Nestled amidst the enchanting landscapes of New Mexico, Gallup stands as a vibrant cultural hub, beckoning travelers and locals alike with its rich history, captivating attractions, and, of course, its delectable culinary scene. From traditional American comfort food to authentic New Mexican cuisine and international flavors, Gallup’s diverse culinary offerings cater to every palate, promising an unforgettable gastronomic experience. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the 10 best restaurants in Gallup, NM, where you can indulge in the best of local and international flavors.
El Metate Tamale Factory: A Culinary Symphony of New Mexican Tradition
Begin your culinary odyssey at El Metate Tamale Factory, a culinary institution revered for its mastery of traditional New Mexican tamales. Located at 1300 W Maloney Ave, this family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious tamales since 1981. Step into this humble establishment, adorned with vibrant murals depicting scenes from the region’s rich heritage, and be greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly made tamales.
Customer Experience:
El Metate Tamale Factory offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly staff and prompt service. The restaurant is known for its excellent customer service, making sure that every guest leaves satisfied and happy.
Must-Try Meals:
The tamales are the star of the show at El Metate Tamale Factory, and they come in a variety of flavors such as red chili pork, green chili chicken, and vegetarian options. Don’t forget to try their famous green chili stew, a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for chilly days.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1300 W Maloney Ave | (505) 863-9640 | Mon-Sat: 10am-8pm, Sun: 11am-6pm |
Reviews:
“Hands down the best tamales I’ve ever had! The masa is perfectly cooked and the fillings are bursting with flavor. Definitely a must-visit when in Gallup.” – John D.
“The green chili stew here is to die for! It’s the perfect blend of spice and flavor. And the tamales are just as amazing. Highly recommend this place!” – Maria G.
Average Cost:
The average cost for a meal at El Metate Tamale Factory is around $10 per person.
Genaro’s Cafe: A Culinary Haven Embracing the Authentic Flavors of Mexico
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Genaro’s Cafe, a culinary oasis where authentic Mexican cuisine takes center stage. Located at 600 W Coal Ave, this family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious and authentic dishes since 1994. Step into this cozy and colorful restaurant and be transported to the streets of Mexico with its vibrant decor and warm atmosphere.
Customer Experience:
Genaro’s Cafe offers a friendly and welcoming ambiance, with attentive staff and quick service. The restaurant also has a patio area where you can enjoy your meal al fresco on sunny days.
Must-Try Meals:
From tacos and enchiladas to burritos and fajitas, Genaro’s Cafe has a wide variety of traditional Mexican dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Don’t miss out on their famous carne adovada, a slow-cooked pork dish marinated in red chili sauce and served with rice, beans, and tortillas.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 600 W Coal Ave | (505) 863-9640 | Mon-Sat: 11am-9pm, Sun: 11am-8pm |
Reviews:
“Genaro’s Cafe has the best Mexican food in town! The flavors are authentic and the portions are generous. I highly recommend their carne adovada and their margaritas.” – Sarah M.
“The service here is top-notch and the food is even better. I’ve been coming to Genaro’s for years and have never been disappointed. Their green chili is a must-try!” – Michael S.
Average Cost:
The average cost for a meal at Genaro’s Cafe is around $12 per person.
Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe: A Fusion of Flavors
For a taste of international cuisine, head to Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe, located at 306 S 2nd St. This charming cafe offers a fusion of flavors, with dishes inspired by Italian, Greek, and American cuisines. With its cozy atmosphere and sidewalk seating, it’s the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
Customer Experience:
Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe offers a relaxed and inviting ambiance, with friendly staff and efficient service. The outdoor seating area is perfect for people-watching while enjoying your meal.
Must-Try Meals:
From sandwiches and salads to pasta and pizza, Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on their famous gyro sandwich, filled with tender slices of lamb, beef, or chicken, topped with tzatziki sauce and served with a side of fries.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 306 S 2nd St | (505) 722-5017 | Mon-Sat: 10am-8pm, Sun: Closed |
Reviews:
“I love the variety of options at Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe. The gyro sandwich is my go-to, but I’ve also tried their pasta dishes and they are delicious. Great service and great food!” – Emily R.
“This cafe has a great atmosphere and the food is always fresh and flavorful. I highly recommend their chicken Caesar salad and their pizza.” – Mark L.
Average Cost:
The average cost for a meal at Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe is around $10 per person.
