A Perfect Weekend Getaway (+ Gluten and Dairy-Free) in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Please find “***” next to any of the places I was hosted. As always, all opinions are expressed as my own.
Albuquerque has always intrigued me, and thus, it’s been on my endless list of places to visit. My brother used to live there and spoke highly of it, and of course, I watched every episode of Breaking Bad (my poor nervous system).
I didn’t realize how relatively close it was via flight from CA, or how much it had to offer. It’s the cultural center of the Southwest, and is at the crossroads of Indian Pueblo country (the oldest farming civilization in North America), Spanish and Mexican culture.
It was founded in 1706 as a Spanish colony, and at 5,326 ft, it's the USA's highest metropolitan city. In addition, it’s extremely up-and-coming, and has some amazing neighborhoods to explore, places to shop, and most importantly, food to eat.
Food
*Although gluten-friendly, and aware, some of these establishments do not have dedicated gluten-free environments. Please use your best judgment, and ensure that the waiting staff is aware of the severity of your food restrictions prior to dining.
Coffee/Juice
Zendo Coffee (multiple locations)
I had some of the best matcha here, and my partner had some of the best espresso. In addition, they have donuts from a celiac-safe bakery in town (Planty Sweet - see below)
La Montañita Coop 2400 Rio Grande Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87106
More on this coop in the grocery section down below. Just know they have an amazing organic juice bar at their Rio Grande location that I frequented daily.
Breakfast
The Grove Cafe & Market 600 Central Ave SE A, Albuquerque, NM 87102 ***
One of Albuquerque's hippest spots to eat for breakfast, brunch and lunch is also extremely gluten-free friendly. Many of their ingredients are sourced from local growers and producers, and they purchase organic whenever possible.
Gluten-free items such as their sweet potato hash, steel cut oat bowl, salads, soups or any of their sandwiches will leave you full and happy. They are also willing to substitute ingredients in most dishes to accommodate their patrons.
Be sure to alert them if you are celiac or have any sort of sensitivity, so they can use separate cooking utensils. Aside from their menu, they have a market with various goods for sale, a full espresso bar and a pastry case. Keep in mind the gluten-free pastries are in the same area as the non-gluten-free ones.
Annapurna's World Vegetarian Cafe 2201 Silver Avenue SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106 (various locations)
Annapurna is a 100% organic, plant based, and ayurvedic restaurant with multiple locations in Albuquerque and in Santa Fe. The owner, Yashoda, is a lifetime vegetarian, and strives to make sure just about anyone can eat safely in her restaurants.
Their menu clearly states what is gluten-free, soy-free, and vegan. In addition, as with ayurvedic tradition, proper doshas are also marked next to each item. Doshas are derived from the elements, and are biological energies found in the body and mind.
This includes pitta (fire) reducing, vata (air) reducing, kapha (water) reducing, and tri-doshic. Some of their gluten-free menu items include cardamom pancakes, yogi bowl, dal soup, south indian sampler, and most desserts.
Lunch
Yanni’s Modern Mediterrenean *** 3109 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
As a celiac Greek girl, I pine at the fact that although a lot of Greek food is naturally gluten-free, there are some staples that use flour. The kitchen at Yannis is aware of cross-contact, and tries their best to avoid it. I started with their #avgolemeno, egg and lemon soup that is made with substitute flour for thickness.
That was followed by their tabouli, which is made with quinoa to make it gluten-free (genuinely the best tabouli I’ve ever had), as well as their veggie dolmas and hummus. As a main dish, I got the chicken souvlaki, served with gluten-free rice (they don’t add orzo!!!), with a cucumber side salad. I was quite satisfied with every dish. And something else I took note of is that none of it was oily.
The owner, Nicole, is extremely health-conscious and cognizant of restrictions. Aside from the food, the restaurant is gorgeous, with large windows that allow for a ton of light to enter through. It’s been a staple for decades in ABQ, in the hip and continuously up and coming Nob Hill area. The service was absolutely wonderful, and we look forward to returning back.
Pueblo Harvest *** 2401 12th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
Pueblo Harvest is located inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, which is owned and operated by the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico on a parcel of Native land in the heart of Albuquerque. They have seperate menus for breakfast, lunch, dinner, as well as their happy hour, all which change with the equinoxes and solstices. Each menu clearly states items that are gluten-free and/or vegan.
They have a dedicated fryer, and can make delicious items such as amaranth and corn fritters, bison bites, tacos, toasted blue corn porridge, bison carpaccio and so much more. Wheat was first introduced to New Mexico via the Spanish, and is not indigenous.
Therefore, the “pre-contact” sections of the menu are always gluten-free, reflecting the pre-colonial Pueblo diet. Many of their ingredients are sourced from pueblos and other Native American growers and suppliers, and their chef, Ray Naranjo is Native American and of the Santa Clara and Odawa Pueblos.
