The best Italian restaurants in Albuquerque, NM – Part 1

You may not think of Albuquerque, New Mexico as being the best place to find an Italian restaurant, but in fact you can find many fantastic restaurants with Italian cuisine there. Here are some of my favorite restaurant options:

1. Trombino’s Bistro Italiano. 5415 Academy Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109, Phone: (505) 821-5974

Trombino’s is a great Italian restaurant. The meals are delicious and served up in large portions and the service is also very good. The ambiance is quite elegant in the dining room, while the bar is hopping and lively. There are some unique menu options that are particularly tasty, including the Fritti Di Mare (a seafood pasta dish) and the Chicken under a Brick (delicious chicken dish). The more classic dishes are also good here, such as the Veal Parmesan or the Lasagna.

2. Vivace. 3118 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, Phone: (505) 268-5965

Vivace’s is another nice Italian restaurant in the Nob Hill area of Albuqurque. The prices are a bit high, but the food is good and the dcor is very romantic and quaint. Try one of the pasta dishes as the homemade noodles are to die for. The wine list is also quite impressive.

3. Scalo Northern Italian Grill. 3500 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, Phone: (505) 255-8781

For another romantic Italian option, try Scalo Northern Italian Grill. The food is also great here, made with only the freshest ingredients. The Carpaccio or the White Bean Soup are both great choices for an appetizer, while the pasta dishes are only so-so. Instead, opt for a meat option for your entree like the grilled salmon filet or the pork chops. When you’re finished your meal, be sure to order up a crme brulee for dessert as it is delicious.

4. Farina’s Pizzaria Wine Bar. 510 Central Ave. SE, Albuquerque, NM 87102, Phone: 505-243-0130

If you are looking for good pizza, Farina’s is the place for you. The brick-oven-style pizza is just delicious with many creative topping options. My favorites are the Finocchio and the Bianco pizzas. The Finocchio is topped with caramelized onions and sweet fennel sausage and the Bianco is a white pizza with ricotta cheese, sage, artichoke and truffle oil. Yummy! Not only is the food good, but they also have a great wine and beer (local microbrewery beers on tap as well) selection. The atmosphere is also very lively, with fun music and a interesting dcor.

Enjoy your Italian meal out in Albuquerque!