Stay, Eat, and Shop in Albuquerque's Hippest Neighborhood
What to do in Albuquerque's trendy Sawmill District
While most visitors to Albuquerque take the time to check out Old Town, not everyone knows about the Sawmill District, just to the northeast of the historic plaza. This formerly industrial area is quickly becoming one of the city's trendiest, most dynamic neighborhoods. Its mix of restaurants, shopping, museums, and other cultural activities make it a great weekend destination for locals and visitors alike!
Where to Stay
Hotel Chaco, Heritage Hotels' newest property, which opened in 2017, is the perfect hub for your Sawmill stay. Designed with tranquility in mind, the hotel's comfortable rooms are the perfect place to escape and unwind. Join other guests for a free yoga class, take a dip in the pool, or enjoy a cocktail while watching the magnificent desert sunsets. Hotel Chaco's amenities have got you covered for your time away from home.
Where to Eat and Drink
Join the cool folks at Prismatic Coffee for Albuquerque's best third-wave coffee
Start your gorgeous Albuquerque morning off right with an incredible cup of coffee from Prismatic Coffee, just a short walk from your hotel. Albuquerque’s first third-wave coffee spot offers incredible tasting coffee made by people who truly care about the flavors and process. Be sure to grab a homemade stroopwafel, filled with gooey caramel, to accompany your coffee.
What we recommend: Chat with the barista about the types of beans they are currently using, and the best way to enjoy them. You can’t go wrong!
After your caffeine stop, head to The Farmacy for brunch. This cozy corner cafe, which used to be a gas station, will fill you up with delicious, locally sourced, homemade fare. Try the savory empanadas, with daily rotating flavors. The Duke City biscuit and gravy comes with a wonderfully New Mexican twist, with green chile and cheddar baked right into the flaky biscuit. Sit on the patio and enjoy the sights and sounds of the neighborhood.
What we recommend: Brȗléed grapefruit, Not McMuffin, Rustica, Rail Runner reuben
Prismatic's coffee not only tastes great, it looks beautiful too!
You won’t have to go far if you’re looking for some spicy, filling New Mexican food. Just up the street from The Farmacy, you'll find Cocina Azul. With their motto panza llena, corazon contento (or full belly, happy heart), this family-owned restaurant serves up steaming plates of New Mexican classics that are sure to make you sweat - and come back for more.
What we recommend: Carne Adovada Relleno Plate, Arellana’s Guaco Sopapilla Burger, Creamy Chicken Enchilada Plate
On the opposite side of the street from Cocina Azul is the New Mexico Tea Company, offering over 150 different teas from around the world. Take time to chat with the incredibly knowledgeable staff to learn all about the history of tea, the basics of tea preparation, and sample some favorites.
What we recommend: Cream Earl Grey, Chaco Rooibos (blended specifically for Hotel Chaco!), Organic Jasmine Pearls
In the evening, take a short stroll from Hotel Chaco to Tablao Flamenco inside Hotel Albuquerque (Hotel Chaco's neighbor and sister property). Tablao will provide a feast for the senses - tapas and a show. You'll get a taste of New Mexico and Spain with a menu created by renowned chefs Mark Miller and Gilbert Aragon, while experiencing an intimate Flamenco performance - a truly unique experience!
What we recommend: Jamón Serrano, Lomo Ibérico, Patatas Bravas, Shishito Peppers
Looking for more to do? Join one of our walking food tours!
Find one-of-a-kind home goods, jewelry, clothing and more from local artisans at Spur Line Supply Co.
Where to Shop & Explore
On top of its great restaurant scene, the Sawmill District is also home to shopping, museums, parks, and so much more, all within walking distance!
Check out Explora, an interactive science museum that the young (and young at heart) will love. Next door is the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science where you can learn all about New Mexico's prehistoric history. See fossils discovered in the state, check out life-size models of dinosaurs, and let the museum's friendly, knowledgeable volunteers guide you through the interactive exhibits.
The nearby Albuquerque Museum of Art and History offers an in-depth look at the region's culture through its art - including painting, sculpture, and film. If you’re wanting a more in-depth experience, the museum's excellent docents will be happy to give you a tour.
The Spur Line Supply Co. is one of the newest and coolest shopping experiences in the area, bringing together artisans of all shapes and sizes under one roof. Looking for unique gifts for loved ones back home? You’ll find them right here - like Hy-phy Records for all your vinyl needs, Luna y Luz for the stylish kiddos in your life, or Power and Light Press for quirky greeting cards and stationery. Bristol Doughnut Co. serves up delicious goodness towards the back of the store, where you can enjoy a prickly pear doughnut and a cup of coffee next to their funky Airstream trailer. And if you’re looking to take a piece of New Mexico back home with you, be sure to make your way to Dryland Wilds. Their locally foraged botanical products, such as soaps, perfumes and oils, will transport you back to the desert every time you use them.
Want more New Mexico travel ideas? Check out our other blog posts
At Wander New Mexico, we have a passion for telling stories and creating unique gastronomic experiences that allow people to connect through food.
Join us for authentic, immersive food & history tours that allow our guests to experience New Mexico’s unique food culture, rich flavors, and intriguing history!