This Unassuming Coffee House In New Mexico Is Actually The Holy Grail Of New Mexican Food
By E Jamar|Published June 30, 2019
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E Jamar
Author
E Jamar is a published writer based in Milwaukee, WI. Despite being a Midwesterner at heart, you can often find them trekking throughout the states and discovering new hidden gems. When they're not traveling, you can find them discussing disability issues, cuddling their pug puppy, and checking out new local spots.
When you think of old neighborhoods in the Land of Enchantment, the first that comes to your mind might be Mesilla or Old Town, however, the Duke City neighborhood, Barelas, takes the cake. Situated in ABQ’s most historic neighborhood you’ll find a place that says “coffee house,” but is actually an outstanding restaurant that has been a gathering place for locals for decades. Whether you’re a newcomer or have been a fan for years, this little family-run restaurant will feel like home once you taste their perfectly done traditional New Mexican dishes. From posole to menudo to beans with red or green chile, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into Grandma’s kitchen at this unassuming restaurant in Albuquerque.
Welcome to Barelas Coffee House in Albuquerque's Barelas neighborhood!
While the outside says "coffee house," this is actually a restaurant that holds some of the states best New Mexican food. For over 30 years, this spot has been a gathering place for locals.
This little restaurant might not look like much, but don't be fooled.
When you walk in you might be a bit confused as you'll be met with a gift shop. That's right, part of this restaurant is also a gift shop filled with quirky finds. Browse for a while, or be seated and be prepared for an amazing meal.
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After being in the family for decades, this restaurant has its food and service absolutely perfected.
Four generations of the Gonzales family have resided in the Barelas neighborhood. While many think Old Town might be Albuquerque's oldest town, it's actually Barelas. This restaurant is an ode to the neighborhood and has been serving up delicious New Mexican food since 1978.
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The atmosphere of this old coffee house is just as enticing as the food.
As you sit down and look around, you'll be met with vintage signs and nostalgic artwork. Just visiting Barelas Coffee House is an experience in itself, and once you meet the servers, you'll never want to leave.
From enchiladas to tacos, traditional items like posole or menudo, there are truly so many delicious New Mexican dishes that it can be hard to choose just one.
Whether it be breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there's always a tasty option.
For breakfast, the huevos rancheros are to die for, as well as any dish topped with an egg. For lunch or dinner, it's a bit harder to decide, as everything is delicious and fresh. Even the tortillas are made in-house and served fresh as can be.
If you can't decide what to eat, your best bet is a combination plate.
Plates are served with rice and beans and your choice of entrees. Here you can try the carne adovada alongside enchiladas and so much more. Don't forget the chile, though, as both their red and green will satisfy any New Mexican. Might as well make it Christmas style!
For a quaint and wholesome dining experience in one of Albuquerque's most historic neighborhoods, with the best New Mexican food in the state, Barelas Coffee House needs to be on your to-do list immediately.
For more information about Barelas Coffee House, you can head on over to their Facebook page right here.
Do you have fond memories of Barelas Coffee House? What’s your favorite dish that they serve? We’d love to hear all about your experiences in the comments!