The 505 Burgers & Wings: A Burger Lover’s Paradise
For all the burger lovers out there, The 505 Burgers & Wings is a must-visit. Located at 601 W Coal Ave, this restaurant offers a wide variety of burgers, wings, and other American favorites. With its casual and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
Customer Experience:
The 505 Burgers & Wings offers a fun and lively ambiance, with friendly staff and fast service. The restaurant also has a bar area where you can enjoy a cold beer or cocktail with your meal.
Must-Try Meals:
As the name suggests, the burgers and wings are the stars of the menu at The 505 Burgers & Wings. Don’t miss out on their signature 505 burger, topped with green chili, pepper jack cheese, and avocado. And for wing lovers, their spicy buffalo wings are a must-try.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 601 W Coal Ave | (505) 863-9464 | Mon-Sat: 11am-9pm, Sun: Closed |
Reviews:
“I’ve tried almost all the burgers on the menu at The 505 and they are all delicious. The green chili adds the perfect kick to their burgers. And their wings are amazing too!” – David B.
“The service here is always great and the food is consistently good. I highly recommend their loaded fries and their buffalo wings.” – Rachel S.
Average Cost:
The average cost for a meal at The 505 Burgers & Wings is around $10 per person.
Jerry’s Cafe: A Local Favorite for Breakfast
For a hearty and satisfying breakfast, head to Jerry’s Cafe, located at 406 W Coal Ave. This cozy diner has been a local favorite since it opened in 1981, serving up classic American breakfast dishes with a New Mexican twist.
Customer Experience:
Jerry’s Cafe offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly staff and efficient service. The restaurant also has a small gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and local products.
Must-Try Meals:
From pancakes and omelets to breakfast burritos and huevos rancheros, Jerry’s Cafe has a wide variety of breakfast options to choose from. Don’t miss out on their famous green chili breakfast burrito, filled with eggs, potatoes, cheese, and green chili sauce.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 406 W Coal Ave | (505) 863-6960 | Mon-Sat: 6am-2pm, Sun: 7am-2pm |
Reviews:
“Jerry’s Cafe is my go-to spot for breakfast in Gallup. The food is always fresh and delicious, and the service is top-notch. Highly recommend the green chili breakfast burrito!” – Amanda T.
“This place has a great small-town vibe and the food is always amazing. I love their blueberry pancakes and their huevos rancheros.” – Jake M.
Average Cost:
The average cost for a meal at Jerry’s Cafe is around $8 per person.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store: A Taste of Home
For a taste of home-cooked comfort food, head to Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, located at 1440 W Maloney Ave. This restaurant and gift shop offers a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere, with classic American dishes that will make you feel like you’re dining in your grandmother’s kitchen.
Customer Experience:
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store offers a warm and inviting ambiance, with friendly staff and efficient service. The restaurant also has a gift shop where you can purchase unique souvenirs and local products.
Must-Try Meals:
From chicken fried steak and meatloaf to mac and cheese and mashed potatoes, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store has all your favorite comfort foods. Don’t miss out on their famous biscuits and gravy, a true Southern staple.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1440 W Maloney Ave | (505) 863-9393 | Sun-Thurs: 6am-10pm, Fri-Sat: 6am-11pm |
Reviews:
“I always stop at Cracker Barrel when I’m in Gallup. The food is consistently good and the service is always friendly. And their gift shop has some great finds too!” – Lisa P.
“The portions here are huge and the food is delicious. I highly recommend their chicken and dumplings and their cornbread.” – Mike D.
Average Cost:
The average cost for a meal at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is around $12 per person.
Oasis Mediterranean Restaurant: A Taste of the Mediterranean
For a taste of the Mediterranean, head to Oasis Mediterranean Restaurant, located at 1719 S 2nd St. This family-owned restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with dishes inspired by the flavors of Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East.
Customer Experience:
Oasis Mediterranean Restaurant offers a cozy and intimate ambiance, with friendly staff and attentive service. The restaurant also has a patio area where you can enjoy your meal al fresco.
Must-Try Meals:
From gyros and falafel to hummus and kebabs, Oasis Mediterranean Restaurant has a variety of dishes that will transport you to the shores of the Mediterranean. Don’t miss out on their lamb shank, slow-cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce and served with rice and vegetables.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1719 S 2nd St | (505) 722-0000 | Mon-Sat: 11am-9pm, Sun: Closed |
Reviews:
“The food here is amazing! I love their falafel and their chicken shawarma. And the service is always top-notch.” – Sarah H.
“Oasis Mediterranean Restaurant has the best hummus I’ve ever had. And their lamb shank is to die for. Highly recommend this place!” – Mark T.
Average Cost:
The average cost for a meal at Oasis Mediterranean Restaurant is around $15 per person.
