Introduction
Tired after a long day exploring the Duke City’s rich history or just finished a grueling shift? Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss of cooking or dressing up for a night out? And let’s be honest, sometimes that craving for a fiery New Mexican green chile fix hits hard! Albuquerque’s vibrant culinary scene extends far beyond its restaurant dining rooms. The city boasts a fantastic array of take out options, offering everything from traditional New Mexican cuisine to international flavors and comforting classics. We’ve scoured Albuquerque to bring you a curated list of the absolute best take out spots, considering quality, variety, value, and overall convenience, so you can enjoy delicious food in the comfort of your own home. So skip the dishes tonight and dive into our guide to the best Albuquerque take out.
New Mexican Food: A Take Out Tradition
No conversation about Albuquerque’s food scene is complete without a deep dive into New Mexican cuisine. Luckily, many of the city’s best New Mexican restaurants excel at take out, ensuring that you can enjoy that comforting red or green chile at your own table.
Sadie’s of New Mexico
First on our list is Sadie’s of New Mexico. With multiple locations throughout the city, Sadie’s is practically synonymous with New Mexican food in Albuquerque. What makes Sadie’s a take out champion? Their generous portions, consistently high-quality ingredients, and dishes that travel exceptionally well. Think about ordering their famous Carne Adovada, tender pork simmered in a rich red chile sauce, or their Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas, layered with cheese and smothered in that signature green chile. Sadie’s also offers family packs, perfect for feeding a crowd or stocking up on leftovers. A recent reviewer raved, “Sadie’s is always my go-to for New Mexican comfort food. The take out is always fresh and flavorful, just like eating in the restaurant!” The lively atmosphere of their restaurants can be brought home with the taste of their food, giving you the best of both worlds. It’s the perfect take out option when you want that authentic Albuquerque experience.
El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina
Next, let’s talk about El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina. More than just a restaurant, El Pinto is an Albuquerque institution. While their sprawling patio and lively atmosphere are definitely worth experiencing in person, their take out service is equally impressive. Their menu is extensive, showcasing the breadth of New Mexican flavors. Their burritos are legendary, especially their Combination Burrito, filled with both red and green chile. Also worth considering are their award-winning margaritas available for take out (where legally permissible, of course!). El Pinto’s commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients shines through, even in their take out dishes. El Pinto boasts being the largest New Mexican restaurant in the state, and with that title, they know how to cater to the masses efficiently, making them an excellent choice for large take out orders.
Frontier Restaurant
Finally, for a modern twist on New Mexican classics, consider Frontier Restaurant. Open practically twenty-four hours, Frontier is a staple for many Albuquerque residents, especially those late-night cravings. Their menu includes classic New Mexican dishes alongside other comfort foods, appealing to a wide range of tastes. Don’t miss their breakfast burritos, a local favorite, or their carne adovada plate. Frontier is beloved for its consistent quality, reasonable prices, and the sheer convenience of being open around the clock. It’s a no-frills, reliable option for satisfying your New Mexican food cravings any time of day or night. One of the restaurant’s unique appeals is its wall art featuring various figures and famous persons which adds to the charm of the location, even if you only visit for take out!
International Cuisine: Global Flavors at Home
Albuquerque’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors from around the world, and many of its international restaurants offer fantastic take out options.
Amore Neapolitan Pizzeria
For Italian cuisine, look no further than Amore Neapolitan Pizzeria. With a focus on authentic Neapolitan pizza, Amore uses high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques to create truly exceptional pies. Their pizzas are cooked in wood-fired ovens, resulting in a crispy crust and perfectly melted toppings. Amore also offers pasta dishes, salads, and appetizers, all perfect for enjoying at home. Be sure to check out their daily specials for unique and seasonal offerings. Amore Pizzeria has several locations around Albuquerque, making them easily accessible for a quick take out order. They also cater to gluten free diets, as well as vegan alternatives to cheese. Their pizza, of course, travels well and the aroma will fill your car with Italian goodness.
Orchid Thai Cuisine
When it comes to Asian cuisine, there’s an abundance of amazing options. However, Orchid Thai Cuisine consistently receives high marks for its flavorful and authentic Thai dishes. Their curries are rich and aromatic, their noodle dishes are perfectly balanced, and their appetizers are simply irresistible. The Pad Thai is a perennial favorite, as is their Green Curry with chicken or tofu. Orchid Thai Cuisine also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. A customer said of them, “Their take out is packaged beautifully and the food is always hot and delicious when I get home.” One of the best features of Thai food is its complexity of flavor, and this restaurant perfectly captures the essence of Thai cuisine, which makes it a must for any take out connoisseur.
