50 Best American Restaurants in Albuquerque

“Range Cafe Downtown offers delicious meals like chicken fried steak with eggs and pancakes. The raspberry jam with sourdough bread is amazing. The portions are huge and the pricing is great. The standout feature is the exceptional, personable service provided by server Keith. The breakfast burritos are solid, making it the perfect spot for breakfast or brunch. The staff, including Monica and Savana, went above and beyond to accommodate a catering order, ensuring everything was prepared to high standards. A must-visit for tasty food and fantastic service.“

“Range Café Wyoming offers super tasty burgers and a must-try sugar-crusted creme brulee. Serving breakfast all day, it's a favorite spot in Albuquerque. The fun environment with painted flying cows and relaxed atmosphere make it a cool place to visit. With vegetarian options, ample parking, and wheelchair accessibility, it's a great choice for a meal out.“

“Range Cafe Coors is a standout eatery that excels in both service and cuisine. The menu boasts a range of options, including sweet chili wings, nachos, corn tortilla chips, banana pudding, chocolate cake, and chocolate pecan cookie. For dinner, the fish tacos feature a bit of overcooked fish, while the salmon dinner is a crowd-pleaser. The green chili apple pie is a surprising highlight, with a bit of a premium price tag. Despite some minor missteps, the restaurant's atmosphere and quality of food and drink make it a great choice for a visit.“

“Vic's Daily Cafe is a popular spot, always crowded due to its excellent food and generous portions. The breakfasts are huge, and the dessert selection is impressive. While the wait staff can be overwhelmed, the service is generally fantastic. Be prepared for a wait, but it's worth it. Try Andy's burrito, which is superb. Note that parking can fill up quickly, and you may need to park behind the building. Despite some management issues, the cafe's strengths make it a great choice for a meal out.“

“Mesa Provisions, a finalist for the James Beard Award, is a restaurant in Albuquerque that offers a professional and pleasant dining experience. The staff is knowledgeable and helpful, with a server recommending a suitable glass of white wine and graciously removing a dish from the bill when requested. The lamb shank with carrot mole was found to be overpoweringly spicy, and the hamburger, although serviceable, did not stand out. However, the chocolate surprise dessert was a highlight. The menu is simple and features dishes such as green chile biscuits with red chile honey butter, a Mesa Burger, and a bone-in bison ribeye. While the ribeye was not well-received, the biscuits were a favorite. The Mesa Burger had a spicy kick that was not too overpowering. The atmosphere of Mesa Provisions is comfortable and quiet, making it a good spot for conversation. The restaurant is modestly decorated on the outside, but the interior is cozy and well-spaced. Reservations are recommended, and parking is available on the street. Overall, Mesa Provisions is a worthy recipient of the James Beard recognition for its excellent service, comfortable atmosphere, and tasty food.“

“Indian Pueblo Kitchen is a popular restaurant, known for its excellent service and varied menu. The blue corn enchiladas, fresh salad, beans, and squash are particularly delicious. The chips, salsa, and locally made root beer are also standouts. The bread pudding is a must-try for dessert. Despite being busy, the staff, including Mark, ensure a welcoming and attentive dining experience.“

“The Kosmos Restaurant offers a delicious brunch experience on Sundays, with exceptional service and a helpful staff. The restaurant is a great spot for a meal, serving a wide variety of dishes, including the popular burger special and fish and chips. The service is top-notch, with friendly and attentive servers. With a cool atmosphere and a remodel underway, The Kosmos Restaurant is a must-visit spot.“

“Seasons Rotisserie & Grill offers a consistently pleasant dining experience. The ambience can be lively, but the food and service are always terrific. Enjoy exceptional dishes like scallops and steak, and don't miss the customizable Caesar salad with anchovies. Knowledgeable and helpful servers like Russell and Bobby ensure a great time.“

“The Grill on San Mateo is a restaurant located in ABQ that offers a variety of delicious meals. It is known for its excellent and flavorful burgers, grilled chicken, and homemade salsa, which are considered some of the best in town. The ribeye is also a popular choice and is always fresh. The restaurant has a clean and spacious interior with eclectic decorations and a warm atmosphere. The owner, Phil, and his staff are welcoming, friendly, and hardworking, making customers feel at home. There is often live music from good bands. Overall, The Grill on San Mateo is a great place to enjoy a meal with excellent food and service.“

“The Farmacy offers great food that is enjoyed by both meat eaters and vegetarians, with options including vegetarian biscuits and gravy that can be topped with a veggie sausage or bacon. While the restaurant is dog-friendly and has a charming atmosphere, the service has been criticized for being slow and unattentive. Some customers have reported long wait times for their meals and feeling overlooked by the staff. There has been a specific complaint about potential discrimination towards Native American customers, which the restaurant management is encouraged to address.“

