunate to have a significant presence on the distribution side. “While the liquor stores and the bars and restaurants were closed, the grocery stores were selling so much (La Cumbre beers) that we could keep them all incredibly busy just keeping store shelves stocked,” Erway says. “There were Smith’s stores that normally sold 10 cases a week of our beer that were selling 60 or 70 cases a week when the liquor stores were shut down and all the tap rooms were shut down.” Red Door, meanwhile, developed a growler exchange program that kept the brewery from running out of the glass containers due to high demand. That program comes complete with a newand-improved washing standard that includes multiple sanitations and rins-

ings. “If we hadn’t have done that, we would have been out of growlers within weeks,” Cattin says.

CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM The back patio at Rio Bravo (already one of the largest among local brewhouses) added a biergarten. Baker is also excited to unveil the revamped front patio—complete with covering. “Me wearing two hats, I’m a contractor and I’m a brewery owner,” Baker says. “I tried to make sure we got as much done as we possibly could in a short period of time with the workforce we had.” The downtime was productive for others, as well. Erway blasted death-metal music and refinished 10 picnic tables for the front patio at La Cumbre, while at Red Door, staff worked diligently on improving the Downtown location’s amenities, projects that would have otherwise forced the brewery to shut down to complete. In the face of an uncertain future, there seems to be a cautious optimism among the brewery community. That’s partly born from the strong sense of unity within each business, and the support from customers in Albuquerque, who take great pride in our city’s national reputation for producing top-flight craft beer. “We all knew Marble was a special place to work but when the pandemic hit, our staff, even our patrons, banded together in a way I had never seen before,” Gon-

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zalez said. “I was in New York on 9-11, and I learned that leaders don’t run from terror but rather head right into it. That’s what our people did. We banded together and committed to brewing our world class beer while providing the best possible work environment for each other.” —TRISTEN CRITCHFIELD

ADDING HEALTHY BUBBLES TO WINE Consumer taste in the alcohol industry continues to evolve. Wine, for instance, dropped in U.S. sales for the first time in 25 years. But the growth of the so-called ‘sparkling subcategory’ (hard seltzers, spritzers, wine cocktails, malt beverages) continues upward. The genre grew by 50 percent in sales nationally in 2019, which has spawned a slew of new products, including several that debuted recently in Albuquerque. MOVO Wine Spritzers, Vizzy Hard Seltzer, PRESS Premium Alcohol Seltzer, and Crook & Marker Spiked Drinks are all brands that have begun to populate local retail shelves. “This category is on fire and will not be slowing down anytime soon,” says Matt Wiseley, General Manager for Admiral Beverage Company in Albuquerque. “These drinks are meeting the demand for low calorie options as consumers are more health conscious.” Indeed, these products

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are loaded with qualities designed to appeal to the fit crowd, such as the absence of added sugar with MOVO, which also boasts a 100-calorie serving. Vizzy has the same calorie content, but also boasts antioxidant Vitamin C from the tropical superfruit known as acerola cherry. PRESS is gluten-free, and offers flavors of ginger, hibiscus, cardamom and lemongrass. Crook & Marker, which comes in eight flavors, has the distinction of being non-GMO, vegan, and void of sugar or artificial flavors—all in an 80-calorie can. With a wide variety of offerings, consumers have gravitated quickly to these new beverages. “Hard Seltzers are easy to drink, conveniently priced and appeal to consumers of all ages and genders,” says Wiseley.

505 SPIRITS OPENS ITS DOORS IN PLACITAS Nestled at the northern foot of the Sandias, Placitas is a curious place, where Pueblo revival homes live among

505 Spirits’ new distilling taproom will be in the former Thunderbird Bar in Placitas

piñon-juniper woodlands and road signs caution you to keep an eye out for wild horses. It is, in short, a modern version of one of the American West’s most archetypal landscapes. Soon, it will also be home to 505 Spirits’ new distillery and tasting room. A project of wife-husband team Anna Jones and Robert Houston, 505 Spirits aims to celebrate local flavors through liquors, liqueurs, and fortified wines. Deploying the skills she learned as a professional

chef, Jones infuses spirits with classic New Mexico flavors like red and green chile, working to balance, enhance, and compliment them with carefully selected blends of herbs and spices. The new distillery will open first as a production-only facility on a property on Mustang Mesa. Shortly thereafter, the tasting room will take up residence in the former digs of the Thunderbird Bar. Jones and Houston hope to officially open their distillery for sales in July or August, offering New Mexican’s access to a unique and innovative line of spirits. Given the uncertainty around COVID-19 restrictions, it’s not clear when exactly the tasting room will open. When it does, it will offer visitors a taste of not only homegrown cocktails and spirits, but a selection of booze produced by other New Mexico brewers, distillers, and winemakers as well. 505 Spirits specializes in crafting distinctive liqueurs. Their Purple People Eater, for example, puts hand-picked prickly pear front and center with five other fruits. have taken home awards from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. While these will be the star of the show at the new tasting room, Jones also plans to pass on her culinary skills through a cooking internship program.

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—ZANE BEAL

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

Other entrees, like their Cacao Liqueur,

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Favorite

with

Sammie Quillin Director, United States Department of Veterans Affairs

ilitary service members put themselves in tough—and sometimes extremely dangerous—situations, in the hope of making sure all citizens can continue to pursue happy, peaceful lives. Given their hardships, it makes sense for our society to offer them support once they return home from the armed forces. That’s no small task. In New Mexico, it falls to Sammie Quillin, Director for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Albuquerque Regional Office. Together with a team of hardworking administrators, Quillin works to ensure veterans throughout New Mexico receive the benefits to which they are entitled. “The most important thing for people to know is that we take each claim as an individual and not as a number,” says Quillin. “We sit down with the veterans and we walk them through the process step-by-step.” Given the scope and complexity of that process, this approach is essential to delivering good service. Veterans can understandably find frustration trying to navigate bureaucratic hurdles. Quillin and his team are there to help simplify the process as much as possible and relieve some of that frustration. A lot of work goes into processing claims. Sometimes, Quillin explains, veterans wind up waiting on benefits for years because critical pieces of information have been left out. “When we ask you for certain information or evidence, if you have access to it, send it to us,” he says. “We will do the rest of the work. If you don’t have access to it, let us know where you received treatment and we can go out and get it for you.” In order to clarify these issues, Quillin

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and team hold periodic town halls in Albuquerque, inviting veterans to stop by and learn about the process. The idea is to give them a full picture of everything required to get their benefits claims approved, thereby avoiding the hiccups that might arise if some essential piece of information hasn’t been submitted. Efforts like these have not gone unnoticed: the Albuquerque Benefits Office is ranked 4th out of 56 regional offices in the United States for timeliness inc claims processing. That’s especially impressive considering the local office handles roughly $700 million per year in benefits just to New Mexico veterans, covering things like pensions, medical care, education, jobs training, and counseling. Roll back the clock a decade or so and things were even more complicated. Back then, the claims system was still based around physical hard copies that had to be shipped around the country as veterans pursued their lives and moved from place to place. In 2012, the VA implemented a new system that allows them to receive and process claims digitally. Not only has this streamlined the process, it also proved a boon during social distancing. The VA was able to keep doing their important work, even though staff weren’t all gathered together in a single place. A military veteran himself, Quillin served 26 years in the Army before retiring as a Sergeant Major in 2002. “When my military career was over, I retired for about two months and was restless because I felt destined to do more and to accomplish greater things by helping oth-

ers,” says Quillin, who earned a college degree while serving. So, he took a position with the Department of Veterans Affairs, launching a path that eventually led to his current position as Director of the Albuquerque Regional Benefits Office. Quillin joined the military after growing up on a farm in South Carolina, where he lived with his mother and grandparents. “On the farm, we grew every vegetable and fruit you could imagine,” he recalls. “One of my favorites was sweet potatoes and sweet potato pies, because the potatoes on the farm were always fresh.” Those sweet potatoes served as the inspiration for the recipe Quillin decided to share with us. “That was one of these famous dishes that we had, usually on Sundays,” he explains. “My grandmother and mother never measured anything and they knew exactly how much of each ingredient to put into it. I kind of adopted that myself and I end up doing the same thing years later, and it always seemed to be perfect when they made it.” Having a recipe without specifically measured ingredients might seem a little like flying blind, but apparently it works. “To this day, I have shared the family recipe with many of my colleagues and associates without giving any measurements of the ingredients,” Quillin says. It’s an approach that relies on the wisdom and discretion of the cook, something that seems altogether appropriate for a traditional family recipe rooted in agricultural living. —ZANE BEAL WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

(Albuquerque Regional Office)

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Sweet Potato Pie Ingredients

Directions

Sweet Potatoes Brown Sugar Margarine Eggs (about 2 eggs for every 5-6 potatoes) Nutmeg Cinnamon Milk (evaporated) Flour (all-purpose) & baking powder Vanilla Extract Lemon Extract

Combine ingredients to desired taste & consistency. Place in a 9-inch-deep dish pie shell and bake at 350-375 degrees until lightly browned, approximately 45- 50 minutes

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OUR EATS ALUMNI, CONDENSED INTO PERFECTLY SIZED SNACKS TO TAKE WITH YOU ON THE GO AL’S BIG DIPPER

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

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

5901 Wyoming Blvd. NE, 821-1909, 5starburgers.com From bison, salmon, turkey and crab to lamb, chicken and Black Angus beef, burger addicts will love Five Star’s 100 percent natural meat. Handformed patties or vegetarian options paired with wine from St. Clair Winery or beer from Marble Brewery are a match made in heaven.

66 DINER

1405 Central Ave. NE, 247-1421, 66diner.com This blast from the past specializes in burgers, chicken fried steak, liver and onions, and 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.

ABC CAKE SHOP

1830 San Pedro Drive NE, 255-5080, abccakeshop.com Specializing in custom cakes and cakes for all occasions, this bakery focuses on freshness and flavor. Everything is made from scratch, including the cupcakes, cookies, pies, Danishes, pastries, and other desserts.

THE ACRE

ANNAPURNA’S WORLD VEGETARIAN CAFÉ

ALDO’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZERIA $

ANNIE’S SOUP KITCHEN

ALICEA’S NY BAGELS & SUBS

ANTIQUITY RESTAURANT

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

CORRECTIONS:

5 STAR BURGERS

501 Copper Ave. NW, 314-1118, alsbigdipper.com From the beginning, Al’s Big Dipper has been a family affair. Every sandwich is named after a family member, and the owners test every soup they make. Try the 505 Lunch Deal—a cup of soup, a grilled cheese sandwich and a homemade cookie for only $5.05.

POLICY:

4410 Wyoming Blvd NE, 299-6973, theacrerestaurant.com The Acre Restaurant specializes in comfort vegetarian cuisine with a goal to challenge meateaters and question what vegetarian food is, all while creating healthy, sustainable dishes.

1009 Golf Course Road SE, Suite 103, 896-4555 This East Coast–style deli on ABQ’s Westside is serving up 20 different sandwiches to Rio Rancho’s hungriest diners, using fresh-baked New York–style bagels and meats prepared in house for the likes of its Philly Steak and Cheese or the Cuban. Come hungry, because Alicea’s portions are not for the faint of heart. Can’t get out? Delivery options in Rio Rancho and parts of ABQ are also available when that hunger pang strikes.

AMADEO’S PIZZA AND SUBS

AMERASIA/SUMO SUSHI

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

5555 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 888-2921 Owner Mohamad Abdel Jalil and his sons run this all-in-one operation—a small grocery store and Middle East restaurant—seven days a week. This family team makes fresh pita bread every day and serves platefuls of their delicious hummus. It’s a great spot for lunch on-the-go.

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$$$

424 Central Ave. SE, 243-0200, artichokecafe.com This EDo fine-dining spot boasts a Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence,” and for good reason. A veteran of the Duke City’s fine dining scene, Artichoke Café remains the best bet for a great evening out. Innovative dishes and European aperitifs served by staff that takes ownership of the experience, the location is also an ideal launchpad for downtown adventures.

AMORE NEAPOLITAN PIZZERIA

AZUMA SUSHI & TEPPAN

ANATOLIA TURKISH MEDITERRANEAN GRILL

ALQUDS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & GROCERY

ARTICHOKE CAFÉ

AJIACO COLOMBIAN BISTRO

3216 Silver Ave. SE, 266-2305, ajiacobistro.com Inside the intimate space, you’ll find combination plates, arroz con pollo, arepas, plantains, and of course, a great cup of Colombian coffee. The dishes at Ajiaco combine indigenous Colombian, Spanish, African, and Arab flavors for a truly thrilling experience.

$$$$

112 Romero St. NW, 247-3545, antiquityrestaurant.com Antiquity Restaurant is located just off historic Old Town Plaza. Antiquity holds the distinction of being the only restaurant in Albuquerque to serve the Henry IV—a bacon-wrapped filet mignon placed on a bed of artichoke leaves, topped with an artichoke heart and covered with béarnaise sauce.

ASIAN NOODLE BAR

ABUELITA’S NEW MEXICAN KITCHEN $

3107 Eubank Blvd. NE, 296-8601, anniessoupkitchen.com With four homemade soups made fresh every day, and home-style favorites such as avocado and bacon omelets and piles of potatoes topped with melted cheese, chile and eggs, Annie’s specializes in comfort.

800 3rd St. NW, 247.1619 / 246-1615 amerasia-sumosushi.net Dim sum—which means “small piece of your heart” in Chinese—takes on a bigger meaning at AmerAsia, where everything is made from scratch daily. Try the fried beef and garlic dumplings, pork and ginger potstickers, or scallion pancakes. Two locations, amoreabq.com After relocating to Albuquerque from Naples, Italy, Gabriel and Kimberly Amador missed Neapolitan pizza. The husband and wife team, certified by the Association of Neapolitan Pizzaiuoli (APN), opened Amore, bringing a slice of Italy to Albuquerque. A Neapolitan brick oven fires delicious pizzas, such as the Margherita and the Zia, for 60 to 90 seconds at 905 degrees Fahrenheit. Local beer and wine compliment the pies perfectly.

6083 Isleta Blvd. SW, 877-5700 Kathy Martinez’s brother, Chris Romero, opened Abuelita’s New Mexican Kitchen in Bernalillo 26 years ago. Since then, nothing has changed. The Huevos Rancheros are a best seller, as is the Kitchen’s signature dish, the Tacopilla.

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

2132 Central Ave SE Suite C, 242-6718 The specialty is the Doner Kebab, seasoned meat in the shape of an inverted cone, slow-cooked to perfection rotisserie style, and always freshly prepared. Whether you choose the Adana Spicy Ground Lamb or the ‘Burque Kebab, try the “baklove-ah” for dessert.

AN HY QUAN VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

1450 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, 332-8565 This vegetarian Vietnamese spot is also veganfriendly. Pho fans don’t fret; Thai and wonton soup will satisfy any meat eater.

318 Central Ave. SW, 224-9119, asiannoodlebar.com Every kind of noodle awaits at this Downtown eatery, from spicy sesame udon noodles to chicken pho with cilantro, jalapeños, and lime. Slurping has never been so tasty. Two locations, azuma-sushi-teppan-abq.com From flame-flipped teppan grill items to a substantial sushi selection, the menus at Azuma Sushi & Teppan have something for everyone. The green chile-infused New Mexico Roll and Filet Mignon Steak please palates daily and are perfect when washed down with an imported Japanese sake, soda, or beer.

B2B BISTRONOMY

3118 Central Ave. SE, 262-2222, bistronomyb2b.com Highlighting all-local ingredients (including New Mexico beef and Hatch green chile), B2B serves up a wide variety of tasty burgers—including plenty of veggie options.

BACKSTREET GRILL

1919 Old Town Road NW, 842-5434, backstreetgrillot.com/home Originally a test outlet for local palates in a tourist mecca (Old Town), word spread fast about the Baja-inspired tacos and creative New Mexicanpeppered dishes (check out the gumbo). This locale is expansive, great for families, and the patio hosts music and dancing on weekends.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

BITES BACON JAM

BARELAS COFFEE HOUSE

2930 Candelaria Rd NE 916-0864, baconjamrestaurant.com A bacon-inspired 50s diner, Bacon Jam has a menu packed with both classic diner fare and bold, innovative takes on traditional staples—often, as the name implies, with bacon playing a pivotal supporting role. 1502 4th St. SW, 843-7577 This legendary neighborhood restaurant serves New Mexican dishes from the Gonzales family cookbook: menudo, posole, chicharrone burritos, huevos rancheros, all smothered with its famous red or green chile.

THE BARLEY ROOM

5200 Eubank Blvd. NE, 332-0800, barleyroom.com All sorts of mouth-watering pub fare come to life here, from potato skins to mini shrimp cocktails. Check the menu for food and drink specials aplenty.

BASIL LEAF VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT $$

1225 Eubank Blvd. NE, 323-2594, basilleaf.us Sure, Albuquerque offers a variety of Vietnamese eateries, but Basil Leaf elevates the everyday with healthy and fragrant versions of traditional noodle and soup selections. They’ll even modify for any dietary desire. Celiacs and vegans, rejoice!