Route 66 Railway Cafe: A Nostalgic Dining Experience
For a unique dining experience, head to Route 66 Railway Cafe, located at 1901 E Highway 66. This restaurant is housed in a historic train car and offers a nostalgic atmosphere, with classic American dishes that pay homage to the iconic Route 66.
Customer Experience:
Route 66 Railway Cafe offers a fun and quirky ambiance, with friendly staff and efficient service. The restaurant also has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and local products.
Must-Try Meals:
From burgers and sandwiches to salads and steaks, Route 66 Railway Cafe has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on their famous green chili cheeseburger, topped with New Mexico’s signature ingredient.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1901 E Highway 66 | (505) 722-2226 | Mon-Sat: 7am-9pm, Sun: 7am-8pm |
Reviews:
“I love the unique dining experience at Route 66 Railway Cafe. The food is always good and the service is great. And the train car adds a fun touch to the whole experience.” – Emily B.
“The green chili cheeseburger here is amazing! And their milkshakes are the perfect way to end a meal. Highly recommend this place!” – John S.
Average Cost:
The average cost for a meal at Route 66 Railway Cafe is around $10 per person.
La Barraca: A Taste of Spain in the Heart of Gallup
For a taste of Spain, head to La Barraca, located at 110 W Coal Ave. This family-owned restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with dishes inspired by the flavors of Spain and Latin America.
Customer Experience:
La Barraca offers a cozy and intimate ambiance, with friendly staff and attentive service. The restaurant also has a full bar where you can enjoy a variety of cocktails and Spanish wines.
Must-Try Meals:
From paella and tapas to empanadas and churros, La Barraca has a variety of dishes that will transport you to the streets of Spain. Don’t miss out on their famous seafood paella, filled with shrimp, mussels, clams, and chorizo.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 110 W Coal Ave | (505) 863-3839 | Mon-Sat: 11am-9pm, Sun: Closed |
Reviews:
“La Barraca is my go-to spot for Spanish food in Gallup. The paella is always amazing and the sangria is delicious. Highly recommend this place!” – Maria L.
“The food here is always fresh and flavorful. I love their tapas and their churros. And the service is always top-notch.” – David R.
Average Cost:
The average cost for a meal at La Barraca is around $20 per person.
Earl’s Family Restaurant: A Local Favorite for Homestyle Cooking
For homestyle Cooking at its best, head to Earl’s Family Restaurant, located at 1400 E Highway 66. This family-owned restaurant has been a local favorite since it opened in 1988, serving up classic American dishes with a New Mexican twist.
Customer Experience:
Earl’s Family Restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly staff and efficient service. The restaurant also has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and local products.
Must-Try Meals:
From chicken fried steak and green chili stew to enchiladas and burgers, Earl’s Family Restaurant has a variety of dishes that will satisfy any craving. Don’t miss out on their famous Navajo taco, topped with beans, ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and red or green chili.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1400 E Highway 66 | (505) 863-4201 | Mon-Sat: 6am-9pm, Sun: 7am-8pm |
Reviews:
“Earl’s Family Restaurant is my go-to spot for homestyle cooking in Gallup. The Navajo taco is a must-try and the service is always friendly.” – Rachel M.
“I come here every time I’m in town and I’m never disappointed. The food is always delicious and the portions are huge. Highly recommend this place!” – Michael B.
Average Cost:
The average cost for a meal at Earl’s Family Restaurant is around $12 per person.
Q&A
Q: Are reservations required at these restaurants?
A: Reservations are not required, but it is recommended to call ahead for larger parties or during peak hours.
Q: Do these restaurants offer vegetarian/vegan options?
A: Yes, all of these restaurants have vegetarian and/or vegan options available on their menus.
Q: Are these restaurants family-friendly?
A: Yes, all of these restaurants are family-friendly and offer a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
Q: Do these restaurants offer takeout or delivery options?
A: Yes, all of these restaurants offer takeout and some may offer delivery options as well. It is best to call ahead to confirm.
Q: Are these restaurants wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, all of these restaurants are wheelchair accessible.
Conclusion
Gallup, New Mexico offers a diverse selection of restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. From classic American diners to Mediterranean cuisine, there is something for everyone in this charming town. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, be sure to check out El Metate Tamale Factory, Genaro’s Cafe, Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe, The 505 Burgers & Wings, Jerry’s Cafe, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Oasis Mediterranean Restaurant, Route 66 Railway Cafe, La Barraca, and Earl’s Family Restaurant for a delicious dining experience.
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