Previously under-the-radar, this is a cool destination that deserves its own identity. West Downtown is so much more than just the area “west of downtown.” True chile aficionados know that this is the ‘hood to get your fix, as well as take advantage of the burgeoning retail culture. Lots of new housing, eclectic dining plus the seasonal Growers’ Market in Robinson Park on Saturday mornings. The secret might not be a secret much longer. Get there before your friends, so you can gloat that you “discovered” it for yourself.
A little theater, noshing, and shopping can all be found here. Albuquerque’s New Mexican restaurant staples are in West Downtown. Duran Central Pharmacy is a vintage, full-service pharmacy with a New Mexican diner and specialty shop tucked in its adobe walls. Garcia’s Kitchen is a local chain that’s a favorite among Burque os seeking red and green chile. For gourmet salads, Vinaigrette attracts a busy lunch and dinner crowd. One of the first drive-in restaurants, and the place with one of the most recognizable neon signs on Route 66, the Doghouse has been serving up wieners since 1967. Along with all its restaurants and breweries, West Downtown is where you can browse the shelves at Downtown Books, a used bookstore, and shop at some funky, vintage local furniture and home stores. Java Joe’s is a favorite coffee shop among locals with live music and exhibits by local artists.