BEN MICHAEL’S RESTAURANT

2404 Pueblo Bonito Court NW, 267-6827 The food at Ben Michael’s is fresh, preservative-free and takes its roots from the owner’s family’s New Mexican recipes. Try the salmon or the steak served with a side of calabacitas, papas, and sautéed mushrooms.

BENNY’S MEXICAN KITCHEN

1675 Bosque Farms Blvd., Bosque Farms, 869-2210 Since 1972, Benny’s has obliged countless stomachs with delicious New Mexican treats, which include red-chile smothered enchiladas and deep-fried burritos. Don’t let the Benny Burger—a doublemeat, double-cheese beauty—intimidate you. And, don’t forget to save room for that vanilla ice-cream shake.

BLACK BIRD SALOON

28 Main St., Los Cerrillos, NM 438-1821, blackbirdsaloon.com Black Bird Saloon is not just a popular Northern New Mexico eatery (located in Cerillos, NM), it’s also a time warp back through the building’s long and varied history. Items like the Miner’s Hand Warmer Breakfast Burrito or the Tumbleweed Salad stick out like a turquoise on a tourist.

BLACK MESA COFFEE COMPANY

Albuquerque International Sunport, 220 Sunport Blvd. SE, 842-4305, With two Sunport locations, flight delays are easier when you’re close to Black Mesa. The house coffee and vanilla latte are sure to perk you up pre-flight. The made-to-order turkey sandwich will fill you up far more reliably than the bag of pretzels you’ll get on the plane. Baked goods, including the popular banana bread, are made in-house daily. Five menu items, including brownies and cookies, are glutenfree.

BLADES’ BISTRO

$$$

221 NM Highway 165, Suite L, Placitas, 771-0695, bladesbistro.com Owner and chef Kevin Bladergroen’s restaurant offers a culinary journey from his 30-plus years of experience in restaurants across the country and Europe, serving up steak and seafood with a twist.

BLAKE’S LOTABURGER

Various locations, lotaburger.com Blake’s became an Albuquerque establishment more than 30 years ago, and almost immediately garnered kudos for its out-of-this-world green chile cheeseburgers (the restaurant has since scored spots on National Geographic’s “top hamburgers in the nation” list and Albuquerque The Magazine’s Best of the City list). Everything is made from scratch as soon as it’s ordered—and not a second before.

BLEU CAFÉ

BLUE GRASSHOPPER

At Del Norte Sports and Wellness, 7120 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Suite 8B This in-gym café offers fresh food from scratch— paninis, burgers, wraps, burritos, protein shakes–to both gym-goers and the general public. Healthy and tasty? Check! Two locations, bluegrasshopper.freesite.website Somewhere along the craft brew evolutionary line, beer snobs were born and hipsters took over. Not so at Blue Grasshopper. The pours are indeed solid, but the ambiance is better: welcoming, warm, and loaded with live music virtually every night of the week. Great pub food, too.

BOCADILLOS $

200 Lomas Blvd. NW, Suite 110, 243-3995, bocadillos505.com Slow-roasted meats are the highlight of the Food Network “Chopped” winner, Marie Yniguez. Open for breakfast, lunch, or dinner on Wednesdays– Saturdays, pop in for a burrito or sandwich filled to the brim with pork, chicken, turkey or corned beef.

BOSQUE BREWING CO.

BUDAI GOURMET CHINESE

6300 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Suite H-1, 797-7898, budaigourmet.com The menu features specialties from different regions of China and Taiwan, all painstakingly prepared by chef Hsia Fang. The Crispy Flounder Filet is sure to please diners from both the East and the West. The Mini Steamed Pork Buns shouldn’t be missed.

BURGER BOY

THE BURRITO LADY

12023 New Mexico 14, Cedar Crest, 281-3949, burgerboynm.com Everything in this tried-and-true staple is made from scratch: enchiladas, breakfast burritos, tacos and burgers (of course!). Fans are especially enamored with the green chile cheeseburger. 938 Eubank Blvd. NE, 271-2268 The Burrito Lady—otherwise known as Consuelo Flores—cooks every one of her huge burritos herself, made-to-order. That means you should be prepared to wait (the line here can often go out the door). It’s worth it—ask for your burrito smothered if you want to really heat things up.

CAFE 6855

6855 4th St NW, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque 890-9150, cafe6855.com A sister restaurant to Vernon’s Speakeasy, Café 6855 has gourmet dishes, expertly prepared and served in an elegant atmosphere. The menu is populated with gourmet sandwiches, salads, and cafe specialties that redeploy Vernon’s ingredients to thrilling effect.

CAFÉ BELLA COFFEE

2115 Golf Course Road SE, Rio Rancho 306-6974, cafebellacoffee.com With made-to-order panini and tasty salads filled with the freshest seasonal ingredients, this restaurant’s farm-to-table concept is a smart—and delicious—one.

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

CAFÉ CUBANO

BRICKYARD PIZZA

CAFÉ LAUREL

2216 Central Ave. SE, 262-2216, brickyardpizza.com Three very important pizza points rule supreme here: quantity, quality, and value. Enjoy handtossed, homemade pizza with fresh sauce in a spicand-span, laid-back atmosphere.

BRIXENS $$$

400 Central Ave. SW 242-2400, brixens.com A creative spin on American bar fare inspired by New Mexican culture, the restaurant serves 99 bottles of beer, literally on the wall, and a range of food items. Brixens has many unique qualities, but a couple notable qualities include their all-day happy hour on Sundays and 3-6pm daily.

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

At Laru Ni Hati Salon, 3413 Central Ave. NE, 255-1575, larunihati.com Who would guess that an upscale hair salon such as Laru Ni Hati would also be home to delicious Cuban food—platanos, Cuban sandwiches, dirty rice, and even espresso and hand-rolled cigars? 1433 Central Ave. NW, 259-2331, cafe-laurel.weebly.com The casual American café, open for breakfast and lunch, serves soups, sandwiches, burgers, salads, New Mexican favorites, and breakfast items in a bright airy atmosphere complete with local beers on tap. Peruse the daily selection of sweets and the full coffee bar for dessert (or breakfast).

CAFÉ LUSH

700 Tijeras Ave. NW, 508-0164, cafelushabq.com Located on a quiet neighborhood corner, this café is perfect for a nice brunch or lunch and your wallet will not be hurt after your visit. The menu is glutenconscious, vegetarian-friendly and has some of the best gluten-free red chile in town.

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BITES LA BAREN RESTAURANT

CESAR’S MEXICAN & GREEK

CONCHITA’S CAFÉ

CAKE FETISH

CHEBA HUT

CORN MAIDEN

230 Louisiana Blvd. SE Suite A, 232-6764, labarenrestaurant.com The pho and spring rolls have a die-hard following of Kirtland Airforce Base employees. Located across the parking lot from Talin Market, experience an extensive menu of traditional Vietnamese cuisine inside this dine-in and takeout eatery. 2665 Louisiana Blvd. NE, 883-0670, cakefetish.com Cake Fetish specializes in baker’s cups filled with heaven, such as the Sleepless in Albuquerque (chocolate cake with mocha French buttercream frosting) and the Inside-Out German Chocolate Cake (coconut and pecans and crowned with chocolate French buttercream).

CAMPO AT LOS POBLANOS

$$$

4803 Rio Grande Blvd NW 344-9297, lospoblanos.com Beautifully situated in the heart of Los Ranchos, Campo is the newly renovated and reimagined fine dining establishment at Los Poblanos. A top-of-theline menu mixes with fresh ingredients from the Los Poblanos Farm and a quiet, rustic atmosphere to make for one of the city’s best dining experiences.

CANVAS ARTISTRY

3120 Central Ave. SE, 639-5214, canvas-artistry.com Specializing in international street food with a local twist, expect seasonally rotating artsy fare made with local produce, daily and weekly specials, and art to boot. A great late-night spot with live spinning DJs featuring different genres each night.

CASA DE BENAVIDEZ

8032 4th St. NW, 898-3311, casadebenavidez.com One of the original New Mexican eateries in the North Valley, this expansive property boasts a lush patio, fabled margaritas and authentic eats, including a trademark on the sopaipilla burger.

CASA TACO

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

CECILIA’S CAFÉ

230 6th St. SW,243-7070 Recognized on the Food Network’s “Diners, DriveIns & Dives,” and ranked No. 45 on the Travel Channel’s “101 Tastiest Places to Chow Down,” Cecilia’s Café offers tasty New Mexican treats, such as their Fireman’s Burrito or homemade chicharrones in a cozy atmosphere.

CENTRAL GRILL & COFFEE HOUSE

2056 Central Ave. SW, 554-1424, centralgrillandcoffeehouse.com This local favorite on Route 66, adjacent to Old Town, offers a bevy of breakfast and lunch options that will comfort your belly and your wallet. Here, you’ll find traditional New Mexican favorites, serious sammies, and solid caffeine with a staff famous for their classic Southwestern hospitality.

CERVANTES NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT $$

5801 Gibson Blvd. SE, 262-2253, cervantesabq.com Old-world style meets traditional New Mexican fare at this family-owned restaurant. Go for the madefrom-scratch chile rellenos, tamales, and carne adovada.

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5300 Lomas Blvd. NE, 256-8017, cesarsmexicanandgreek.com Both the drive-thru and the dining room at Cesar’s are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. On the Mexican menu, try the No. 15, a chile rellenos plate. Popular Greek items include the No. 64 Gyros sandwich and the No. 78 Chicken pita sandwich. Two locations, chebahut.com Located next to UNM, Cheba Hut serves up toasted subs made from quality ingredients. Try sandwiches loaded with everything from guacamole, olives, mushrooms, cheeses, meats and much more.

CHEESE AND COFFEE

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

CHEZ AXEL

$$$

6209 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 881-8104, chezaxelrestaurant.com At Chez Axel, classical music is played at dinner Tuesday through Saturday, and the food has a decidedly French twist: cassoulet, trout amandine, chocolate mousse, and authentic French onion soup. Reservations are recommended.

CHOCGLITZ & CREAM

10660 Unser Blvd. NW, 898-4589, chocglitzandcream.com Certified fair-trade chocolate and a chocolatier with 45 years of experience means you’ll find some of the best sweet-tooth satisfying offerings (including ice cream flavors such as raspberry red chile and Mexican coffee).

CHRISTY MAE’S RESTAURANT

1400 San Pedro Drive NE, 255-4740, christymaes.com “Hearty” and “homestyle” are the key words here, a hands-down favorite of early-dinner lovers. Oldfashioned staples are the standards, so look for chicken salad, potpies, country-fried steak with homemade mashed potatoes, and beef stew.

CHURCH STREET CAFÉ

2111 Church St. NW, 247-8522, churchstreetcafe.com Calling the oldest residence in Albuquerque its home, this café serves up favorites ranging from natillas to margaritas. They also sell their own bottled salsa and cookbooks with recipes from the restaurant.

CINNAMON SUGAR & SPICE CAFÉ

Two locations, cinnamoncafeabq.com Featuring breakfast and lunch options, endless baked goodies, friendly staff and regular cooking classes, this place puts the “everything nice” in the well-worn phrase.

COCINA AZUL

Three locations, cocinaazul.com The newest location of the Old Town favorite serves up the same tried and true home-cooked recipes you’ve come to love. Don’t miss location specific specials and local brews amid New Mexican staples.

CODA BAKERY

230 Louisiana Blvd. SE Suite C, 232-0085 Wrap your hands around one of Coda Bakery’s unique, Vietnamese-inspired sandwiches. Beyond its popular lineup of sammies, Coda Bakery also puts a distinctive twist on Vietnamese street food, using from-scratch recipes, including the bread, its deli meats, and its desserts.

400 Gold Ave. SW, Suite 119, 339-6774, conchitascafe.com What began as the food truck, Conchita’s Creations became a downtown café with breakfast, sandwiches, and salads. New Mexican favorites shine here, just like abuela made them—including tacos, Frito pie, and burritos.

$$$

1300 Tuyuna Trail, Santa Ana Pueblo, 771-6060, tamaya.hyatt.com For a special dinner or celebration, look no further. Boasting a view of the Sandia Mountains, this restaurant will leave you breathless as you enjoy three-course meals with sweet potato granny smith apple soup, lavender salted shrimp or the classic crème brulee.

CORRALES BISTRO BREWERY

4908 Corrales Road NW, Corrales, 897-1036, cbbistro.com Brews from all over the region make this Corrales bistro a must-visit for the affordable fare, killer atmosphere, and music seven days a week.

THE COUNTY LINE BBQ

CRACKIN’ CRAB

9600 Tramway Blvd. NE, 856-7477, countyline.com It doesn’t take long for the barbecue to arrive at your dinner table, whether it’s wood-burning oven cooked and slow-roasted brisket, ribs, or sausage. Throw in the Rib King Platter, green-chile stuffed pork loin, live music, and two stepping, and at The County Line, everybody wins. Three locations, crackincrababq.com Their headline seafood boils are super customizable, allowing you to choose from a trio of house combinations or mix and match your own selection of crab, lobster, mussels, scallops, clams, or shrimp by the pound.

CRAVIN’ COOKIES AND MORE

10420 4th St. NW, 298-2597, cravincookiesandmore.com Serving up specialty cookies, muffins, breads, pies, and pretty much any dessert you can dream of, Cravin’ Cookies and More offers dine-in and to go orders to satisfy any sweet tooth, with coffee and hot tea to match.

CRAZY FISH SUSHI BAR AND RESTAURANT

3015 Central Ave. NE, 232-3474, crazyfishabq.com Tasty, fresh sushi and sashimi await you in this sleek Central Avenue restaurant, along with kitchenmade favorites such as tempura and crispy chicken.

THE CROWN ROOM

$$$$

145 Louisiana Blvd. NE, 767-7171, abqdowns.com/crown-room Perhaps Albuquerque’s best-kept fine dining secret, this gem is tucked away in the newly remodeled Downs Casino. With an incredible selection of liquors and wines, gourmet dishes, tableside Bananas Foster, and Dom Pérignon palate cleansers, this special occasion hideout is hard to beat, anywhere in the 505.

CURRY LEAF

6910-C Montgomery Blvd NE 881-3663, curryleafrestaurant.us Curry Leaf is the only restaurant in New Mexico to offer both North and South India cuisine. This means that, while you can get familiar favorites like tandoori chicken, you can also explore the world of chicken chettinad and dosas—a type of crepe made with fermented lentil and rice flour, filled with stuffing like potato, spiced vegetables, or ground lamb.

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

BITES THE DAILY GRIND

DELICIAS CAFÉ

6001 San Mateo Blvd. NE, 830-6561 Named after the city in Chihuahua, Mexico, Delicias delivers traditional fare of the region, like caldo de res (beef stew), gorditas, carnitas, flautas, and horchata.

1216 Central Ave. SW, 243-1019 An ABQ landmark since the 1940s, the eat-inyour-car Dog House serves grilled footlongs and halflongs topped with red chile, cheese, onions, and more. Enjoy your dog with a side of chili-cheese fries and a thick shake.

DG’S DELI

DONUT MART

4360a Cutler Ave. NE, 883-8310, dailygrindabq.net This family-friendly restaurant serves breakfast and lunch, including huevos rancheros and a huge assortment of baked goods. On Friday and Saturday, look for spontaneous specials, such as stuffed French toast or steak and eggs.

1418 Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. NE, 247-3354, dgsdeli.com With 31 cold sandwich options and a wide variety of grilled hot sandwiches—ranging in size from mini to jumbo—there’s something for everyone here. Try the Green Chile Philly or the Lobo Club.

D.H. LESCOMBES WINERY & BISTRO $$

901 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, 243-9916, lescombeswinery.com With generations of experience in winemaking coursing through this North Valley staple’s doors, D.H. Lescombes Winery & Bistro specializes in pairing wine with its expertly crafted and entirely house-made menu, with a local twist. Themed events and giving back to its community are big parts of this eatery’s success, not to mention popular dishes such as its Chicken Picado, Mac and Cheese Bites, and Ghirardelli Port Brownie.

DION’S $

DURAN’S CENTRAL PHARMACY

DOG HOUSE DRIVE IN

EAST OCEAN CHINESE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT $$

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

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

DOWN N DIRTY SEAFOOD BOIL

6100 4th Street NW, 345-0595 Southern transplants who make their way to ABQ have a new spot for traditional seafood boil. From dry rub to a spicy, buttery fusion sauce, your tastebuds will dance with delight when you feast on this eatery’s collection of crawfish, rock shrimp, crab legs, and more.

DUGGAN’S $

227 Lead Ave. SE, 312-7257, dugganscoffeeshop.com This breakfast and lunch spot serves up newsthemed entrees like the Journalist Salad and Fact Checker Green Chile Chicken Soup in an intimate setting. Cups are filled with locally roasted Trifecta coffee.

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

1815 Central Ave. NW, 247-4141, duransrx.com Where in the city can you get amazing huevos, kitschy printed dish towels, an emergency rubber chicken in a box, and a flu shot? There is only one answer, Duran’s Central Pharmacy.

