Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Albuquerque

The warm and inviting atmosphere of Antiquity will immediately make you feel at home. With brightly polished antique wooden furniture sprawled around and ancient lamps and chandeliers illuminating the entire area, you almost feel as if you've gone two or three centuries back in time. However the contemporary steak and seafood delicacies which are on offer, immediately bring you back to the present. The seasonal menu is an added attraction, so you can relish the best of every season. Shrimps, lobsters and some mouthwatering desserts are the specialties and are available all seasons. Antiquity is truly, one of Albuquerque's hidden treasures.

Step into the Launchpad and take off to the 'universal' world of music. In the background of a space-theme and dark-lit laid-back atmosphere, this hip country bar entertains with an eclectic mix of music played by local musicians and renowned talents. The dance floor invites the vivacious crowd to shake a leg or head-bang to the upbeat punk or the 1000 volt hard rock. While the state-of-art setting amplifies the performances, the full-stocked bar serves you with a premium selection to add to the experience. Hop in late to enjoy the peak of a power-packed night.

If you are looking for something different but not hard to find, check out this saucy little bistro. Sample steamed artichoke with three dipping sauces or the roasted garlic with Mon trachet goat cheese, bruschetta, roasted red peppers and virgin olive oil. Entrées include Pan-Seared Smoked Duck Breast with apricot-tomato chutney, Chinese five spice sauce and basmati rice with. An extensive wine list is available and prices are on per glass basis.

Named after a Mediterranean island where ancient myth said that it was home to the gods of music, Ibiza is now a cocktail bar and hot spot for music. This rooftop bar is located at Andaluz Hotel and has a stunning view of the surrounding area. Enjoy a cocktail and try a bite from the tapas menu. Ibiza has an enclosed bar and terrace for cold nights. The bar also hosts events, including DJs and private events.

Located along the Rio Grande Bosque, El Pinto's shaded patio draws diners from throughout New Mexico. Established in 1962, this dining gem has maintained its reputation for serving authentic New Mexican dishes. A number of tables are situated in private nooks for more private, romantic dining. Award-winning salsa precedes each meal. Generous portions of New Mexican dishes such as carne adovada, chile rellenos, enchiladas, and burritos are offered. As ultimate proof of its glowing reputation it has been visited by President Bush and Mick Jagger (separately, of course).

Weekend brunch hours at the Grove Café and Marke find it packed, and for good reason. The Grove offers a delicious selection of freshly made breakfast items, hot and cold sandwiches, and salads (try the Farmers Salad: a medley of golden beets, almonds, goat cheese, asparagus, yellow peppers and greens). Cocktails brighten up the brunch hour: sample a glass of vinho verde (Portuguese "green wine", which can be hard to find in the United States) or play it safe with a mimosa. Last but not least, The Grove also makes the absolute best cupcakes in town.