“Cafe Lush is a cozy corner café near convention centers. The food is delicious, with flavorful green and red chile options. The gluten-free breakfast burrito is a hit, and the green chile turkey sausage is highly recommended. While portions may be on the smaller side, the food is worth it. The service is attentive, making sure each order is just right. The café itself is clean, with some outdoor seating available. A great spot for a tasty meal, especially for those looking for gluten-free options.“

“Tula's Kitchen is a delightful dining destination that offers a diverse menu and a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its delicious food, including the prime rib on Fridays and Saturdays, which is described as amazing. The prime rib sandwich special is also a customer favorite. The cucumber salad side is excellent, and the meals are affordably priced. The restaurant's patio is beautiful, and the overall decor is minimal but pleasant. Tula's Kitchen is also praised for its wheelchair accessibility, which works better than most. While the restaurant is child-friendly, with several crying children observed during one visit, the servers are described as exceptionally polite and responsive. The menu features a variety of options, including a tasty Thai BBQ sandwich and a good but not exceptional mac and cheese. The salmon is cooked perfectly, and the salad and chicken dishes are also fantastic. Overall, Tula's Kitchen is a great choice for a delicious and affordable meal, with a welcoming atmosphere and good service.“

“Christy Mae's Restaurant is known for its amazing food and service, offering delicious comfort food and tasty options like their signature orange spice tea. The cozy atmosphere makes customers feel welcome, as if they're part of the family. The menu features generous portions, with freshly baked quiche and chicken pot pie. Customers appreciate the reasonable prices and clean environment. The friendly staff ensures a pleasant dining experience, making it a place where visitors are happy to return.“

“Copper Canyon Cafe is a popular and bustling restaurant. Customers can expect a short wait to be seated, followed by a slightly longer wait for their food. However, the food is described as excellent, with generous portions. The service is generally friendly, though can be slightly slow during busy periods. Overall, the restaurant offers great value and is worth visiting, especially outside of peak hours.“

“Seared Bistro Albuquerque is a fantastic place that offers a rotating menu with wonderful dishes such as salmon and hamachi prepared to perfection. The wine selection is incredible, recommended by the waiter. The poached pear dessert is sublime. The customer service is great, with friendly staff and a lovely atmosphere. The bistro has a beautiful interior, with art, elegant lighting, and well-spaced tables. The crusted brie appetizer and French onion soup were highlights of the meal. The salmon and sirloin entrees were good, although served slightly warm. The chutney elevated the sirloin dish. The poached pear dessert paired with wine was the perfect end to the meal. Overall, Seared Bistro ABQ is a must-visit for a memorable dining experience.“

“Bubba's 33 is a bustling restaurant with excellent food and good drinks. Despite some delays in service and occasional untidiness, the overall experience is positive. The bacon cheeseburger and Philly cheesesteak are favorites, with crispy fries. The atmosphere can be loud, but the friendly service makes up for it. The parking lot is spacious but often full. While some menu items may not hit the mark for everyone, the overall consensus is that Bubba's 33 is a great spot for good food, good service, and a lively atmosphere.“

“Seasons 52 is a restaurant that prides itself on serving good food with a focus on healthful cooking. The professional servers are attentive and caring, working to ensure a memorable and enjoyable dining experience. The menu is eclectic, with options like scallops, salmon, and shrimp/lump crab/spinach-stuffed mushrooms. The kitchen executes the menu well, and dishes like the seared scallops with roasted asparagus and risotto and the chipotle-BBQ shrimp flatbread with grilled pineapple and roasted poblano chiles are standout favorites. While the restaurant can be noisy, the food and service are worth a visit.“

“Hops & Dough Taproom is a welcoming place with friendly staff and a great atmosphere. The bartender and kitchen staff are personable, making you feel right at home. The breakfast options are delicious, especially the smothered burrito with good red chili. The strong coffee complements the meal well. Open mic nights on Mondays and Wednesdays are a hit, with great food and a family-friendly environment. Kids are even invited to participate in the open mic, making it a fun experience for everyone. Whether you're looking for a good priced bar, comfort food, or a place to enjoy live music, Hops & Dough Taproom is the place to be.“

“Ironwood Kitchen serves amazing food with friendly and helpful staff. The menu offers good options, including New Mexican dishes like Huevos Rancheros and Enchiladas, as well as American favorites like Pastrami sandwiches and Bangers and Mash. Prices are reasonable, around $20 plus tip. The restaurant has a unique atmosphere, featuring photos of veterans on the walls, making it a great spot to support a good cause.“

