Monroe’s Restaurant
1520 Lomas Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM, 87104
Monroe’s Restaurant Menu
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Gringo Dinners
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Hamburgers
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Sandwiches
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Sides & Extras
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Dessert
Healthy Meal suggestions for Monroe’s Restaurant
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Gringo Dinners
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Hamburgers
-
Sandwiches
-
Sides & Extras
-
Dessert
Visit below restaurant in Albuquerque for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Albuquerque for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
1520 Lomas Blvd NW
Albuquerque, NM, 87104 - Phone (505) 242-1111
- Website https://www.monroeschile.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :10:00 am - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Brunch, Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
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Roger N.
We just drove into town (from Dallas) and we were looking for a good New Mexican restaurant. We drove around downtown, then we're headed back towards some that we spotted when I saw Monroe's. The parking was full, so I figured that it must be good. We were not disappointed - the food was awesome and the service on point. Just what two road weary travelers needed! We have great Mexican food in California, but now we have a great New Mexican restaurant as well! Kudos to the staff!
(4)Austin L.
The food is top notch quality, and the price doesn't break your wallet. I rate this restaurant 5 star for the fantastic customer service. My waiter was very friendly, and helpful with recommendations.
(5)Parker L.
I really can't believe this place has 4 stars. This was the worst Mexican, New Mexican food I think I have ever had. Server was nice. Tea was ok. Sopapillas were the best thing we had. Chile rellenos were gross and burnt. It would be obvious to anyone with restaurant experience that the oil in the fryers aren't being changed on a regular basis. Chips were stale. My wife's dish, sopapitas(?) and cheese enchiladas were cold and burt as well. Hate to waste food, but we threw away most of our food. 4 stars! Wow.
(1)Linda S.
One could not find better New Mexican food! This location is perfect for visitors since Old Town is just down the street. The restaurant is clean, staff extremely pleasant and the food is superb! If you can catch owner, Miguel during your visit, it will be a memory worth repeating! Get your chile fix!
(5)Taffany H.
4 stars for the ambiance and service actually. I really want to give Monroe's an 4 star rating for food but compared to the other NM restaurants, this place fell a bit short in terms of flavor. Something is a little off. The thing to try here is the Chile Relleno and you can order this with or without the meat stuff. I've tried the "seafood" stuffed Chile Relleno and the "seafood" part turned out to be just surumi/fish cake stuff, not appetizing. The Chile Relleno itself came out piping hot and crispy but the batter was a bit blah-so I'd cover it up with the salsa, bean and some cheese and it tasted better. Be forewarned that the complementary salsa could be a bit too salty and some of the chips are a bit on the stale side. The sopapilla is also more on the savory side compared to what I'm used to at another NM restaurant. But this, I'd say to each her own, I prefer mine on a sweeter-softer side.
(3)Jim W.
Fabulous New Mexican food. Our server (I should have got his name) was great - great recommendations and service. He recommended a couple of dishes - settled on the Chile Reñellos ... carne asada - christmas ... added an Adovada enchilada. Best meal all weekend. It appears from what I see in reviews and what others near me ordered... you can't go wrong here.
(5)Danielle S.
It's a small thing...a tiny thing...and yet it is so appreciated. This place will ASK me if I want the "lettuce and pico garnish" on my plate. Which I don't. It sucks up the wonderful sauce and wilts and I don't eat it. Service is attentive, food is good, prices are great. Nothing more I could ask for. Been through two different times passing through Albuquerque.
(5)Twilla S.
I had the Grn chili cheese burger with onion rings. The burger was amazing and the onions the best I've had. You have to try them out!
(5)Paul G.
Was in ABQ visiting friends and they took us here for breakfast..great little down home restaurant. I had the chicken fried steak skillet with green chile cream sauce and it was awesome..portions were huge, service and ambiance was spot on..one of the best meals we had there . Highly recommended for authentic New Mexican cuisine.
(5)Love D.
Had dinner here with another adult and child. We ordered child chile cheeseburger, a la carte burritos. And salsa and chips, which we good. I like salsa with "hotness"! I had both red and green chile on my burrito. The red chile was hotter and delicious! The staff was friendly. I will go back to try something else!
(3)Zion B.
Fantastic NM authentic cuisine. Had the chile rellenos with carne Asada. It was ridiculously good. Great service, and cool comfortable seating. The sopapillas were good but not the best I ever had. Outside of that I was really impressed.
(5)Diana C.
Great food and wonderful atmosphere! Love it! The sopapillas are amazing! Pretty decent pricing also!
(5)Casey Q.
On my last night in ABQ - ain't that always the way? - I found *the place* for real New Mexican awesome. Their green chile sauce was superb, the blue corn cheese enchiladas were perfection, and their quacamole was AMAZING. It does take those of us who grew up on Cal-Mex a little time to get used to the very native American influenced New Mexican version of border food, but it's worth it if you hit Monroe's first, not last =)
(4)S H.
Great food and service when we stayed over night. The people working there were very friendly and wasn't rude , we appreciate it
(5)Imre A.
Not the great taste I was hoping for. Garlic cumin, come on plain ground beef. Red chillie was bitter too.
(2)Masha A.
Not good at all and wouldn't come back. We are from Texas and this doesn't compare. Maybe it's good for a local but not at all if you've had good Mexican.