3601 Carlisle Blvd. NE, 889-9315, eastoceanalbq.com East Ocean Chinese Seafood Restaurant was the first of its kind in Albuquerque. Most dishes are served family style and are made fresh to order. Those looking for traditional Chinese dishes should try the Roast Duck. Seafood eaters will enjoy the Honey Crispy Walnut Shrimp.

EL BRUNO’S RESTAURANTE Y CANTINA

8806 4th St. NW, 897-0444, elbrunos.com El Bruno’s got its start in Cuba, NM, in 1975. At the Albuquerque location, the tried-and-true family recipes are still the focus of the menu. The Ceviche, Pollo Adovo, and the Deep Fried Spinach are a few items guests can look forward to.

EL CAMINO DINING ROOM

6800 4th St NW, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, 344-0448 Those with a bottomless appetite might meet their match with any of El Camino’s breakfast burrito options. These plate-sized behemoths are filled with eggs, hashbrowns or home-fries, and your choice of meat, then smothered in red or green chile.

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BITES EL COTORRO

FAN TANG

FLIX BREWHOUSE

EL PATIO DE ALBUQUERQUE

FAREAST FUZION SUSHI BAR & LOUNGE

FLYING STAR CAFÉ

FORQUE KITCHEN AND BAR

FORK & FIG

111 Carlisle Blvd. NE, 503-6202, elcotorroabq.com Made to order gourmet tacos are on full display among classic Mexican street food like elotes and ceviche. A full salsa bar lets you spice up your meat, fish, vegetarian, or vegan tacos. Taco Tuesdays feature $2 tacos and bottled Mexican beers. 142 Harvard Drive SE, 268-4245, elpatioabq.com A UNM favorite since 1977, this family-owned restaurant uses local ingredients and makes everything fresh daily in small batches. The #10 Green Chicken Enchiladas have won rave reviews for years, as have the tasty salsa and pillow-soft sopaipillas.

EL PATRON

Two locations, elpatronabq.com A customer favorite, El Patron’s menu includes dishes such as mouthwatering tacos, enchiladas, chile rellenos, and housemade chips. Wash them down with a tasty margarita.

EL PINTO

$$$

10500 4th St. NW, 898-1771, elpinto.com Food and atmosphere go hand-in-hand at this Duke City staple, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Enjoy fresh salsa, enchiladas, burritos, carne adovada, and many more New Mexican dishes while sipping a margarita on one of the many beautiful patios. Reservations are recommended.

EL SABOR DE JUAREZ

3527 Gibson Blvd. SE, 265-3338 Its name means “the flavor of Juarez,” and since 1980, this restaurant has served just that. Try the family recipes for menudo and carne desebrada (shredded roast beef sautéed with jalapeño, tomato, and onions).

EL SARAPE

Two locations, elsarapeabq.com Specializing in authentic food from all regions of Mexico, you can count on dishes such as nopalitos (cactus sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and garlic), fresh salsa, burritos, chile rellenos, and seafood specials with shrimp, oysters, calamari, and fish.

ELOY’S NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT $

1508 Wyoming Blvd. NE, 293-6018 Opening 36 years ago, Eloy’s New Mexican Restaurant’s claim to fame is their consistent food and service, offering the same recipes that made them famous all those years ago. Try the No. 1 Eloy’s Deluxe Dinner, with a little bit of everything.

EMBER’S STEAK & SEAFOOD

$$$

11000 Broadway Blvd. SE 244-8288, isleta.com Whether you are dining inside or al fresco on the rooftop patio, Ember’s boasts some of Albuquerque’s most beautiful 180-degree views of the Bosque, making for the perfect setting to catch the sunset next to the warmth of the glowing fire pits.

FANO BREAD COMPANY

4605 McLeod Road NE, 884-5555, fanobread.com For more than 16 years, Fano has made the freshest bread in the city. Whether it’s the rustic loaf, the green chile cheese bread or raisin cinnamon bread, you’ll think you’re touring the streets of Italy with each bite.

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3523 Central Ave. NE, 266-3566, fan-tang.com With authentic family recipes that include coffee chicken (rubbed in Satellite coffee, then stir-fried with flavorful sauce) and creative additions like soul dumplings (made with tofu, kimchi, and cashew pesto), this spot is sure to satisfy.

5901 Central Ave. NE, 255-2910 The sushi is served aplenty, but those who shy from raw fish can flirt with some Thai or Chinese cuisine. This might be one of the only places where a “Heart-Attack”—a sushi roll with deep-fried spicy tuna, jalapeños, mushrooms, and cream cheese—is a good thing.

FARINA ALTO PIZZERIA & WINE BAR $$

10721 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 298-0035, farinaalto.com The Northeast Heights version of Farina offers the same urban atmosphere as the East Downtown (EDo) Farina, minus the elbow-to-elbow seating. Alto offers every pizza on the EDo menu, such as the Formaggio di Capra and the Carne, but includes unique dishes—Eggplant Parmesan Napoleon and Oven-Roasted Chicken Wings. Alto’s wine room is stocked with more than 300 bottles of wine.

FARINA PIZZERIA

510 Central Ave. SE, 243-0130, farinapizzeria.com Whether you like yours bianco or covered in carne, you’ll get a pie cooked to perfection at this relaxedbut-hip urban eatery.

FARM & TABLE

$$$

8917 4th St. NW, 503-7124, farmandtablenm.com This North Valley eatery’s ever-changing menu features seasonal produce, which often comes from the restaurant’s own farm. If the produce doesn’t come from the farm, it’s sourced from a slew of local vendors. Enjoy grass-and-alfalfa-fed steaks and produce-focused dishes that use local kale, chard, okra, chile, and tomatoes.

THE FARMACY

3718 Central Ave SE, 227-0330 The Farmacy takes the idea of organic and local ingredients, and presents them in a way that tastes like comfort. The Farmacy provides a tasty menu of eight breakfast items, as well as eight sandwiches for lunch.

FIESTA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT AND CANTINA

4400 Carlisle Blvd. NE, 881-0478 Fiesta’s Restaurant & Cantina has been familyowned and operated since 1986, making it an Albuquerque go-to for quality New Mexican cuisine. With its family dining area, outdoor patio, lively bar and banquet room, Fiesta’s has something for everyone.

FLAMEZ BISTRO

9821 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 275-0522, flamezabq.com There’s a lot more to this burger joint than the beef. High-end, artistically inspired bistro fare, delightful appetizers, and burger bowls (with greens, sans buns) are only some of the fun finds at this neighborhood fave. Buffalo, salmon, turkey, lamb, get your protein boost here.

3258 La Orilla Rd NW B-1 445-8500, flixbrewhouse.com Flix is a one-of-a-kind concept; a movie theater that serves full meals and an in-house brewed beer menu in its stadium-seating “dining rooms.” The dream is real, Albuquerque–you can catch the latest blockbuster in theaters while knocking back a pint and having dinner brought to you. Various locations, flyingstarcafe.com With handmade desserts to die for, artisan breads, and a menu filled with everything from eggs to enchiladas, the Flying Star offers plenty of options for every meal (and snack time) of the day. 330 Tijeras Ave. NW, 842-1234, albuquerque.hyatt.com Forque’s multi-level, tastefully decorated dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows and makes it easy to forget you’re dining at a Downtown hotel. The elegant presentation extends to the regional cuisine, which is prepared in the restaurant’s open kitchen by executive chef Eli White and his staff. 6904 Menaul Blvd. NE, Suite C, 881-5293, forkfig.com Upscale, but surprisingly down-home, Fork & Fig dishes offer up a streamlined menu of favorites, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, with surprising artistry along the way. Sweet potato tots, anyone?

FOURTH AND ROMA CAFÉ

FRANK’S FAMOUS CHICKEN AND WAFFLES

500 4th St. NW, #106, 245-7662 Delicious chai, coffee, sandwiches, salads, and occasional East-Indian specials conveniently located in the old Bank of America building downtown.

400 Washington St. SE, 712-5109, franksfamouschickenandwaffles.com Owner and former Lobo basketball player Frank Willis wanted to give Albuquerque the soul food he had while growing up in Los Angeles. He fiddled with flavors, making sure they were perfect, before opening his restaurant to dish out favorites like chicken and waffles, fried pickles, mac ‘n cheese, and collard greens.

FRENCH-ISH $$$

3509 Central Ave NE, 433-5911, frenchish.co Envisioned as a casual neighborhood restaurant, French-ish’s menu draws inspiration from an eclectic mix of French and Midwestern US cuisines, with an active focus on clean, simple foods.

FREIGHT HOUSE KITCHEN + TAP 200 S Camino del Pueblo, 588-2143, fr8house.com

Sister restaurant to Range Café and Standard Diner, Freight House offers smoky sweet menu items from the smoker with a homemade touch. Expect pub food with a unique twist and a rotating selection of local beers.

FRIENDS COFFEE & SANDWICH SHOP $

200 3rd St. NW, 243-4801, fcass.com Every cup of coffee served at Friends Coffee & Sandwich Shop is from New Mexico Coffee Company, and a different flavor is showcased each day of the week. Local favorites such as the quesadilla and the Taco Burger are dependable lunch choices.

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BITES FRONTIER RESTAURANT

2400 Central Ave. SE, 266-0550, frontierrestaurant.com Famous for its legendary Frontier Rolls, hot-offthe-iron tortillas, burgers, New Mexican favorites, hash browns, fresh-squeezed orange juice, and more, the Frontier is Albuquerque’s melting pot— it’s a guarantee you’ll see someone you know there.

FU YUANG KOREAN & CHINESE RESTAURANT $

3107 Eubank Blvd. NE, Suite 16, 298-8989 Fu Yuang breaks away from tradition with its take on Korean and Chinese cuisine, but keeps it simple. Freshly made with high-quality meats, you’ll get perfectly-portioned dishes made without MSG, less oil, and all natural ingredients.

GARCIA’S KITCHEN

GREENSIDE CAFÉ

$$$

12165 North Highway 14, Cedar Crest, 286-2684, greenside.cafe This Cedar Crest café offers a casual family atmosphere with large portions of gourmet-quality food: French toast made with orange and vanilla batter, Turquoise Trail Trout, rich homemade ice cream, Monte Cristo sandwich with green chile.

THE GRILL ON SAN MATEO

3300 San Mateo Blvd. NE, 872-9772 A choice of mesquite-grilled chicken, rib eye, hot dogs, and burgers (beef and garden) accompany bottomless house-made chips and salsa, complete with sides like classic fries and fried zucchini, and fresh fixings are on a build-your-own basis offering a completely customizable burger.

THE GROVE CAFÉ AND MARKET

600 Central Ave. SE, Suite A, 248-9800, thegrovecafemarket.com The brunch and lunch favorite is well-known for its exceptional dishes made from local and organic ingredients, and it now offers a newly expanded menu, with additions such as the French Ham & Cheese with d’affinois cheese, mostarda, and caper mustard sauce.

GYROS MEDITERRANEAN

106 Cornell Drive SE, 255-4401, egyros.com Tried-and-true Greek recipes, such as traditional Kota Reganato (oven-roasted chicken with oregano, garlic and lemon), fresh Greek salads, Patates, and, of course, sweet baklava, served in a friendly, laidback collegial atmosphere.

Various locations, garciaskitchen.com This Albuquerque institution serves up classic New Mexican dishes, from freshly made tortillas to an extensive burrito list. You’ll leave one of the multiple locations with a full belly and content heart.

GARDUÑO’S OF MEXICO RESTAURANT AND CANTINA $$

Various Locations, gardunosrestaurants.com Garduño’s consistently earns enthusiastic kudos for its mouthwatering enchiladas, burritos, salsa, and knock-your-socks-off margaritas. And, with three locations around town, you’re always near a fiesta.

GECKO’S BAR AND TAPAS

Two locations, geckosbar.com Plenty of tasty tapas—including Southwestern Krab Taquitos and Red Molé Grilled Sirloin Tacos—and hearty salads and sandwiches, too.

GINO’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA

GIOVANNI’S PIZZERIA

GOLDEN CROWN PANADERIA

Two locations, ginosnystylepizza.com With handmade lasagna and pizza dough, among other items, Gino’s New York Style Pizza shares family recipes with its customers. From the buttermilk ranch dressing to the Eggplant and Chicken Parmigianas, homemade cooking is not too far away. 921 San Pedro Drive SE, 255-1233, giovannispizzaalbuquerque.com Giovanni’s isn’t easy to spot at first, but once you’ve had a big slice of fold-in-half New York-style pie, you’ll never miss it again. Whether you like it covered in spinach, pesto and tomatoes, cheeseonly, no cheese at all, or plain pepperoni, you’re sure to find your pizza match. 1103 Mountain Road NW, 243-2424, goldencrown.biz Golden Crown Panaderia is known for taking creativity in baking to the next level. Try the original biscochitos or cappuccino, chocolate and sugarfree versions. Don’t miss out on homemade green chile bread, pizza, and creative bread sculptures.

GRASSBURGER $

Two locations, eatgrassburger.com There’s a lot that sets the burger joint apart— including their community involvement, their vegan and gluten-free burger options, and their commitment to a no-corn syrup menu.

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BITES HADLEY’S TEA

7600 Jefferson St. NE, Suite 9, 821-4832 With about 200 different teas—half of them available in loose-leaf form—Hadley’s Tea is a tea lover’s oasis. Every tea that lines Hadley’s shelves is made with all-natural ingredients. A cucumber and cream cheese sandwich, otherwise known as the “tea sandwich,” is the perfect companion for your Lady Londonderry or strawberry green tea.

HANNAH & NATE’S MARKET CAFÉ

4512 Corrales Road, 898-2370 Offering breakfast and lunch, Hannah & Nate’s is all about flavor—whether it’s the flavor of traditional New Mexican cuisine, cuisines from throughout the world or the family recipes served.

HARTFORD SQUARE

218 Gold Ave. SW, 265-4933, hartfordsq.com Perhaps the only Albuquerque establishment that changes the menu weekly based on local produce options, this is a clean, smart, urban café that feeds suits and millennials in droves. Also serving up local coffees from Michael Thomas roasters, dine anytime and support the farm-to-table movement.

HOT TAMALES

HURRICANE’S CAFE

1520 Rio Rancho Blvd. SE, 962-0123, hottamalesnmrestaurant.com This Rio Rancho restaurant serves bona fide New Mexican with hand-blended red chile and fireroasted green chile: Green Chile Stew Omelet, Hot Tamale Bowl, and Fajitas are just a few of the spicy dishes. 4330 Lomas Blvd. NE, 255-4248 With Route 66 serving as the city’s heart, it’s always good to hop over to a good ol’ fashioned diner. Pick out a classic dish, such as pancakes or omelets from the lengthy breakfast menu, or chow down on a burger, enchilada, or chicken fried steak. Of course, you can take a stab at the hearty Disaster Burrito, but you’d better make plenty of room if that’s on your agenda.

I SCREAM ICE CREAM

HELLO DELI

IL VICINO

HIGH POINT GRILL

INDIGO CROW CAFÉ

7600 Jefferson St. NE, 797-3354, hellodeliabq.com Home to one of the most delicious breakfast burritos around, Hello Deli serves sandwiches and even Frontier’s sweet rolls. 9780 Coors Blvd NW 312-8519, highpointgrill.com Those perpetually on the hunt for the perfect burger will find plenty to love at High Point. With a foundation of 100-percent Akaushi, American Prime Wagyu beef, the burgers at High Point Grill are some of the city’s most popular. Their Southwest burger, for instance, features a red chile crusted patty, extra hot local green chile and cheddar cheese.

HIGH NOON RESTAURANT AND SALOON

$$$

425 San Felipe St. NW, 765-1455, highnoonrestaurant.com Located in a 300-year-old house in the heart of Old Town, High Noon has a menu stocked with New Mexican fare such as burritos and enchiladas, but you can also find baked brie and buffalo burgers here. Reservations are recommended.

HOLY BURGER

700 Central Ave. SE, 242-2991, holyburgernm.com Originally a Route 66 diner with a carport, and later Bob’s Fish and Chips, Holy Burger now boasts some of the juiciest burgers in town, as well as one of the breeziest and most boppin’ patios in the city.

HORSE AND ANGEL TAVERN

HOT PINK THAI

5809 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, 299-0225 Whether you want a simple sandwich for lunch, appetizers and a beer in the afternoon, or steak and enchiladas at midnight, this Heights tavern is the place to be any time of the day. 2626 San Pedro Drive NE, 872-2296 For dine in or takeout, at lunchtime, you’ll get $1.50 off dishes over $10 and a free vegetable egg roll. Favorites include pumpkin curry, pad thai, and drunken noodles. Most dishes are customized with your choice of protein and spice level, from no chili at all to Thai hot.

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2000 Carlisle Blvd. NE, 268-0139 The cozy dessert shop is filled with toys, gadgets, board games, and—oh yeah—34 flavors of ice cream and 28 different toppings. Each scoop comes with a free mix-in, and there are fresh mini doughnuts available on weekends.