“Cheese and Coffee, a restaurant owned by twins, is a hidden gem that offers delicious food. The sandwiches, such as the Liberty with turkey, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, mustard, and sprouts, and the Rio Grande with pastrami, turkey, ham, cheese, and green chile on a pita, are highly recommended. The green chile soup is a must-try, as it is so popular that people often ask for it by the gallon. The French Dip and Chelsea sandwiches, along with the green chile chicken soup, are also popular choices. While the food is excellent, the restaurant's environment may be a bit dark and confusing for first-time visitors. However, the waitstaff is friendly and helpful. The parking lot is narrow, but the bathrooms are clean. Overall, Cheese and Coffee is a great local spot for comfort food, and is perfect for those looking to satisfy their cravings.“

“The Artichoke Cafe offers a good menu and exceptional desserts. While prices may be a bit high, the restaurant provides a pleasant dining experience. The atmosphere, although not always relaxing, features a unique carrot dish and attentive service. Parking is convenient, with a free lot and street parking, and an attendant for added security. Some dishes, like the mussels, may not meet expectations, but overall, the cafe provides a pleasant meal and inspiring experience.“

“Twin Peaks offers a delightful dining experience with attentive and friendly service. Customers praise the staff's professionalism, efficiency, and engaging personalities, ensuring a pleasant visit. The menu features amazing food, and the restaurant provides great happy hour specials and weekday deals. Located conveniently off the highway, Twin Peaks is a go-to spot for a refreshing cold beer and an enjoyable meal.“

“Vick's Vittles is a restaurant known for its delicious breakfast menu, which features traditional fare with a New Mexican twist. The service is consistently excellent in a dining room that has a welcoming wild west atmosphere. The green chile gravy is a standout dish. The owners, Robert and Lydia, are generous and caring individuals who are actively involved in charitable acts for the community. The portions are large and the food is of excellent quality.“

“Slate Street Cafe is a highly recommended restaurant that serves fantastic food with great service and atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of delicious options, including the Cobb salad, veggie burger, and chicken strips. The green chile breakfast burrito is a standout, with fresh flavors and just the right amount of heat. The huevos rancheros and green chili meatballs are also popular choices. The restaurant's fries are a highlight, with a perfect seasoning that makes them hard to resist. Whether you're in the mood for brunch or a celebratory meal, Slate Street Cafe is a great choice.“

“Ben Michaels Restaurant, located near Old Town in Albuquerque, is a unique and authentic experience. The owner, Ben Michael, is a true Renaissance Man who takes on multiple roles in the restaurant - host, waiter, bartender, chef, bus boy, cashier, and entertainer. The ambiance is charming, making you feel like you're dining at a friend's house. The food is excellent New Mexican fare, freshly prepared with local ingredients. On Tuesdays, you can enjoy live jazz nights. Ben is a great conversationalist, and if you're lucky, he might even play some tunes on the piano. Guests leave the restaurant feeling happy and uplifted, with a memorable experience that goes beyond just a meal. The personalized touch and attention to detail by Ben Michael himself make dining at this restaurant truly special.“

“Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen is known for its Monty Cristo sandwich with fries, a must-try that no one else can make better. Despite some complaints about overcooked food and declining service quality over the years, the restaurant still offers fast service and a decent dining experience. With outstanding service on some occasions, it remains a place worth revisiting for a good time.“

“Effingbar and Grill is a popular neighborhood bar and grill that offers a friendly and casual atmosphere, making it a great spot for both locals and tourists. The staff, including bartenders like Monica, are known for their welcoming and helpful attitudes. The bar features live music and serves delicious food and drinks. The red chile enchiladas are a must-try. The owner often greets customers with shots, contributing to the welcoming ambiance. The bar can get crowded, but the service remains efficient and friendly. Prices are reasonable, making it a more attractive option than nearby, pricier brewpubs. Overall, Effingbar and Grill has perfected the formula for a great neighborhood bar and grill, offering excellent food, service, and atmosphere at reasonable prices.“

“The Oak Tree Cafe is a highly acclaimed restaurant in the area, known for its love, care, and quality ingredients in its dishes. The establishment offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a clean and positive environment, making it a great option for both locals and out-of-state visitors. The menu features a wide variety of options, including a popular chicken green chile ranch sandwich. The staff is reported to be very friendly and accommodating, even catering to special dietary needs. While parking can be challenging during busier times, the overall experience at the Oak Tree Cafe is described as top-notch.“

