Padilla's Mexican Kitchen

1510 Girard Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, United States
+1 505-262-0115
$$$ Mexican restaurant
(2141 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Padilla's Mexican Kitchen is a straightforward, cash-only Mexican restaurant located on Girard Blvd NE, serving Albuquerque locals a classic New Mexican dining experience. It’s the kind of spot that feels like a reliable neighborhood kitchen where the emphasis is on authentic flavors and efficient, attentive service rather than fancy decor or modern frills.

You’ll find yourself drawn here for solid, home-style plates that showcase traditional staples — from rich red and green chile dishes to hearty meat and bean stuffed sopaipillas. Many visitors seem to appreciate the balance of chile heat and familiar comfort food textures, whether ordering enchiladas smothered in red chile or the Thursday special carnitas. The portions are generous, making it a good option for folks looking to fill up without fuss.

The atmosphere is unpretentious and relaxed, with servers who check in regularly to refill water and make sure everything’s on track. It’s the kind of place where locals slide into booths ready for no-nonsense meals and quick but courteous service. Timing matters somewhat here; the crew is mindful of busy times, like when larger groups come in, helping manage ordering flow smoothly.

This kitchen shines brightest on weekday lunches or early dinners, especially for those craving traditional New Mexican flavors that stay true to local roots. It’s a neighborhood spot that suits people who prefer authentic regional cooking over trendy interpretations. The cash-only policy can catch visitors off guard, so coming prepared is key.

From the humble, butter-and-honey-drenched sopaipillas to options like huevos rancheros topped with green chile, there’s an evident focus on meals that keep locals coming back for that “home on a plate” feeling. Vegetarians might find fewer standouts, but there are options available if noted ahead. Drinks stick to the essentials here—iced tea and classic sodas—which complement the savory, chile-forward plates.

If you’re after quick, solid New Mexican fare in a no-frills setting with attentive service and a genuine local vibe, Padilla’s Mexican Kitchen quietly fits the bill.

Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves wine
Best for
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

2141 Reviews
Kathleen Koechling

06 Jan 2026

We did not notice it was cash only--we lucked out and had some cash (not always a given). The service was excellent. Our main server came over right away and advised us to order quickly ahead of a huge table next to us that would have delayed our meal, and at least two other servers came by regularly to offer water refills and ask if we needed anything. The food was very good, BUT as a vegetarian, noticing there was meat in the red sauce, without warning, was disconcerting. Rather than complain, we kind of scraped it off, but yikes. The sopapillas were terrific.

Rose Sena

07 Dec 2025

Felt very homey, we had a great waitress. The food tasted very good (I took a few bites before taking a picture) and it came out hot! (Which is always good) the red chile was out of this world! Please remember they do not take cards they are a cash only business. 10/10

cerease aragon

28 Nov 2025

Its a solid New Mexican food staple that we all love. The quality and authentic taste is makes us locals always go back.

Manuel Cuellar

20 Nov 2025

Had their Wednesday special - super good - highly recommend this place - great food at great prices and fast, friendly service

Shannon McMillen

19 Nov 2025

This is the best and most wonderful place to eat Mexican food. This is what I feel. They are always very polite and excellent service to your table. I've always had good food to eat and never complain about anything. It's so wonderful to eat there I like to have my friends come with me and they also agree that they liked it. I think you would like to eat there also you should at least give it a try.

Chris Dracup

06 Nov 2025

Hands down the best red chile in town which says a lot considering the competition in this city. As a Taos native I can say that this is easily one of the top 3 most authentic new mexican plates in the state. It’s a family affair and expect to see local and national celebrities. You cant get in the door between noon and one so expect to wait at peak hours. Carne Adovada is outstanding and the sopaipillas are the real deal. Also the beef tacos are a must try. The Thursday special - stewed pork carnitas and quelites plate is what truly makes this place the best of the best! Cash only!

Sherry Hoffman

30 Oct 2025

I grew up in southern NM and now live in Colorado. Mexican food isn't the same in CO. This restaurant smelled amazing as soon as we walked in and it was packed. As we waited for our table, we watched food come out and knew we picked the right place to try. Padilla's did not disappoint. The service was great. The food was amazing! We can't wait to visit again and eat here. Ps. They only accept cash or check so be prepared.

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