(1)Lisa G.
This has been our favorite New Mexican diner since living here the last 3 years. The staff has always been wonderful and seem to be happy working there. Very relaxed and very efficient service. One reason it has been a favorite is that the salsa isn't too spicy. We're from the Midwest and can't handle the heat of some other places. Although, we went last night for the first time in awhile and while the service was still superb, the salsa was a bit spicy (but at least not inedible), and the chips were a little off. Not sure how to describe them, but burnt maybe? And the servings were smaller than I remember. However, we will still leave with fond memories. I always got the chicken enchilada platter with red & green chile.
(4)Saul R.
I have not had good experiences eating here, despite visiting repeatedly. Rude management. Poor food flavor / presentation. Somehow, I always had food and / or management problems when I was required to attend for work lunches, which were the only times I ate there. While I wish I could give this restaurant another try to hopefully feel better about Monroe's, I have since left the sunny Southwest for the dreary Pacific Northwest. Sadly, I cannot endorse this restaurant.
(1)Patrick B.
Great food, great value, great service. This place is awesome. No complaints, just a great time. I got a free sopapilla too. I got the special of the day, which I thought came with a sopapilla but didn't (but given how much food I got it wasn't necessary). When I asked about it the staff gave me one for free as take-out. Score! I'm not mentioning this to suggest you should ask for free food but the situation just reflects how nice they are here.
(5)Robert Y.
Walked in 10 minutes before they closed and the hospitality and service was excellent regardless of our tardiness. The red and green enchiladas were very good. The chili was tasty and not hot. Finished off the meal with a fluffy sopaipilla and honey.
(5)Cathy R.
We were in town visiting. Food was mediocre, but the staff was really friendly. They only gave one sopapilla between the three of us. The food here is one star. The extra star is for the staff.
(3)John W.
I'd eaten here as a teen about 30 years ago and thought I'd bring the family when we finally made it back to Albuquerque recently. And it was great! Relleno and adovada taco were excellent. Red chile (with chicken and beans), the same. Salsa was delicious. Sopapillas were great, too. I've lived in California and now live in Phoenix, so I have experienced Mexican food plenty, but it was nice to get a little New Mexican, for variety and that emphasis on the local chiles. The staff was exceptionally friendly as was the (second-generation) owner.
(5)Tochka R.
Monroe's continues to be my neighborhood restaurant of choice. Great food and service every time I go! Love the carne adovada and the sopaipillas are the best in town.
(5)Cheryl F.
Friends recommend this place. We had the Green Chile Cheeseburger on a tortilla. Very good! Also had their famous green chili stew. Simple, good food. Very friendly and fast. Glad we stopped!
(4)Craig L.
Visited here on a Sunday morning for breakfast. The location on Osuna; not old town. A local had recommended it. I was pleased I took the advice. Mexican omelet with sausage and green chili was delicious. Got extra chills on the side. Menu said it was served with hash browns. What came were "papitas", and were much better than any hash browns could have been. The waitress said that sometimes customers were confused about this; but I hope you stay with the papitas. Companion had eggs, bacon, potatoes and a sopapilla. Also wonderful. Will definitely be back on next trip to Albuquerque to try lunch or dinner.
(5)Brandon M.
Incredible service and amazing food. Our waiter anticipated our needs and every other waiter worked to make sure all was well (normally other waiters think it isn't their problem). 00 green chile was great and food was fast.
(5)Stephanie G.
Pros: Yummy food and decent service. Cons: Dead flies on window sill next to our table and ants on the wall across from restrooms... coulda gone without seeing those..
(3)Natacha M.
Best New Mexican food that we have had while visiting Albuquerque. We will be back on every trip. Everything was delicious. Salsa was good and spicy. Green chili was our favorite. Staff was very friendly.
(5)Amy S.
Everything you are looking for in a Mexican food restaurant. Clean, lively atmosphere. Fantastic waitstaff... Very friendly and helpful... Glasses never hit empty. Chips and salsa were fresh and just right. Chile relleno was best I've had in long long time. Rice and beans, perfect. Green Chile sauce, and I'm picky, was delicious though not very spicy hot. Ambiance is more café and less rustic. Breakfast all day. I will be back!!!
(5)kathy a.
Mmmmmmm. Staff was super friendly, prices were reasonable, and food was tasty! We all got the combination plate with enchilada and substituted the chili relleno for the tamale, although after tasting their adovado, i may have to go back. Can i just say, i LOVE chile relleno! It is reason enough to come to new mexico. Monroe's makes a tasty one, and, like i said, i don't think you could go wrong with their carne adovado either, it was succulent! They also have locally brewed beer, and my hefeweizen was the perfect beverage to wash down that tasty new mexican food.
(4)Julie F.
What a great place! We were in town traveling through when we came upon Monroes on the outskirts of Old town. The appearance was understated and looked a bit outdated but it didn't matter. It was near closing on a Saturday night and yet the waitstaff was so helpful and friendly. Everyone stopped by to see how we were doing and even sang "Happy Birthday" to one of our party. The food was yummy. Everything was fresh and served quickly. Our party had veggie fajitas, meat fajitas and grilled cheese, which were all served hot and delicious.
(4)Elizabeth E.