Various locations, ilvicino.com Using wood ovens to bake its thin-crust pizzas, Il Vicino (which means “The Neighbor”) also offers hearty calzones and award-winning brews from its own brewery.

$$$

4515 Corrales Road, Corrales, 898-7000, indigocrowcafe.net This café is cozy, thanks to the fact that it’s housed in an old adobe building. When it’s cold, patrons warm up by the indoor fireplace; when it’s warm, they enjoy meals such as lobster ravioli, tarragon chicken salad, and New Mexico chicken fried steak under the stars on the outdoor patio. Reservations are recommended.

IRONWOOD KITCHEN

5740 Night Whisper Road NW, Suite 250, 890-4488, ironwoodkitchen.com This family operation’s goal: to serve meals made with whole foods at affordable prices. Try the green chile cheeseburger, with freshly-ground chuck, topped with fresh vegetables and roasted green chile.

JAPANESE KITCHEN

$$$

Two Locations, japanesekitchen.com Entertainment is the main course at this teppanyaki grill restaurant. The cooks, who are at your table, can be caught tossing shrimp into their pockets and creating to-die-for dishes from the classic teriyaki chicken, to seafood or steak, and everything in between.

JAVA JOE’S

906 Park Ave. SW, 765-1514, downtownjavajoes.com You’ll find all walks of life at this relaxing Downtown joint, enjoying freshly made sandwiches, breakfast burritos, green chile chicken melts, coffee drinks and more.

JC’S NEW YORK PIZZA DEPARTMENT $$

215 Central Ave. NW, Suite B, 766-6973, jcnypd.com New York-style pizza, pasta, salads, and fully loaded pasta and calzone dishes, all in a laid-back lounge. During lunch hour, the line goes out the door.

JIMMY’S CAFÉ ON JEFFERSON

7007 Jefferson St. NE, 341-2546, jimmyscafeonjefferson.com The menu here lists more than 100 items, most of them mouthwatering comfort foods: sandwiches, burgers, New Mexican dishes, handmade pizza, and breakfast served all day long.

JINJA BAR AND BISTRO

JOE’S PASTA HOUSE

Various locations, jinjabistro.com Evoking a vintage ambiance, Jinja serves inspired and mouthwatering pan-Asian cuisine, such as Kung Pow Chicken (a Thai version of the Chinese favorite) and Home-Style Chicken Udon Wok Bowl. 3201 Southern Blvd. SE, 892-3333, joespastahouse.com A neighborhood Italian-American joint with an incredible dose of warmth and personality, Joe’s offers a terrific lunch buffet and an expansive dinner menu to please every palate in la mia famiglia: steaks, pasta, and some of the best cannelloni and tiramisu anywhere.

KABAB HOUSE: AUTHENTIC PERSIAN CUISINE $

301 Cornell Drive SE, 312-8949 Authentic, made-to-order Persian food is constantly sizzling on the grill here. The koobideh kabab is made with minced ground beef or ground chicken, onion, and house spices. Each dish is a healthy size and comes with soup, salad, and rice. Top everything off with a glass of delicious banana milk, or majoun, which is banana milk with almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and honey.

KAKTUS BREWING CO.

KATHY’S CARRY OUT

471 South Hill Road, Bernalillo, 818-7285 kaktusbrewery.com Tucked away from it all, Kaktus specializes in European-style pints, and a menu featuring pizzas and apps uniquely topped with game meats like elk, boar, bison, and duck. Special events on weekends abound. 823 Isleta Blvd. SW, 873-3472 This carry out has been a South Valley favorite for 38 years. Look for the chicharron burrito with egg, fresh hand-cut fries, and the daily special—you just might land on a seems-too-good-to-be-true deal, such as three tacos for $3.

KATRINAH’S EAST MOUNTAIN GRILL $$

150 State Road 344, Edgewood, 281-9111, eastmountaingrill.com This contemporary diner specializes in homemade dishes, such as gyros, hand-cut steaks and burgers, and the best-selling Southern Salad (with fried green beans, bacon, cheddar cheese, tomato, and fried or grilled chicken or steak).

KELLYS PUB

KIMO’S HAWAIIAN BBQ

3222 Central Ave. SE, 262-2739, kellyspubabq.com On any given night, the patio at Kellys, converted from an old gas station, is filled with a diverse array of customers. Kids eat free on weekends, and dogs are welcome, too. It’s sporting a new brick oven pizza menu you should definitely check out. 3239 Girard Blvd. NE kimosabq.com, 582-2797 Hawaii comes home. What began as a food truck is now a brick-and-mortar location also. Try freshfrom-the-isles Kalua Pork and Huli Huli Chicken plates served with sides like steamed cabbage, rice, and macaroni salad.

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The Best of Albuquerque!

9800 Montgomery Blvd. NE 505.298.7678 JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

10022 Coors Blvd. #B NW 505.899.2000 177

BITES KOLACHE FACTORY

8001 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Suite B3 856-3430, locations.kolachefactory.com The Kolache Factory franchise out of Texas focuses on Czech style Kolaches that were traditionally a warm, semi-sweet pastry filled with sausage, cheese, or fruit and originated in Eastern Europe dating as far back as the 1700s.

LA CRÊPE MICHEL

400 San Felipe St. NW, Suite C2, 242-1251, lacrepemichel.com Heavenly soups, sandwiches, and crêpes await you at this charming French restaurant: whether filled with salmon, asparagus and Swiss cheese or zucchini, eggplant, and tomato, you’ll find a crêpe to whet your appetite. Reservations are recommended.

LA OJA RESTAURANT

LA SALITA

1950 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, 299-9968, lasalita.com The name may mean “little room,” but this New Mexican restaurant always has a full house. The chile rellenos, chile con queso, sopaipillas, and shredded beef burrito (a Wednesday special) have earned loyal customers for 37 years.

LAGUNA BURGER

Various locations, thelagunaburger.com Every half-pound burger is made fresh upon ordering, topped with Hatch green chile, and slipped on a butter-toasted bun made specifically for Laguna Burger by Sara Lee. Also on the menu: freshly-cut fries, foot-long chile cheese dogs, and zingy breakfast burritos.

LAS RISTRAS

$$$

LAVA ROCK BREWING COMPANY $$ 2220 Unser Blvd. NE 836-1022, lavarockbrewpub.com

The casual brewpub on Unser currently has 7 of their own beers available on tap, with several other local guest taps as well. Standard bar fare gets gussied up here, like the housemade hot sauces on the wings and the fries loaded with green chile and queso.

LAZY LIZARD GRILL

12480 North Highway 14, Sandia Park 281-9122, lazylizardgrill.com From the King Cobra Pizza and made-fromscratch Jalapeño Poppers to their impressive selection of microbrews, the Lazy Lizard Grill has customers always coming back for more— and has the food and atmosphere to back it up.

201 Marquette Ave. NW, inside DoubleTree Hotel, 247-3344 La Oja Restaurant blends New Mexico and California cuisines, resulting in unique tastes that combine fresh seafood with local flavor. It’s MexiCali cuisine with a twist.

4940 Corrales Rd. #400, Corrales 433-4192, lasristras.com Though New Mexican fare is a huge part of Las Ristras’ menu–all the usual suspects from tacos and chile rellenos to burritos and bowls of fresh posole are in evidence–they are joined by some of the most dynamic steaks on the Rio Grande.

LE BISTRO VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT

LA QUICHE PARISIENNE BISTRO

THE LAST CALL

8216 Menaul Blvd. NE, 293-7057, lechantillybakery.com This French-style bakery features breakfast pastries, muffins, strudel, cookies, and tarts—not to mention delicious quiche, croissants, sandwiches and cakes. Try homemade soups such as creamy chicken and artichoke, then satisfy your sweet tooth with a tower of chocolate decadence.

5850 Eubank Blvd. NE, Suite 17, 242-2808, laquicheparisiennebistro.com Long considered an authentic French staple of downtown ABQ, La Quiche has comfortably settled into the Heights and the baked goods will comfort your lazy weekend brunch cravings with true Parisian cuisine from the mainland.

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Various locations, lastcallabq.com This late-night eatery specializes in freshly-made Baja Mexican street cuisine (think: carne asada fries). If you’re lucky, you just might run into the “Taco Box” while out on the town: a mobile extension of the restaurant that brings the food to you.

1313 San Pedro Dr. NE, 266-6118 Le Bistro Vietnamese Restaurant is just as much a bakery as it is a restaurant, specializing in traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

LE CHANTILLY FINE PASTRIES

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BITES LE PEEP

2125 Louisiana Blvd. NE, 881-7272, lepeepabq.com With a menu spanning breakfast skillets, omelets, and flapjacks to a comprehensive and creative selection of lunch sammies, soups, and otherwise, Le Peep offers an enlightened take on American staples with a New Mexican twist.

LE TROQUET

228 Gold Ave. SW 508-1166, www.abqfrenchrestaurant.com The Parisian bistro, open for lunch or dinner, offers classically simple French dishes made by Chef Jean Pierre Gozard. From Boeuf Bourguignon to quiche and delectable desserts, expect a tres bien atmosphere with a comprehensive wine list.

LEVEL 5 AT HOTEL CHACO

$$$

2000 Bellamah Ave. NW 318-3998, hotelchaco.com The food here needs be good, because first and foremost, it competes with the view. Like the name implies, Level 5 sits on the 5th floor of Hotel Chaco and offers a near-360 degree view of the city.

THE LIBRARY BAR & GRILL

312 Central Ave. SW, 242-2992, library-abq.com Featuring more than a great party, the Library offers drink specials and half-priced appetizers during happy hour, as well as salads, hamburgers, sandwiches, wraps, and specialty items.

LIMONATA ITALIAN STREET CAFÉ

3222 Silver Av SE, 266-0607, limonatanobhill.com Channel your inner Italian at this street foodinspired café, where the breakfast and lunch menus feature perfect pastries, craveable cappuccino and trattoria-inspired lunches. The chef makes every dish from scratch and insists that everything about the restaurant, from the menu to the atmosphere, be done just as it would in Italy.

LITTLE BEAR COFFEE

2632 Pennsylvania St. NE 917-8902, littlebearcoffeeco.com Located near Uptown, Little Bear is not just serving up quality brew, but also providing an outpost for the neighborhood and coffee community.

LOS COMPADRES RESTAURANT

2437 Central Ave. NW 452-8091, compadresabq.com Family recipes like the No. 16 Taco Plate, tacos with carne y papas (beef and potatoes) and the restaurant’s Menudo, have kept locals coming back for more than 15 years.

LOS CUATES

Various locations loscuatesrestaurants.com Popular since it opened over 25 years ago, Los Cuates serves its own ancho-chile salsa and tons of delicious New Mexican dishes in humongous portions.

LOYOLA’S FAMILY RESTAURANT

4500 Central Ave. SE, 268-6478 loyolasfamilyrestaurant.com You’ll find both American and New Mexican goodies here, from fried chicken, roast beef and sandwiches to tasty local favorites such as burritos and posole.

LUIGI’S RISTORANTE AND PIZZERIA $$

6225 4th St. NW, 343-0466, luigisitalianfood.com Enjoy more than 250 made-from-scratch Italian dishes, including pizza, chicken Florentine, spaghetti and meatballs, and green chile chicken lasagna.

LUNA MANSION

$$$

110 W. Main St., Los Lunas, 865-7333, lunamansion.com Said to be haunted, the Luna Mansion is an adventure in dining, featuring a wide selection of steak and seafood in a unique, historic atmosphere in Los Lunas.

M’TUCCI’S ITALIAN

Various locations, mtuccis.com The menu at the Westside’s authentic Italian staple features refined comfort food classics, from meatball marinara to pot roast. Other menu items are crafted from choice Berkshire pigs that the eatery imports from northern Iowa and southern Minnesota farms. In fact, a unique pork dish is incorporated into a featured dinner special every night. Wash down your pasta, pizza, or salad with a carefully crafted cocktail from the bar.

MAC’S STEAK IN THE ROUGH

Two locations, macsnm.com Taquitas, onion rings, guacamole salad, and an original “steak in the rough”—slivers of beef served with French fries, coleslaw, a roll, catsup, and a fresh green scallion… these are just a few of the reasons Mac’s has been in business for so many years.

MANZANO GRILLE AT THE CANYON CLUB AT FOUR HILLS $$ 911 Four Hills Road SE, 299-9555, canyonclubgolf.com

This newly remodeled property was rejuvenated thanks to its own club members, and now boasts modern décor, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Members can enjoy creative dishes like Pork Alexander, New Mexico Eggs Benedict with green chile Hollandaise sauce, or the Turkey Lurkey, including green chile and Pepper Jack cheese in the dining room or al fresco on its large, shaded patio overlooking the mountain vistas. Dining-only memberships available.

MARIO’S PIZZA

Various locations, mariospizzaabq.com Gourmet pizzas, big bowls of pasta, custom calzones and New York-style sandwiches are the norm at this tasty Italian eatery.

MAZAYA CAFÉ

120 Harvard Dr. SE 582-2447, mazayacafe.com Mazaya Café is dedicated to adding an authentic Mediterranean dining experience to the medley of options in the Nob Hill area–without breaking the bank for its diners. If you are looking to fill up, freshgrilled kebabs, a half-dozen wraps, shawarma, and three kinds of fried or steamed dumpling plates headline the restaurant’s entrée menu.

MICHAEL THOMAS COFFEE ROASTERS $

Two locations, michaelthomascoffee.com Michael Thomas’ fresh-roasted coffees can be purchased in bulk or by the cup. Favorites include the Banda Bear Blend and the Duke’s Runners’ Blend. If you prefer to let them make your cup of Joe, try an espresso-based drink such as a Double Espresso, a Macchiato, or a Cubano.

MICK’S CHILE FIX

3351 Candelaira Rd NE Suite A, 881-2233, mickschilefix.com One of the city’s true spots for getting something hot: try The Shocker (an eight-pound breakfast burrito), huevos rancheros, or the Frito pie, all with homemade red or green chile.

MILLY’S $

Two locations, millysrestaurants.com If you’re not sure what to eat, have a little of everything with an American-New Mexican–Greek menu. This breakfast and lunch spot melds salads and sandwiches with traditional New Mexican and Greek entrees.

MIMMO’S RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA $$

3301 Coors Blvd. NW 831-4191, mimmosabq.com Mimmo’s serves authentic Italian food in a casual family atmosphere, with everything made on premise: the sauces, pizza dough, lasagna, noodles and meatballs. An all-you-can-eat lunch buffet is offered every day of the week.

MODEL PHARMACY

MARISCOS ALTAMAR

Two locations, mariscosaltamarabq.com With live music on the weekends, colorful murals, and authentic Mexican seafood dishes such as tostada de ceviche with shrimp, fish, and snow crab, dining at Mariscos Altamar is well worth the trip.

3636 Monte Vista Blvd. NE 255-8686, modelpharmacy.com Fill a prescription, buy some jewelry, then tuck into old-fashioned fountain classics like rickeys, ades, milkshakes, phosphates, and egg creams. Leave room for lunch: Model has grilled sandwiches and homemade soups.

MARY & TITO’S CAFÉ

MONICA’S EL PORTAL RESTAURANT

MONROE’S RESTAURANT

2711 4th St. NW, 344-6266, maryandtitos.com From their famous carne adovada to their authentic New Mexican chips and salsa, Mary & Tito’s Café makes sure guests leave full and happy. This homey café also became the only Albuquerque restaurant to win a James Beard Foundation America’s Classics Award in 2010.

MATANZA CRAFT BEER KITCHEN

3225 Central Ave. NE, 312-7305, matanzanm.com The New Mexican classic feast gets a sophisticated touch at the eatery serving up favorites such as carne adovada, to a wide range of salads, flatbreads and a cult-favorite brunch. One hundred taps feature local beer and wine.

MAY CAFÉ

111 Louisiana Blvd. SE, 265-4448, maycafenm.com Traditional Vietnamese cuisine is easily customizable, fresh and healthy. The café’s spring rolls, made fresh to order, are popular with diners new and old. Try the pho or the bún.

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

321 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, 247-9625 Traditional New Mexican favorites make up the menu at this Old Town staple that has been around for 34 years. Monica’s roasts their own green chile, makes biscochitos from scratch and offers red chile straight from the pod. Two locations, monroeschile.com More than 50 years after they opened their doors south of Old Town, Monroe’s continues to serve reliable New Mexican favorites to a local fan base, and service around here is a team effort, so no glass goes unfilled.

MONTE CARLO STEAKHOUSE

$$$

3916 Central Ave. SW, 836-9886 The iconic steakhouse meets liquor store has been featured on the Food Network and boasts some of the best steaks in the city. Since 1971, locals always come back for hand-cut steaks, house-made Greek salad dressing, freshly cut fries, and a mean green chile cheeseburger.

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BITES MONTE VISTA FIRE STATION 3201 Central Ave. NE, 255-2424

Once an actual working fire station, this second-floor restaurant now offers traditional bar food, wings, and nightly specials. Choose from tasty chicken wings and burgers, or order from the restaurant downstairs— they’ll bring your steak to you.

NEXUS BREWERY

Two locations, nexusbrewery.com If the made-to-order fried chicken and waffles and mac and cheese has you drooling, reach for one of Nexus’ brewed in-house beers.

