A Girls gotta Eat - right?

I don’t eat out constantly but I have built up a favorites list for Albuquerque restaurants.  Going to list here, but not in any particular order, as each has its time and place. 

Bailey’s Beach –  East of UNM off Central

This is a cool place that feels a little Californian, decorated with aqua blue and has a great roof top area.  I love eating outside, but it’s great downstairs too.  The food is fresh and great.  I’ve only done dessert once… and it was really good.  The bathrooms are fun, so check them out.  They even have a sandbox in the front, how cute it that.  Situated between the University and Nob Hill – a great location.

Standard Diner – Near downtown on Central

It’s claim to fame was being featured on the Food Network of Great American diners – but it’s very untraditional in that it’s a nice restaurant, even though it used to be a gas station.  Historic gas station on Route 66 makes it pretty trendy.  The food is good.   I’ve been to this restaurant enough to try many things and I’ve liked everything I’ve tried.  The roasted beet salad is good and if you like meatloaf at all- this one is pretty special.

Blades Bistro – Placitas NM

Basically the only expensive restaurant in Placitas, but it’s worth the trip.  This will be one of the closest restaurants to my new home we are building and I was so pleased when we tried it to find out how great it was.  We ate at the counter where you can watch the owner/chef whip up the dishes and it was so much fun and educational honestly.  We are rethinking how we make food at home after that experience.    I will be back!

Flying Star -  everywhere

Found the local Flying Star chain early on, but missed out on some of the secrets of the place for too long.  I’ll fill you in.  First, get the loyalty card and show it every time you are there as it builds up fast and you can get a free dessert soon.  There desserts are worth the calories, trust me.   Next secret, they have rolls, but if you don’t ask for one, they won’t suggest, offer or let you know they are available.  So say – “I’d like one of your rolls with that.”  Service is friendly , but getting your order wrong in some way is almost an expectation now for me, so I don’t get fazed… just ask for what you really need.  I’d skip the shakes, they aren’t that great.  Oh another secret, the kid portion of mac&cheese is the same size as the regular size… only less money.  And you can get broccoli on it- very good.   See how much I’ve learned about this restaurant.  I love the décor and atmosphere.  Free internet, so people with lap tops all over.  It’s a glorified Starbucks basically.

Il Vicino – three locations and in Sante Fe

Gourmet Pizza, Panini’s and salads and a nice setting, that’s what you get  here.   We go here a lot as it’s just a nice reliable meal.   

Scalo Northern Italian Grill - Nob hill on Central

This is yummy food in a setting that had me thinking I was back in NYC.  Our waiter was wonderful and it’s a place that makes you love living in a city.  Whether doing the patio outdoor seating or inside, both great.

Hannah & Nate's – one in Corrales and another on Coors in West Albuquerque

Small and cozy fit’s these two little restaurants.  I do like places that are quiet enough to hear the entire table and be able to linger and have a conversation that doesn’t feel rushed.  This is that place.  I have the hardest time selecting on the menu.  It all sounds like good combinations.  Soup, salad and sandwiches.    

So you see a lack of Asian restaurants here… still searching for that.  I used to live at Thai places in Portland Oregon and I haven’t found one yet here.