10 “Old” ABQ Restaurants You Have to Try (or Revisit)

I love the food scene in Albuquerque! There are so many fun and different restaurants to try. Its always exciting to try a new and trendy place but that is not what this article is about. What about those places that have been around forever? The ABQ institutions where the idea is . . . if it’s not broke, then don’t fix it. Below are 10 of my favorite “old” ABQ restaurants that still hold up and are delivering great food after all these years.

1 – Restaurant Antiquity

112 Romero St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104

An intimate and romantic steak house in the center of Old Town. This longstanding restaurant offers a mix of different meats and seafood with amazing specials and desserts. This one is a little on the fancier side, so save it for a special occasion when you have a babysitter. See more here.

2 – Lindy’s Diner

500 Central Ave SW #3114, Albuquerque, NM 87102

Lindy’s diner opened in 1929 and is one of the longest-running diners along Route 66. They serve what you would expect from a diner, plus Greek food and your New Mexican staples. The vibes at this place are retro and fun!

3 – Frontier

2400 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106

Ask any current or former UNM student, and they will tell you Frontier is a staple. Opened in 1971 right across the street from the UNM campus, they have been serving up breakfast and New Mexican comfort food for students and burqueños alike. Check out more here.

4 – Mary & Tito’s Cafe

2711 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107

This quaint little hole in the wall opened back in 1963. They serve the BEST authentic New Mexican food! This restaurant is nothing fancy but boasts many awards, including a James Beard America’s Classics award. If you find yourself hungry and in the neighborhood, you have to check it out!

5 – Dog House Drive In

1216 Central Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102

Another retro Route 66 treasure, the current location of Dog House was built in the 1960s. The neon signs and the car hop service make you feel like you are stepping back in time. Getting a chili cheese dog and a shake just adds to nostalgia. See more here.

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6 – M’tucci’s

3222 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM
6001 Winter Haven Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM
1908 Wellspring Ave SE, Rio Rancho, NM
4939 Pan American Freeway, Albuquerque, NM

Not necessarily old, but opened in 2013, M’tucci’s is a go-to for good Italian food. They have a cozy atmosphere, no matter what location you pick, and make delicious homemade pasta. Check them out or head back next time you are craving Italian food.

7 – Lucky Boy

3521 Constitution Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106

Lucky Boy has been doing fusion cooking right for over five decades, combining greasy spoon Chinese food and burgers in a quaint diner setting. This charming little diner is tucked away in a mostly residential neighborhood. Can’t pick between American and Chinese? Try the egg foo young burger! See more here.

8 – Church Street Cafe

2111 Church St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104

When we talk about “old,” we have to include Church Street Cafe. Church Street Cafe is inside Casa de Ruiz, which is the oldest residence in ABQ. This house dates all the way back to around 1706. Settle in to this historic spot and enjoy authentic New Mexican cooking.

9 – High Noon Restaurant and Saloon

425 San Felipe St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104

Another gem in Old Town is High Noon Restaurant and Saloon. The building itself was constructed way back in 1785, and the restaurant opened in 1974. While dining on New Mexican and Steakhouse fare, keep your eyes peeled, rumor has it this building has ghosts! Learn more here.

10 – Artichoke Cafe

424 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87102

Artichoke Cafe is a good mix of cozy and upscale without being overly fancy. Opened back in 1989, you can get some delicious bites and really well-balanced cocktails. The fried artichoke hearts are delicious! Check out the menu or make a reservation here.

We truly are lucky to have such amazing food and restaurants here in New Mexico! Which of these are you checking out or re-visiting first?