The Most Flavorful Cocktail Bars in Albuquerque

La Fogata Grill

★★★★☆ 4 (312) • $$

"Where to eat New Mexican food on a Monday evening in Santa Fe.We had just gotten into town with most restaurants in our price range closed for the evening. Looked specifically for this place on this address, and would not have found it except for signs directing us downstairs below ground level.Service is leisurely at best. Wife's $18 mole was on the sweet side, and not enough spice to excite her.Meal came with black beans instead of pinto beans for a change, which she liked. Also included Mexican rice, and a small salad with diced tomatoes.My $16 Santa Fe Enchiladas came with two chicken enchiladas covered with green chili sauce and cheese, black beans, Mexican rice, and a small salad with diced tomatoes. Tasty, ate everything without any problems. Pricey as similar meal at Cocina Azuma in Albuquerque with three chicken enchiladas was $17.50. Spice level if anything a bit on the bland side with the green chili sauce.Windowless restaurant in the basement with Day of the Dead pictures of decorated skulls on the wall, but painted in loud colors, so it wasn't too scary to lose my appetite."

Lounge 54

★★☆☆☆ 2.3 (6) • $

"The lounge has a band every Friday and Saturday. Free entertainment and the drinks are priced reasonable."

Still Spirits

★★★★☆ 4.1 (73) • $$

"Craft cocktails here are always an adventure worthwhile. Definitely one of our favorite spots in Albuquerque."

Gather - Nob Hill

★★★★☆ 4.4 (54)

"Not really a fan of this place. The food was good but it was too expensive and everything had to be ordered separate in order to get a complete meal and feel full. Won't be back."

Escondido

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (46)

"This review is from September: Very happy with our first experience at Escondido Santa Fe. This was what I told my partner I wanted for my birthday and we both enjoyed everything it was exciting to go somewhere so new, we're not usually the type to do that. It was great to see so many different types of people. A few families, some on a date, some with friends. The ambience was very chill. Staff had good energy and handled things with grace.Definitely still working out table numbers and getting in the groove but props to the servers and folks that bus the tables, their calves are going to be ripped hustling up and down all the stairs. All that said! My partner had a red wine good enough to have 2 glasses... I had a margarita...good enough to have 2 glasses I started with their El Alebrije $18: Tapatio Añejo | Grand Marnier | Fresh Pineapple | Mango | Fresh Lime Orange Fiery Habanero TinctureChamoy Tajin Rim. My second margarita was a house which was also good but the El Alebrije was Food was enjoyable. I do wish I had requested my mole be reheated. I think there was some confusion on the table numbers and got the vibe that my food was a mixup, and it didn't make it to me in a timely manner, plus we were sitting on the patio. I know if I had asked I'm sure they would have obliged.All around great flavors. Nice choice for a little splurge meal."

El Patron ABQ

★★★★☆ 3.5 (584) • $$

"A great option when you are craving some not so healthy Mexican eats, including lots of chips and salsa. They have really thin chips which I like it makes some extra crispy and their salsa is really good. The building itself is really beautiful and there's some really cool decor. Having too much fun looking at their light fixtures and when you walk in, there's a fire going which was really nice.They have a pretty solid, happy hour with seven dollar drinks and seven dollar food items. I do think that some of the food items are better deals than others. The cheeseburger chimichanga I got was a good deal, especially with a little queso but a friend got a shrimp tostada, which was just a lot less food."

Evangelos Cocktail Lounge

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (103) • $$

"I loved this place! Band was playing "Lay Down Sally" when I walked in and I knew it would be a comfortable place. An older crowd when I got there giving way to a younger one a little later. Photos on the wall are of the owner's family, especially his dad from WWII. They look like Life Magazine photos. Patrons were SO friendly. One of them even asked this old man to dance. Cash only, no tabs. And I can't blame the guy. A remnant of old school that I didn't realize I was missing."

Desperados Tequila Bar

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"Went to Desperados a week or so ago and had a wonderful experience. It is connected to another restaurant in the front so there are tons of good food options available! The craft cocktail list had fresh ingredients and was different than any others I've seen around Albuquerque lately. Servers were very nice and attentive. They told me they host private parties and events so I will be in touch about those as well. Definitely a great addition to old town area! 10/10 recommend!"

Sharkys

★★★★☆ 4.3 (199) • $

"Sharky's is our absolute favorite place to eat in Albuquerque. The tacos and ceviche and bacon wrapped cheese stuffed peppers were heaven. We couldn't get enough! I only wish our return route on our road trip took us back because this place was that good. The owner is super nice. We talked and visited both nights. I didn't get photos of the salsas but they were delicious and complimented the dishes perfectly. We will be going back every time we are in Albuquerque from now on. My wife just asked me what I wanted to do for Father's Day and I said I would love to go to Sharky's, it's only 10.5 hours away... Seriously, this is my new happy place. I could eat here every single day and never grow tired of the food."

