Visual Traveler: Dining at One of My Favorite Albuquerque Restaurants

After writing Route 66-related stories for Missouri Life and KANSAS! magazines (watch for upcoming social media links), I began thinking about previous Albuquerque visits. 'ABQ' is home turf for one of my favorite local restaurants, which operates not far from the 'Mother Road.' 

​A giant salsa jar outdoors and near the entrance to El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina intrigued me. Inside, hanging chiles and massive ceiling beams decorated the hacienda-style building and adobe-wrapped patios.

Jack and Connie Thomas opened El Pinto in 1962, to share authentic recipes from her mother, Josephina Chavez-Griggs. Think classic New Mexican Hatch Chile & Chicharrons, Posole, Huevos Rancheros or Chicken Enchiladas  plus complementary cocktails from among 17 tequila, mezcal and margarita options.

By 1989 the couple's twin sons, Jim and John, took over and expanded the business. Today, New Mexico's largest restaurant serves 1,200 guests amid five patios, three dining rooms, and a cantina.  

In addition, El Pinto's delicious, authentic ​salsa and green chile sauce incorporate more than 100 tons of chiles annually before shipping to grocery stores, nationwide. Crafted onsite since 2001, their salsa has received dozens of awards with recognition from ESPN and the Food Network, to name a few.

It's a perfect place for a memorable meal and a 'must-return' stop on my next Albuquerque visit.

Disclaimer: As a travel writer I may receive complimentary stays, admissions, meals, transportation, and, occasionally, products I am asked to review. However, I make every effort to report my experiences fairly and honestly.

​Please note these photos were taken 10+ years ago. While they reflected the character of El Pinto during my visit, specific details may have changed.