NICK AND AND BAR

JIMMY’S

RESTAURANT $$

OHANA HUT

11200 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 292-4728 Soak up the cool Zen-like atmosphere while enjoying six versions of fried rice, sushi, sashimi, tempura, hibachi, grilled udon, soups, and teriyaki spiced with fiery Thai chili peppers.

5021 Pan American Freeway NE, 344-9169, nickandjimmysrestaurant.com Nick and Jimmy’s vision was a comfortable atmosphere with comfortable food. They blend traditional foods with new twists and serve everything from enchiladas to green chile meatloaf.

OLD TOWN PIZZA PARLOR

MUSTANG CAFÉ

NOB HILL BAR AND GRILL

OLO YOGURT STUDIO IN NOB HILL

MR. TOKYO

8601 Lomas Blvd. NE, 275-4477 Perfect for anyone shopping at the Rich Ford car dealership—or anyone at all—is this auto-themed restaurant, which serves up homemade breakfast burritos, papitas, enchiladas, rellenos, tamales, and the Dennis Snyder Favorite: a 16-oz. sirloin patty with cheese and chile.

NARUTO $

2110 Central Ave. SE 369-1039, narutonoodle.com Who knew Ramen noodles could be so creative, so diverse, and so darn good. Naruto is reinventing the Ramen noodle with specialized dishes that can’t be found anywhere else in the city.

NAMASTE

Two locations, namastenm.net Offering authentic Nepalese and Indian dishes— including chicken tikka masala and lamb curry— Namaste also serves traditional food with a New Mexico twist, such as the green chile chicken curry.

$$$

3128 Central Ave. SE, 266-4455, upscalejoint.com This restaurant manages to be simultaneously upscale and laid back, gourmet and down-home, visionary and traditional. Not to mention delicious: the Buffalo Calamari, Dirty “Kobe” Burger, Pineapple Chipotle BBQ Baby Back Ribs, and a slew of amazing cocktails make every visit exceptional.

5740 Night Whisper Rd NW, 508-4439, ohanahut.com Family owned and operated Ohana Hut means “Family Hut”. It specializes in Hawaiian, Japanese, and Korean flavors to create an Asian fusion menu with a New Mexican twist.

108 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, 999-1949, oldtownpizzaabq.com This comfy, funky, family-owned restaurant serves tasty pies, huge calzones, and portions of pasta that won’t ever leave you hungry.

3339 Central Ave. NE, Suite C, 718-4656, oloyogurt.com Nothing is as sweet as a guilt-free treat. In the same building as Staples in Nob Hill, Olo features a Candyland-esque interior, complete with 10 flavor choices and a salad-bar-sized toppings bar.

O’HARE’S GRILLE & PUB

Authentic, smoky goodness, Nomad’s BBQ sammies— including pulled pork and hotlink varieties—are succulent and feature its homemade sauce. This roving BBQ hut definitely knows how to do a quality turkey leg and rib tips, too.

4100 Southern Blvd. SE, 896-0123, oharesgrillepub.com With a menu that is centered around the idea that variety is the key to success, O’Hare’s offers pub fare in a family-friendly atmosphere. Try the Corned Beef and Cabbage special, O’Hare’s Double Decker Reuben, or the staple Fish and Chips, for a truly Irish experience.

OAK TREE CAFÉ

O’NIELL’S PUB

NOMAD’S BBQ FOOD TRUCK 206-7654

4545 Alameda Blvd. NE, 830-2233, cafeoaktree.com

$$$

This hometown café has served a lot of locales over the past 30 years, and the current venue on Alameda is great at the basics, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, made fresh, in-house every day.

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Two locations, oniells.com O’Niell’s boasts the same neighborhood feeling, many of the same staffers, and virtually the same menu (including the “weird sandwich,” the “burger in paradise,” and homemade fish and chips). Added: an outdoor patio and more beer choices.

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O RAMEN

ORCHID THAI CUISINE

ORTEGA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

2114 Central Ave. SE, 508-1897 Yes, the Duke City has the real thing. O Ramen’s Tonkotsu (pork bone broth) spends 18 hours on the stovetop before it blesses your bowl; expect plenty of options for vegetarians and Japanese curry lovers, to boot. 4300 Central Ave. SE, 265-4047, orchidabq.com Orchid Thai has been serving hungry Albuquerqueans traditional dishes like Pad Thai at its Nob Hill location for more than a decade. But this award-winning eatery goes beyond the traditional with unique dishes like deep-fried sesame duck, green tea curry, and Szechwan eggplant, all made from scratch.

Kitchen Catering We treat you and your guests like family!

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There' s There' food for all!! all

3617 Wyoming Blvd. NE, 298-0223 Rudy and Edna Ortega were never selfish with their old family recipes—they’re all over the menu at Ortega’s. The green chile relleno and when in season, red chile relleno, please palates year round. Of course, don’t leave without ending your meal with a delectable dessert, like the ice-creamstuffed strawberry sopaipilla.

THE OWL CAFÉ

P’TIT LOUIS BISTRO NOB HILL

800 Eubank Blvd. NE, 291-4900, owlcafealbuquerque.com World-famous green chile cheeseburgers, milkshakes, fajitas, quesadillas, meatloaf, burritos, fries… the list of drool-worthy dishes goes on and on. 3218 Silver Ave. SE, 314-1110, ptitlouisbistro.com The quaint French bistro features a small patio, yellow umbrellas, and white tablecloths—it’s pure Paris fashion, circa 1920, with the authentic French cuisine to match it.

PACIFIC PARADISE TROPICAL GRILL AND SUSHI BAR $$

3000 San Pedro Drive NE, 881-0999, pacificparadise-restaurant-abq.com Faux palms and tiki huts frame a menu filled with more than 100 options: salads, soups, stir-fry, seafood, fried rice, noodles, sushi, and dessert menu. Try the Seafood Rice Pizza or Rock ‘n’ Roll Sushi.

PADILLA’S MEXICAN KITCHEN

1510 Girard Blvd. NE, 262-0115 It might not get any more New Mexican than it does at Padilla’s—from huevos rancheros and tamales to chile rellenos and egg-topped blue corn enchiladas. You may have to shake your head after a taste of the chile just to remind yourself you’re not in your grandmother’s kitchen. A sopaipilla dripping with honey will seal the deal for your traditional meal.

PAISANO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

wall to wall flatscreens bold burgers hand tossed pizzas ice cold beer at 33° 33° 4861 Pan American Freeway NE Albuquerque,, NM 87109 Albuquerque 505.. 344 505 344.. 7427 182

1935 Eubank Blvd. NE, 298-7541, paisanosabq.com Family recipes have kept Paisano’s going for more than 35 years, but the hand-rolled pasta, handstuffed ravioli, homemade sausage and marinara haven’t hurt business, either. It’s also the only place in town to get wheat-free pizza and pasta.

THE PALETA BAR

Various locations, thepaletabar.com A hidden Albuquerque gem, The Paleta Bar has taken a tried-and-true, frozen Mexican dessert to new heights. Since 2017, this paleta wonderland has been slinging refreshing Mexican popsicles in endless combinations of flavors.

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BITES PAPA FELIPE’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT $$

9800 Menaul Blvd. NE, 292-8877, papafelipes.com Papa Felipe’s exceeds expectations by offering traditional New Mexican cuisine (enchiladas, stuffed sopaipillas, tacos) as well as simple twists on favorite dishes (green chile carne adovada, Tampico Tacos, Green Tamale Pie).

PAPA NACHOS

PARS CUISINE

7648 Louisiana Blvd. NE, 821-4900, papanachosfood.com Great, homemade Mexican food based on triedand-true family recipes is the specialty here: burritos, fish tacos, and the namesake nachos will all make your panza happy. 4320 The 25 Way NE, Ste 100, 345-5156, parscuisine.us For more than 20 years, Pars has served Persian and Mediterranean menu items in a unique atmosphere. Choose to sit on the floor under a large tent, and enjoy the talents of belly dancers, and enjoy tasty kebabs, gyros and more.

PELICAN’S RESTAURANT

$$$

Two locations, pelicansabq.com For 30 years, customers have fallen for Pelican’s— hook, line and sinker. Favorite entrées include Alaskan king crab, Australian lobster tail, and prime rib.

PEREA’S TIJUANA BAR

4590 Corrales Road, Corrales, 898-2442 Open for lunch only, the family-owned and -operated business specializes in real, home-cooked New Mexican food that’s consistently earned kudos from customers who can’t say “no” to the Frito pie, carne adovada, and green chile cheeseburgers.

PERICO’S $

Various locations, pericosmexicanrestaurant.com Serving delicious New Mexican food at affordable prices made Perico’s instantly popular, and the “home of the ½ lb burrito” is now an Albuquerque institution with three locations, catering services, and 22 different burritos.

PHO LINH

9100 Central Ave. SE, 266-3368, pholinhabq.com Authentic Vietnamese cuisine is the name of the game at this restaurant. Look for pad thai, special noodles (with grilled barbecue shrimp), spring rolls, curry, and papaya salad.

PIATANZI $$

Two locations, piatanzi.com A neighborhood Italian eatery with artisan flair, Piatanzi serves up big bites on smallish plates that please families and adventurous foodies alike, in a venue that scores big points.

PIZZA 9

Various locations, pizzanine.com Chicago-style pizza at 10 locations around the city, along with the option of gluten-free crust—that’s what Pizza 9 brings to the, er, table. Don’t forget the wings, salads, breadsticks and calzones to complement any meal.

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

PIZZERIA LUCA

PLANTY SWEET

POKI POKI CEVICHERIA

POLLITO CON PAPAS

8850 Holly Ave. NE, 797-8086, pizzerialuca.com With imported Italian flour, cheese, and pepperoni, Pizzeria Luca offers authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant has a subway-inspired interior and features delicious and affordable lunch specials. 2506 Washington St NE 433-7111, plantysweet.weebly.com Planty Sweet is the city’s first 100% vegan and gluten-free bakery and dessert shop and the quality of the products available is hard to deny. Not only do their artisanal baked goods taste fantastic, they are impeccably presented, each crafted to please the eye as much as the taste buds. Two locations, pokipokinm.com Think deconstructed sushi if you’ve never had the traditionally Hawaiian poké. Completely customizable bowls with Latin and Asian fusion are the specialty here. Seven types of fish, twelve sauces, and 22 toppings make for endless combinations atop rice, chips, or a salad. Two Locations, pollitoconpapas.com Get ready for a punch of Peruvian cuisine. The menu is dotted with combinations of chicken, potatoes, and cilantro rice. The chicken is brined in vinegar and cumin for about 10 hours, then fired on a spit. The traditional drink, chicha, makes the perfect complement to any dish. The southeast part of town just inched a bit closer to South America.

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PONDEROSA BREWING CO.

POP FIZZ

1761 Bellamah Ave. NW, 639-5941, ponderosabrewing.net A sister brew pub to Pints Brewing in Portland, Oregon, Ponderosa features a wide selection of American and German standard beers, with a classic menu of burgers, salads, and innovative appetizers. Two locations, pop-fizz.net Made in-house from all natural ingredients, kids can’t miss the Mexican paletas (popsicles) and ice cream tacos. For adults, boozy pops, shakes, and beer compliment the small but substantial menu of sandwiches, burritos, and the coveted carne asada fries. Located at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, the patio is dog-friendly, and you might see its ice cream truck around the city at summer events.

PRAIRIE STAR RESTAURANT

PRISMATIC COFFEE

288 Prairie Star Road, Santa Ana Pueblo, 867-3327, mynewmexicogolf.com Taking a drive past Bernalillo is a pleasure when you know the visit will include amazing made-fromscratch dishes such as herb-grilled ribeye with chipotle cheddar gratin and New Mexico bisonraised tenderloin. Reservations are recommended. 1761 Bellamah Ave. NW, 205-1590, prismatic.coffee This third-wave coffee shop in the sawmill district features a small menu of expertly crafted coffee and the perfect coffee companion, stroopwafels. Beans are roasted and sold in-house with a rotating selection of stroopwafel fillings made fresh.

PUEBLO HARVEST CAFÉ AND BAKERY

$$$

2401 12th St. NW, 724-3510, puebloharvestcafe.com The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is the perfect backdrop for the Native American-inspired cuisine prepared in the café, serving traditional and innovative dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Reservations are recommended.

PUPUSERIA Y RESTAURANTE SALVADOREÑO $

1701 Bridge Blvd. SW, 243-8194 In El Salvador, pupusas (stuffed corn tortillas) are found on every street corner. In Albuquerque, they can only be found in the South Valley, stuffed with shrimp, calabacitas, cheese, beans, or guacamole and served with a side of fresh salsa and curtidos (a spicy cabbage salad garnish).

QUARTER CELTIC BREWPUB

QUARTERS BBQ

Two locations, quartercelticbrewpub.com Irish brews like the Crimson Lass and Rye’t Side of Dublin are paired nicely with Celtic pub fare with a New Mexico twist. Must-tries include the classic fish and chips, ruben, shepherd’s pie, and poutine with green chile. 801 Yale Blvd. SE, 843-6949, thequartersonyaleblvd.com Feeling hungry? How about 187,000 pounds of ribs and 15,000 pounds of Alaskan King Crab a year, an attached packaged liquor store, a secret sauce recipe, and customers hungry for more? Try the pork spare ribs or hot links.

RANCHERS CLUB OF NEW MEXICO $$$

1901 University Blvd. NE, 889-8071, theranchersclubofnm.com With more fine dining awards on their wall than years they’re been in business, the Ranchers Club of New Mexico inside the Crowne Plaza Albuquerque is a meat lovers’ paradise and wine connoisseurs’ promised land. Reservations are recommended.

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BITES THE RANGE CAFÉ

Various locations, rangecafe.com Locals flock to The Range Café when they’re in search of good, made-from-scratch comfort food, including meatloaf sandwiches, huevos rancheros, enchiladas, ice cream, and the gooey Life by Chocolate dessert.

REBEL DONUT

Two locations, rebeldonut.com Not only can you find their set flavors, including their raised glazed, chocolate cake glazed, rebel red velvet, birthday cake, and toasted coconut, but you can also order custom-made donuts or choose to experiment with their daily creations.

RELISH GOURMET SANDWICHES

8019 Menaul Blvd. NE, 299-0001, relishsandwichesabq.com It’s no wonder this sandwich shop has been voted “best” by publications throughout Albuquerque— it serves only the best Boar’s Head meats and all of their dishes are accompanied by homemade sides or soups. Try the Cubano. You won’t be disappointed.

RICHARD’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT $$

3301 Menaul Blvd. NE, 881-1039 Mexican favorites—such as carne adovada, relleño, tacos, and green chile enchiladas—cooked in the healthiest, most nutritious, yummiest way possible. Open for breakfast and lunch.

RICHIE B’S PIZZA

7200 Montgomery Blvd. NE, Suite A-2, 312-8579, richiebsabq.com New York-style pizza has come home to roost in Albuquerque’s Northeast Heights. Whether by the slice or by the pie—some of which measure 25 inches in diameter—you’ll need every bit of your appetite when you visit Richie B’s. Not in the mood for pizza? Wrap your hands around a turkey, cheesesteak, or Italian sandwich, topped with its signature Viper sauce, or tempt your sweet tooth with traditional cannoli or New York-style cheesecake

RIO BRAVO BREWING COMPANY

ROCKIN’ TACO

ROMA BAKERY & DELI

RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q

Two locations, rudys.com Texas-style slow cooking over oak is what makes Rudy’s brisket, ribs and sausage so mouthwatering—not to mention the “sause.” Every serving comes with paper towels, unlimited sliced onions and pickles, and bread to mop up the leftover BBQ.

RUSTIC BUBBLE TEA CAFE

840 Juan Tabo Blvd Suite B, 505-1813, rusticbubbleteacafe.com Rustic Bubble Tea Café has all of the fundamentals of a bubble tea shop down, of course–the hint is in the name, after all–but what sets the independent Albuquerque startup apart is the Vietnameseinspired menu that accompanies their decadent beverages.

RUSTIC ON THE GREEN

3600 Cutler Ave NE, 315-1148, rusticburger505.com Rustic simplicity is the key for this burger joint at Green Jeans Farmery, serving up five equallycraveable burger options and two different kinds of fries from its minimalist menu. Don’t let the simplicity fool you: this unique eatery does gourmet burgers that has fans coming back for more, including its Day of the Dead burger with a secret “Diablo” puree and the Divine Intervention, topped with bleu cheese and caramelized onions.

RUTILIO’S NEW MEXICAN FOODS

455 N. Main St., Belen, 864-0093 Belen Mayor Rudy Jaramillo’s carne adovada is what put Rutilio’s on the map. This hangout serves their perfect pork with rice and beans, stuffed inside burritos and sopaipillas, and layered inside enchiladas and quesadillas. Add Rutilio’s breakfast

burritos and classic New Mexican combos, and guests are sure to find something worth campaigning for.

SADIE’S OF NEW MEXICO

Various locations, sadiesofnewmexico.com A staple in New Mexican cuisine, Sadie’s features enchiladas, carne adovada ribs, tacos, burritos, and of course, world-famous chips and salsa. Reservations are recommended.

