Mexican Food in Albuquerque (2025)

Operating since 1929, this Barelas landmark still turns out hand-made tamales, tortillas, and stuffed sopapillas that locals swear by. Featured by Eater and praised by generations, it’s a living slice of Albuquerque food history.

Oaxacan cooking—mole negro, coloradito, tlayudas—anchors this family-run spot on the city’s southwest side. Recognized on Eater’s Albuquerque list and noted by national food media for James Beard–level attention in 2022.

A South Valley institution for cash-only tacos, gorditas, and tortas served from a busy stand with a covered patio. Highlighted by local news for landing on Yelp’s Top 100 Tacos in America.

Beloved for everyday tacos, caldo de res, and breakfast plates, this tiny counter-service favorite draws steady crowds. Praised by locals and listed on roundups of top taco spots.

Family-owned since the 1990s, this Westside stalwart serves Mexican mariscos—from aguachiles and cocteles to sizzling molcajetes—alongside combo plates and a full bar.

A daytime specialist where slow-cooked beef barbacoa fills tacos, tortas, and breakfast burritos. Cited by local media among Albuquerque’s highest-rated taco spots.

Run by the founding family since 1963, this adobe cafe earned the James Beard Foundation’s America’s Classics award for chile-forward New Mexican fare rooted in Mexican tradition.

Cash-only, family-run since the 1980s, Padilla’s is celebrated by local press for faithful New Mexican standards—blue-corn enchiladas, stuffed sopapillas, and green chile with a loyal lunch rush.

A University Heights bungalow serving New Mexican classics since 1977. Known for patio vibes, live music, and chile-smothered plates that show up in travel features about the city.