Stressed about that upcoming midterm? Pulling an all-nighter at Zimmerman Library? Sometimes, the best study break comes in the form of a delicious, comforting meal. Navigating the culinary landscape surrounding the University of New Mexico can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling classes, assignments, and a tight budget. Fear not, fellow Lobos! This guide is your ultimate resource for discovering the best food near UNM, covering everything from wallet-friendly eats to healthy options, international flavors, and those crucial late-night snacks. We’ll explore the diverse culinary scene that caters perfectly to the needs and cravings of every UNM student.
Budget-Friendly Bites (Cheap Eats)
Let’s face it: ramen can only take you so far. When your bank account is feeling the pinch of tuition and textbooks, finding affordable and satisfying meals is a must. Luckily, the area surrounding UNM boasts several fantastic spots where you can fill your belly without emptying your wallet.
First on our list is Frontier Restaurant, a local institution just across Central Avenue from campus. This iconic diner is open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, serving up hearty portions of New Mexican classics at unbelievably reasonable prices. We highly recommend trying their carne adovada burrito, a true Albuquerque staple. It’s packed with flavorful, slow-cooked pork and smothered in their signature red chile sauce. You can also grab a delicious breakfast burrito or a stack of their famous sweet rolls for a quick and affordable pick-me-up. The best part? You can easily get a filling meal here for under a certain amount, making it a perfect choice for students on a budget. Frontier’s bustling atmosphere and proximity to campus make it a popular hangout spot and a great place to catch up with friends.
Another great option for budget-conscious Lobos is Guajillo’s Tacos. Located a short walk from the heart of campus, this unassuming taqueria serves up authentic and incredibly flavorful tacos for a steal. Their menu features a variety of meats, from al pastor and carne asada to carnitas and barbacoa, all prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Each taco is packed with flavor and topped with your choice of onions, cilantro, and salsa. Don’t miss their agua frescas, refreshing fruit-flavored drinks that perfectly complement the spicy tacos. Guajillo’s is the perfect place to grab a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner without breaking the bank.
Finally, check out Sadie’s of New Mexico. While Sadie’s is known for its generous portions and potent chile, it also offers several budget-friendly options. While a large plate of enchiladas might stretch your budget, you can opt for a smaller meal or share an appetizer with a friend. Their chips and salsa are legendary (be warned, the salsa is hot!), and a basket of those, along with a smaller item from the menu, can be a satisfying and affordable option. Sadie’s is a great place to experience authentic New Mexican cuisine and enjoy a lively atmosphere without completely draining your wallet.
Healthy & Vegetarian/Vegan Choices
In today’s world, many students are more conscious of their health and dietary choices. Thankfully, UNM and its surrounding area offer several options for those seeking healthy, vegetarian, or vegan fare.
Annapurna’s World Vegetarian Cafe is a haven for vegetarians and vegans alike. With several locations around Albuquerque, including one near UNM, Annapurna’s serves up delicious and creative vegetarian and vegan dishes inspired by cuisines from around the world. Their menu features a variety of flavorful salads, soups, sandwiches, and entrees, all made with fresh, organic ingredients whenever possible. We recommend trying their “Green Plate,” a customizable bowl with your choice of grains, vegetables, and sauces. They also offer a wide selection of smoothies, juices, and herbal teas, making it the perfect place to fuel your body with nutritious and delicious food. Annapurna’s also caters to other dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, making it a great option for those with specific needs.
For those seeking a quick and healthy lunch option, Modern General Bottle Lounge is a fantastic choice. While known for its selection of craft beers and wines, Modern General also offers a delicious menu of salads, sandwiches, and soups made with fresh, local ingredients. Their salads are particularly noteworthy, featuring creative combinations of greens, vegetables, fruits, and proteins. You can also build your own salad, choosing from a variety of ingredients to create a personalized and healthy meal. Modern General’s bright and airy atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and enjoy a healthy and delicious lunch.
