Albuquerque, a vibrant city where I-25 and I-40 meet, historically replacing the iconic Route 66, stands as a true crossroads of Southwestern culture, brimming with art, music, film, and, most importantly, exceptional food. Often endearingly called the “smallest big city,” this bustling urban center, home to nearly 600,000 people, offers much more than just a desert stopover. Albuquerque exudes a unique, laid-back, and genuinely fun atmosphere, sometimes playfully referred to as “the land of mañana,” and boasts a compelling array of attractions and undeniable charm, especially when it comes to its culinary landscape, or as locals affectionately call it, Food Abq.
While Albuquerque is celebrated for its red, green, or “Christmas” chile-smothered enchiladas, the city’s gastronomic appeal extends far beyond these traditional dishes. Although delicious food can be found throughout Albuquerque, a particular stretch of Route 66, nestled in the Nob Hill neighborhood, is rapidly gaining recognition as a culinary hotspot. This area along Central Avenue, once dotted with vacant spots even before recent times, is now alive with some of the most exciting bars and restaurants the city – and indeed, the country – has to offer. However, the food abq scene isn’t limited to Route 66; culinary adventures branch out into the north and south valleys, showcasing the diverse flavors of the Duke City. No matter where you find yourself in Albuquerque, you’re sure to encounter restaurants that are truly setting new standards and defining what food abq is all about.