SAHARA MIDDLE EASTERN EATERY

SAIGON RESTAURANT

2622 Central Ave. SE, 255-5400, saharamiddleeasterneatery.com Delectable Middle Eastern plates served up Manhattan-deli style. The chicken shawarma plate, complete with greens, pita, hummus, and awardwinning tabbouleh, is always a good bet. Complete with beer and wine, and belly dancing on weekends, this is a fave of students, locals, and out-of-towners alike. Two locations, saigonrestaurantnm.com Vicky Truong’s secret to 12 years of success has been consistency. Truong maintains an extensive menu that caters to every type of eater. From summer dishes such as noodle bowls to winter mainstays like beef noodle soup, Truong will make sure you find your favorites.

SAKURA SUSHI & GRILL

6241 Riverside Plaza NW, 890-2838, abqsakurasushingrill.com Favorites at Sakura are the Stone Pot Bibimbap (which is cooked at the table in a stone pot), the Tiger Roll, the Short Rib, the Baked Lobster Roll, the Sushi Tacos, and the impressive list of sake imported from Japan.

1912 2nd St. NW, 900-3909, riobravobrewing.com The pub and grill is bright and airy with high ceilings and a modern industrial style, mixed with the cozy rustic feel of a neighborhood bar, with 32 taps, including their award winning La Luz Lager. 3600 Cutler Ave NE, 401-1000, greenjeansfarmery.org Rockin’ Taco is housed inside of Albuquerque’s premier indoor/outdoor gathering place, Green Jeans Farmery. With a food truck vibe and an East Coast flare, this hidden gem is elevating the street taco. 501 Roma Ave. NW, 843-9418, romabakeryanddeli.com You’ll find more than fresh-baked cookies and pastries at this bakery—feast your eyes (and taste buds) on grilled sandwiches and eight fresh deli salads and soups.

ROSEMARY $$

4565 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Suite A 361-1842, rosemaryabq.com This plant-forward restaurant offers a soothing atmosphere, creative menu, and amazing food. Any menu item can be adapted to meet personal preferences and dietary restrictions.

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BITES SALATHAI $

3619 Copper Ave. NE, 265-9330 Made-from-scratch, fresh, ingredients and keeping it simple are owner Pitak Pitakkan’s rules to cook by. Pitakkan cooks every menu item himself so don’t go to Salathai in a hurry. Pitakkan’s grandmother taught him to make curry and his curries are a longtime customer favorite.

SAL-E-BOY’S PIZZERIA

THE SALT YARD

1706 Southern Blvd. SE, 892-5454 Whole-milk mozzarella paired with homemade pizza dough and fresh tomato sauce… Brooklyn would be proud. This neighborhood pizza joint is a casual in-and-out; you don’t sit and eat here, just take it with you. Don’t forget to try a calzone. Two locations, thesaltyardnm.com A multi-concept bar and restaurant, The Salt Yard is

equipped with games, dozens of televisions, great food, drinks, and plenty of space to stretch your legs. This unique location is a great place for parties, trying the newest beer and tequila (Blue Agave Republic is now a part of it), or just watching the game.

SAMURAI GRILL AND SUSHI BAR

$$$

9500 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 275-6601, abqsamurai.com What’s your pleasure, sushi or teppan? Here, you can have either expertly crafted right in front of you. It’s also where you can get fresh sushi favorites such as the California roll, the dragon roll, and a veggies-and-sushi “Viagra salad” special.

SANDIAGO’S MEXICAN GRILL AT THE TRAM

40 Tramway Road NE, 856-6692, sandiagos.com As if the view from Sandiago’s wasn’t enough— at the base of the tram, it offers a view of the city like no other—the restaurant has the food to match: unique coastal Mexican cuisine, New Mexican favorites, and blood orange margaritas. Reservations are recommended.

SANTA FE BITE-ABQ

3407 Central Ave NE 369-1621, santafebite-abq.com

At Santa Fe Bite-ABQ, the green chile cheeseburger is treated with the reverence it deserves, presenting a precision crafted recipe. The details, in fact, are so carefully crafted that even the grilling surface needs to meet certain criteria. Absent a turn on the surface of a custom cast iron grill, it’s just not a Santa Fe Bite burger.

SANTIAGO’S NEW MEXICAN GRILL

1911 Eubank Blvd. NE, 292-8226 It’s in the sauce—Papa Jim’s Taco Sauce, at least— which comes with items such as burritos, tacos, and salsa. This Santiago Scramble—a pile of scrambled eggs, cheese, corn tortillas, chorizo, and hash browns—is great morning fuel. The tamale and enchilada take-and-bake casseroles will please any partygoer. And take a jar of that taco sauce home— after all, you can.

SAVOY BAR & GRILL

$$$

10601 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 294-9463, savoyabq.com Resembling a California wine-country bistro, Savoy Bar & Grill is one of Albuquerque’s premier finedining establishments. Specializing in food and wine pairing, Savoy’s menu is a toast to the art of balance of food and wine.

SCARPAS BRICK OVEN PIZZA

Two locations, scarpaspizza.com That brick oven is cornerstone to this neighborhood favorite, producing pizzas such as the shrimp pesto, the Greek, and the chipotle chicken. But Scarpas also knows pasta, including red chile cream pasta and pasta sorento with oak-roasted chicken.

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SEARED $$

119 San Pasquale Ave SW 999-8414, searedabq.com During the day, the space is Cheese & Coffee, but at night, it gets a makeover and becomes Seared, a fine dining establishment serving up steak, pork loin, and Atlantic Salmon among other things.

THE SEASONAL PALATE

SIXTY-SIX ACRES

2400 12th St. NW 243-2230, sixtysixacres.com If you had to boil Sixty-Six Acres down to two words, they would be “casual” and “classy.” Featuring craft cocktails and a wealth of locally sourced, globallyinspired dishes, Sixty-Six Acres is the ideal spot to grab a relaxed, refined meal.

7600 Jefferson St. NE, Suite 2, 369-1046, theseasonalpalate.com From a food truck to a brick-and-mortar location, The Seasonal Palate specializes in simple, yet artful creations, including crowd favorites like the Buffalo Burger, Shrimp Po’ Boy, and Asian Salad. Now with an expanded menu, expect beer and wine options in the future, along with prepared to-go dinner options.

SLAPFISH $$

SEASONS ROTISSERIE AND GRILL $$$

2003 Southern Blvd SE #139, Rio Rancho 994-0363, slatestreetbilliards.com Come for the pool, stay for the nachos, and the burgers, and the wings. Rio Rancho’s favorite pool hall also offers has great Happy Hour pricing and plenty of special events.

2031 Mountain Road NW, 766-5100, seasonsabq.com As the name suggests, Seasons varies its menu in accordance with what’s going on throughout the year, using the finest, freshest ingredients. Depending on what time of year you venture in, you’ll find butternut squash ravioli, grilled Atlantic salmon, and bleu cheese-crusted beef filet. Reservations are recommended.

Two locations, slapfishrestaurant.com Have you ever had fish so fresh that it jumped up and tail slapped you in the face? Well, that’s the joke behind the very popular eatery, Slapfish, located in Holly Square. This fast casual gem has gained a great reputation for efficiency, service, flavor combos, and the freshness of their seafood.

SLATE STREET BILLIARDS

SLATE STREET CAFÉ

SERGIO’S LA DOLCE VITA

2740 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Suite 8, 554-2602 Fresh, made-from-scratch cookies, donuts, breads, pastries, cakes, and cannoli are on the mouthwatering menu at this Italian bakery.

515 Slate Ave. NW, 243-2210, slatestreetcafe.com Slate Street Cafe is a sleek, contemporary eatery that combines big city ambience with inspired, modern cuisine. From the smoked salmon frittata to build-your-own bruschetta to mouthwatering Ahi tuna, their culinary flair will tantalize and delight from breakfast through dinner.

SHARK REEF CAFÉ

SLICE PARLOR

SOO BAK

3310 Central Ave. SE, 265-9166 When your order of sushi comes around the bend on its floating wooden boat, you couldn’t be happier, whether you’ve ordered the “Super Crunch” (shrimp tempura roll), or the “TNT Roll” (fish, zucchini and onion, baked with spicy mayo and smothered on a California roll).

SPINN’S BURGER & BEER

THE SHOP BREAKFAST & LUNCH

SQUEEZED JUICE BAR

2601 Central Ave. NW, 848-7182 To conclude your tour of the Albuquerque Aquarium, grab a seat at this full-service restaurant whose dining room features a view of the oceanic reef exhibit. Catering to visitors, families, and daytime dates, the menu offers simple, fun options. Call ahead for special events, like themed dinners and holiday celebrations.

SHARKY’S FISH & SHRIMP

5420 Central Ave. SW, 831-8905 Slip on your flip-flops and enjoy some Baja–inspired seafood, tacos, and carefree beach house ambiance in this roadside outdoor eatery. Sharky’s won acclaim as the little food truck that could, and this brick-and-mortar locale delivers the goods.

SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT

2933 Monte Vista Blvd. NE, 433-2795 Breakfast and lunch at The Shop guarantees a plethora of flavors and textures that are tough to find in the Duke City. Combining down-home Southern staples with Mexican and New Mexican traditions, you’re bound to discover a new appreciation for bacon and eggs.

SIAM CAFÉ

5500 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Suite 101, 883-7334, siamcafeabq.com With its array of freshly-made curries—all made with coconut milk and a wide variety of luscious spices—this restaurant scores high marks with Albuquerqueans who love Thai food.

Two locations, sliceparlor.com Made-from-scratch pizza dough that is hand stretched daily and cooked on a pizza stone. Have a slice of the old faithful pepperoni pizza; try the Pesto Pizza or the House Calzone. Don’t forget to enjoy the local artwork hanging on the walls. 111 Hermosa Dr SE 268-0017, soobakfoods.com Serving up a style of food known as “koi fusion”, Soo Bak offers a wide variety of delicious entrees including eight different varieties of kimichi. Try the Soy Crunch Kimichi, which comes with pickled chayote squash, onions, some jalapenos, and fish sauce, apple juice, soy sauce, and vinegar. 4411 Montaño Road NW, 899-6180, spinnsrestaurant.com Every burger served at Spinn’s is made with never-frozen, fresh-ground Angus beef. Try the restaurant’s signature Armadillo Burger. Spinn’s fries are cut and fried when you order them. Various locations, squeezedjuicebars.com

Incredibly innovative, modern mixed juices, smoothies, and other healthy delights for people on the move and looking for exercise recovery. Three to five pounds of fruit are squeezed into every drink, and it’s all extract, no fillers, and sure to brighten your day.

STEEL BENDER BREWYARD

8305 2nd St. NW 433-3537, steelbenderbrewyard.com The 275-seat brewery has an industrial vibe with cozy undertones. But the Los Ranchos brewery stands apart from competitors based on its wide selection of house made beers and its gourmet menu.

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ST. JAMES TEAROOM

$$$

320 Osuna Road NE, Suite D, 242-3752, stjamestearoom.com Albuquerque’s long-standing, go-to teahouse, this enveloping, intricately detailed, and authentically British tearoom provides old-fashioned conversation and honest service.

STANDARD DINER

320 Central Ave. SE, 243-1440, standarddiner.com There’s nothing standard about this diner. With a gourmet twist to many of your favorites, Standard Diner offers appetizers, daily entrée specials, and desserts by an in-house pastry chef, as well as their special Standard Burger made with Snake River Farms Kobe beef.

Order Online Scan QR code below.

STARR BROS. BREWING

STEVE’S ICE CREAM AND JAVA

5700 San Antonio Dr. NE, Suite B1 492-2752, starrbrothersbrewing.com With dishes ranging from American favorites to Southern fare, Starr Bros. Brewing is more than an award-winning brewery. It’s turned heads with Poutine Burqueño, a New Mexican take on the Canadian, greasy-spoon classic. The house burger, with high-quality beef and homemade green chile aioli, is a customer favorite. 323 Romero St. NW # 16, 242-8445 In addition to a dozen ice cream flavors and an array of sherbets, the ‘chill’ side of the menu boasts delightfully smooth malts and fountain drinks. For those looking for a good cup of Joe, Steve’s also delivers–offering a broad selection of coffees and a full set of espressos.

STICKY RICE

7600 Jefferson St. SE, Suite 5, 797-1288 Likely the only authentic Laotian sticky rice to be found anywhere in ABQ, this simple menu offers moist, slow roasted chicken and a few frills at prices you can’t beat with a chopstick. The family meal is a steal.

We are open for take out! Order on the app, pick up in store, or curbside.

thelagunaburger.com 12th Street location only.

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417 Tramway Blvd NE #3, 200-2477, sushixuannm.com

You’ll find more than tasty sushi here. Diners dig into Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai dishes, too. Sushi Xuan has multiple shipments of fresh fish during the week, and only uses Japanese Kokoro rice, and organic veggies whenever possible.

SUSHIYA $$

2906 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, Suite D, 275-4777, nmsushiya.com This family-owned and operated restaurant strives to serve up sushi the way you’d find it on the southern California coast. A clean and comfortable atmosphere pairs well with friendly service and some of the thickest cuts of sashimi in the city.

SWISS ALPS BAKERY

TACO SAL

3000 San Pedro Drive NE, 881-3063, swissalpsbakery.com Desserts rule, but the sandwiches hit it out of the park. Endless flavors of pastries, tiramisu, and over a dozen cookies line the bakery case. Everything is scratch made including the many varieties of bread and authentic Bavarian style pretzels available on Saturdays. Paninis, grilled, and cold sandwiches round out the sweets with a full espresso bar. 9621 Menaul Blvd. NE, 298-2210 This family-owned and operated restaurant offers tasty, traditional New Mexican (burritos, chile rellenos, enchiladas, tacos, huevos rancheros and more) with its very own chunky salsa, made with real green chile.

TAJ MAHAL CUISINE OF INDIA

TALKING DRUMS

1430 Carlisle Blvd. NE, 255-1994, tajmahalabq.com Taj Mahal is filled with all of your Indian favorites, from fresh naan (try the garlic version) to tasty saag paneer. The line goes out the door for the popular lunch buffet.

2801 Eubank Blvd. NE, Suite G, 796-9343, straightuppizza.com Offering New York style pizza with a New Mexican edge, Straight Up Pizza serves the Northeast Heights with specialty pizzas, unique toppings, and a plethora of options for any pizza connoisseur.

1606 Central Ave. SE 792-3221, talkingdrumsabq.com Talking Drums restaurant is serving up some unique African and Caribbean fair inspired by a form of communication expressed through specific drumbeats. Though most of the items are traditional, keep an eye out for some New Mexican flare.

STUFYS $

TEOFILOS $$

SUSHI & SAKE

THAI BORAN

SUSHI KING

STRAIGHT UP PIZZA

Available on:

SUSHI XUAN

Three locations, stufys.com Tasty stuffed sopaipillas are on the menu of this customer favorite, which has been around since 1968. Each sopaipilla is made with a custom machine invented by the owners, then stuffed with savory fillings. 4214 Central Ave. SE 797-8000, abqsushiandsake.com With specialty sushi rolls, select Korean favorites, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Sushi & Sake specializes in Asian food with a Korean flair. Also look for non-sushi options, such as teriyaki chicken. Various locations, sushikingnm.com With three locations around Albuquerque, Sushi King proves day-after-day that it is king of the sea, boasting a large variety of specialty sushi rolls, Japanese curry dishes, and monthly menu revisions to keep the options fresh and appealing. Reservations are recommended.

144 Main St. NW, Los Lunas, 865-5511, teofilos.com The restaurant’s generations-old made-fromscratch recipes will draw you to Los Lunas, along with the warm chips, chile rellenos, crème cake, enchiladas, and more, all handmade from scratch.

3236 La Orilla Rd. NW, 492-2244, thaiborannm.com Steeped in spicy tradition, Thai Boran has quickly gained traction as one of the top Thai restaurants Albuquerque has to offer. Thai Boran, which means “Old Thai”, features 53 items on its menu, including five soups, six curries, and five unique dishes off the “Chef’s Collection” section.

THAI CUISINE 2

4201 Central Ave. NE, 232-3200, thaicuisinenm.com thaicuisinenm.com/home2 Housed in perhaps the most curious A-frame along Route 66, this is the second-coming of a muchbeloved Westside Thai staple, and judging by the fandom, it’s simply better. Be wary of the heat in these dishes, and if you’re vegan/vegetarian, be very, very thankful.

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THAI KITCHEN

10701 Corrales Road NW, 890-0059, thaikitchenabq.com Art Xaiyasiha is one of two siblings who crafted one of the Duke City’s first great Thai restaurants, Siam Café. Thai Kitchen is his very own venture, featuring his takes on authentic dishes that taste “just like they do back home.”

THAI SPICE

THAI TIP RESTAURANT

THAI VEGAN

7441 Paseo Del Norte NE, 503-1521, thaispiceabq.com An extensive menu features authentic Thai favorites like Pad Thai or Thai fried rice. Lunch special includes an egg roll, entrée, and coconut milk tapioca pudding punctuated with an origami rose–topped straw. 1512 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Suite E, 323-7447 The folks at Thai Tip make grocery store runs three times a day to ensure they have enough fresh ingredients for their delicious rice, Thai-style noodle dishes, stir-fries, and salads. Two locations, thaivegannm.com Utilizing local organic produce, you’ll get some of the healthiest food around, all without sacrificing taste. This non-vegan favorite has hearty offerings and a soy chicken that satisfies even the pickiest of meat eaters.

