La Guelaguetza’s name is not a coincidence. It was inspired by a vibrant Oaxacan folk festival—the restaurant’s interior, and its menu, capture both the essence of the old Mexican region and the spirit of celebration. Here you’ll find a creative mix of regional classics (three different, plate-licking good moles, for example) and creative fusion items like the pizzabirria—a quesadilla-like treasure stuffed with birria stewed beef and cheese and topped with guacamole, sour cream. The birria stewed beef and cheese is still dippable. The restaurant was founded by the Salazar brothers in 2019. It only took three years to receive a James Beard Award nomination in the “Best chef: Southwest” category. La Guelaguetza is located in Albuquerque’s predominantly Spanish-speaking South Valley. It’s the best place to get Mexican food in Albuquerque.
1134 Mountain Rd. NW
The Original Cocina Azul offers one of New Mexico’s best renditions of huevos raqueros. You can find this dish in New Mexico, and it is available all across the state. The restaurant has a dozen or so tables, a three-seater bar and is located in an airy corner near Old Town. The menu, inspired by the family recipes of owners Evelyn and Frank Barela, has something to satisfy anyone at any time—from breakfast burritos and rave-worthy pozole through to game night margaritas and green chili cheeseburgers. Cocina Azul’s flavors are so well-known that, in 2022 they were even inspired by them. Lay’s Potato Chips to make a flavor of chips—Chili Relleno—based on the restaurant’s recipe.
5555 Montgomery Boulevard NE
Al-quds may feel like a speakeasy when you first visit. The humble strip mall location is a small Mediterranean store. You can either order food prepared at the counter or request to be seated behind the shelves on your left in the cafe. Images of Al-quds (the Arabic name for Jerusalem) hang above a dozen table. To whet the appetite, you can start with a glass of refreshing iced mint and some healthy hummus or flaafel. But don’t forget to try a shawarma kabob or a mashawi kabob. The meats, cooked to perfection, are served with healthy portions of vegetables and rice. A creamy garlic sauce may even bring you to tears. On your way out, don’t miss grabbing a piece of baklava or a date-flavored cookie from the pastry cabinet.
