Yelp’s Top 25 Places to Eat is a list unlike any other “best of” out there. Sure, you’ll see your obvious local favorites on the list, but it’s also chock full of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path joints like La Guelaguetza Mexicana Restaurant tucked away in the South Valley with a quesa-birria pizza you just have to see for yourself. From fine dining to shawarma food trucks — find them all in Yelp’s Top 25 Places to Eat in Albuquerque.
Did your favorite restaurant make it into the top 25? Let us know on Twitter and Instagram. Remember, we only know how good a spot is if you take the time to review it. So share your thoughts on Yelp, and maybe your favorites will be on next year’s list!
Topping this year’s best places to eat list is 2G’s Bistro, the definition of Southwestern comfort food. Located in a converted house right off of Central, 2G’s Bistro is a local favorite for New Mexican flavor and home-style bites.
Pro tip: You’re going to want to make a note of these spots, so we made it easy for you. For great businesses at your fingertips, get the Top 25 to-go. Follow this collection on Yelp.
1. 2G’s Bistro (Downtown)
Cuisine: New Mexican
What they’re known for: New Mexican favorites breakfast fare
Yelpers say: “To be honest, it does not look like much from the outside but trust me, open that door. The inside is so cool, like you are stepping into someone’s home. You are instantly welcomed and feel at home. The service is beyond great and we could not have asked for more. ” –Kristin C.
2. Slow Roasted Bocadillos (Downtown)
Cuisine: Sandwiches
What they’re known for: Duke City Reuben, Cubano, the Big Dipper
Yelpers say: “I have been to Bocadillos a few times and it always is absolutely perfect. It is easy to see why Food Network has highlighted Bocadillos and its chef so many times. The prices are reasonable for lunch downtown and well worth it because the food quality is so high!” –Patrick C.
3. Guava Tree Cafe (Nob Hill)
Cuisine: Latin American/Caribbean
What they’re known for: Arepas, yucca frites, cubanos
Yelpers say: “You can’t go wrong here, if your tastebuds love life and enjoy flavor sensations you will likely love this place. From the Stuffed Arepas, to the sandwiches, to the smoothies, and the awesome sweet cream coffee, this place exudes flavor and happiness! Been going here since they moved into the small place on Yale, and while the food is never super speedy, it’s so worth it!” –Adric M.
4. Barbacoa El Primo (International District)
Cuisine: Mexican
What they’re known for: Barbacoa tacos, tortas, and salsas
Yelpers say: “Legit best barbacoa in Burque IMO. Can’t go wrong with anything on the menu (breakfast burritos, tacos, sandwiches/tortas), and the salsas are delicious too. Affordable prices as well. There’s usually a line (call ahead if you’re in a hurry) and bonus points if you order in Spanish!” – Erin S.
5. La Finca Bowls (Downtown)
Cuisine: American (new)
What they’re known for: Dietary restriction friendly, flavorful bowls
Yelpers say: “I’ve enjoyed having a quick, but very fresh and delicious lunch a couple of times now and look forward to introducing this great spot to my friends soon! If you’re overwhelmed by the amount of options you have, I suggest ordering one of their original bowls to try. The last thing you need is to stress your already hungry brain and stomach by making it more hangry!” – Britney C.
6. Papa Frank’s (Downtown)
7. Buen Provecho Albuquerque (Old Town)
8. Roma Bakery and Deli (Downtown)
9. Central Grill and Coffee House (Old Town)
10. Coda Bakery (International District)
11. La Reforma (Business Parkway/Academy Acres)
12. Gobble This (Old Town)
13. The Kosmos (Downtown)
14. La Guelaguetza Mexicana Restaurant (South Valley)
15. El Paisa (South Valley)
16. Pollito Con Papas (International District)
17. Uncle T’s (Rio Rancho)
18. Vegos (Business Parkway/Academy Acres)
19. Pad Thai Cafe (International District)
20. Magokoro (Uptown)
21. Le Troquet (Downtown)
22. Pho Linh Vietnamese Grill (International District)
23. Asian Pear (Business Parkway/Academy Acres)
24. St. James Tearoom (Business Parkway/Academy Acres)
25. Baca Boys Cafe (Downtown)
Methodology: This is an all-time list of the Top Places to Eat in the Albuquerque area according to Yelp. We identified businesses in the restaurant category on Yelp, then ranked those spots using a number of factors, including the total volume and ratings of reviews. This list looked at businesses in and around the Albuquerque area. All businesses were marked open on Yelp as of July 1, 2022. When available, all businesses on this list have a passing health score as of July 1, 2022.