Wowza, this Texan and passionate TexMex lover was over the moon with Monroe's New Mexican food. If that is New Mexican food, I can get behind it! We went for lunch, and I immediately fell in love with the homemade chips and salsa that tasted like it was made a few minutes before we arrived with beautiful green chilis. I had the super combination platter (and changed the tamale for a chili relleno from our waitress' suggestion when I asked for a non-pork substitute). Fantastic and fresh chicken taco, amazing relleno. My partner had the carne adovada platter and about licked up every bite. The sopaipilla that came with the platter had super tasty dough. The only thing I did not love was the rice, but I think that's just a different style than what I am used to in my favorite Mexican-influenced cuisine. Also, I loved the staff. They all work together and have wonderful personalities that make it fun to dine there. When I'm back in Albuquerque, Monroe's will be my first stop!
(5)Megan M.
Little expensive for Mexican, but good food and great service. Decor could use some work but the location is nice and convenient. I'm picky about my sopapillas but Monroe's are very good.
(4)Jennifer D.
Our Airbnb hosts recommended Monroe's for its good, local food, and it was within walking distance of our house. While lacking atmosphere, Monroe's delivers on everything else. I polished off my plate of huevos rancheros with the Christmas sauce, potatoes, and sopapilla. Friendly, fast service and overall, a fantastic dining experience. You can feel the love prominently displayed on their heart shaped neon sign. I will definitely be back every time I visit Albuquerque!
(4)Mike O.
Staff was very friendly and helpful, but that was the only good thing about my visit. I had high expectations which was perhaps part of the problem. The tostadas were stale. The Chile was mild, and the carne adovada was unremarkable. The sopapillas were too chewy, which was a fitting final course to a lackluster dinner. I will try this place again another night because I think their staff deserves another chance, but overall I was not pleased.
(3)Brad W.
Well this time there was only one pesky fly in the restaurant and it did attempt to make some landings. You have to guard your food in ABQ. This meal could have been better. For $8, I got a complete meal, but it was hit and miss. Sopapilla - great stuff here, fluffy and unlimited honey Free Chips and Salsa - Solid again. Salsa was mild and chips were fresh and crunchy. Red and Green - neither had any heat and I didn't sweat, which indicates a problem Chile Relleno- looked pretty and was lightly breaded, but the actual chile was very tough to cut through even with a real steak knife provided. Cheddar Cheese is not an authentic cheese filling either - white cheese is authentic. Waiter said I could have switched to Mozzarella, but Monterey jack should be default filling. Beans and Rice - pretty standard. flies and average food mean no return.
(3)Becky O.
A friend took me here while I was passing through Albuquerque. A great neighborhood restaurant with authentic New Mexican food. I had the taco-guacamole plate and so papilla. The salsa was very fresh and everything was tasty. Great food at a reasonable price!
(4)Michael L.
The enchiladas were nothing to write home about. The beans were dry and the rice was good.
(3)A J.
The staff here was awesome, we had two servers checking on us and both were incredibly friendly! We ordered the chicken enchilada and the Puerto Rican bean enchilada, both were good. A lot a lot of melted cheese on top, so I'd maybe ask for a little less if I went back. The rice side and veggie side both had good flavor. Came with a Sopapilla and honey on the side which we loved. The interior could use a little sprucing up, it wasn't the comfiest, but I would recommend this place to others! Also they do have vegetarian and gluten free options listed on the menu!
(4)Wes T.
Having grown up in southern New Mexico, I knew of this place, but had never been. Family came into town, they wanted the real-deal of NM cooking, and so I thought we'd give her a shot. I am pleased to report that Monroe's did not disappoint. The restaurant is unassuming, and the food is top-notch. They have some interesting specials, and even a gluten-free/low-carb menu. I was especially interested in the Mexican pizza (essentially an oversized open-face beef enchilada). You don't see that everyday. Really good service. This is a team atmosphere type place, and you'll see the servers kind of rotating between tables. We always had water, chips, etc. Awesome crew at work. In New Mexico, given the intense competition, if a place has been around for 40+ years, they must be doing something right. I can see why Monroe's is still around.
(4)Theodore B.
Service was very attentive as always, but the complimentry chips and salsa we're very stale. I had the red chili cheese dog, which is not nearly as good as one half price at the dog house. My husband had an Indian taco which was very good but for that price should have been a little bit bigger.
(3)Chris C.
We came here shortly after getting off the plane, and right after visiting Jesse Pinkman, and were starving for something hearty. I was told I had to try a green chili cheeseburger a few days prior to our visit, however, this particular place recommended their red chili cheeseburger, so the green had to wait. I was pleasantly surprised and would certainly come here again if I find myself back in the area. The service was very friendly, and accommodating.
(4)Adam S.
I wanted to break away from the overtly touristy places in Old Town and was extremely satisfied with Monroe's. I was by myself on a quick trip and wanted to get the most authentic "New Mexican" food that I could find. The salsa was great, very fresh and with a nice kick to it. I ordered a Chile Relleno with Pork Avocado and wish I was eating that again right now. It was cheesy, flavorful and delicious and covered with red chile sauce. This was also my first experience with a sophapilla and I loved it too. I was full when it came to eat it but I still polished it off. I bought a jar of salsa, as well as some red chile sauce so I could replicate this meal back home. Stop in this place, you'll be happy you did!
(5)D R.
