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Albuquerque

Frontier Restaurant is a beloved Albuquerque institution known for its tasty and quick food service. Reviewers mention the fun and relaxed vibe, efficient ordering system, huge portions, and affordable prices. The restaurant offers New Mexico style dishes like chicken enchiladas, Frontier burrito, cinnamon rolls, and fresh squeezed orange juice. While some reviewers found the food lacking in flavor or seasoning, others praised the authentic homestyle cooking and friendly service.

Frontier Restaurant Albuquerque New Mexico Dining Experience Overview 

Nestled along Central Avenue Southeast in Albuquerque's vibrant University Heights neighborhood, Frontier Restaurant has been a cherished local gem since 1971. This down-to-earth counter-serve spot specializes in homestyle Southwestern fare that draws in foodies, locals, and travelers alike. Whether you're craving hearty breakfast burritos, fresh handmade tortillas, or their iconic cinnamon rolls, Frontier offers a satisfying taste of New Mexico's culinary culture in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

A lively spot with plenty of seating and generous portions

Popular for its quick service and huge menu variety, Frontier can often be bustling, especially during peak hours. The spacious interior ensures you’ll find a comfortable place to enjoy your meal, whether dining solo or bringing a group. Guests rave about the fresh tortillas made right before your eyes and the authenticity of hearty dishes like the "Frontier" burrito and chicken enchiladas. While some dishes like the fish sandwich receive mixed reviews, staples such as the breakfast burrito and cinnamon rolls are consistently adored by visitors.

Frontier isn't just about food; it’s an Albuquerque institution that blends efficient ordering, friendly staff, and affordable pricing into a welcoming experience. It's the perfect spot to catch a casual meal, whether you're grabbing a quick breakfast coffee or settling in for hearty New Mexican classics. Conveniently located across from the UNM bookstore, this restaurant also offers accessible parking options, including a free lot and street parking, which is a blessing in a busy area.

Amenities and Services at Frontier Restaurant

 Free parking lot across the street with 45 minutes free, plus additional street parking options.

 Homestyle Southwestern dishes including vegetarian options like the vegetarian burrito.

 Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC payments; no cash-only policy.

 Spacious seating accommodating groups and children, with a kid-friendly menu.

Frequently Asked Questions about Frontier Restaurant

What are the restaurant's operating hours?

 Frontier Restaurant is open daily from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM.

 Yes, there is parking available, including a lot across the street with 45 minutes of free parking.

 Yes, Frontier Restaurant offers vegetarian-friendly options, including a vegetarian burrito.

 Yes, Frontier Restaurant is pet-friendly.

 Yes, Frontier Restaurant accepts credit cards.

Community Sentiment and Authentic New Mexico Flavor

With overwhelmingly positive feedback from locals and visitors, Frontier Restaurant is applauded for its friendly service, fun environment, and authentic New Mexican dishes served quickly at wallet-friendly prices. The large portions and the generous menu selection, including homestyle favorites like chicken enchiladas and fresh-squeezed orange juice, make it a must-visit spot when exploring Albuquerque. While a few guests hope for bolder seasoning on certain dishes, the overall vibe and genuine local flavor keep people coming back time and again.

North America

United States

Located at 2400 Central Ave SE in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Frontier is a beloved restaurant known for its homestyle Southwestern fare. Since 1971, this down-to-earth eatery has been serving up delicious meals in a casual setting, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. With a diverse menu that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, Frontier is particularly famous for its fresh tortillas, hearty burritos, and sweet rolls.

Frontier offers a wide variety of dishes that cater to different tastes, making it a go-to destination for food lovers. Highlights of the menu include:

Breakfast burritos, perfect for a hearty start to your day.

Freshly made tortillas that are a must-try.

Cinnamon rolls that are a favorite among regulars.

Fish sandwiches and chicken nachos, perfect for lunch.

Frontier is conveniently located across from the University of New Mexico, making it an ideal stop for students and faculty. The restaurant is easily accessible with ample parking options, including free parking lots and street parking. Nearby attractions include the UNM Bookstore and various cultural sites that reflect Albuquerque's rich heritage.

Frontier is not just about great food; it also offers a welcoming atmosphere with plenty of seating, making it suitable for groups and families. Key features include:

Family-friendly environment with a menu for children.

Good for groups, making it a great spot for gatherings.

Down-to-earth counter-serve restaurant offering homestyle Southwestern fare since 1971.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQekpxWHRRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJw_jSgGgLIocRUM-x-HRDUx4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQekpxWHRRRRAB

Nice place to visit, got lucky with a parking spot in the back against the wall instead of street parking with the homeless dude there.

Tons and tons of options to order!

I got the burger and horchata and that was pretty good, the corn tortillas were pretty wet so to say and ended up getting flour tortilla instead which was better.