Another spot to check out is V Sauce. This place is fully vegan and offers comfort food options. You can indulge on a vegan burger, fries, pizza, nachos, and mac and cheese. All the food is plant-based and there’s something for everyone to try.
International Flavors
Albuquerque’s diverse population is reflected in its vibrant culinary scene, offering a wide range of international flavors just a short distance from UNM. Whether you’re craving spicy Indian curry, savory Vietnamese pho, or flavorful Mediterranean wraps, you’ll find something to tantalize your taste buds near campus.
For authentic and flavorful Vietnamese cuisine, head to Pho Bar. Located on Central Avenue, Pho Bar serves up steaming bowls of pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with broth, rice noodles, herbs, and your choice of protein. Their pho is made with a rich and flavorful broth that simmers for hours, infusing it with the essence of star anise, cinnamon, and other aromatic spices. They also offer a variety of other Vietnamese dishes, such as banh mi sandwiches, spring rolls, and vermicelli bowls. Pho Bar’s casual atmosphere and affordable prices make it a popular spot for UNM students looking for a taste of Vietnam.
If you’re in the mood for flavorful Mediterranean cuisine, Zorba’s Fine Greek Cuisine is a must-try. This long-standing Albuquerque restaurant serves up authentic Greek dishes made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. We recommend trying their gyros, made with thinly sliced roasted meat, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables, all wrapped in warm pita bread. They also offer a variety of other Greek specialties, such as souvlaki, moussaka, and spanakopita. Zorba’s warm and inviting atmosphere and delicious food make it a great place to enjoy a taste of Greece.
For authentic Indian Cuisine, try India Palace. They have a lunch buffet that’s the perfect price for students and they have several different kinds of curries and naan to pick from. They have both vegetarian and non vegetarian options, so there’s something for everyone to pick from.
Coffee Shops & Study Spots
Let’s be real, college runs on coffee. And sometimes, you need a change of scenery from the library or your dorm room to really focus on your studies. Luckily, the area around UNM is dotted with cozy coffee shops that offer delicious caffeine and a conducive study environment.
Java Joe’s is a local favorite known for its strong coffee, quirky atmosphere, and late-night hours. This independent coffee shop features comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and a wide selection of coffee drinks, teas, and pastries. They also offer a small menu of sandwiches and salads, perfect for a quick lunch or snack. Java Joe’s is a popular spot for students looking to study, read, or simply relax and enjoy a cup of coffee.
Another great option is Tranquility Cafe. This place is both a cafe and a hookah lounge. They serve coffee, tea, and food options. You can either relax and study or you can indulge in the hookah with your friends.
While not technically a coffee shop, the UNM Bookstore also has a small cafe that offers coffee, pastries, and snacks. This is a convenient option for students who are already on campus and need a quick caffeine fix or a place to study between classes. The cafe is located inside the bookstore and offers comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi.
Late-Night Eats
When those late-night cravings hit, finding a place that’s open and serving delicious food can be a challenge. Fortunately, a few spots near UNM cater to the late-night crowd, offering everything from pizza to breakfast burritos.
As mentioned before, Frontier Restaurant is open twenty-four hours a day, making it the perfect place to satisfy those late-night cravings. Their menu features a variety of dishes, from breakfast burritos and burgers to New Mexican classics and comfort food favorites.
Another late-night option is often delivery services. Services like Grubhub and Uber Eats often have restaurants that are open late and will deliver food right to you.
Conclusion
The area surrounding the University of New Mexico is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse range of options to satisfy every student’s cravings and budget. From the affordable New Mexican classics at Frontier to the healthy vegetarian options at Annapurna’s, the international flavors at Pho Bar and Zorba’s, and the caffeine-fueled study sessions at Java Joe’s, there’s something for everyone to discover. So, ditch the instant noodles, explore the local food scene, and find your new favorite UNM culinary gem! What are your favorite spots to eat near UNM? Share your recommendations in the comments below! Happy eating, Lobos! And good luck with those studies! You got this!