“Wild Avocado Cork & Tap is a great spot for dinner and dancing, catering to a mature crowd. The restaurant serves delicious meals, including salmon and steak, in a lively atmosphere with a small dance floor. The staff is experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly, providing quick service and great portion sizes at a reasonable price. The homemade tamales and flan are a highlight, and the margaritas are a must-try. With a DJ taking requests, this hidden gem is a fantastic place to visit for a fun night out.“

“Dave's High Desert Grill is a popular neighborhood restaurant in the Northeast Heights area, known for its large menu, delicious brunch options, and exceptional service. The sweet cream griddle cakes and the gooey cookie with top-notch ice cream are customer favorites. The restaurant offers a lively atmosphere, with a bar seating area, high-top tables, and comfortable booths. The manager, Callie, is praised for her exceptional hospitality and ensuring a smooth dining experience. Customers appreciate the great selection of drinks, especially during the happy hour, and the laid-back, comfortable setting. The restaurant is a go-to spot for both locals and visitors, with many recommending the hidden gem of a chocolate cake with raspberry sauce.“

“D. H. Lescombes Winery & Bistro offers an excellent dining experience. The restaurant boasts an upscale atmosphere and provides attentive yet unobtrusive service. The menu features a range of options, including charcuterie boards, wine flights, and dishes like prime rib, cobbler, steakhouse salad, and bistro burger. The baked brie is a popular favorite. With its reasonable prices and pleasant ambiance, including a patio with live music and a fountain, this restaurant is a great choice for special occasions or casual dining.“

“The 12th Street Tavern offers a delightful outdoor dining experience with attentive service and delicious food, including a club sandwich and Buffalo chicken sandwich. However, the restaurant has faced some organizational challenges, with long wait times for drinks and incorrect orders for larger groups. Despite this, the tavern provides a cozy and safe environment for a casual date night or quick meetup, with a friendly staff and clean facilities.“

“The Eatery offers delicious and impressive meals, with standouts including their breakfast burritos and daily specials. The staff is friendly and welcoming, creating a cozy, local cafe atmosphere. They remember their regulars and offer high-quality food at reasonable prices. The ambiance is bright and pleasant, with large windows providing natural light. It's an excellent choice for both families and businesses in the Mesa del Sol area.“

“The Council Room Restaurant & Bar offers a diverse menu with Mexican, American, and breakfast options. The service is attentive, and the atmosphere is casual and comfortable. The portions are generous, making it a great choice for both lunch and dinner. The restaurant is kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible.“

“Topgolf offers a fun experience for all, with great games and activities. The staff is friendly and helpful, making sure you have a good time. The food is delicious, with options like hummus that you'll love. While the golfing is always a blast, the service can vary between locations. Some areas might be a bit dirty and in need of maintenance. Overall, Topgolf is a great spot to enjoy with friends and family, even though there might be some minor issues with seating and amenities at times.“

“Flying Star Cafe offers a variety of delicious items on their menu, with the egg salad and Athena salad being particularly popular. The London Fogs at Flying Star are also highly praised. The Cajun chicken sandwich is noted for its outstanding taste and crunchy texture, with the honey adding an unexpected but complementary flavor. While there was a recent issue with service, the leadership responded promptly and positively, demonstrating a strong commitment to their customers. The cafe on Rio Grande is specifically mentioned as a favorite location for its welcoming environment and friendly staff.“

“High Noon Restaurant & Saloon is a great dining option in Albuquerque's old town, known for its Southwestern cuisine. The menu offers a variety of dishes, including shrimp and chicken enchiladas, as well as seafood pasta. The restaurant is praised for its attentive and professional service, with knowledgeable waitstaff who can make recommendations and explain menu items. The margaritas, particularly the prickly pear variety, are highly recommended. The restaurant also offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a relaxing meal. Prices are moderate and reasonable compared to other local eateries.“

“Rex's Hamburgers (The Rex) offers a classic and enjoyable dining experience. The burgers are praised as excellent, with one reviewer describing them as "almost like I remember!" The staff is consistently friendly and provides wonderful customer service. The atmosphere is fun and old-school, with NM memorabilia decorating the walls and a small arcade for entertainment. The portions are generous, with one customer noting that the single green chile burger was "huge and way more than enough food." Overall, Rex's Hamburgers is a beloved local spot that offers delicious burgers, a welcoming environment, and excellent value.“

“Milly's Breakfast Lunch offers amazing food, efficient service, and a clean, local atmosphere. Prices are reasonable and portions are large. While some customers may receive attentive service, others may experience varying levels of service, including slow refills and lack of attention. Despite this, the staff is generally friendly and willing to make suggestions. Overall, Milly's is a great spot for breakfast or lunch, and customers will likely return.“

