Top 10 Unique Restaurants in Albuquerque

Are you getting tired of your regular lunch or dinner spot? As much as you love the place, you might be getting sick of ordering the same dishes and drinks over and over again. We get it. But in a city like Albuquerque, it’s easy to change up your old routine and try a new and exciting restaurant. From murder myster dinners to authentic Greek restaurants, Albuquerque is home to a wide selection of unique restaurants that will turn your regular dinner routine upside down. Check out our top 10 picks of the most unique restaurants in Albuquerque now!

Going out is fun, but it’s also expensive. Do you have any loved ones who enjoy going out, but need to stick to a strict budget? Treat them to some virtual GiftYa cards! GiftYa offers thousands of e-cards for restaurants and bars all around Albuquerque. Buying a GiftYa card online is easy, and within seconds you can text the card directly to your loved one. You can also add a custom message to the card for a special touch. Check out our full selection of e-cards now!

1. The Dinner Detective

Solve a murder mystery with your fellow diners during this interactive dinner show

2101 Louisiana Blvd NE | Uptown | thedinnerdetective.com

Are you a true crime fanatic? Do you find yourself constantly engrossed in murder mystery novels? Take your love for mysteries to the next level by reserving a spot at The Dinner Detective. 

Throughout the night, you will get to dine on delicious food while solving a challenging murder mystery with your fellow diners. The culprit will be hidden in plain sight somewhere in the room. You might even become a prime suspect! So grab some tickets, put on your detective hat, and get ready for the dinner of a lifetime.  

“My first time here at a show like this and it definitely did not disappoint. Made some good friends and memories but most importantly the experience was amazing! The actors were top notch and seemed very passionate about doing their job. The food was also great, the chicken was cooked perfectly. Can't wait to get back to a show like this.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for The Dinner Detective.

2. Founders Speakeasy

Head back in time to a different, more carefree 20’s at this secretive speakeasy

622 Central Ave SW | Downtown | foundersabq.com

Located in Downtown Albuquerque, Founders Speakeasy transports guests to a bygone era known for its underground parties and secret clubs. Like the infamous speakeasies of the 1920’s, Founders requires a password to get in. But finding it is simple. You just need to hop onto their Facebook page or website to find the password of the week. 

Once inside, you’ll descend a secret staircase that leads you to a sultry, intimate bar. Around 150 spirits are available for the bar’s craft cocktails. Along with its signature cocktail menu, Founders also offers beer and wine. Enjoy!

“One of the coolest bars in Albuquerque hands down. The bar is located through a freezer down a flight of stairs inside of El Rey liquors. The bar itself is pretty small so there is limited capacity which makes the experience more enjoyable in my opinion…It's definitely a fun and unique place to visit.” - Yelp Review

3. Gyros Mediterranean

Enjoy authentic Greek food inside this casual, laidback eatery

106 Cornell Dr SE, Ste A | Midtown | gyrosabq.com

Gyros Mediterranean serves authentic Greek cuisine inside a cozy and rustic environment. If you’re looking for a spot that offers great food at a reasonable price, you’ll love Gyros Mediterranean. 

Chicken Breast Pita, Pork Souvlaki, Moussaka, and other delicious Greek platters await you. Have a bit of a sweet tooth? Gyros offers over half a dozen dessert options. From the Chocolava to the Paximathia, Gyros’s dessert options make the perfect end to your meal. 

“So amazing. Just love the food here. Love the staff and the owner. The gyros, salads and soups are so delicious. Great appetizers as well. Everything is delicious. And don't forget to take some dessert home.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Gyros Mediterranean.

4. Frontier Restaurant

Treat yourself to delicious, homestyle Southwestern dishes inside this classic diner

2400 Central Ave SE | Midtown | frontierrestaurant.com

Since 1971, Frontier Restaurant has welcomed thousands of locals and out-of-town visitors in search of great comfort food and New Mexican dishes. The restaurant cultivates a friendly, low-key environment for diners who want to sit back and relax. 

The menu boasts a wide selection of savory dishes, such as the Bean & Cheese Burrito, Fiesta Burger, and Taco Salad. Side dishes like french fries, salsa, and hash browns are also available to complement your entree. With all of these great food options, you’re sure to leave filled and satisfied.

“Typical diner fare, nothing fancy - but that's the beauty of it. Can't go wrong with a simple egg breakfast, with one of their cinnamon rolls on the side of course! Great way to start out the day!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Frontier Restaurant.

5. Papa Felipe's Mexican Restaurant 

Cozy restaurant that offers traditional Mexican and New Mexican dishes

9800 Menaul Blvd NE | Eastside | papafelipes.com

Craving some hearty Mexican dishes? Head to Papa Felipe’s Mexican Restaurant. This bustling Eastside restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Its menu boasts a wide selection of Mexican and New Mexican dishes made from fresh ingredients. 

Some of our favorite dishes include the Chile Cheese Fries, Homemade Taquitos, and Baja Fish Tacos. Tacos, burritos, and other classic Mexican dishes can also be found on the menu. Whatever you order for your main course, just make sure you finish it off with one of Papa Felipe’s signature desserts. You can thank us later!