Lots of seating and staff was super friendly and accommodating

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYamQzNDVnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJw_jSgGgLIocRUM-x-HRDUx4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYamQzNDVnRRAB

Everyone liked the cinnamon roll, I liked my breakfast burrito, and none of us liked the fish sandwich. There was some confusion with ordering since a large group order was being made. We also had to go back for a missing item, which was quickly provided. There were a lot of people; it's very popular. Plenty of seating is provided though.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzeU9xRWh3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJw_jSgGgLIocRUM-x-HRDUx4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzeU9xRWh3RRAB

I love going to Frontier  every time. They are making fresh tortillas right in front, serving hundreds, and it's clean with plenty of good seating. I had no trouble parking. It's across the street from the UNM bookstore. If anything i wish the coffee was better but it's OK, it's typical diner coffee.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmcjg2TmpBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJw_jSgGgLIocRUM-x-HRDUx4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmcjg2TmpBRRAB

I came here on a Friday. Which for their lunch special is a Fish Sandwich Combo. It was good, crispy and soft on the inside. It’s a nice atmosphere to grab a bite with friends and hangout and talk after eating. It’s always busy here and more so at peak hours. The parking is tough, you may have to pass once or twice to park out front of the building. There is also additional parking behind the building as well. I’d also recommend their chicken nachos (feeds 2-3 people easy), the Sweet Roll and their “Frontier” burrito.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYN1BxSmhBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJw_jSgGgLIocRUM-x-HRDUx4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYN1BxSmhBRRAB

Such a fun place. I’m here for work and was told I had to try this place out. I am glad I did. I had the 2 egg breakfast and a bowl of Pasole. My coworker had Huevos Rancheros and one of the cinnamon rolls. We both loved our food.

Frontier Restaurant: Best Breakfast in Albuquerque, NM

Established in 1971, Frontier Restaurant has been serving Albuquerque for over 50 years, becoming a local institution known for its New Mexican cuisine and quick service.

The rich history of Frontier restaurant in Albuquerque

Since opening its doors in 1971, Frontier Restaurant has grown from a humble eatery into one of Albuquerque's most beloved dining institutions. Founded by Dorothy and Larry Rainosek, this iconic restaurant is perfectly situated just across from the University of New Mexico, making it a vibrant hub for students, locals, and visitors alike.

In 1989, after nearly two decades of serving authentic New Mexican cuisine, Frontier expanded into the adjoining buildings, dramatically increasing its seating capacity now able to welcome over 300 guests. This expansion reflected the growing affection of Albuquerque’s residents for the down-to-earth counter-serve style and homestyle Southwestern fare.

By the turn of the millennium in 2000, Frontier Restaurant had solidified its status as a local institution, serving about 4,000 customers every single day. Its quick service combined with a hearty menu made it a staple for breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner among food lovers and busy university students.

Frontier's popularity extended beyond Albuquerque’s city limits when it was featured in 2011 on the television show 'Man vs Food Nation'. This exposure introduced the restaurant’s unique Southwestern flavors and vibrant atmosphere to a national audience, further cementing its place in the culinary landscape.

Founded in 1971 by Dorothy and Larry Rainosek

 – establishing a community cornerstone near the University of New Mexico

 – increasing seating capacity to accommodate over 300 guests

Serving about 4,000 customers daily by 2000

Today, Frontier Restaurant continues to thrive as a vibrant spot where tradition meets community. Its commitment to serving fresh, homestyle New Mexican dishes with swift, friendly service keeps it firmly woven into Albuquerque's cultural fabric. Whether you're craving fresh-made tortillas or a hearty burrito, Frontier offers a taste of local heritage that has stood the test of time for over half a century.

Dine In

Takeout

Restroom

Serves Beer

Good for Groups

Good for Children

Serves Breakfast

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Coffee

Frontier

A selection of New Mexican and American dishes, including breakfast items, burritos, burgers, and desserts.

Breakfast Burrito

Huevos Rancheros

Green Chile Cheeseburger

Carne Adovada Burrito

Vegetarian Burrito

Frontier Sweet Roll

Frontier Restaurant Menu

Discover the Flavors of Frontier Restaurant in Albuquerque

Nestled in the heart of Albuquerque's University Heights neighborhood, Frontier Restaurant has been a beloved dining spot since 1971, serving up homestyle Southwestern fare with an authentic touch. Known for its fresh ingredients and bustling atmosphere, the menu is a vibrant blend of New Mexican and American classics that promise to delight foodies and locals alike.

Begin your meal with crowd-pleasers like the famous chicken nachos, perfect for sharing, or explore the daily specials such as the crispy Fish Sandwich Combo available on Fridays, which pairs a golden, soft-on-the-inside fish sandwich with satisfying sides. These starters set the tone for a flavorful experience that echoes the spirit of Southwestern cuisine.

