Salt and Board — Restaurant in Albuquerque

We travel a lot, so we're always trying new things. We were feeling peckish tonight and didn't feel like cooking, so out for something we hadn't tried right here at home.

We did not have incredibly high expectations for a new joint in the Bricklight district, considering it's the neighborhood for student dives and pubs. We are fans of charcuterie, though, so we wanted to see how our city stacks up against places like Paris, London, Portland, and Vegas. Pretty freaking well it turns out. There is some cheating to make that happen, as most of the meats are not cured in-house. Those and the cheeses are sourced for quality, though, and paired with house-made jams, mustard, and pickles that were definitely a cut above your average local eatery. At a mere $16, the Chef's board is actually better than some of the $25-$30 equivalents at posh locations in the afore-mentioned cities.

The best descriptor for Salt&Board is quality, and I'm hoping there are enough foodies in ' Burque to keep this place going for a good, long time. We can be a difficult and unforgiving city, especially to independent eateries that stress quality over quantity, and the smallish toast boards are exactly that. Each "toast" is 4 slices of artisanal bread topped with an intriguing combination of ingredients and accompanied by a teeny salad. It's actually a perfect portion size for a one person meal, and they range between $10 and $14. We had that momentary palpitation over $12 sandwiches in Albuquerque, and are immensely grateful we got over it and ordered.

The Cheese and Fig was sweet, savory, salty, rich, soft, crispy, and possibly five other sensations in every bite. The side-salad was perfectly dressed and the ideal sharp, pungent counterpoint to the open-faced sandwich. We also had the Avocado, which included my least favorite of all greens, arugula. My girlfriend's selection that, and she picked them off the first slice. I'm glad she did, because the avocado, prosciutto, and other greens were inspired.

If you haven't tried this place for their sandwiches, you...

"Have a blessed day!" I hear a sunburnt man with a beard, laden with bags, call out warmly to a passerby. I nearly echo his sentiment—shout back, "You too!" But I don't. I’m hoping the right opportunity comes soon.

Today, I'm indulging in a late afternoon lunch at Salt & Board. The Cuban sandwich before me not only looks tantalizing but also lives up to its visual promise. Am I a food critic? Hardly, but I'll share my thoughts. The sandwich boasts a perfect sear, encased in a precise 60/30/90 love triangle that reveals a satisfying crunch with every bite, complemented by just the right mix of pickles and mustard—casual yet classy, indeed. Accompanying my meal is water served in an artisanal glass bottle, adding a refined touch.

The accompanying salad is a delight, especially for someone who doesn’t eat salads all that often. Topped with thinly sliced red onions and shredded carrots, it’s a dish I consume entirely, all set against a backdrop of soft big band jazz, lush hanging plants, and chic neo-art deco lighting.

Thoroughly satisfied, I am grateful for this meal and this moment. Have a...

Very friendly service, very clean, modern atmosphere, with plenty of comfortable indoor seating or dine al fresco on either outside patio. located in the heart of the Brickyard District.

Attentive doesn't describe how well you will be served, very quick to pour you a drink while you wait for food to be prepared, appetizers that arrive expediently and cozy environment as you enjoy your meal.

Awesome menu selection, your mouth will water just thinking about the food you ordered, and unique dishes from what you may eat daily at home. I promise you will not be disappointed and i encourage you to visit.

Only down side...i must visit again, didn't have my camera when i dined so i grabbed these photos while out on a morning walk. Will edit my review with food pics on next visit.

Across from UNM Campus, limited free parking, but plenty of street metered parking and paid lots, handicap accessible, near bus stops and nearby bicycle racks to lock...