La Fonda del Bosque — Restaurant in Albuquerque

I have visited my sister in Albuquerque many times in past years. We’ve eaten at many restaurants, but this was our first time at La Fonda del Bosque. What an incredible treat! It was my sister’s anniversary, but we didn’t say anything about it. You would have thought we did by our service and outstanding lunch! Located on the grounds of the Hispanic Cultural Center, the parking lot and courtyard were filled with pretty flowering trees. The large dining room had a tall ceiling and windows that flooded it with natural light. There was a beautiful kiva fireplace with candles and orchids. Soft, relaxing music played. We ordered the warm chips and four salsas (all homemade). I took a chance on the chili relleno (in the past restaurants served them smothered in chili sauce). It was crispy and filled with wild mushrooms, caramelized onions and cheese. It was crunchy (not greasy) and served on a bed of corn and red peppers. A fresh side salad with homemade dressing was also included. My sister had chicken tacos, and her husband had a green chili cheeseburger. We all said these were the best local dishes we’ve ever had! We had food from all the dishes to take home. We had to order the dessert to take home. The brownie was moist, and the churros were the best I’ve ever had - a soft puffy inside, cinnamon sugar on the outside, and served with a fluffy chocolate dip. Both homemade. We didn’t order cocktails because we wanted to try the fresh lemonade and lavender tea. Both luscious. While we waited for dessert, our delightful server Josiah brought us each a taste of a chili margarita. The taste of spice was light and didn’t overwhelm the drink. So we got to toast their anniversary! Truly gourmet lovely lunch for a very reasonable price. Only wish I could go...

Excellent food, excellent service, excellent value: love at first sight! After visiting the pinata exhibit at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, my mom and a visitor from Germany decided to give La Fonda a try. The beautiful dining room was flooded with sunlight. My mom was in a wheelchair, and the waiter and manager (JJ) couldn't have been more gracious or accommodating. We sat in a comfortable, roomy booth and ordered the best lunch we've had in years of dining out in Albuquerque. My boyfriend and I ordered the exquisite Belizan Chicken, a luscious "achiote marinated chicken breast and thigh stewed with peppers, onions and tomatoes". My mom ordered the House Organic Green Salad, which was very pretty. (She is a pescatarian who doesn't eat chili, so the menu options for her were somewhat limited, but perhaps the menu will expand in the future.) As a low-carber, I asked if I could have a side salad instead of the coconut rice and plantains that accompany the Belizan Chicken. No problem! My mom asked if she could have the dressing on the side: no problem! The chicken stew was perfectly seasoned and delicious. Sauce: luscious! The generous portion of chicken breast was moist and tender, and the balsamic salad dressing was so good I wanted to drink it! To my surprise, the chef herself (as did the manager) came to our table mid-meal to ask if we were enjoying our food. The dining room is restful but has a nice buzz. Easy to converse and soak up the sunshine. We LOVE La Fonda! Best service and food in town. Note: We entered the parking area at 8th Street & Bridge, which is a short hop to the restaurant. This is surely much closer than the 4th Street entrance...

Balloon Fiesta visitors! If you're visiting ABQ, do NOT miss La Fonda del Bosque, a hidden gem just behind the Hispanic Cultural Center. Stefani, staff, and service are amazing. Menu choices will please any and all guests. We love this venue, and know you will too! Check for hours of operation. Don't miss La Fonda del Bosque! Open for lunchTues.--Friday & dinner Friday. Albuquerque residents, if you're not experienced this jewel,...