Barely ok food (highly over rated based on other yelp reviews), average ambiance (no character) and over priced. A plate of 2 Renneros with NO MEAT for 11.95. Anyone who thinks this is the best mexican food in ABQ, there is something wrong here - pls do yourself a favor and visit Hacienda Del Rio - great location, AMAZING FOOD, beautiful setup/ambiance and great pricre & service. Thats where we ate the next night, and cursed myself for wasting a meal in ABQ on Monroe's.
(1)Rob N.
A group of us on a business trip stopped in here looking for some good food on the cheap. I had the fajita quesadilla with chicken, which was OK. The others in the group all liked their meals as well, but noone was raving. Decent food, good prices, friendly staff, poor ambience - it's definitely not an Old Town Albuquerque experience, but it's a good fallback.
(3)C C.
Lunch was fab. Staff was wonderful. I too had to battle a fly while I ate.........however, I will be back again!
(4)Ashley E.
Monroe's is a must-go place for fabulous, from-the-heart NEW Mexican cooking. (If you're expecting traditional Mexican, you may be disappointed.) This restaurant showcases it's love and passion for local New Mexican chiles--both red and green. The Indian Tacos are fab, as are the stuffed sopapillas and enchiladas. The service is always friendly, fast, and knowledgeable.
(5)Lyssa D.
I haven't been to Monroe's in years. I worked here in college for awhile, and I think I ate enough at that time, that I don't need NM food very often. But, my little sister wanted a burrito, so I thought, "Hey, Monroe's". The food is fine, the service was good. They now have a gluten free menu, which was nice. I had the Carne Adovada with Calabacitas. I enjoyed the Carne, but the Calabacitas weren't very good, they tasted like the oil was off. My little sis liked her bean burrito. So, I would say Monroe's is still fine.
(3)Sarah C.
Monroe's was my first experience in NM- we got a meal here as soon as we got off the plane from MA. The service was really good- our server was very informative about the food,offered us some of the chilies to try before ordering, and he was attentive and pleasant. I ordered a burger with red chili and sweet potato fries and was very happy with my meal. I wish I could have come back for something else! I love the style compared to a typical American burger.
(4)Julie W.
Great food and excellent prices. I have been going there for years and have yet to be disappointed! The chili is good and the service is great.
(5)Scout V.
Both of us from out of town, we picked the 1st Mexican restaurant on Yelp. Extremely satisfied. Awesome original fresh food, friendly service, and good prices. Order the chili rellenos!
(5)Myria M.
I must say that my polish grandmother used to love this place but I only like it ok. The chile is not has spicy or as red ad I typically like it. This place is very good for tourists who are new to spicy foods. The chile rellenos are really good!
(3)Drun 0.
Great food ! Even better service :) Enjoyed the tamale, veg burrito and chicken burrito. Ask for their green chile sauce. It's awesome.
(5)Amy C.
Great food but very over-priced. Ala carte burrito with guacamole and sour cream, about $11.00. Size was tiny compared to almost any other Mexican restaurant. More like a soft taco.
(2)Lisa B.
Friendly staff and quick service. I had a combination enchilada plate and it was so tasty. Sopapillas were very good and not too greasy.
(4)Dena F.
We were shopping and cold and ready for food...c'mon Yelp app, don't fail me now! And it didn't. It pointed us right to Monroe's where we had yummy Indian tacos. They are giant and pretty tasty. I liked the diner-y feel to the the place. I was not as WOW'ed as everyone else was by the food. It was good and there was plenty of it, but it was not the most amazing food we had on vacation.
(3)Paul E.
The service was above and beyond. My girlfriend and I showed up nearly an hour before opening (we forgot to check the opening time online), nonetheless the owner seated us. My girlfriend and I are from Seattle, so the owner made us seafood shaped (jellyfish) sopapilla to make us feel at home. The food was pretty good, and there was a lot of it. Overall Monroe's was a great experience.
(5)Jayson L.
Such a great place with a great staff. Excellent food and the owner is a riot!!! They really make everyone feel important here!!
(5)Katie T.
Yes.
(4)Joe C.
Stopped in on the way back to California. Looked up good Mexican food and Monroe's came up. Maybe it was an off night, but the red chili was more like canned enchilada sauce and the combo plate my wife ordered was mediocre at best and not even hot when served. The staff did little more than apologize. So many options for Mexican food, our favorite, and our pick was truly disappointing.
(2)Daniel R.
Awesome food and awesome people! Get the Chille Relleno with steak and green chile!
(4)Colleen B.
I was disappointed when I entered Monroe's. I was hoping fore more atmosphere. However, the food was very tasty. I had the cheese enchilada and chile relleno. They both were among the best I've had.
(4)Ron H.
If this is the best Albuquerque has to offer I am disappointed in the food quality. It is definitely canned green chilies. Beans and rice were mediocre. I was expecting a much better tex mex experience after all the positive reviews. Service is the only thing good about this place.
(3)Aislinn F.
Great food and an unexpected find!
(4)Jordana G.
Great service, excellent food. It's like stepping into the heart of Albuquerque to eat here. The sopaipillas were so good, too. I'd recommend this is a place to bring visitors who want to see the "real" Abq.
(4)cat b.
