The Top 10 Best Albuquerque Restaurants of 2009

As a native New Mexican, and someone who has lived in Albuquerque nearly all my life, I have been to numerous Albuquerque restaurants. New Mexican food is renowned for its exquisite taste, however it is not for everyone. You must like your food spicy and loaded with cheese. I, for one, adore Green Chile and all the spices that are used in many Albuquerque, NM restaurants.

This is my list of the best Albuquerque restaurants of 2009. Many of these restaurants are my favorite restaurants period, regardless of the year. If you have not tried Albuquerque, NM cuisine, it's time you get yourself over here for a taste of pure pleasure!

This list is not any particular order because they all have their specialties and it would be impossible to rank them.

1. The Range Café
This place is very unique, with its fabulous decorations. They have flying cows hanging from the ceiling and antiques stoves all over the place. The food is classic Albuquerque cuisine. This place was the first Albuquerque restaurant that came to mind when I thought of restaurants. My favorite is the Green Chile Stew. It comes in a huge bowl and a tortilla on the side. It is absolutely divine! For hours and locations check out their website http://www.rangecafe.com/index.php

2. El Pinto
Located near downtown, El Pinto is a must try if you are looking to experience some Authentic Albuquerque fare. The website states, "Our family started the El Pinto Restaurant in 1962. Featuring traditional New Mexican recipes from our grandmother Josephina Chavez-Griggs." Food at this Albuquerque, NM restaurant absolutely does taste home cooked. I love the tamales and chile rellenos they are to die for! Also, you must try their salsa. They make their own and it is wonderful! For hours and locations check out their website http://www.elpinto.com/restaurant/

3. Los Cuates
This has been a long time favorite of mine. It is also a favorite of most locals. It has been voted as one of the best Albuquerque restaurants many times. Pretty much anything on the menu is good here! And once again, you must try the salsa. It is very spicy. It is the watery kind and not the chunky kind but it is full of flavor, and this restaurant also makes their own salsa. For hours and locations check out their website http://www.loscuatesrestaurants.com/

4. Sadie's
This is a great family restaurant! They have authentic Albuquerque cuisine as well as favorites like hamburgers. Their margaritas are also wonderful! A lively place, most of the time, you are in for a fun time at Sadie's. Don't forget to try the Sopapillas! And lo and behold, guess what? They also make their own salsa and it's great! http://www.sadiessalsa.com/

5. Dos Hermanos
If you are in a hurry try Dos Hermanos. This is the place to come for fast food that doesn't taste like "fast food"! Their burritos are stuffed so full you need a fork to eat them. You can get them "smothered", which means covered in red and/or green chile. I prefer the smothered version myself. I have only eaten at the 4th street location. It's a tiny little place with a warehouse design. You can watch as they make your food! It's a great experience! Once you try this Albuquerque, NM restaurant you'll be hooked! http://www.redorgreen.com/

6. Garduno's
This is a little more like a chain restaurant but it IS better! Garduno's has a large menu that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. This place has great ambiance and great margaritas. If you are lucky you can catch some local Mariachi bands. This is not a quiet restaurant; it's a lively fun place. I believe they even have dancing on some nights. http://www.gardunosrestaurants.com/

7. High Finance
This is the place to go if you are looking to impress and you've got some bucks to spend! Famous in the New Mexico area, it is located at the top of the Sandia Peak. You must ride the world famous Albuquerque Tram in order to get to this restaurant. The tram ride alone will set you back around $20 a person but it is well worth it. If you are visiting Albuquerque for the first time this will be an experience you'll never forget. You may want to call ahead for reservations. http://www.sandiapeakrestaurants.com/highfinance/

8. The Owl Café
I remember this place first opened when I was in high school! The outside of the restaurant is shaped like an owl; the inside is designed in authentic 50's style. Last time I was there they had little jukeboxes at all the tables. My favorite menu item is the fries covered with gravy. This is a great family restaurant! They do not seem to have a website but here is the address and phone number:
800 Eubank Boulevard Northeast
Albuquerque, NM 87123-1200
(505) 291-4900

9. Quarters BBQ
I have only had the opportunity to dine here once but I guarantee I will be back. They are famous for their ribs and with good reason! They also have a great bar! If you're looking for a fun dining experience you must try this place at least once. They also do not seem to have a website. I believe they have more than one location so just Google the name to find a location close to you.

10. Garcia's Kitchen
I believe nearly every New Mexican loves this Albuquerque restaurant. I think they might kick you out of the state if you don't like it! This place has been around for over 30 years. It has some great food at even better prices. They have great hamburgers, great deserts, and some really good authentic New Mexican food. They also make their own salsa; yes New Mexican's take pride in their salsa! http://www.garciaskitchen.com/home.html