Mexico, a land celebrated for its vibrant culture and profound national pride, extends its warmth and spirit to its culinary traditions. Just as the ballad “Mexico Lindo Y Querido” evokes deep love for the country, Lindo Mexico Grill & Seafood in Albuquerque aims to capture that essence in its dining experience. This restaurant, with two locations, offers a taste of authentic Mexican flavors, blending traditional grilled dishes with the freshness of mariscos (seafood).
From the heart of Mexico’s culinary simplicity, using staples like corn, peppers, and beans, Lindo Mexico crafts a menu that resonates with both classic and innovative tastes. Since its inception in 2005, this establishment has become a vibrant spot in Albuquerque, first on Central Avenue and later expanding to the Northeast Heights in 2022. Both locations promise not just a meal, but an immersive experience into a beautifully appointed space that reflects the soul of Mexico.
Agave Pulp Extraction at Lindo Mexico Eubank Entrance
Stepping into Lindo Mexico is a sensory journey. At the Eubank location, the exterior itself hints at the authenticity within, with displays reminiscent of traditional tequila making. Often, the sounds of a live mariachi band greet diners, setting a festive tone right from the entrance. Inside, the décor is a vibrant explosion of color and texture. The seating features equipales chairs, crafted from maguey cactus fibers and secured with leather, offering a unique and traditional dining posture. The bar area is particularly striking, a dazzling display of colors that enhances the lively atmosphere.
Lindo Mexico Bar Area with Colorful Design
Finding a table under the gaze of Frida Kahlo, a celebrated Mexican artist, adds a cultural touch to the dining experience. This sought-after spot allows for great people-watching and an appreciation of the restaurant’s artwork, all while exploring the menu. Lindo Mexico’s menu is a comprehensive guide to Mexican culinary favorites, from grilled specialties to exquisite seafood dishes. To start, consider an agua fresca, a refreshing and flavorful beverage. Options like horchata, melon, and pineapple provide a sweet and cooling counterpoint to the rich flavors of the cuisine. The horchata, especially, with its generous hint of cinnamon, is a house favorite.
Table Setting with Frida Kahlo Portrait at Lindo Mexico
Lindo Mexico’s commitment to flavor is evident right from the start with their complimentary salsa and con queso served with crispy, lightly salted chips. While Albuquerque The Magazine recognized their salsa as a top contender in the city in 2012, noting it among the best out of 130 samples, it’s worth noting its thin consistency. This makes it ideal for dipping rather than scooping, and it offers a mild heat that appeals to a broad palate. The con queso, though served in a smaller portion, is a richer, thicker complement to the chips, quickly enjoyed.
Complimentary Salsa and Con Queso with Chips at Lindo Mexico
Generosity is a hallmark of Lindo Mexico. Portion sizes are substantial, ensuring no one leaves hungry. The menu is thoughtfully designed to cater to diverse tastes, offering combination plates that blend grilled meats and seafood. For those who enjoy the flavors of the sea, the ceviche de camaron (shrimp ceviche) is a must-try. Prepared with lime juice, tomatoes, jalapeno, and cilantro, it’s a vibrant and zesty dish. For oyster lovers, the loaded oysters, topped with fresh shrimp ceviche, offer a delightful oceanic and citrusy experience. However, be prepared for a significant lime presence in the ceviche, which delivers a tangy punch.
Ceviche de Camaron at Lindo Mexico
For meat enthusiasts, Lindo Mexico excels with its grilled options. The ribeye steak, in particular, is highly recommended. Diners have praised Lindo Mexico for their steak seasoning, often comparing it favorably to dedicated steak restaurants. The ribeye is served alongside green asparagus, salad, and a Mexican-style baked potato. These baked potatoes, wrapped in foil and baked until perfectly soft, are served with a generous amount of butter, offering a uniquely moist and flavorful side dish that complements the steak beautifully.
Perfectly Cooked Ribeye Steak at Lindo Mexico
To conclude the meal on a sweet note, Lindo Mexico presents a tempting dessert menu featuring Mexican classics and innovative creations. The tres leches cake is a standout, celebrated as one of the best in Albuquerque. Its incredibly moist texture, true to its name meaning “three milks,” is a delightful indulgence. Another excellent choice is the dulce de leche cheesecake, offering a rich, creamy caramel flavor atop a graham cracker crust, a unique twist on traditional cheesecake.
Tres Leches Cake and Vanilla Ice Cream Desserts at Lindo Mexico
For a shared dining experience, the parrillada de carne asada (grilled beef platter) is an excellent option. This platter, designed for two, includes marinated grilled beef, sausages, queso fundido, fried jalapenos, and baked potatoes, accompanied by warm tortillas. While the beef cut may be thin, the flavors are robust and authentically Mexican. The charro beans, richly flavored with sausage and tripe, are another noteworthy side.
Lindo Mexico Restaurant Exterior in Albuquerque
Both Lindo Mexico locations, on Eubank and Central Avenue, offer a vibrant and beautiful setting for enjoying Mexican cuisine. The Central Avenue location has long been a favorite, bustling with diners at lunch and dinner. The newer Eubank location is quickly gaining similar popularity. Whether you are a local or a visitor to Albuquerque, Lindo Mexico Grill & Seafood provides a flavorful and visually rich dining experience that truly celebrates the culinary spirit of Mexico.
Lindo Mexico
- 5250 Eubank, N.E., Albuquerque, New Mexico, (505) 433-4310, Web Site, Facebook Page
- 7209 Central Avenue, N.E., Albuquerque, New Mexico, (505) 266-2999, Web Site, Facebook Page