NOMS!!!!!! This place looks a bit scary--it is a dive, but it is clean, the service is amazing, and the food blew us away. Sopapillas, check. Freshly fried chips and refreshing salsa, check. Tamales? Hard to get back home (NW), so I'm always wary...these were incredible. Smothered in green chile sauce, I could not eat them fast enough. My husband had chicken enchiladas, which he absolutely loved. Having lived in New Mexico, he is a bit of a New Mexican Food Snob. He was amazed at how good Monroe's was. It looks like a local joint, not touristy at all. At this location, take-out may be the bulk of their business. Doesn't matter, because the entire staff serves every customer. We must have had 3 different waiters help us while we were there for less than 1 hour. They are serious when they tell you that they work as a team. I couldn't figure out which impressed me more--the food or the service. The other location was not as good, for some reason. Their food was slightly salty and the rice wasn't great.
(5)Coppertone W.
Best Mexican food I have ever had! Fish Tacos were great and had a substantial amount of fish, rice and beans on the side were.....MY GOD! So delicious! I will never forget this meal! Staff was the bomb!
(5)Tina R.
Thanks Yelpers! You were right, really good food, great service and very accommodating to a group of 8 coming in near closing. Casual place, simple "decor" and just what we needed.
(4)Vincent M.
Absolutely wonderful New Mexican food. Great customer service, great food and fast service. I had the super platter with red and green and my wife had the recommended green chili burger. No complaints :)
(5)Michaele M.
Ate here based on its high reviews. The service was excellent! Very nice and attentive waiters. I had the seafood enchiladas and the fajita quesadilla. Hmmm...well, the food wasn't bad, I just think I was expecting something mind-blowing - my fault for getting my expectations up so high. The enchiladas were very cheesy and I did like the seafood, it just wasn't anything great, just ok. The quesadilla was filling, but was just slightly dry-tasting (I guess b/c of a the meat in it) and u get only a tiny bit of guacamole, pico de gallo and sour cream. Overall, okay, but I think they should bring their prices down just slightly.
(3)Sophie B.
When we walked in, after finding Monroe's on Yelp, I thought at first that we had chosen the wrong place to try New Mexican cuisine. The decor, shall we say, is lacking. But as soon as we tried the salsa we were convinced. The carne adobada is superb, and both the red and green chiles are delicious. To top it off, hey also have a menu that includes vegan and gluten free options.
(4)Heather T.
We came in here because my friend's mother wanted to go to this place because it was on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. It turned out it was on there for a very good reason. The guy who served us was really friendly, and recommended items when we stalled. The waiter who helped bring our food to us told jokes and gave us many a laugh. The food wasn't as good as at Bodega Burger on Saturday, but it was worth the money.
(3)Christa M.
Who gave this place 4 stars??? Tisk! Tisk! Tisk! What a huge let down. The only fresh item was the guacamole. The salsa tasted like the can that the tomatoes came out of. My husband ordered a burrito with rice, re-fried beans, bell peppers and onions, smothered with green chili. The green chilis were canned and they tasted like the can too. I can't believe it! Shame, shame, shame. This is Albuquerque, NM....I didn't know green chili came in cans in Albuquerque. The burrito left a lot to be desired. I had a Monroe's Grill (turkey sandwich with avocado slices and green chili on rye) with a side of onion rings. The rings tasted like they were frozen and my sandwich also had canned green chili on it. We even looked up the address in Yelp to make sure we didn't walk into the wrong place. Unfortunately, we were in the right place. We were totally confused by all the high ratings our brother and sister Yelpers left. Maybe it was just a bad day for Monroe's. One thing that the other ratings did get right was the service is indeed excellent. Good job Monroe's for your quality wait staff. I'll pass and I won't be suggesting this place to anyone.
(2)Steve D.
Hot sauce was perfect heat. Glad for free refills on soda. Sopapilla comes with your meal - they are wonderful. Great service. A MUST for any Mexican food lover.
(5)Kelly B.
When you are traveling alone, dinner is sometimes an awkward time. You get tired of pbnj sandwiches or choosing between fries with that. You want to eat good food, but you don't want anything too chi chi or romantic. Personally, I like to take my kindle and then I have something to take my gaze while I am eavesdropping on the other patrons. The photos on YELP made me think that this might be the right kind of restaurant and they couldn't have helped me make a better choice. Just a few uncomplicated blocks from Old Town, Monroe's is an uncomplicated restaurant with tons of parking outside, air conditioning inside and lots and lots of food. The service was friendly, two college guys and a high schooler who were watching the soccer game when I came in... and a boss that wanders through and a woman who carries in stacks of clean cups from goodness knows where. The guys were super-friendly, inquiring about what I was reading on my kindle, changing the game to the All Star game and striking up a conversation. I had chips and salsa, something smothered in green chile, with guac and sour cream and sweet potato fries. Oh! And iced tea. Other people wandered in, older couples (you know the type, like mom and dad, here for the _bargain_), younger couples, two women who looked like jocks. Everyone was spoken to, cheered up and seen to. My iced tea never got empty and every request was met with "I'll get that right out." My special-of-the-day something-or-other chili, cheese and guac/sourcream smothered dish w/ drink and fries was $13.00. I was cheered by my whole dinner. I went for a ride with my camera. Although it's not haute cuisine, it is very good at what it does. It takes the tired and hungry of Albuquerque and feeds them, makes them cheerful and sends them back out in the world again. Thank you!
(5)Nancy R.