THEOBROMA CHOCOLATIER

12611 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 293-6545, theobromachocolatier.com More than 20 years of experience goes into every morsel of European–inspired chocolate and sweet treat at this 505 sweet-tooth savior. Streamlined and polished, Theobroma has the look of a franchise, but everything is hand-crafted and produced on-site.

THUNDER ROAD STEAKHOUSE AND CANTINA AT ROUTE 66 CASINO HOTEL

14500 Central Ave. SW, Laguna Pueblo 352-7888, rt66casino.com Nestled inside this busy casino, you’ll find dishes that are a confluence of cultures at Thunder Road: made-from-scratch salsas, fresh tortillas, Pastel de Tres Leches Cake, Yucatan Tacos, Smoked Baby Back Pork Ribs, and much more.

TIA BETTY BLUE’S

TIA B’S LA WAFFLERIA

TIA JUANITA’S

1248 San Mateo Blvd. SE, 268-1955, tiabettyblues.com 1940s influence is sprinkled throughout this gem, from the décor to the food. The chile, red or green, is nice and spicy, just like your grandma made it. New Mexican breakfast and lunch items dot the menu (including many gluten-free and vegetarian options), but often have a unique twist, like ranchero blue corn waffles piled high with eggs, carne adovada, and chile. The coffee is fresh, and numerous specialty beverages are poured up daily. 3710 Campus Blvd. NE, 492-2007, lawaffleriaabq.com You’ve never experienced waffles of this magnitude. A residential home-turned-restaurant, anticipate artisan flare (lavender whipped cream, goat cheese, and caramel apple toppings) and plenty of goods for vegans and celiacs. Albuquerque International Sunport, 2200 Sunport Blvd. SE, 842-4280, fresquezcompanies.com Headed on a flight out of ABQ? Stop here for your New Mexican food fix: breakfast burritos, green chile chicken enchiladas, carne adovada. You can even take your green chile to go with the restaurant’s special “thermal bags” for travel.

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BITES TINGLEY BEACH CAFÉ

1800 Tingley Drive SW, 248-8524, cabq.gov For runners and bikers along the Bosque Trail, or for the fishermen that frequent Tingley Beach lakes, the Tingley Beach Café is a well-kept secret for snack seekers, offering fare such as hamburgers, hot dogs, French fries, pickles, and more.

TOMASITA’S $$

4949 Pan American Fwy NE, 344-1204, tomasitas.com Serving family recipes and making traditional dishes with local ingredients, Tomasita’s has been one of the state’s most popular local spots since Georgia Maryol opened it in Santa Fe in 1974.

TOMATO CAFÉ

7900 San Pedro NE, 821-9300, tomatocafe.com A buffet-style, all-you-can-eat, sit-down restaurant where you create the menu: thin-crust pizzas, pastas, meatballs, steamed broccoli, and Italian green beans cooked over an open flame are just some of the treats.

TORINOS’ @ HOME

TWO FOOLS TAVERN

3211 Central Ave. NE, 265-7447, 2foolstavern.com A taste of the Emerald Isle: fish and chips, bangers and mash, bread pudding, Guinness on tap, and live Celtic music on Sunday afternoons.

UPTOWN SPORTS BAR

6601 Uptown Blvd. NE, 884-4714, uptown-sportsbar.com A huge sports venue with wall-to-wall televisions and all the extras—solid American fare alongside a wide selection of local and national beers.

URBAN HOTDOG COMPANY

Various locations, urbanhotdogcompany.com With about 20 choices—and even a vegetarian option—this restaurant has become a dog-lover’s go-to. Look for Chicago and NYC classics, plus adventurous temptations like the Crafty Dog (topped with mac ‘n’ cheese and bacon).

VERNON’S HIDDEN VALLEY STEAKHOUSE $$$

7600 Jefferson St. NE, 797-4491, torinostrattoria.com Now under the ownership of Daniel and Jenna John, Torinos’ still offers fresh Italian favorites— and you can look forward to the addition of new seasonal specialties to the menu, too.

6855 4th St. NW, 341-0831, thehiddensteakhouse.com This unmarked restaurant requires a secret password to gain entrance. Once inside, you’ll discover a world of perfect steaks and gourmet seafood, paired with an unbeatable loungey atmosphere. Reservations are recommended.

TROMBINO’S BISTRO ITALIANO

VIC’S DAILY CAFÉ

5415 Academy Road NE, 821-5974, bistroitaliano.com

The former Trattoria Trombino cooks up Italiano autentico, with huge dishes of pasta with homemade sauces, grilled meats and fish, and veal marsala. The cool atmosphere lends relaxation, turning any meal into a vacation. Reservations are recommended.

TSAI’S CHINESE BISTRO

2325 San Pedro Drive NE Ste 1E, 508-2925, tsaischinese.com Tsai’s offerings range wide across the traditional (diners especially recommend favorites like the Shrimp Kung Pao or Orange Beef) but those looking for something new to try should make for the Chef’s Specials.

TULLY’S ITALIAN DELI

1425 San Mateo Blvd. NE, 255-5370, tullysdeli.com This Italian deli serves two-dozen subs for dine-in or pick-up lunch. A fully stocked market features Italian pantry goods from pasta to olive oil. Don’t forget a box of pastries, cookies, biscotti, cake, or a famous cannoli on your way out.

TURTLE MOUNTAIN BREWING COMPANY $$

905 36th Place SE, Rio Rancho, 994-9497, turtlemountainbrewing.com turtlemountainbrewing.com Known for its handcrafted ales and lagers, which are brewed on the premises, this is more than just a place to enjoy a few drinks. It’s also a great place to enjoy wood-fired pizzas and calzones in a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.

TWO BOYS DONUTS

6400 Holly Ave NE, Ste H 302-0102, twoboysdonuts.com Regularly stocking more than 30 flavors of donut, Two Boys has particular favorites—like their blueberry cake donut with maple icing and cinnamon sugar—and also brews up Villa Myriam coffee, giving you everything you need for a fullcourse wake-up.

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3600 Osuna Road NE, 341-9710, vicsdailycafe.com With a full range of breakfast items, New Mexican favorites, and comfort food, this is a one-stop shop for tasty options like breakfast burritos, meatloaf, and coconut cream pie.

VICK’S VITTLES COUNTRY KITCHEN

8810 Central Ave. SE, 298-5143, vicksvittles.com Rustle up your posse and head to Vick’s for heaping helpings of Texas-New Mexico fusion and breakfast served all day. Country comfort meets southwestern flair in an environment that welcomes suits and cowboys alike. Prepare to be stuffed.

VIET TASTE

5721 Menaul Blvd. NE, 888-0101, pwbportal.us/viet-taste-abq With more than 100 menu options—noodle and rice dishes, eight varieties of Pho, coconut shakes, and many more—this restaurant is true to its name, offering a real taste of Vietnamese cuisine.

VIET PHO

4208 Menaul Blvd. NE, 717-2359 This Vietnamese-based cuisine restaurant offers a homey feel and Southeast Asian comfort food. Try the popular Beef Pho Soup or go for a lighter dish like the Shrimp Spring Rolls.

VILLAGE PIZZA

Two locations, villagepizzanm.com Family owned and operated, Village Pizza offers salads, nachos, calzones, pasta, and of course, signature pizzas, along with an all-you-can-eat buffet.

VINAIGRETTE $$ 1828 Central Ave. SW, 842-5507, vinaigretteonline.com

Getting in touch with your “green” side has never been as hip as it is at Albuquerque’s newest go-to salad bistro. Vinaigrette offers a menu full of unique salads made with fresh produce from owner Erin Wade’s farm in Nambè. Items like The Nutty Pear-Fessor and the Asian Chopped Salad don’t sacrifice deliciousness just because they’re healthy. Expect one of 17 vinaigrette dressings to be perfectly paired with your salad.

VINTAGE 423

8000 Paseo Del Norte Blvd. NE, 821-1918, vintage-423.com

Decorated with plush booths, black and white photos of vintage cars, a glass wine cellar wall, and an outdoor patio with couches and fireplaces, Vintage 423 is a goto location for good eats and happy hour—all year long.

WECK’S $$

Various locations, wecksinc.com For nearly 20 years, Weck’s has served up huge, tasty portions of breakfast and lunch. Examples: The Original comes with one pound of potatoes mixed with eggs, cheese, and chile; the “Scratch Made” Buttermilk Pancakes are more than seven inches wide.

WHICH WICH

WHOLE HOG CAFÉ

WISEPIES PIZZA AND SALAD

Various locations, whichwich.com A national brand with local twists, list your favorites on the bag and await a sammie that edges the competition. The UNM location is a student mainstay. Two locations, wholehogcafenm.com Get award-winning Memphis-style barbecue in a family-friendly atmosphere. Can’t-miss items include the pulled pork, potato salad, and the homemade banana pudding. Various locations, wisepiespizza.com WisePies serves up steaming hot pizza pies for wise guys and gals throughout New Mexico with plans for future expansion into other states. Their pizza and salads are fast and inexpensive… not to mention delicious.

YANNI’S MODERN MEDITERRANEAN $$

3109 Central Ave. SE, 268-9250, yannisabq.com Impeccable Mediterranean cuisine paired with a fresh atmosphere that whisks you away to Grecian shores, you can always count on Yanni’s for savory spanakopita, perfect pasta, and other delicious treats. Reservations are recommended.

YASMINE’S CAFÉ

THE YELLER SUB

1600 Central Ave. SE, 242-1980 Yasmine’s is one of the few places in Albuquerque with shawarma—pitas filled with marinated chicken or beef that’s been pressed, stacked and cooked slowly on a rotisserie. Also try lamb and beef shish kababs, baba ghanoush, fatah, and four varieties of baklava. 7200 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 888-9784, yellersub.com Owner Mark Roerick has been perfecting his sandwiches since 1979 and the customer favorite, Steak & Grilled Onions Sub proves it. The potato chips, fries, and onion rings made from scratch the old-fashioned way sure won’t let you down.

ZINC WINE BAR AND BISTRO

$$$

3009 Central Ave. NE, 254-9462, zincabq.com Imaginative, gourmet cuisine (think: duck confit eggrolls, chicken skewer salad, and pine nut spanakopita) and an out-of-this-world wine list meets a friendly, laid-back atmosphere at this Nob Hill favorite. Reservations are recommended.

ZORBA’S FINE GREEK CUISINE

11225 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 323-2695, zorbasabq.com The family behind University area favorite, Olympia Café, have relocated their tasty homemade Greek food to the Northeast Heights. Try the Southwestern Gyros or the enduring customer favorite, the pork, chicken, or lamb kebob.

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Lisa Godin

NM Dream Center (The Harbour)

Steve Cecco Feed NM Kids

Rosemary Freelin

Rio Grande Valley Blue Star Mothers

Lovie McGee African American Cultural Association

Mick Burke LifeRoots NM

Good Neighbors are REALTORS® and Affiliates who dedicate themselves to volunteer service. They donate gifts, money, and – most importantly – a lot of time.

Learn more at gaar.com/goodneighbor 192

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

‘TIL YOU DROP P. 196 | THE PAWS BUTTON P. 200 | PASSENGER WINDOW P. 206 | PHOTO CONTEST P. 209 | 25 THINGS P. 210

RETURN TO THE ZOO After a hectic few months of quarantine, the ABQ BioPark Zoo will soon be reopening—with proper safety measures, of course. Find out how the staff and residents handled the shutdown (p. 200).

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

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OUT AND ABOUT: YOUR GUIDE TO SHOPPING IN THE DUKE CITY

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Look good Feel good

‘TIL YOU DROP

YOUR INSIDER’S GUIDE TO ABQ’S SHOPPING SCENE

Tips to be a better you...

THE WORKPLACE SEEMS TO BE INCREASINGLY MOVING TO ZOOM AND OTHER VIDEO PHONE PLATFORMS. THAT’S GREAT BUT I ALWAYS LOOK SO BAD ON THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?

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Jasmine Peralta, Owner Jasper K Photography jasperkphoto.com

Outfit-wise, of course you want to look very professional, but also make sure you’re not wearing patterns that are too busy. Solid colors look the best on camera. You never want to wear a white shirt that’s way too bright, because that will mess with the lighting. Your camera will try to match to the brightness of your shirt, so by the same token, you don’t want to wear anything that’s too dark, either. For lighting, natural light is the best. If you can sit in a room with big windows, it’s going to light you really nicely, and it’s going to look pretty on camera. For outfits, you never want to wear anything sleeveless or strapless. It might be a little distracting—depending on the way you have your camera positioned, it might look like you’re talking to them in your birthday suit. Keep your camera at eye level and sit back—you don’t want to be too close to the camera or your face will look distorted and really big.”

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Melissa Molina Owner

Melissa Hair Artist Studio salonstudiosofcorrales.com

“For a Zoom call, I would recommend styles that are effortless for less-than-perfect hair. The easiest thing to do is to part your hair differently. Try a side part or a middle part, or just switch sides for an update on your look without any hassle. You can always add an accessory: a clip, a headband, or even a bow will work to help freshen up your hair in a pinch. You could also try a bun. A bun is a great style and easy to do—low bun, half bun, or high bun are all great options. You can always use a chignon for the perfect bun. If you have bangs, you can always push them to the side for a different look. If you braid your hair the night before and leave them in overnight, when you take them out in the morning, it will create no-heat waves, protecting your hair while making you look good. Braids are a great accent and can also make your hair look good as an addition to an existing hairstyle. For short, medium, or long hair, try a top knot. It’s a great style for any length.” WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

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Ashlynne Padilla, Make-up artist for film, TV/Owner Ashlynne Padilla Makeup @ashlynnemua on Instagram

“First, lighting: you can have a flawlessly executed face of makeup and if you are sitting with the light behind you, overhead, or at weird angles to the side, you will never see that well-executed face, or it will be lit weirdly and you will not look like your best self. So make sure to sit with the light directly facing you. Now to makeup. The biggest problem in these Zoom meetings is that, because of the blue light shining directly on your face, it cancels out any naturally occurring orange in your face, so people can look pale and sick. To help with that, add bronzer to your normal look and add to the places that you would naturally get sun. Think all your high points of your face. Just be careful not to go overboard or coat all of your face. Curl those lashes and coat on that mascara to open the eyes. Add some blush again in a peachy tone (apply on apples of cheek and slightly stroke up...think of a Nike symbol). Then add a naturally peach or orange tinted lip balm, gloss or sheer lipstick. Careful with too much highlighter (only on high places here as well), and stay away from your forehead, upper lip & chin, because with all the light from the screen hitting your face, it can reflect too much and make your look sweaty instead of glowing.”

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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

12 MONTH , NO PAYME NO MONEY NT, NO INT DOWN RES EREST, IDENTIAL R OOF FINAN CING. CDC NM safely and per Continuing to serve . sis cri 19 the Covid guidelines during

ROOFING

SOLAR

EVERGUARDROOFING.COM 505-821-9543

EVERGUARDSOLAR.COM 505-242-6511

512 Veranda Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107

JULY 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE THE MAGAZINE

220 Menaul Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107

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‘TIL YOU DROP

We Find It FOR YOU By Kelli Trapnell

QUESTION

ANSWER

I’m still working from home and I think it’s about time to really revamp my home office. Are there any cool plants I can use to spruce things up a bit?

Of course! Albuquerque is an outdoor city, which means beautiful open spaces, but it also means plenty of nurseries stocked with unusual and amazing plant life. Here are just a few.

NO LONGER WANDER Whether you want large, leafy philodendrons, long-reaching, deep-green sansevieria, or even if you’re more interested in what their website calls “little guys,” tiny cacti and succulents to group sweetly on your desk next to your computer monitor, No Longer Wander has your houseplant needs covered. The shop is one of the best places in Albuquerque to get interesting houseplants that will green up your space. Their selection of Calathea in particular is varied and exciting—striped in shades of lighter green or near-fuschia, leaves shaped like elephants’ ears or with scalloped edges. The Calathea Makoyana is one of these more intriguing specimens. Starting at 6” high, the plant bursts forth with big, round, green and dark green leaves. The complex patterns on these leaves—stripes, both thick and thin, darker shapes like even more leaves spanning the length of each leaf. With this much detail, the Calathea Makoyana will prove an ideal desk companion for your home office.