Radish Food 400 Gold Ave SW Ste 101, Albuquerque, NM 87102
Radish food is a 100% gluten-free, health-conscious cafe that offers ready-made food to-go. You are welcome to heat up your food there and eat it, or you can bring it home and do the same. You can also order your meals in advance for pick up the following-day.
This is perfect for meal prepping, or if you need something quick for lunch. Menu items include bowls like their buffalo cauli mac, NM chicken bowl, and green chile alfredo lasagna. All of their baked goods are gluten-free, as well as sugar-free, low-carb and don’t contain any artificial ingredients. Baked goods include cupcakes, brownies, breads, and “buffins”.
Dinner
Budai Gourmet Chinese 6300 San Mateo NE H-1, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87109
For those who crave true Chinese food but haven’t been able to eat it because most options are not gluten-free friendly, you will be pleased to find out Budai has many options available for you. They are willing to accomodate most restrictions, and with proper notice. They have a dedicated fryer, and use proper substitutes and separate cooking utensils. With that said, they can modify just about any of their entree items to be gluten-free, as well as for their desserts.
Sixty-Six Acres 2400 12th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
Sixty-six is a modern gluten-free and vegetarian friendly restaurant located across the street from the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Their menu is clearly labeled, and they have a dedicated fryer, which means you can order delicious spicy calamari and peppers, and crispy tofu bites.
Their salads, and many of their sandwiches, and bowls can also be made gluten-free. There is even a gluten-free item on their children’s menu. In addition to food, they have cocktails and local craft beers. Ensure your server knows about any food restrictions. They have a pet friendly patio, with a fireplace. Be sure to check out their sister restaurant downtown, Slate Street Cafe, which also has gluten-free items.
Brixens 400 Central Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
Brixens is a dream come true for those craving bar food and comfort food that is safely gluten-free. They have a dedicated fryer, and the chef and owner is very familiar with cross-contact and tries her best to maintain a protocol to avoid it in the kitchen. Just make sure the staff understands your food restrictions. For those who have missed items like fried chicken sliders, quesadillas, wings, fried pickles, taquitos, paninis or a hot whiskey brownie sundae, look no further. Brixens are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings!
Ajiaco Columbian Bistro 3216 Silver Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108
Ajaico’s is a Columbian restaurant and their menu is naturally 100% gluten-free. The name comes from the traditional soup, ajiaco, which is typically made with corn, varieties of potato, chicken, and a Colombian herb called guascas.
Their menu also includes other traditional dishes like patacones (fried green plantains, arepas (corn cakes), aborrajados (fried sweet plantains with cheese), empanadas, bandeja paisa (meat sampler plate, served with avocado, rice, beans a fried egg). They also serve Colombian coffee along with traditional desserts such as arepa de chocolo (sweet corn cake with cheese and cream).
Dessert
Planty Sweet (Various wholesale locations)
Planty Sweet is Alberquerque’s first 100% gluten-free and vegan bakery. They currently only offer pick-up with orders made a week in advance. However, for those who can’t wait, they wholesale to a few coffee shops in town, including Zendo Coffee, Humble Coffee Company, Whispering Bean Coffee Roasters, and Cutbow Coffee Roastology.
Their menu includes gorgeous custom cakes, cupcakes, cheesecakes, and glazed bundt cakes. Aside from being gluten-free and plant-based, they do not use refined sugars or hydrogenated oils, and try to use organic and local ingredients whenever possible.
Drinks
LVL5 (Rooftop Bar and Restaurant at Hotel Chaco) *** 2000 Bellamah Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
You will see more on Hotel Chaco down below, however, the view of the city and the Sandia Mountains from this rooftop bar is gorgeous. And they make some mean cocktails and mocktails. They made me an organic raspberry and honey mocktail that I still think about.
Tablao Flamenco for Tapas, Drinks and a Show! *** 800 Rio Grande Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
This was pure beauty and entertainment. Albuquerque is the Flamenco capital in the world, outside of Spain. Again, the city was ‘founded’ by Spain. The dancing was just jaw-dropping, and beautiful. 100% worth making reservations for. Many of their tapas and meals are gluten-free (including my beloved spanish tortilla), but are cooked in a shared kitchen.
Groceries
La Montañita Co-op Market (Multiple Locations)
Whether I get a place with a kitchen when I travel, or if I am in a hotel room, I like to know where my local health food store is. This is one of my favorite co-op markets I have found in the southwest. They have everything gluten-free, plant-based, and organic you could possibly ask for, including a juice bar.