Nice family/neighborhood atmosphere. Good food. Nothing fancy, but if you're hungry for good New Mexican food, this is the place!
(5)Julie N.
Tried adovada and sopapillas for the first time here. The food was very tasty and the service was great. Upon hearing that we hadn't had sopapillas before the waiter gave us a thorough description and suggestions on how to eat them. I'm looking forward to going back!
(4)Chris T.
Had a good carne adovada chimmichanga and sopas. The green sauce was not as picante as I would have preferred.
(4)Amanda S.
As any New Mexico transplant knows, you have to load up on the green chile and good food when you come back for a visit. Monroe's is so quintessential NM, that it's become a tradition to eat here on my way to the airport every time I'm in town...and my refrigerator is filled with their salsa and green chile sauce back in SoCal. My favorite meal is the green chile cheese enchiladas (some of the best in Albuquerque) and I always add a crunchy beef taco a la carte. The posole is also good, and overall it's just a great representation of New Mexican food. It has a friendly local vibe that makes me love it even more!
(5)Dawn H.
We came in from out of town and Yelped this place. Based on the reviews we decided to give it a go. It was really worth it. Food was great, service was great and the price made it more than worth while. I highly recommend this restaurant.
(4)Nancy P.
Yummy! Locals eat here, it was pretty busy for a Monday night but you can still get a seat right away. We didn't want to wait forever at Sadies so, we found this gem. I had the BEST Carne Adovado Stuffed Sopapilla with red AND green chili. It was sooo good. I didn't order rice and beans with it, they didn't seem homemade. I did take a bite of my husbands rice and it had good flavor. But, the sopapilla was pretty big so no need for rice n beans anyways. If I lived here I would be here a few times a week. The green chili had a real good flavor and heat. I love the burn, yum! I would definitely want to eat here rather than at Sadies. The flavor is just much better here and they don't dump a crap load of cheese on top of every thing.
(5)Bryan S.
I'm born and raised in Los Angeles and thus no stranger to Mexican food. But as I learned on a recent visit to Monroe's, I know nothing about NEW Mexican food! This meal completely blew away my expectations about just how good such a dining experience can be. Perhaps we're just too poor or I have become too jaded by candle-lit, cheese-laden cliches. But what astounded me about the food at Monroe's was how FLAVORFUL it was -- how light and zesty and filling -- and how lovingly prepared. Our enchiladas, tamale and quesadilla were spot on, bolstered no doubt by the outstanding home-made salsa. I kept saying to myself, aha, so that's what this should taste like! Each bite was deeply satisfying like home-made comfort food should be. Based on previous reviewers (I wouldn't have stopped here without Yelp), I made sure to order the sopapilla (learned how to pronounce it, too), an airy fried bread treat that taught me what honey is for ;) Add a fantastic Mexican dark beer comparable to Becks and a rowdy, inviting -- not stuffy, not dark, moody and red table-clothed -- environment, friendly wait staff, more than reasonable prices and you get a winner in my book. Travelers to Albuquerque should make this a must-stop. You can bet if f I lived here (or returned to St. John's in Santa Fe) I'd be back again and again... it would become a regular favorite. Now back home in Los Angeles I'm left with memories so good that I can't eat ordinary Mexican food again. I miss the "new" in New Mexican cuisine. Monroe's, te amo, te adororo!
(5)Kyle H.
Monroes was the best place I ate at while on vacation in Albuquerque, and I highly recommend it. We went here for breakfast/lunch on our last morning in town, and I guess we saved the best for last. I had the super huevos rancheros, which were just amazing. The food is very flavorful, though the red chile could certainly be a bit hotter. The place also became very busy as we ate there, particularly for a weekday afternoon. It certainly is a good sign if a little, slightly run down diner can pack people in at 1pm on a weekday. The sopapillas were also quite good, though it's hard to make fried dough and honey taste bad. The service is also friendly and quick. If I'm ever back in Albuquerque, I'll most definitely return.
(5)Dorothy W.
Not good enchiladas. Bland tasting, just a mess stuffed into tortillas. Nothing tasted fresh and gave me an upset stomach so that pretty much confirmed my suspicions. The chips were not great and the sopapillas were underfried, not fluffy, and cold. I'm just surprised.
(2)Courtney S.
Thank you Yelpers! Before we left New Mexico, I needed a sopaipilla fix-- searched Yelp and found this place. Excellent! The atmosphere is almost a bit divey diner, but the service was really fast and attentive, and the food delicious! I made my own meal of a chili relleno, blue corn chicken soft taco, beans, and sopaipillas, while the hubby got the Carne Adovada plate. Their main New Mexican dishes plates come with chips and salsa, while my create-your-own did not. I got EXACTLY what I wanted, though, and it was delicious!! This place is a seat-yourself-and-we'll-serve-you kind of establishment, and seemed to get really crowded at noon (we got there earlier). The food was excellent, and it was great for lunch! Wish we had food like this everywhere in SoCal. I love New Mexican food!!
(4)Clair M.
I'm not a big New Mexican food fan, but i thought this place was good. The whole red or green chili thing is a bit strange to me since I am used to the taquerias in Northern CA putting enchilada sauce on and enchilada. I had a enchilada, a tamale, a taco, and a sopaipilla! My food was good, the service was fast and friendly, and the sopaipllia was fantastic. The beans were a little bland, and the salsa is kind of tomatoie. My Dad had a sandwich, and sweet potato fries that he seemed to enjoy. I searched for a place near my Dad's house that had sopaipillas and saw that it had good reviews so I decided to try it.
