Guide to Albuquerque Old Town Restaurants

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Updated on 10/22/19

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Albuquerque Old Town restaurants offer plenty of taste treats for tourists and visitors, but some of these spots are frequented by locals as well. Here's where to find the New Mexican cuisine you're craving or a quick place to stop in for a bite to eat. Only restaurants that are in the Old Town plaza area are listed.

01 of 10

Antiquity

Albuquerque, Old Town street scene — Getty Image/John Elk III

This is a restaurant geared toward couples and the ambiance reflects that -- it's one of the best in the city for a romantic evening out. Antiquity specializes in American food, such as steaks and seafood. Antiquity serves dinner only; call for reservations.

02 of 10

Backstreet Grill

This very popular Old Town eatery specializes in southwestern meals with an innovative slant. Duck tacos, gourmet burgers, black bean mango salsa, tequila shrimp and avocado cocktail, and churro ice cream are just some of their inventive dishes. If you're looking for tasty street tacos, you can't go wrong. In addition to their indoor seating, you'll also find patio seating in fine weather.

03 of 10

Church Street Cafe

Many locals who work in the area make their way to Church Street Cafe for authentic and delicious New Mexican food. The restaurant is in an old adobe home built around the time Albuquerque was founded in 1706.

04 of 10

Hacienda del Rio Restaurant & Cantina

Situated right on the Old Town plaza, Hacienda del Rio features traditional New Mexican dishes in a quaint adobe building. In nice weather, there is outdoor seating on the patio. Friday and Saturday evenings feature live music.

Continue to 5 of 10 below.

05 of 10

High Noon Restaurant and Saloon

The High Noon Restaurant and Saloon is a close walk within Old Town and offers steaks and some New Mexican fare. also delicious here are their home-baked desserts and hand-pattied burgers. Check out live music there on Friday and Saturday nights and keep an eye out as it's rumored to have ghosts.

06 of 10

La Crepe Michel

Tucked down a quaint and narrow lane, La Crepe Michel offers French specialties that draw in locals as regulars. Choices range from full dinners to lighter crepe options.

07 of 10

La Placita

The rustic atmosphere of the La Placita and central courtyard provide a pleasant place to dine. The food is New Mexican style. La Placita is just off the main plaza in Old Town.

08 of 10

Old Town Pizza

If you just want to pick up a quick slice, Old Town Pizza Parlor is always a good bet -- it's located just off the Old Town plaza on Rio Grande.

Continue to 9 of 10 below.

09 of 10

Slate Cafe in Albuquerque Museum

The cafe in the Albuquerque Museum has such good food that it's not uncommon for locals to stop in for lunch. The menu features sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts.

10 of 10

Vinaigrette

Vinaigrette uses fresh produce, eggs and more from its farm in Nambe to ensure that 70 percent of what you get on the plate at the restaurant is fresh and local. Vinaigrette is a salad bistro where the greens and leafy items are elevated to main dishes complemented by healthy meats and fish. To say the food is delicious is an understatement. The food and dishes are unique and decidedly healthy in the best of ways.