The Smoky Note

★★★★☆ 3.8 (16)

"Right in the heart of Nob Hill. Located in an old firehouse. Although there are high ceilings, it still feels cozy and intimate. Great outdoor patio. On Wednesday nights there is a jazz band. Maybe other nights too? Cocktails . . . excellent . . . some drinks on the menu add to the ambiance that you just stepped into a 1930s or '40s jazz club. A little expensive. I had two cocktails and, with tip, my bill was $33. Note: the one photo (amaretto sour) had an ice cube 1" square - so the actual drink in the glass was minimal. It was very good . . . there just wasn't enough of it for the price. I would have felt better paying a cover charge and less for my drinks. Yet, even with over the top expensive drinks, I still highly recommend The Smoky Note. Feels like an adult kind of place. Great music addition to Nob Hill."

Central Bodega

★★★★☆ 4.2 (103) • $$

"So I had to come back and I brought my girlfriend with me. I had the steak and frites, cooked medium. It was perfect. The herb butter is a nice touch. The frites were nice and crispy. My girlfriend got the lobster and it was delicious. My girlfriend said it was perfect as well. We had the avgolemono soup has an appetizer and it's the best soup I've had in the city. The lemon was perfect with the chicken. It was nice and quiet, we sat downstairs. Shouts to Hannah for being a wonderful server!"

Flatiron bites & brews

★★★★★ 4.5 (75)

"We decided to come to this place on a Sunday and it was such a good choice. Flatiron is located by Cliffs and the Albuquerque Great Academy. This place is more than just a brewery as the food is amazing. There are a lot of seating options and a football game was on the screen. The staff was friendly and helpful as well as just pleasant to be around. We got a beer, Diet Coke, NM Bacon Yard Bird, house made chips, Calabacitas, and the Chicken Salad Sandwich. The food was delicious and the house made chips were my favorite. All together it was around $50 for two people."

3128 Social House

★★★★★ 4.6 (54)

"After a grueling day of emotions and sinking in the reality that my Aunt is coming to the end of her journey with us here on earth, God rest her soul, we all needed to eat, converse with one another and plan what we all dreaded that was coming, I decided to take my entire family for a nice meal in a very trendy serene atmosphere that had good vibes great to almost over the top service that you'd never think could come from these parts of the globe being that people here are so relaxed chill laid back let them fall as they are.... Simply relaxing! Brought us here 3128 Social House where the name sake didn't disappoint.we had about 7 to 8 servers all great at their job never missing a beat keeping everyone drinks top off never having to speak up on needing anything for the table(s) because the wait staff was on point ! Kudos ! Appetizer's hit the table hot to the touch everything made with perfection fresh crisp delicious no matter what the choice was mmmmm. By the time our main course came sizzling great plating presentation was it's finest aroma bursting into the air making mouths water and everyone was talking about this fantastic food which made me reflect a little as I watched with tears a great family that I belong too, coming together despite differences, personalities, attitudes just morph into a mighty force a bond if you will, that would not be broken all over this great meal we were served tonight here ! Thank you 3128 Social House for providing such great services food and drink and for making us a part of your family as you all are a part of ours ! God Bless and may peace love and happiness be with you all."

Carries Restaurant

★★★★☆ 3.6 (7)

"Had a wonderful breakfast here. Coffee was good. Had the ABQ Rancheros, they were great, wish I had a photo. Service was friendly and prompt. The aesthetic was cool, it had an art deco prohibition vibe."

D.H. Lescombes Winery & Bistro

★★★★☆ 4.2 (53)

"D.H. Lescombes Winery & Bistro was a rather delightful lunch experience. It was the first visit to the Cottonwood area location and I absolutely loved it! It is an excellent establishment for wine and delicious food! I was impressed by the staff and the food. The staff was friendly and the attendant did an excellent job serving and providing us with great recommendations.I chose the German schnitzel (breaded pork loin w/ jaeger sauce, yukon gold mash potatoes, seasonal vegetables and dont forget the grilled lemon. Made me think I was back in Germany (fun times).Beautiful, intimate restaurant that I highly recommend."

Palace Prime

★★★★☆ 4.4 (79) • $$$

"This is one of the best restaurants in Santa Fe. The food is great and exactly as it's described. The service is impeccable. The bar has fun and yummy cocktails and they have a great wine list. And the seating - it's all comfortable. I know that doesn't matter to a lot of people - but it matters to me and I appreciate it. Make a reservation - you won't be disappointed."