(4)Karen T.
I went to Monroe's today on my lunch break. I had to wait 30 minutes for my food-(a bean and beef burrito ala carte). Everyone else who came in before and after me was served. The burrito was dry and tasteless so it was a huge disappointment.
(1)Sara S.
I really liked the chile relleno with both red and green salsa. The waiters were friendly and the food came out fast. Would go back if I were in town
(4)Dana L.
We were delighted with Monroe's Mexican restaurant. The food was delicious at a good value. Atmosphere is pretty bland, but the food makes up for it. Chips and salsa are extra $. Overall, I would absolutely recommend Monroe's!
(4)Gill B.
The food was not that great over priced for what you got. Portions small. This was the second and last time I will come here. There are far better Restaurants nearby in old town priced accordingly and better decor
(2)Randell N.
Good food and service. Homey place.
(4)Sarah B.
DO NOT GO HERE! Someone at this restaurant stole the information off my credit card and went to Las Vegas on a shopping spree! I know it was this restaurant because I'm from Atlanta, and this was the only time I used my credit card when I went out west on our vacation. Also, the food was just alright- nothing like the New Mex food we had in Santa Fe.
(1)Muhammad I.
What a great place. I always take it as a good sign when the ethnicity of the food is reflected by the ethnicity of the patrons, and boy did Monroe's ever seem overrun with New Mexicans! It was like all of ABQ was there, treating each other well and enjoying themselves just like it seems folks around here spend all their time doing... This was certainly reflected in the service my girlfriend and I received. The young gentleman who waited on us was about as nice and helpful as one can be without coming across as strange or pushy. He took great care to make recommendations which he thought would please us, because he totally had us pegged as visitors or new arrivals in town (it's the latter). He told me to go with the special Chile Relleno platter without it feeling like he was upselling me, and he told me to go with both green and red chiles AND honey for my sopapilla, which turned out to be an act of great kindness. Hell, even if it's just the standard local way of eating the awesome things I appreciate his helping me fit in. He made double sure that my girlfriend's food allergies were considered and got every detail right. And the dude even asked if I was one of the local metal bands, which is just awesome. The food too was great. The salsa and chips weren't earth shattering, but both were a cut above generic offerings in most of the country. The relleno was perfectly cooked, crispy and light in a way that must be pretty hard to achieve given that it's a breaded pepper filled with meat and cheese. Not saying it was healthy or anything, but it was freakin delicious. Ditto the sopapilla, in case that wasn't already obvious. The sides of rice and refritos and squash were simple and fresh, and the iced tea was refilled frequently and with great politeness. In short, eat at Monroe's. Danny Meyer didn't create it, Jose Andres ain't behind the line, and Gordon Ramsey isn't telling you about it, and god willing that will always be true. Monroe's is great because it is unmistakably FROM HERE, run by people from here who use produce from here. And that's exactly what it's meant to be.
(5)Fred M.
I was told to come here for "authentic home cooked mexican food." LOLWUT?!?!11?! Pathetic. Taquitos, burritos, enchiladas, and canned green chiles are not authentic home cooked mexican food. This is garbage border food that comes from cans and bottles. I'll never visit this restaurant again.
(2)Ruth M.
This is our second time at Monroe's . We ate here a year ago and now on this trip as well. We thought the food was great. Service was good too, even though they were packed .
(4)Matthew W.
Really good/unique red chile (possibly not traditional). Green is good too. Chile Relleno is good - really crunchy, almost too crunchy. I got the stuffed Chile Relleno but didn't really taste any meat. The refried beans and sopapillas were good. Friendly service. Green Chile Stew was okay.
(5)Andrea P.
We found Monroe's on Yelp while visiting Albuquerque and decided to give it a try. The place isn't much to look at on the inside but it is clean and bright. The salsa was amazing, as soon as I tried it I immediately asked the waiter to bring another bowl! I ordered the green chili stew with cheese, it came with tortillas on the side which I wasn't quite sure what to do with, but I dipped them in the soup and that was yummy enough. The soup was not as flavorful as I had hoped but still pretty good... maybe it just needed some salt? My boyfriend got a 3 enchilada combo and he all but licked the plate clean, I had a taste and the enchilada sauce was very delicious! Also delivered with our meal was a sopapilla with some honey which was amazingly good and a nice little addition to the meal. Overall a very good place, good value, good food.
(4)U.S. A.
Just got done having a stuffed sopapailla and it was fantastic. Service was top notch and very friendly. Definitely check out Monroe.
(5)Sam W.
Food is overpriced and is not good at all.
(1)Rick O.
I am never disappointed with Monroe's. Granted, I am slightly biased because I worked there part time during Grad school. The food is always good because Monroe's is incredibly consistent with their taste and quality. This is because the same cooks have been working behind the scenes at Monroe's for a very long time. Mario and Chewy are the greatest! The only thing I don't recommend is the Chile Relleno as it is one of the few things they do not make in house. Everything else is good. Also, don't be afraid to request your meal exactly how you want it. They will always oblige. Of course, I'm only really talking about the Lomas location. I've been to the Osuna location a hand full of times and was never disappointed with the food or service there either, but I prefer the Lomas location nonetheless.
