Albuquerque: Shopping & Dining

copyofgrantsandabq20080641.jpgEast Downtown, looking west

Dining

Relish (411 Central NW, 505-248-0002), a gourmet sandwich spot, serves a bustling lunch crowd every afternoon. Their fresh baguettes stacked high with quality meats and cheeses can almost be described as architectural masterpieces.

Downtown indulges in sweet delights at Cake Fetish (3rd and Copper, 505-243-3612), the heavenly little cupcake shop filled with wicked pleasures like the Pucker Up, Berry White and Love Monkey.

copyofabqandcorrales107.jpgLindy’s Diner

Take a look up at the corner of 3rd and Central to find One Up (301 Central NW, 2nd Floor, 505-242-1966), not only one of the best billiard taverns downtown, they also feature a great lunch and dinner menu with views over Historic Rt. 66.

Lindy’s (500 Central, 505-242-2588) has been a downtown favorite for decades. Great New Mexican food and big all-day breakfasts are the draw at this spot, originally opened in 1929 (new ownership changed the name in the 1960’s).

On a drive through Albuquerque, it may seem like you see a Flying Star Café on every corner (their downtown location is at 723 Silver, 505-244-8089). While that may not be far from the truth, the reason is that Duke City diners demand the Star’s sumptuous deserts and delicious take on diner food.

copyofabqandcorrales088.jpgFlying Star

Microbrew fans will find their niche at the Microbar (106 2nd SW, 505-842-8329). This Chama River Brewing Company tap room occupies one of the smallest spaces in Downtown, so be prepared to literally rub elbows with the locals while you raise your pints.

Take a quick trip east up Central (East Downtown, or EDo) to sample an impressive array of restaurants serving everything from casual eats to refined dining, including these three spots-

grantsandabq2008081.jpgThe Grove

See and be seen at the Grove (600 Central SE, 505-248-9800), an upscale eatery with a savory breakfast and lunch menu filled with fresh ingredients. The restaurant also features a market of imported specialty foods from the finest cheese to olives and pasta sauce.

Looking for a place to take someone special? Enjoy a quiet evening at the one of Albuquerque’s romantic fine dining hotspots, Artichoke Café (424 Central SE, 505-243-0200). Try their signature steamed artichoke appetizer, perfect for two!

copyofgrantsandabq2008055.jpgThe Artichoke Cafe

Serving up high quality Americana favorites, the Standard Diner (320 Central SE, 505-243-1440), is well known for its retro décor and big green chili cheeseburgers.

These are just a small handful of the offerings found downtown. For a complete list of the over 70 restaurants in the Albuquerque “MainStreet” district, check out the Downtown Action Team’s website.

Shopping

Unique Boutiques thrive in Downtown Albuquerque, offering the anti-ordinary shopping experience. Eclectic shops line the historic Gold Ave. thoroughfare, including Ooh Aah Jewelry, Patrician Design art emporium and Seventh Goddess intimate apparel.

copyofabqandcorrales100.jpgSkip Maisels

Downtown’s own Gallery Row is located on Central Ave. and 6th Street. Visitors can view and purchase art from local, national and international artists at Sumner & Deene, Windchime Champagne, Richard Levy Gallery and 516 Gallery, all adjacent to the historic Skip Maisel’s, where every corner of the historic building is filled with jewelry and Native American hand crafts.

For more information on “MainStreet” Albuquerque shopping opportunities, visit the Downtown Action Team’s website.

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