Gyros Mediterranean
For a taste of the Mediterranean, check out Gyros Mediterranean. This is a beloved local spot known for serving up exceptionally delicious and authentic Mediterranean fare. This restaurant specializes in hearty servings of classic favorites. Their gyros are the star of the show, filled with juicy, seasoned meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce. They also offer falafel, hummus, kebabs, and other Mediterranean specialties. Gyros Mediterranean is a great option for a healthy and flavorful take out meal. The ingredients are consistently fresh and the staff is always friendly, making this a popular choice for many locals. The delicious flavor of the gyro meat is complimented by the fresh toppings and the creamy sauce, making this an excellent alternative to traditional hamburgers or french fries.
American/Comfort Food: Classics to Crave
Sometimes, all you want is a classic burger, a plate of smoky barbecue, or a comforting sandwich. Albuquerque has plenty of restaurants that excel at American comfort food, perfect for satisfying those cravings at home.
Holy Cow
When it comes to burgers, it’s hard to beat Holy Cow. This spot is known for its creative burger combinations, using locally sourced beef and fresh ingredients. From the classic cheeseburger to more adventurous creations with unique toppings, Holy Cow offers something for every burger lover. Their fries are also exceptional, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Holy Cow is committed to using high-quality ingredients and supporting local businesses. Holy Cow is a must-try for burger aficionados with a focus on taste and supporting local business.
Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q
For barbecue, look no further than Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q. While technically a chain, Rudy’s delivers consistently delicious barbecue in a casual, no-frills setting. Their brisket is smoky and tender, their ribs are fall-off-the-bone delicious, and their sides are classic comfort food staples. Rudy’s also offers family packs, making it a great option for feeding a crowd. Rudy’s sauces are uniquely flavorful and blend perfectly with the smoked meats. The simple, no-frills style focuses on the delicious taste of the perfectly smoked barbecue, making them a unique choice.
Flying Star Cafe
For sandwiches, Flying Star Cafe stands out with its consistently high-quality food and drinks. Their extensive menu includes a variety of sandwiches, salads, soups, and pastries, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their sandwiches are piled high with delicious fillings, their salads are crisp and flavorful, and their soups are hearty and comforting. The friendly atmosphere makes it a popular choice for a quick and delicious take out meal. With several locations around Albuquerque, it’s always a convenient option.
Sweet Treats: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
No take out experience is complete without a little something sweet. Luckily, Albuquerque has plenty of options for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ice Cream Alchemy
For ice cream, check out Ice Cream Alchemy, a local favorite known for its unique and innovative flavors. Their ice cream is made in small batches using locally sourced ingredients, resulting in a truly exceptional product. From classic flavors to more adventurous creations, Ice Cream Alchemy offers something for every ice cream lover. One recent patron commented “Their flavors are unique and delicious, and their ice cream is always so creamy and flavorful!” Make sure to check out their daily specials for limited-time flavors. They even have delicious vegan options.
Golden Crown Panaderia
For baked goods, nothing beats Golden Crown Panaderia, a cherished local bakery. They are renowned for their exceptional bread and pastries. Known for their New Mexico themed baked goods, the Golden Crown creates a taste of New Mexico in every bite. Their empanadas are a local treasure, and their biscochitos are legendary. The cafe has several locations around Albuquerque, making them easily accessible for a quick take out order. It’s the perfect place to pick up a treat for yourself or a gift for someone special. Golden Crown offers traditional flavors, while also giving the taste of New Mexico.
Tips for Ordering Take Out in Albuquerque
Before placing that order, here are a few tips to ensure a smooth and satisfying take out experience. Consider the pros and cons of ordering directly from the restaurant versus using a third-party app. While apps offer convenience, ordering direct often supports the restaurant more directly and can sometimes result in better prices. Always double-check the restaurant’s hours and availability, especially during peak times. Don’t forget to tip your delivery driver or the staff at the restaurant, as they are providing a valuable service. Finally, keep your food fresh during transport by using insulated bags or containers, especially for hot or cold items.
Conclusion: Albuquerque Take Out Delights Await
Albuquerque’s take out scene is as diverse and delicious as its restaurant scene. From fiery New Mexican cuisine to international flavors and comforting classics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at home. So, next time you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss of dining in, explore the options on our list. Don’t hesitate to try one of these fantastic restaurants and be sure to share your own favorites in the comments below! Your next delicious Albuquerque adventure is just a take out order away.
