Albuquerque is a city full of rich culture and history, and it also has some of the best Mexican food around.
Whether you are in the mood for tacos, enchiladas, or spicy salsa, there are plenty of great places to try.
Here are five of the best Mexican restaurants in Albuquerque that you should check out.
1. Padilla’s Mexican Kitchen
Padilla’s Mexican Kitchen is a beloved spot for those seeking authentic New Mexican flavors.
This family-owned restaurant serves classic dishes prepared from scratch each day, maintaining time-honored recipes that have been passed down through generations.
Their red and green chile sauces are particularly famous and epitomize the unique spicy flavors of New Mexican cuisine.
A favorite dish among regulars is the Carne Adovada, featuring tender pork marinated in rich, flavorful red chile sauce, served with rice, beans, and warm tortillas.
2. El Modelo Mexican Foods
El Modelo Mexican Foods boasts a rich history dating back to 1929 when it started as a humble tortilla business.
Over the years, it has grown into one of Albuquerque’s most popular spots for authentic Mexican fare.
Known for its delicious tamales, the restaurant offers a wide range of dishes that highlight traditional Mexican flavors.
The tamales are handmade using fresh masa and filled with spiced pork or chicken, then steamed to perfection.
Another standout menu item is the hearty burritos, which are generously stuffed with a variety of fillings, including beef, chicken, or chile relleno.
3. Mary & Tito’s Cafe
Since 1963, Mary & Tito’s Cafe has been a cherished family-owned establishment, serving traditional New Mexican dishes that have stood the test of time.
This award-winning restaurant is renowned for its Carne Adovada, a signature dish featuring tender pork simmered in a rich, flavorful red chile sauce.
The complex blend of spices and slow-cooked meat create a dish that is deeply satisfying.
Other popular menu items include enchiladas, served with your choice of red or green chile, and chile con carne, which comes with fresh tortillas for dipping.
4. Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm
While Los Poblanos is primarily known for its stunning property and luxury accommodations, its restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience that combines Mexican-inspired cuisine with farm-to-table principles.
Situated on an organic farm, the restaurant uses fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from its own land and local partners to create flavorful dishes with a unique twist.
Guests can savor dishes like farm-fresh vegetable enchiladas, which feature a medley of fresh, organic vegetables wrapped in a warm tortilla and topped with tangy cheese and red or green chile.
5. Sadie’s of New Mexico
Sadie’s of New Mexico has grown from a small operation into one of the most popular destinations for New Mexican food in Albuquerque.
Known for its bold and spicy flavors, Sadie’s offers a menu filled with classic dishes that showcase the region’s culinary heritage.
The restaurant is famous for its salsa, which packs a punch and is a staple on every table, igniting any meal with its perfect blend of heat and flavor.
Guests often indulge in the stacked enchiladas, featuring layers of tortillas, cheese, and chile, or the stuffed sopaipillas, filled with beef, chicken, or beans, and topped with green or red chile.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