M’tucci’s Bar Roma

★★★★☆ 4.2 (265) • $$

"Overall: M'tucci isn't traditional Italian but it is quite good if you want something that feels like a comfort meal.Food: 4Braised Pork Cacio e Pepe Pizza: The pizza was excellent. The crust was thin but wasn't overly crispy. It had the right amount of bite and an excellent char. The pork was melt in your mouth tender.Pasta Tartufo: This was a decadent pasta similar to a carbonara. I didn't like the sauce that much because it felt a little grainy.Service: 5The wait staff is always excellent. They are patient/careful with requests and dietary restrictions. They pay attention to your table without hovering or interrupting too much.Ambiance: 5The restaurant is a great place to eat with friends or for a date night. The only con is that it's super hard to find parking in Nob Hill."

Trombino's Bistro Italiano

★★★★☆ 3.8 (454) • $$

"This was a lovely and classy experience for our family. The environment definitely depicts the Italian vibe and the atmosphere just wraps you and makes you feel you are actually in Italy. This is definitely a nice place to take out your loved one on a date. The service is efficient and effective. Our waitress Maria was excellent and was constantly checking that our needs were met. The food was delicious and we were beyond surprised on how on point the food was. The chicken scallopinni had the right balance of lime and wine to it. The artichoke on top of the chicken was chewy on top of the dish and gave it this beautiful aroma."

Urban Hotdog Company

★★★★☆ 3.8 (14)

"Still killin it - great place to impress your out of town friends with the excellence of Albuquerque cuisine!"

Bosque West

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (16)

"The tacos were so delicious and so was the beer. Excellent service from our server.Just an all around friendly experience.Thank you,David"

Founders Speakeasy

★★★★★ 4.5 (80)

"Always a great spot to pop your head in after a long day!! Staff is amazing and ambiance is spot on!"

Vara Winery & Distillery

★★★★★ 4.8 (16)

"Great wine tasting room in downtown Santa Fe. Everything closes early on Sunday and this was open until 9pm. Great wine and small bites to select from. This place has great ambiance and is also reasonably priced."

The Copper Lounge

★★★★☆ 4 (207) • $$

"If there were more stars to give this place, they would get it.The ambience, food and drinks were outstanding. I'm not easily impressed, I was last night. I had a vesper and our friends had gimlets and old fashioneds. The presentation of the drinks and food were stellar, the food was amazing . We had the chicken skewers ,chimi steak bites, burger and truffle fries all excellent! I highly recommend and make reservations and get down there pronto!Service was excellent as well, had that old school vibe of long ago; prohibition era perhaps. I remember going there when is was Jacks boy, have they stepped their game Can't wait to go back!!!"

High Desert Cafe & Bar

★★★★★ 4.5 (8)

"I am visiting Santa Fe from out of town and I'm so glad I found this Cafe. It is a little hard to find since it is inside a hotel, but it is well worth the find. We had a spring salad and the pear flatbread. Both were delicious. The pear flatbtead was a little sweet but the toppings and combinations were awesome. I would recommend you try this cafe."

The Taproom at Old Town

★★★★☆ 4 (37) • $$

"All aboard Ha ha ha ha ha ha haAy, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ayCrazy, but that's how it goesMillions of people living as foesMaybe it's not too lateTo learn how to loveAnd forget how to hateMental wounds not healingLife's a bitter shameI'm going off the rails on a crazy trainI'm going off the rails on a crazy trainLet's go... To Oldtown Taproom which now has "The Kitchen" w. Chef TorrezWe sat for a wonderful late lunch, bringing our Grandtyke w. us. The Girls enjoyed "Yellowfin Tuna Poke Wontons" w. pickled cabbage, ginger glaze, scallions and siracha aioli....scrumptous..:)The Lad enjoyed "Agave Lime Shrimp Tacos" w. white corn tortillas, cabbage, pickled onion and grilled pineapple..w. more shrimp than you could fathom and so good..:)Washed down by the Old Folk w. excellent tasty "Dark&Stormy Cocktails and not to be outdone, The Tyke drank a nice Moktail..:)This was a perfect culinary afternoon find, OldTown Rocks!!Mental wounds not healingWho and what's to blame?I'm going off the rails on a crazy trainI'm going off the rails on a crazy trainHa ha ha ha ha ha haThe ledge, ha-ha, the edge..:)Best, Avram Ozzy Jr."

