Rise and Dine: Top Brunch Spots in Albuquerque (Summer 2025 Edition)
Albuquerque’s brunch scene is a delightful fusion of Southwestern flavors, farm-to-table freshness, and cozy atmospheres. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these brunch spots are sure to satisfy your mid-morning cravings.
1. The Grove Café & Market
Located in the trendy Edo neighborhood, The Grove is renowned for its organic, farm-fresh ingredients and all-day breakfast offerings. Favorites include the sweet potato hash and the classic eggs Benedict. Its light, modern ambiance makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely brunch.
What to Order:
Croque Madame: Black forest ham, tomato, whole grain mustard, Gruyère cheese, topped with a sunny-side-up egg on rustic farm loaf.
The Burrito: Scrambled eggs, Tully’s sausage, goat cheese, housemade green chile in a tortilla, served with roasted tomato jalapeño salsa.
Grove Pancakes: French-style pancakes served with fresh fruit, crème fraîche, local honey, and real maple syrup.
2. Level 5 – Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge
Perched atop Hotel Chaco, Level 5 offers panoramic views of the Sandia Mountains alongside a refined brunch menu. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to pair their meal with stunning scenery.
What to Order:
Smashburger with Egg: A juicy burger topped with a sunny-side-up egg, fresh tomato, lettuce, and melted cheese, served with crispy fries.
Carne Adovada Plate: Tender carne adovada served with crispy roasted potatoes, onions, peppers, and a sunny-side-up egg.
Classic Eggs Benedict: Poached eggs with creamy hollandaise sauce on an English muffin with ham, accompanied by a fresh mixed greens salad.
3. M’tucci’s Twenty-Five
This Italian eatery brings a touch of “la dolce vita” to Albuquerque. With handcrafted dishes made from the finest ingredients, it’s a great spot for those craving a hearty brunch with an Italian twist.
What to Order:
Eggplant Benedict: Poached eggs, grilled Italian ham, house hollandaise, crispy Parmesan-crusted eggplant, marinated tomato, caramelized onions, spinach, and breakfast potatoes.
Lemon Ricotta Semolina Pancake: Served with strawberries, Frangelico whipped cream, and rotating shrub syrup.
Chilaquiles: New Mexico red chile chilaquiles with grilled Cotto ham, smoked Gouda, marinated tomatoes, and two eggs any style.
4. Brekki Brekki
Nestled in Albuquerque’s Northeast Heights, Brekki Brekki offers a cozy blend of breakfast joint and lively bar. Their garden patio is perfect for enjoying a light brunch or a refreshing drink.
What to Order:
Brisket Benny: 16-hour pit-smoked brisket with kale slaw, red pepper jam, onion rings, and tomato cheese skirt on an English muffin with poached egg and hollandaise.
Oreo Cookie Crepe Pancakes: Thin, crispy pancakes topped with powdered sugar and 100% maple syrup.
S’Mores French Toast: Challah bread dipped in vanilla custard, grilled, and topped with house-made whipped cream.
5. Vic’s Daily Café
A family-owned gem since 1998, Vic’s offers a comprehensive menu filled with Southwest egg combos, omelets, pancakes, and more. It’s a go-to spot for those seeking a classic Albuquerque breakfast experience.
What to Order:
Southwest Omelet: Filled with green chile, cheese, and your choice of meat.
Pancake Stack: Fluffy pancakes served with butter and syrup.
Chorizo & Eggs: Scrambled eggs with spicy chorizo, served with hash browns and toast.
6. The Shop Breakfast & Lunch
Known for its comforting dishes, The Shop serves up favorites like huevos rancheros and stuffed French toast. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a hearty and flavorful brunch.
What to Order:
Huevos Rancheros: Home-fried potatoes, black beans, two eggs on blue corn tortillas with house-made red chile, tomatillo salsa, and queso fresco.
Breakfast Sandwich: Two fried eggs, arugula, garlic aioli, ham, and tomato on whole grain toast, served with hand-cut fries.
Steakhouse Mac: Cavatappi pasta with local sirloin, caramelized onions, mushrooms, and white cheddar mornay sauce.
7. Café Lush
Located in Downtown Albuquerque, Café Lush delivers eclectic contemporary American dining. With a focus on fresh, healthy fare, it’s a beloved fixture in the downtown community.
What to Order:
The St. Gregory Burger: One-third pound fresh ground Angus chuck with local green chile cheddar, caramelized onions, lettuce, and tomato on a grilled sesame roll.
Legalads: Stacked enchiladas served with chile and cheeses, breakfast potatoes, and topped with two eggs, served with a tortilla.
Sweet Potato Beet Salad: Roasted beets, grilled sweet potatoes, and feta on spinach topped with balsamic syrup.
8. Smothered Brunch
A newer addition to the Albuquerque brunch scene, Smothered Brunch offers a variety of dishes that are sure to please. Located on Central Ave SW, it’s a spot worth checking out.
What to Order:
Green Chile Smothered Burrito: A hearty burrito filled with eggs, potatoes, and cheese, smothered in green chile sauce.
Churro Waffles: Crispy waffles coated in cinnamon sugar, served with maple syrup.
Breakfast Tacos: Soft tortillas filled with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese, topped with salsa.
9. The Farmacy
Located in the heart of Nob Hill, The Farmacy is a cozy neighborhood café known for its inventive takes on brunch staples and generous use of local ingredients. Their comfort-food-meets-New-Mexico style makes it a standout in Albuquerque’s brunch scene.
What to Order:
The State Fair: A loaded plate of eggs, red and green chile, sausage, tots, cheddar, crema, and scallions—like a breakfast burrito exploded on a plate (in the best way).
Croque Madame: A decadent open-faced sandwich with ham, Gruyère, béchamel, and a fried egg on top of thick, buttery bread—rich, melty, and perfect with a coffee.
Farmacy French Toast: Thick-cut brioche slices soaked in vanilla custard, grilled to golden perfection, and topped with berries and whipped cream.
Tips for Brunching in Albuquerque:
Arrive Early: Popular spots like The Grove and Level 5 can get busy, especially on weekends.
Explore Local Flavors: Don’t miss out on dishes featuring New Mexico’s famous green chile.
Check for Reservations: Several of these are first come, first serve. However, some restaurants may require or recommend reservations, so it’s best to plan ahead!
Enjoy your brunch adventures in Albuquerque! See a local favorite not listed here? DM or email me; we’d love to try somewhere new!
