Frontier Restaurant

The ability to order breakfast, pizza or other munchables at 2:00 in the morning is a birthright in New York City, from where I hale. However, Albuquerque, with all its charm, generally does not offer such options. It is not a 24-hour city (nor should it be). Yet, there is a tiny jewel that burns through the inky darkness of the Albuquerque night, offering tasty treats for the hungry insomniac. That priceless gem is the Frontier Restaurant.

Open 24-hours a day, for most of the year, it caters primarily to the college students of the University of New Mexico campus located across the street on Central Ave. However, this eclectic and funky restaurant provides wonderful New Mexican diner food that is always tasty and cheap. And, it's available 24 hours a day! That's enough to make a smug New Yorker cry!

Here are a few of my personal favorites: The breakfast burrito, a tasty combination of eggs, hash browns, cheddar cheese and green chili on a freshly baked tortilla. Also, the more substantial Frontier burrito, with beef, beans, green chili inside, and green chili stew on top with fresh baked flour tortillas. Be sure to smother both dishes with the red chili stew in the pot-bellied warmers next to the condiments table. This is New Mexican fast food extraordinaire!

The Frontier's fresh squeezed orange juice is simply the best I have ever had. The fresh baked tortillas are so good that many locals buy them in bulk for home use. The burgers are great as well. If you have a sweet tooth, try a warm fresh baked Frontier sweet roll slathered in butter.

The decor is relaxed and funky, reminding me of a hip Soho (NYC) cafe, but with a strong New Mexican twist. The owner is a diehard John Wayne fan and had the three dining rooms decorated with John Wayne artwork as well as a wide variety of art from local artists.

Casual and youthful, the Frontier attracts the most eclectic cross-section of Albuquerque locals you will see anywhere in the city. People watching is encouraged.

So, the next time you get the 2:00AM munchies (or anytime), head to the Frontier, that shining, edible jewel in the Albuquerque night!

2400 Central SE | Tel: 505.266.0550 | Open 24 hours | website