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In town for the Balloon Fiesta? Here are a few restaurants worth trying
Carne adovada chimichanga at award-winning Mary & Titos.
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The Balloon Fiesta brings in all types of visitors to the city and if you are one of them, here are the must try restaurants during your stay.
All restaurants were recommended by Reddit users or on travel sites.
Take a drive down I-25 to Belen to Pete's Café. It was founded in 1949 by Pete and Eligia Torres. Eligia used her mother's recipes when creating the menu, and they are still used today. Pete's became known as a place where families could enjoy a delicious and affordable lunch or supper or celebrate a special occasion.
Pro tip: Go on Friday evenings for the steak and enchiladas special.
The Grill on San Mateo
If you're looking for comfort food, try The Grill on San Mateo. This family-owned and operated business has been part of the Albuquerque community for nine years. The menu offers a variety of choices, including mesquite-grilled burgers, steaks, chicken, and more. Be sure to visit the topping bar for free chips and fresh, homemade salsa.
Pro tip: Order the Papa Burger with green chiles and cheddar cheese.
Coda Bakery
Coda Bakery is a Vietnamese restaurant that opened 18 years ago. It offers a great selection of traditional Vietnamese pastries and desserts. The owner, Uyen Nguyen, is expanding the business and moving to a larger location. Nguyen also plans to add traditional Vietnamese rice dishes to the menu once the move is complete.
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Pro tip: If you can't decide on an option, order #7 on the menu, Đậu Hũ – Fried Tofu.
Hello Deli
Hello Deli is an American restaurant specializing in breakfast foods, served all day. Patrons can choose from breakfast plates, burritos, omelets, skillets, and more. The lunch menu is extensive, offering sandwiches, gyros, burgers, and salads.
Pro tip: Order the Prime Rib sandwich with horseradish on the side and potato salad.
Leona Banh Mi
Leona Banh Mi is a Vietnamese restaurant specializing in pho, banh mi, and spring rolls. The restaurant strives to source sustainable and organic ingredients whenever possible. Beef and vegan broth options are available for everyone to enjoy.
Pro tip: Order #6 on the menu, Bánh Mì Đậu Hũ, which features freshly fried tofu
Triana
Triana is a new restaurant in Albuquerque offering contemporary and traditional Spanish tapas. Located in Nob Hill, Triana aims to capture the vibrant spirit of Seville, Spain. Spanish wines and cocktails are also staples on the menu. The restaurant offers options for everyone, including gluten-free and vegan tapas.
Pro tip: Go during happy hour for $5 tapas and reduced prices on select beverages.
Thai Cuisine ll
Thai Cuisine II is owned and operated by Albuquerque native Sagol Yaparwong. Yaparwong aims to provide guests with an authentic Thai dining experience. All dishes are made fresh to order and can be customized. Many of the recipes and ingredients are vegetarian- and vegan-friendly.
Pro tip: Order the pineapple chicken curry with steamed jasmine rice.
Il Vicino
Il Vicino was founded by Greg Atkin, Rick Post, and Tom White, who all dreamed of opening a restaurant together. The menu focuses on wood-fired pizzas but has expanded to include other Italian entrées over time. You can also choose from a wide selection of premium wines, award-winning microbrewed beers, homemade root beer, and tempting desserts.
Pro tip: Order the Bianca—ham, spicy oil, mozzarella, gorgonzola, goat cheese, portobellos, caramelized onions, tomatoes, and fresh rosemary.
The Range Café
The Range Café is a New Mexico institution that was founded in 1992 by Tom Fenton and Matt DiGregory. The restaurant focuses on serving “ordinary food done extraordinarily well.” The menu includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts. You'll find something to please even the pickiest eaters.
Pro tip: Order the Lobo Burger with red chile chips. If you're in the mood for something sweet, try the banana pudding.
Mary and Tito's Cafe
Mary and Tito's Café opened its doors in 1963 and quickly became a New Mexican staple. The restaurant was even recognized as one of "America's Classics" by the James Beard Foundation. It's a perfect spot to enjoy before or after the Balloon Fiesta.
Pro tip: Try the bean and cheese empanada, a Mexican turnover, with green chile sauce from Hatch on top.