Bar Uno

★★★★☆ 4.2 (49) • $$

"Ryan & Steve, thank you so much for your hospitality, kind conversations, and immediate impeccable service.We wish our visit to Bar Uno wasn't as brief; unfortunately we didn't have much time this evening to enjoy your ambiance.The time we were there was great, we decided the pit stop to your bar made our evening memorable.We had walked in earlier to Anodyne which was fun with pool tables and lots of laughter, however we wanted something just a bit more intimate. We chatted with some locals that we would love to socialize - they directed us to Bar Uno ensuring an intimate experience.Thank you for the welcome, the delicious Mezcal Paloma with Tahine and your authentic Old Fashioned, my husband loved it."

Tula's Kitchen & Cocktails

★★★★☆ 4 (9)

"Excellent food. Wonderful staff. Fine beverages. Great environment with fantastic remodeling. Lots of space and reasonably quiet ( good place for having a conversation). This, just like Tula's on Paseo is a WINNER & KEEPER!!!!"

As Above, So Below Distillery

★★★★☆ 4.1 (47) • $$

"Beautiful cocktails. Highly recommend the green spicy cocktail (I can't remember the name) - it's got a good kick and such a unique taste. Service is also very friendly and attentive. They have happy hour and lots of seating. The bathroom is also super clean, which is always a plus. They also sell some of their liquors, if you want to take some bottles home."

Rolling Still Distillery and Lounge

★★★★★ 4.8 (51)

"This place was recommended by one of our river guides. She wasn't kidding , the drinks were amazing and the service was welcoming. Taos sports some cool spots and doesn't seem to have a bad spot! I'm not a local but that means a-lotespecially when you're visiting!"

Tonic

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (109)

"This is my favorite bar in the world. The key is to have one of the specialty drinks or, even better, tell them what you like and ask them to make you something. These are true mixologists dedicated to their craft!"

Tula's Kitchen

★★★★☆ 3.9 (209) • $$

"I wanted to provide a quick update. Tula's customer relations specialist reached out and asked me to contact her so I could share more details of my experience. I did contact her and we've had a lovely back-and-forth email exchange for the last week or so. Although I'm not here to review the food or the location I just want folks to know that Tula's does actually care what you think about their food/restaurant. The customer relations specialist was incredibly professional and interested in learning about what was not working for me. I really value good customer service, which seems to be lacking in many establishments nowadays. So let me say this... whether I go back to the Tula's Restaurant in-person or I order delivery from them, I will give them another chance simply because they clearly care about their customers and I will always support that, especially from a local business. Should you experience any issues, I highly suggest you reach out to the customer relations specialist, Madi. She will be happy to listen to your concerns and attempt to address them, which is all anyone can hope for."

The Shed

★★★★☆ 3.9 • $$

"The shed, to this day, is on my absolute favorite restaurants. The food, the service, and the atmosphere are amazing and it perfectly fits the Santa Fe scene. We tired many things on the menu but my favorite had to be the spinich enchilada, with vegetarian posole. It was seriously one of the best meals I have ever eaten, and my mouth is watering just writing this! The service was great and the waiter helped explain the items on the menu, what she recommended, etc. There can be a long wait at times so put your name in early and shop around the nearby shops!"

Fuego 505

★★★★☆ 3.9 (147) • $$

"It was our first time trying out this place. We always see it and have been wanting to try it for a while now. Glad we were able to get that chance. Just know that parking is scarce here. There was construction going on around the area of this restaurant at the time we visited.The evening we visited they were packed, but thankfully we were able to find a seat in the corner. Most of the people there were watching the baseball game. So that is probably why it was so packed. We were not served right away, but that was okay. They were busy. Lacee was our waitress who helped us get settled in. She took our drink orders and gave us some time to look at the menu. The menu was pretty elaborate and they had a lot to offer. The drink menu was pretty good too, they had many to choose from.We decided to start off with the ceviche, that was pretty good. Served with freshly made tortillas chips. Yummy! We enjoyed that. Then for dinner, we shared some tacos; fish, avocado and carne asada. All three tacos were delicious and full of flavor. We enjoyed them.I decided to try the fuego plate with carne adovado, which was served with the calabacitas. It was a little on the spicy side for me, but I was able to enjoy it all. Again, our waitress Lacee was great! She made sure we had drink refills and took great care of us. Overall, the food and the dining experience was good. We will definitely be back to try it again. Thank you!"

Vision City Brewstillery

★★★★★ 4.7 (6)

"Great bar with an excellent patio. They have a variety of drinks, including beer, cider, cocktails, and even wine. There is shuffleboard and some other games inside. They have food as well that includes shables and sandwiches. The charcuterie is so cute and the nachos are so good! Portions are great for the price."

Fat Franks

★★★★☆ 4.1 (11)

"Great drinks and food here! Atmosphere was great and the service was wonderful!! Will definitely come back for Christmas!!"