“We basically ate everything. Couldn't stop. Will definitely order from them again…Thanks for the delicious experience.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Papa Felipe's Mexican Restaurant.

6. High Noon Restaurant

Adobe-styled restaurant that offers a seasonal steak and wild game-focused menu

425 San Felipe NE | Old Town | highnoonrestaurant.com

Steaks, enchiladas, margaritas, and more mouthwatering dishes await you at High Noon Restaurant. This popular Old Town restaurant is known for its authentic New Mexican dishes and delicious cocktails. Some of our favorite plates include the Blue Corn Enchiladas, San Felipe Burrito, and Chile Rellenos. 

Are you into the supernatural? Over the restaurant’s 300 year history, guests have made numerous claims of ghostly encounters. In fact, High Noon was featured on the Travel Channel for its paranormal connections. Maybe you’ll meet a spirit during your visit!

“We love this restaurant! Always have a fantastic experience. We are heading there again this weekend and looking forward to it. Some favorites red Chile beef bites, tenderloin, and drinks from the bar, of course!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for High Noon Restaurant.

7. Tucanos Brazilian Grill

Lively Brazilian steakhouse that offers all-you-can-eat churrasco and specialty skewers

110 Central Ave SW | Downtown | tucanos.com

Looking for a tropical escape? Visit Tucanos Brazilian Grill. This bustling restaurant offers a wide selection of savory and filling plates. Its most famous dish, the Churrasco Meal, comes with an assortment of different breads, fried bananas, and unlimited salad. Various beef, pork, seafood, and chicken entrees are available for choosing under this meal plan. 

Tucanos also offers a fun drink menu featuring classic Brazilian juices, soft drinks, and cocktails. For dessert, Tucanos offers sweet treats like the Torre Chocolate and Brulee Cheesecake. Yum! 

“We had the best dinner experience here last week before going to a concert down the street. Very attentive staff and super friendly. Best service we've received in a really long time!!! All staff masked up! Thank you. Food was delicious!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Tucanos Brazilian Grill.

8. Seasons Rotisserie & Grill

Upscale family-owned restaurant that features seasonal live jazz

2031 Mountain Rd NW | Old Town | seasonsabq.com

Located in the heart of Old Town, Seasons Rotisserie & Grill offers an upscale atmosphere perfect for a romantic date night or special celebration. Top-quality steaks, fresh seafood, and vegetarian dishes are featured on the restaurant’s extensive menu. 

Seasons Rotisserie also has a full rooftop bar perfect for enjoying happy hour or just enjoying a leisurely night out on the town. The restaurant’s wine, craft cocktails, and microbrews are perfect for starting off your meal or sipping on as you enjoy the view. 

“Season's is pretty much perfect. In fact, I'm not really sure if the photos and reviews really do this place justice, because I've eaten many very wonderful meals in Seattle, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Napa, Dallas and Austin and Houston. Part of my job is to write reviews, and of course I never tell anyone that's part of what I'm up to. I can tell you, this place is excellent.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Seasons Rotisserie & Grill.

9. Electric Playhouse

Immersive dining and recreation spot that is perfect for guests of all ages

5201 Ouray Rd NW | North Valley/Los Ranchos | electricplayhouse.com

Take game night to the next level by heading to Electric Playhouse. This innovative arcade features 18 immersive projection-based play arenas that offer games for people of all ages. 

You can try your hand at life-size air hockey as you battle against the opposing team using your feet or hands to push around the puck. Or you can test your concentration in King of the Worms, a life-size version of ant picnic. Dozens of interactive games are available and ready for you to play.

While you’re there, don’t forget to fuel up at the cafe. Classic comfort foods like chicken tenders, pizza, burgers, and fries are available. You can also treat yourself to a glass of beer, wine, or a cocktail. Once you’re done, you’ll be surprised at how hard it is to pull yourself out of this remarkable playhouse. 

“This place was so much fun! 110% recommend! Went with my man and my parents; everyone enjoyed themselves so much. We got to try all the interactive games and if we had any questions on how to operate one a worker was available to assist.” - Yelp Review

10. Tikka Hut

Colorful and vibrant Indian-fusion restaurant located in Downtown Albuquerque 

1 Central Ave NW, Ste B | Downtown | tikkahutnm.com

Tikka Hut is the ultimate destination for inventive and savory Indian-fusion food. Many of the dishes are also strongly influenced by Persian and Swahili cuisine. Pakoras, falafel, tostadas, and more savory plates await you at this bustling eatery.

If you’re looking for a good deal, try to stop by during Happy Hour or lunch. During Happy Hour, you can purchase 5 tacos or tostadas and a pitcher of beer for $19.99. For lunch, you can get 2 tacos plus 2 sides and a beverage for $8.99. 

“Tikka Hut is by far my favorite place we've been to in New Mexico yet! Everywhere else we've been has lacked excitement and flavor in the food, and this restaurant did not disappoint.” - Yelp Review

Going to the same restaurant for lunch or dinner can get boring. Why not change it up and try someplace new? 

Albuquerque is filled with dozens of fun and unique restaurants. Which ones on the list do you plan to visit next? Let us know in the comment section below!