Bumble Bee's Baja Grill

San Mateo and Montgomery NE
Tel: 505-837-2862
http://bumblebeesbajagrill.com
Price Range: $5 - $10 per person
Dining In and Take Out - Casual Fast Food

Let me paint a true-to-life Albuquerque scenario. You have some out-of-town friends or family coming to visit who've never been exposed to authentic New Mexican cuisine. The say they want to experience the best of uncensored New Mexican fare. Yet, you noticed how gingerly they nibbled around the red chili in the huevos rancheros you ordered for breakfast. They couldn't handle it . . . Nope, they're not ready for a true New Mexican culinary journey.

Now, lunchtime rolls around. You guests say they want more authentic local grub. You know it's not a good idea. Where do you take them for lunch? How about a place that looks New Mexican, yet, serves fresh California-Mex style fast food. Yep, that's just the ticket!

Bumble Bee's Baja Grill offers freshly made burritos, tacos, and salads, with a Californian emphasis on fresh, familiar ingredients designed to appeal to the urbane, American palette. For fast food, it is quite good. The ingredients are of high quality and it's a perfect place for a quick, quality meal.

My personal favorite is a grilled chicken and goat cheese burrito. Tasty, filling, and cheap, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. The burritos can be stuffed with char-grilled shrimp, chicken, steak, or fish, along with all the 'fix-in's.' The Albuquerque store is part of a chain of three locations that is based in Santa Fe. It is just the place for a fast meal that is light years ahead of typical burger joints in both taste and nutrition.