“Frenchish in ABQ's Nob Hill area is a must-visit spot with amazing food options, from adventurous dishes to the skinny burger. The friendly and knowledgeable staff ensures a great experience, with a concise wine list and a new cocktail program. Chef Jennifer's vegetarian options are notable, and the duck with endive and cherry is a standout dish. The restaurant offers top-notch service and a comfortable, modern setting, making it the best dining spot in Albuquerque.“

“Desert Sky Café, located near city hall in Albuquerque, offers a diverse menu with reasonable prices. The daily specials for breakfast and lunch provide a chance to try something new. The cozy ambience and friendly staff make it a pleasant dining experience. The owner's kindness and community support add to the appeal of this hidden gem. Don't miss their amazing fries!“

“Ten 3 is a restaurant that offers an exceptional dining experience. Located atop a mountain, it boasts stunning views, particularly during sunset. The food is described as "awesome" and "artfully presented," with flavors that are both intriguing and delicious. The service is praised as "excellent" and "exceptional," with servers who are engaging, gracious, and helpful. While the restaurant is considered expensive, the overall experience is deemed "well worth it" for a special occasion.“

“Camila's New Mexican Food offers a variety of New Mexican dishes with attentive service in a cozy setting. Their birria tacos and menudo are popular choices. The restaurant is known for its great value, with delicious food, generous portions, and reasonable prices. They value customer feedback and strive to run a great business, making for a pleasant dining experience. The atmosphere is simple, not luxurious, but it doesn't detract from the overall positive experience.“

“The staff here make this place for me. I'm often eating here due to time restrictions, but the friendliness and helpful attitudes here really make it an excellent option.

Vegetarian options: The best options of any restaurant I've been to. They are VERY forward thinking about dietary restrictions and options.

Dietary restrictions: The best options of any restaurant I've been to. They are VERY forward thinking about dietary restrictions and options.

Parking: The lot is shared with the people working in the area and you'll often have to park far and hike.

Kid-friendliness: Kids would probably be fine here, but aren't normally expected due to the location.

Wheelchair accessibility: Excellent accommodations, though often full.“

“Laguna Burger at Route 66 Casino offers a delightful dining experience. Friendly and attentive servers, such as Elaine, ensure prompt and accurate service. The menu features mouthwatering options like the Laguna and Mushroom Swiss burgers, as well as the Buffalo Smash Burger, consisting of two juicy patties, grilled onions, and a tangy sauce, all served on a fresh homemade bun with crispy fries. The atmosphere is clean and welcoming, with plenty of seating available. With good food, friendly service, and a comfortable setting, Laguna Burger is a great spot to stop by for a satisfying meal.“

“MÁS Tapas y Vino is a restaurant located in a hotel, offering a unique menu and a good wine selection. The outdoor seating area is described as a pleasant spot for dining. The waitstaff, including Austin and another helpful waitress, are noted for their attentiveness and knowledge about the menu. The Pollo dish is mentioned as a satisfying choice. However, there were some mixed opinions on the food, with the bone-in ribeye singled out as excellent, but the mashed potatoes described as bland and runny, and no vegetables served with the entree. The ambiance is described as mediocre by some reviewers, while others find it charming and worth photographing.“

“Flying Star Cafe is a popular spot for delicious meals and great service. Their breakfast options, such as the southwest bennies and huevos rancheros, are favorites among regulars. The restaurant also serves tasty seasonal dishes, like the green chile pork stew and seasonal Fish Dish. Additionally, they offer amazing desserts, including a mouthwatering apple pie made in-house. Flying Star Cafe is also accommodating to dietary restrictions, offering gluten-free pancakes that are "out of this world good!"“

“Albuquerque City Limits, a family-owned restaurant since 1999, is a beloved South Valley staple known for its exceptional customer service. The menu offers a variety of delicious dishes, from the breakfast Indian taco and sopapilla stacker burger to chicken fried steak. Their red and green chile is flavorful and spicy, and the option to order "Christmas" provides the best of both. The restaurant is particularly renowned for its desserts, including homemade cheesecake and natillas. The restaurant is clean, and the staff is friendly, making it a welcoming environment for all. Notably, they are attentive to dietary restrictions, ensuring that even those with gluten allergies can enjoy a safe and delicious meal.“

“The Grove Cafe & Market is a highly recommended destination for brunch and beyond. With a lovely outdoor seating area and a warm atmosphere, visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes at a reasonable price. The menu features delicious options such as the Farmers Salad, breakfast sandwiches, and Grove Pancakes, as well as unique dishes like avocado toast with radish and carrot garnish. The staff is friendly and attentive, making it a great spot for a meal.“