This Restaurant In New Mexico Is Located In The Most Unforgettable Setting

There is a treasure trove of excellent restaurants in New Mexico that are sure to please your palate. However, there are also eateries offering much more than a memorable meal. Some restaurants stand out for being historic, while others are located in an unforgettable setting. That’s certainly the case with El Pinto.

El Pinto is nestled in the northwest corner of Albuquerque, near the Rio Grande. The restaurant is surrounded by mature cottonwood trees, which provide shade during hot summer days…

…And are gorgeous come fall.

On winter nights, the soft glow of farolitos beckons you inside.

After stepping into the building, the soothing sight of this water feature greets you.

It’s huge, wrapping around into the dining area.

Greenery cascades down from high window boxes. These elements, paired with the typical wood features found in many New Mexican buildings, bring nature inside.

Indoor and outdoor spaces meld together seamlessly. In warm weather, enjoy al fresco dining on the expansive patio.

And, in winter, cozy up to one of the restaurant's eight fireplaces.

You have to experience the bar at El Pinto for yourself in order to believe it. You can order from a menu of 160 different types of tequila!

As you’d expect, the margaritas are to die for – they are crafted using handmade syrup.

Happy hour runs from 4:30p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on weekdays.

Does the name of this restaurant sound familiar despite the fact that you haven’t been here? If so, you’ve probably seen (or purchased) El Pinto salsa at your local grocery store.

This restaurant has been family owned and operated since it opened in 1962. In 1994, the family’s twin sons (Jim and John Thomas) took over El Pinto. They decided to add a production facility onto the restaurant so they could share their green chile sauce and salsa with a larger audience.

Their products are so popular that the salsa division burns through 120 tons of chile each year!

Of course, the food is what truly makes a restaurant great and El Pinto's doesn't disappoint. In August of this year, Marc Quiñones became the Executive Chef at El Pinto. His résumé is impressive: he has been a finalist on “Cutthroat Kitchen” and a New Mexico Chef of the Year finalist as well.

Try the green chile strips, a popular and unique appetizer.

According to "The Wall Street Journal," the nachos at El Pinto are among the best in the nation.

We're fans of the chunky guacamole...

...And diners adore the red chile ribs.

There should always be a table available for you at El Pinto, since the restaurant can accommodate 1000 people!

If you'd like to dine in this stunning setting, head to 10500 4th Street in Albuquerque. For more information, visit El Pinto's website.