Things To Do
Explore Historic Old Town
Who doesn’t love visiting historic old towns? The Spanish settled here in 1706. So, it’s over 300 years old. Which is old by US standards. There are restaurants, Hotels, Bed and Breakfasts, museums, tours (we did a bike tour - see below), stores to shop at, galleries, and cute paths to explore all over.
Bosque Bike & Wine Tour with Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals ***
We got to take this lovely bike tour along the Rio Grande River, and learn a ton about the history of Albuquerque, as well as flora and fauna, birds, and all of the best spots to spend more time at later. While on the tour, we also got to visit the famous Mundos de Mestizaje, a 4,000 sq ft buon fresco housed in the NHCC Torreon (tower) by Frederico Vigil.
Visit ABQ’s Museum District:
Drive over the Musical Highway on Route 66
This was so much fun to drive over on Route 66. And yes, we heard “America the Beautiful.” loud and clear.
Best of ABQ City Tour with ABQ Trolley Co. ***
This was a great way to get an intro to the city. The tour Includes an overview of Albuquerque with stops including Old Town Plaza, Route 66 (and the KiMo Theatre), Nob Hill, UNM, and more.
Take a Hot Air balloon Ride with Rainbow Ryders
Who says you have to wait to visit during the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta? Explore the skies of Albuquerque, and get the best aerial view of the city.
Visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
While you eat Pueblo Harvest, take a moment to watch the Cachini Dance Group (Zuni) perform And, visit the museum and cultural center. The first people of this land have a very strong and rich history. Not to mention, beautiful.
Take the Mezcla de Culturas Walking Tour
A walking tour that takes you through the Sawmill District and Historic Old Town of Albuquerque. This immersive and enchanting two-hour walking tour celebrates the mixture of influences and cultures that make up the heart of Albuquerque’s 18th Century Historic Old Town. It is a shared journey where guests get a glimpse into Albuquerque’s past and living history. During your walk, you will learn about how Albuquerque has grown over the last three hundred years and bloomed into the city it is today.
Intuitive Essentials Massage & Oxygen Bar ***
I am really sensitive to elevation. Actually, many folks are. How do you combat that? With what you’re getting less of - Oxygen! I was so happy to find an oxygen bar in walking distance to Hotel Chaco. Renee is an amazing practitioner who also offers massages, reiki and other spa services. She also uses essential oils, rather than synthetic fragrances in her oxygen.
Shopping
Spur Line (right out of Hotel Chaco) in the Sawmill District
I ended up shopping here more than once, and hung out at their coffee shop too. This place is huge, and full of items from local artisans, antiques, and inventive installations. Owner, Tess Coats has entire rooms dedicated to vinyl, hip clothing, toys, jewelry, plants, gorgeous artwork, and a coffee shop with gluten-free options.
No Longer Wander
Although not close to downtown, it is worth the drive to get to. This store is full of pretty plants, household goods, vintage clothes, and more. It’s difficult not to spend money here.
Neo Thread
Upcycling at its absolute finest! Some of the cutest clothes, wall art and custom work you’ll find in ABQ, and the best part is that it's sustainable.
Organ Mountain Outfitters
If you’re looking for ABQ apparel and swag, then there’s no other place to shop. They give back to food banks with every purchase.
Tumble
Gorgeous and sustainable jewelry, including vintage rings and wall hangings made by a local? Perfect.
Toad Road
A mix of old and new, this funky clothing shop has it all.
El Vado Motel
Not only is this motel an adorable place to stay, but there are a bunch of shops to check out here (including Zendo Coffee).
Los Poblanos Farm Shop
Another cute place to stay, or eat it. This shop is full of artisan products, their lavender apothecary line, Native American jewelry, local ceramics, books and housewares.
Downtown Growers’ Market (Saturday’s)
This is ABQ’s longest running farmer’s market, jam packed with locally grown produce, locally raised meats, eggs and honey. Lots of local artists and body care vendors as well!
Where to Stay
Hotel Chaco ***
From the moment you step into the lobby of this hotel, you are guaranteed to be enamored. The hotel serves as homage to the Chaco Canyon UNESCO World Heritage Archaeological Site, with contemporary Pueblo artwork thoughtfully placed throughout the property and architecture by Gensler Design.
Between the paintings, sculptures, and basket weavings by local and regional Native American artists, there is a true authentic feel of New Mexico. The rooms are modern, spacious, clean, artistically curated, and the customer service is superb.
It’s also central to the hip new Sawmill District, and down the street from Old Town as well as most of the city’s famous museums and Spurline Supply Co. And many of the rooms, as well as the rooftop restaurant and bar overlook the Sandia mountains. I can’t think of a better area to be in when visiting Albuquerque. It’s no wonder why Hotel Chaco has won so many awards. Can’t wait to visit again!