(5)Beth G.
I was visiting Aluquerque for just a few days for work and our hosts had Monroe's cater our lunch. Wonderful! The food was a real treat! I absolutely loved the blue corn quesadillas and the chilles rellenos were delish. Just right for my first lunch in NM!
(5)Nessie V.
More or less standard SW fare. They do have a few vegan options, so don't be afraid to ask for substitutions. Everyone is really friendly here.
(3)Chuck P.
Mediocre food, slow service.
(2)Jericha J.
I have never had "NEW" Mexican food before, Monroe's made a GREAT first impression for us! The service was awesome. All of the staff was friendly and very accomodating. Best of all, the food was so yummy:). I would definitely come back to Monroe's.
(5)Connie M.
I was just in NM for the weekend and kept ordering Carne Adovada everywhere. This was by far the best. And I do want to stress: this is NOT Mexican food, nor does it claim to be. It is NEW MEXICAN food. Go with the right expectation and you'll have a great experience.
(4)Sean O.
The closest thing to authentic New Mexican food... Monroe's is famous in Albuquerque, an absolute must if you're visiting, or if you are simply craving the best New Mexican food money can buy. Hands down the best red chile in town. The best green chile cheeseburger, (or the double O...) and excellent green chile stew. My favorite is the chicken fajita stuffed sopaipilla. Ask for the red chile without the meat and cheese on top. Its absolute heaven, right in your mouth. And pay attention to the specials of the day on the white board when you walk in. If "Pollo Rojo" is the special of the day, GET IT. If Mario or Jesus is cooking, they may even make it for you, just ask! Its sheer mania at lunch time during the week as the downtown crowd migrates over, but the wait is strangely never longer than 10-15 minutes. If you're lucky, Miguel, the smart ass but super friendly owner will greet you at the door during the day! He runs the business today the same way he did when he bought it in 1742! Hahaha... In all seriousness, expect outstanding food, a friendly and courteous wait staff, and an overall great experience. You'll see regulars at the counter that essentially have had their same spot for 40 years cracking jokes and mingling with some of the same cooks that have been there for 20. That in itself should be testimony enough! Go, enjoy and write a review when you get back to the office!
(5)Jennifer G.
Friendly staff and owners. Food is always great. Very reasonable prices. Fast service.
(5)Rosalind C.
Fantastic. I came with a group of friends after perusing Old Town for some jewelry (couldn't resist). We asked one of the locals for a restaurant recommendation, and this place came up. We had originally walked by the restaurant already, thought it looked kind of divey, but smelled awesome. Anyway, we followed our noses back, and had one of the best meals around. Let me tell you, after walking around Albuquerque for a few hours, this place really hit the spot for lunch. I had the combination enchilada plate, which came with three enchiladas - a carne adovado (pork simmered in red sauce), beef, and chicken enchilada. Man, that carne adovado was something else. I liked it so much, I went somewhere else that night, and ordered their carne adovado, but it didn't even come close to how good this stuff was at Monroe's. Oh, and the sopaipillas? Excellent. Wish we had those in Cali. Come here for real local flavor, and forget those touristy places in Old Town. This is the real deal. Delicious, and cheap to boot.
(5)Antonio O.
Good. All good. But not the kind of Mexican food I am used to and my family makes. We don't put green chiles on everything. Although I went knowing that I was in New Mexico.
(3)Taylor M.
I love Monroe's! Hands down my favorite New Mexican Food restaurant. Consistently fresh and delicious food. Excellent Chips & Salsa, Green Chile, Enchiladas, Calabacitas, Rice & Beans etc. etc. All keeps me coming back again and again.
(5)Shirley B.
We found this place here on Yelp when we rolled into Alb NM last night on our way home to LA. We wanted some authentic New Mexico food because we have plenty of the best Mexican food in L.A.. We were not disappointed with Monroe's signature dishes and sauces. The enchiladas with both the red and green sauce rolled in blue corn tortillas were hands down the best! When we arrived we must have looked like visitors so our server (I think he was also the owner) offered us some samples of their sauces and the carne adovada. Not knowing what this was as well as sopaipillas, our servers informed us in a most friendly manner. The rice and beans were barely ok. L.A. Mexican rice and beans are something you shouldn't eat but just have to because it's soooo good and comforting. I highly recommend that your build your own platter and skip the boring r&b. Go for the good stuff only! The chips and salsa are good, the carne adovada is the best and put that inside a blue corn tortilla with some red and green sauce and you'll have a five star winner. Next time I come I'll get a carne adovada platter with some sopaipillas only. The taco platter was ok. I guess they don't fry the hard shell tacos, they serve em up in an "Ortega" type taco shell. It was good if you get the carne A! Save room for a couple of sopaipillas. My son ate both of our's with honey poured all over and inside that light and fluffy piece of heaven on a plate! Great selection of Mexican beer served with lime and a ice cold mug.
(4)Heather L.
My Husband and I come here once a week! The food is ALWAYS consistent! We love the chile here! They sell their salsa as well as red chile sauce (the red chile is totally worth picking up). Everything is really well priced.
(5)John W.
Don't be afraid of ordering a burger here...it's worth it.
(5)Andy J.
After a few months, there have been no disappointments.
(4)