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

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PHOTO BY REECE MARTINEZ/ATM

6” Calathea Makoyana, $25.00

‘TIL YOU DROP JERICHO NURSERY While most of us know Jericho Nursery for their huge selection of perennials, they’ve also stocked up on a lot of vegetables and fruiting plants, as well as herbs. To lighten your interior space and lend a little help to any stale I’ve-been-working-from-home-for-monthsnow smells that might be plaguing your new workspace, there is no better remedy than an indoor herb garden. Most herbs do pretty well inside, so long as they’re in pots with proper drainage, and they get a lot of sunlight (which, let’s be honest, you could probably use a little more of these days, too). Plus, having fresh herbs on hand lends your home-cooking some freshness, and offers plenty of umph to the hand-mixed cocktails you’ve been making for yourself lately. The pros at Jericho can help you decide whether the light levels in your house can sustain basil or rosemary, oregano or dill. And then they can help equip you for the pleasant task of maintaining your herbs. Fresh herbs for an indoor herb garden, $5.99 - $7.99

PLANTS OF THE SOUTHWEST Not all of our home offices are inside, though! And there are plenty of plants that you can add to your backyard or garden instead. If this is your situation, get yourself over to Plants of the Southwest. This nursery is as much a park to walk through as it is a store—the plants they stock are native plants to the region, and so better for the environment (and for your yard’s general aesthetic). The staff here know exactly what plants flourish during which season and can help guide you in choosing just the right new outdoor officemate. Since it’s summer, they recommend plants which are xeric, or drought tolerant. Yuccas, agave, or other cacti, are pretty clear choices, but some flowering plants like Blackfoot daisies, desert marigolds, or desert zinnias are also great options. Or you could always plant bee-friendly plants—anything purple, yellow or white will work— or give some hummingbirds a treat with anything trumpet-shaped (for their long, skinny beaks), like penstemons or salvias. Soaptree Yucca seeds, $3.50 Visit plantsofthesouthwest.com

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THE

PAWS BUTTON BIOPARK CLAWS, BITES, AND ROARS THROUGH QUARANTINE KEEPING TABS ON ABQ’S FURRY FRIENDS

During a precautionary pandemic lockdown, there are some gears that simply can’t stop turning. Roll your eyes back and think for a moment and you can probably tick off several. Hospitals, police and fire departments, grocery stores, and transportation infrastructure all have to keep running to keep this ad hoc mishmash of elements we like to call a society

from completely flying off the rails. Missing in that list is an institution many of us treasure, but few might consider essential: the local zoo. For the past few months, the Albuquerque Biopark hasn’t been able to host visitors, but a lot of zoo staff have had to keep working nonetheless. Stewarding a diverse collection of animals is a job that doesn’t stop just because the gates are closed. Home to over 900 animals, ranging from the charismatic megafauna (elephants, rhinos, and wolves, for example) many of us have learned about from David Attenborough to a variety of lesser known but equally interesting species of amphibians and reptiles, the ABQ BioPark is a remarkable institution. During lockdown, keepers have been working hard to make sure their animals remain healthy and safe. “It’s been exactly like business as usual, in general terms, in that we have to take care of these animals,” says the BioPark’s

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Associate Director, Stephanie Stowell. “It is our responsibility to care for these animals every single day, no matter what’s happening in the outside world. So our zookeepers have been showing up 100 %, every day, to continue to provide excellent care and to provide for the enrichment and behavioral needs of these animals.” Taking care of animals involves much more than feeding them, which can be a big job on its own (hippos might eat up to 100 pounds of food a day, elephants can eat 300 to 400 pounds a day). Most animals are more emotionally sophisticated and cognitively complicated than a lot of people think. That means zookeepers don’t just need to keep their bellies full, bodies healthy, and enclosures clean—they also need to keep their minds engaged. This is what zoo experts like Stowell mean when they talk about enrichment. In order to keep that work flowing, uninterrupted, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the ABQ BioPark has made some adjustments to their approach. “In order to protect our animal care teams—for a lack of a better word—we’ve split them in half, so that they’re not exposed to one another,” Stowell explains. “So should one team get sick or have an illness, we’re able to rely on the second team to continue to

take care of the animals. Everything that the keepers have done before they’re now doing almost at half-staff, if that makes sense, in that we have split the teams. So, these are herculean, heroic efforts by this amazing, dedicated staff of professionals, zookeepers, veterinarians, nutritionists, all providing state of the art care despite what’s happening in the outside world.” The closure has allowed the zoo to make some improvements. Cracked sidewalks have been repaired and new trees have been planted in the zoo’s central park area. Most of the African animals have gotten new pools—something the public might miss, but the animals will likely appreciate. “When we reopen, our visitors will see a new raptor roost birds of prey exhibit, with some new species that they haven’t seen in a while, and new habitats in that space,” Stowell says. “Birds of the Islands is another new exhibit that our guests will see that was not open when we had to close back in March.” While closed, the BioPark Zoo also greeted some new tenants. In late April, spotted hyenas Smilla and Dubu became parents to a fresh pair of cubs. Meanwhile, Mexican gray wolves Kawi and Ryder welcomed a substantial litter of fresh pups. The pups were born back in May, but zoo staff weren’t able to get a full count until

WWW.ABQTHEMAG.COM | JULY 2020

early June, when all seven emerged from their den for an inaugural romp. “Right now, it’s very much hands off,” Stowell says of the keeper’s approach to the new wolf pups. “Mom is in the den with the seven pups. We knew they were in there, but it was only recently that we knew how many. We have camera traps in

the exhibit, [so] when they come out of the den, it triggers a video. So, we’ve finally been able to capture all seven of them on video and the three adults with them. Now we’re looking at ways to round them up so that we can get them their first veterinary check here sometime in the next week or two.” The BioPark has been gradually reopening, with Botanic Gardens opening to the public June 9. Currently, guests will have a modified experience. Tickets will be purchased online in advance of arrival for a specific time. From there, visitors will have access to a curated, one-way walking tour of the gardens. At this point, it’s unclear exactly when the BioPark Zoo will reopen. But when it does, capacity will be limited and, like the Botanic Gardens, tickets will need to be purchased in advance for a specific time. At the zoo, visitors will follow a defined course through the park designed to limit the risks of COVID-19 infection. Visitors will also be asked to wear masks, even while outside, because some of the animals at the zoo—the big cats and primates, in particular—are susceptible to cross-species infections from humans. —ZB

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PET OF T H E MONTH

PET OF THE MONTH ATM readers’ furry, fuzzy, feathered, or scaly best friends. This month's winner: Cooper

hen Joy Wang and her boyfriend rescued this lovable three-year-old boxer mix, they had no idea what a great match he would be for them. As a reporter for KOBTV channel 4, Wang is always moving and always working, so it’s nice to come home to a dog that loves to relax and snuggle. “He is the laziest dog ever,” she says. “But that’s perfect because all we do is sleep.” When not sleeping (directly on top of his humans), Wang says Cooper’s favorite relaxing activities include soaking up the sun, decorating the house with his hair, and eating goldfish crackers. She also says he loves spicy food. “He is a true New Mexico dog.” Of course, Cooper can be an active dog also. Wang says he loves walks on the beach (though he is terrified of the ocean) and hopping in the car for a nice long road trip (though he feels an overwhelming need to protect his humans from every big truck that drives by). Since adopting Cooper, Wang and her boyfriend have thrown him a birthday party every year, saying, “he loves birthday cake, but he hates birthday hats.” The combination of a playful boxer and a doggie birthday cake can lead to some messes. Cooper likes to leave the cleaning to Wang, and that includes cleaning himself. “He does not like baths, and he absolutely hates getting his teeth brushed.”

—TH

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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PIECE OF T H E PAST

THE GUTIERREZ-HUBBELL HOUSE The crown jewel of Pajarito is a trip into Albuquerque’s past.

tinued to inhabit the house until 1996, when Louisa Hubbell passed away. Tucked away neatly on the side of Camino Real—the oldest continuously used European roadway in North America, according to the Gutierrez-Hubbell House website—the structure has acted as a private residence, a mercantile, a trading post, a stagecoach stop, and a post office. Dating back to the late 1860’s, the house is a microcosm of the cultural influences in the area at the time. It features strong examples of the Spanish, Anglo, and Native American traditions that were common during the Territorial Period, 1848-1912. In 2000, Bernalillo County purchased the land and entered into a joint use agreement with the homeowners, and the Gutierrez-Hubbell House History and Cultural Center was born. The mission of the center is to “document, research and preserve history, maintain

open spaces, protect wildlife habitat, and teach agricultural heritage,” according to their website. Today, the Gutierrez-Hubbell House is the centerpiece of the Village of Pajarito and acts as a focal point for community building and area pride. In addition to agricultural and history lessons, the House serves as a community meeting place for retreats, meetings, weddings, festivals, and farming workshops. It has 13 interior rooms that include a “Sala” or large multipurpose family room, an intact kitchen, and several bedrooms. The home also features an expansive plaza offering a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes workings of large family homes of the period. To find out more about the Gutierrez-Hubbell House and to learn how to get involved, visit gutierrezhubbellhouse.org. —TH

PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

n a sunny day in the Spring of 1860, Connecticut Yankee James Lawrence “Santiago” Hubbell boarded his stagecoach and pointed his horses west, determined to seek his fortune. After months of weary travel he arrived in the beautiful Rio Grande Valley. While Hubbell was immediately taken with the landscape and the local culture, it was Julianna Gutierrez, the daughter of one of the most powerful and affluent families in Pajarito and New Mexico, who really stole his heart. It wasn’t long before the two were married and they were moving into their dream home, what became known as the Gutierrez-Hubbell House. The 5,700-square-foot old world adobe house sits on 10 acres of Open Space land in the South Valley. Hubbell and Gutierrez raised 12 children in the home and members of the family con-

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THE

PASSENGER WINDOW

BAT FAMILY CRUISIN’

The mystical metal sculpture entrances over a busy North Valley intersection—and exudes the beauty of commissioned public art.

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PHOTO BY DON JAMES/ATM

A lot of art is made on a gamble. You invest time, talent, and resources into manifesting a vision, and hope it pays off in the form of an appreciative buyer. There are no guarantees. Public art, however, is a somewhat different story. “Public art is one of those rare areas where if you compete and you win a commission, you get some money up front,” explains artist Stephen Fairfield. “So you can buy materials and try to create what your dream is.” Fairfield created one of the more distinctive pieces of public art in Albuquerque, a metal sculpture called Bat Family Cruisin’. Positioned on the northwest corner of the intersection at Montano Road and 2nd Street, the whimsical piece—depicting a family of bats on flying bicycles—emerged as part of Bernalillo County’s 1% for Public Art initiative. “It was a call [for proposals],” says Fairfield. “Some calls have a theme. This one was more to the artists. It was like, make a proposal and if you get to be a finalist, we’ll ask you for what sculpture you would create.” Finalists then sent in digital images to convey their vision. Clearly, the selection committee liked what Fairfield had in mind. The seeds for Bat Family Cruisin’ first germinated in Tucson, near where Fairfield makes his home. Around 2014, there was an effort to put sculptures around a bicycle path encircling that city. There, residents could spot Mexican brown bats flying out to hunt at dusk and returning to roost very early in the morning. Thus, the theme of bats on bikes was born. “I was looking for an idea that would resonate in Albuquerque,” Fairfield says. “Back in the early ‘70s I spent some time in Albuquerque and it was a time when the low riders were popular and things like that. And I started thinking it’d be cool to have like a tandem bike and a family of bats riding on this Easy Rider kind of chopper bike.” Originally a PhD research scientist, Fairfield got into art on the back of pure interest and enthusiasm, exploring multiple mediums— painting, ceramics, sculpture—over the course of a 45-year career. After setting his eyes on large-scale sculpture, he learned how to weld and work with metal, building on a bit of experience from his youth. “I [was] just basically self taught in terms of metalworking,” he explains. “Although, coming from a scientific background, you know, it’s relatively straightforward to find out enough information not to totally screw up and then it’s more, develop your touch and your eye and the finish that you’re looking for.” Bat Family Cruisin’ presents a visual synthesis of Faifield’s scientific pragmatism and artistic creativity. “I was seeking something that had the qualities I consider good public art—pieces where there’s a lot of motion implied and interesting surfaces and volumes and negative spaces.” These are elements he brings to ongoing work in the realm of public art that blends elements of classic sculpture with the living interactivity of new media. More of his work can be found at newmediascultpure.com. —ZANE BEAL

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PHOTO CONTEST

ACEQUIA AND THE COTTONWOODS By Jeff Puterbaugh

ood photo opportunities are literally infinite. All it takes is a fortuitous alignment between eye, perspective, and subject matter. You get the right combination of talent, circumstance, and equipment in the right place at the right time—and facing the right direction—you’ve got yourself a slice of photographic art. Easier said than done in practice, but the point remains: try as we might, we’ll never exhaust the full artistic potential of the world around us. Take Jeff Puterbaugh’s photo of cottonwoods along a Los Ranchos acequia, for instance. Faced with the unexpected strictures of a precautionary lockdown, Puterbaugh found himself taking regular strolls through a place he wouldn’t otherwise have visited. “I’ve been taking almost daily walks through the acequias [or] Bosque during this unique time of social distancing,” he says. “AirPods and fresh air do wonders for the soul.” Strolling along a Los Ranchos acequia on the morning of May 1—deep in the midst of social distancing—Puterbaugh noticed a porcupine poking its head out of a hole in gnarly old cottonwood. That called his attention to what would become the focus of the featured composition, a mix of golden hour light and rippled reflections across the surface of a languid canal. “I feel like I have a fairly ‘good eye’ for interesting subject matter and composition, but no formal training in photography,” Puterbaugh says. “I think the pictures are ‘always there’ you just have to find them.” In keeping with his philosophy and informal approach, he captured the peaceful warmth of this Los Ranchos acequia on an iPhone XR. —ZB

Enter ATM’s photo contest and see your photo featured in our PHOTO OF THE MONTH! Submissions should include one high-resolution digital file sent by email. All photos sent to ATM will be property of the magazine and will not be mailed back to sender. All entries should include your name and phone number. Please include a bio and a brief description of how the photo was taken. Email entries to: photocontest@abqthemag.com

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Placitas

10.

208

18.

Wild horses roam free here, and signs are posted throughout the area alerting motorists of their frequent road crossings.

19. The number of residents has increased by nearly 38 percent since 2000.

20. At last tally, Placitas had a population of 4,441.

21. On the 97 best places to retire in New Mexico, Placitas is ranked 8th, according to niche.com.

22. The area is home to a fine-dining restaurant that serves delicacies, like chicken livers. Chef Kevin Bladergroen of Blade’s Bistro sautés the dish with onions, bacon, sherry and veal demi. 23. The annual Placitas Studio Tour offers a chance to visit and view the work of nearly 60 local artists. 24. There are approximately

52 hiking and biking trails in Placitas, including the Strip Mine Loop to the east.

25. It is only 18.5 miles from

the center of Albuquerque to the center of Placitas.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF LYNN ROUNDS

The community of Placitas lies just northeast of Albuquerque, tucked close to the base of the Sandia Mountains. Though it gleams with beautiful, modern residences, Placitas has actually been inhabited for hundreds of years—and still contains traces of ancient life as it once existed. Visitors to the area can find all sorts of amazing tokens of the past, from primitive caves, to the constant presence of roaming wild horses. The area is among several in the state known as a ‘census-designated-place,’ meaning there is no local governing body for this congregation of residents. Folks in Placitas will tell you 11. The infamous ‘Woodstock on wheels’ concert tour that works just fine for those who enjoy the quiet life. —TH known as the Medicine Ball Caravan played here in 1970, 1. Placitas is surrounded by 6. Placitas is home to 47 ac- with acts like Alice Cooper and B.B. King. three pueblos: Sandia, Santa tive mining claims, including Ana and San Felipe several gold and silver mines. 12. The Thunderbird Bar was 7. One of the largest mining quite popular in the 1970s, The Sandia Man hosting blues and country stakes was known as MonCave is located high stars, like John Lee Hooker, tezuma Mine. After the Inup on the steep cliff and Kris Kristofferson. dian Revolt in 1680, Native walls of Las Huertas peoples formerly enslaved 13. The state’s newest distillCanyon. Discovered at the mine filled it in—and ery is located here. 505 Spirits and excavated in 1936, dumped the gold into nearby opens this month—with the researchers found rivers. tasting room located in the stone arrow and lance points, basket scraps, 8. The area became known as former Thunderbird Bar space (see page 166 for more info). and skeletal remains “Las Placitas” in 1820 when of Ice Age animals. residents combined several 14. You can catch live blues small villages. The name is and jazz every Tuesday at the Spanish for “Little Towns.” 3. Long before the original Placitas Café. 21 founding families received 9. Placitas opened its first 15. Internationally known their land grant from the school in 1876. The first poet Robert Creeley was once Spanish crown in 1767, nateacher was Jose Librado a resident, and hosted literary tive peoples had inhabited the Aron Gurulé. He was paid 50 notables like Allan Ginsberg. land for centuries. cents per student per month. 16. In 2009, the Placitas 4. To the north and east of Community Library created modern-day Placitas are the At the height a “demonstration garden.” ruins of San Jose de las Huerof the ‘hippie Residents have since expandtas, where the founders of Las counterculture’ of ed it to encompass the entire the 1960s and 70s, Placitas lived prior to building library exterior. the Placitas area the community. was known to be 17. Placitas takes up an offi5. Those ruins are now an home to several cial area of 29.7 square miles, Archaeological Conservancy communes. a space nearly the size of Santa site. Fe’s city limits.