Mains: Burritos, Burgers, and Traditional Favorites

Frontier’s menu shines with its hearty mains, which cater to a variety of tastes. The Breakfast Burrito is a standout, packed with eggs, cheese, hash browns, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or carne adovada, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. Another breakfast classic is the Huevos Rancheros, featuring two eggs served with beans and sauce, accompanied by both corn and flour tortillas for a perfect authentic touch.

For burger lovers, the Green Chile Cheeseburger offers a delicious fusion of a juicy beef patty topped with spicy green chile, melted cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato, and onion nestled in a soft burger bun — a true New Mexican twist on an American staple. The Carne Adovada Burrito is another must-try, featuring tender marinated pork smothered in rich red chile sauce, wrapped in a flour tortilla for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Vegetarian guests will appreciate the Vegetarian Burrito, a vibrant mix of beans, rice, cheese, lettuce, and tomato wrapped in a warm flour tortilla, offering a fresh and hearty option without compromising on flavor.

No meal at Frontier is complete without indulging in their signature Frontier Sweet Roll. This delightful treat combines flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon into a soft, sweet pastry that melts in your mouth — a perfect finish to any meal.

Complement your dining experience with a cup of classic diner coffee or try the refreshing horchata, a favorite among regulars seeking a sweet, cinnamon-spiced beverage that pairs wonderfully with both breakfast and lunch dishes.

 crafted with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes.

 with plenty of seating and attentive service.

 from breakfast burritos to cheeseburgers and decadent desserts.

 near the UNM bookstore with free parking options available.

Savor iconic flavors at Frontier in Albuquerque! Experience delicious New Mexican cuisine and vibrant vibes. Visit today for a taste of adventure!

Frontier Restaurant in Albuquerque: Iconic New Mexican Flavors

Bernalillo County

Freshly made tortillas available for purchase.

Homemade Flour Tortillas

Bulk Green Chile

Marinated pork in red chile sauce sold by the pound.

Bulk Carne Adovada

Traditional New Mexican stew sold by the pint.

Bulk Posole

Frontier Restaurant Albuquerque New Mexico dining experience and homestyle Southwestern cuisine delights at 2400 Central Avenue SE University Heights neighborhood Bernalillo County NM US 87106 with fresh tortillas green chile carne adovada and posole offers for breakfast brunch lunch and dinner pleasing locals and visitors alike with friendly service and ample seating good parking and a lively welcoming ambiance perfect for groups families and food lovers seeking authentic New Mexican flavors served with a generous helping of tradition and comfort food culture rich in history and community spirit here on Central Avenue.

Nestled in Albuquerque's University Heights neighborhood, Frontier is a beloved counter-serve restaurant that has been serving up authentic Southwestern fare since 1971. This down-to-earth spot is known for its freshly made flour tortillas, which you can even take home for just $3.99. The kitchen crafts homemade tortillas daily, a true highlight that elevates every meal here.

Fresh homestyle New Mexican favorites to savor and take home

Frontier offers a delicious array of traditional New Mexican dishes that have been perfected over decades. Beyond their made-to-order meals, they sell some crowd favorites in bulk for home enjoyment:

 Freshly made tortillas available for purchase at $3.99 per pack, perfect for wrapping your favorite dishes with authentic flair.

 Sold by the pound for $5.99, their fresh green chile is a staple that packs that signature New Mexican heat and flavor.

 Marinated pork in red chile sauce priced at $7.99 per pound, a savory classic that delivers bold southwestern flavor in every bite.

 Traditional New Mexican stew sold by the pint for $4.99, ideal for warming up on a chilly day with rich, hearty flavors.

A welcoming spot for all-day dining and friendly service

Frontier serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner with a menu that features classic Southwestern favorites like breakfast burritos, huevos rancheros, and the hearty Frontier burrito. Guests praise the friendly and accommodating staff who make everyone feel at home in a clean space with plenty of seating — perfect for families, groups, and solo diners alike. While the coffee is described as typical diner style, the food consistently wins hearts, especially the cinnamon rolls and chicken nachos that easily feed two to three people.

Parking can be a bit tricky during peak hours, but there is free street parking as well as a free parking lot behind the building. Located across from the University of New Mexico bookstore, Frontier is a convenient and lively spot to enjoy a true taste of New Mexican homestyle cooking.

New Mexico

Visit Frontier Restaurant in Albuquerque's University Heights for authentic New Mexican dishes, quick service, and a fun local vibe. Open daily!

Frontier Restaurant Albuquerque - Classic New Mexican & American Cuisine

Enjoy delicious breakfast, burritos, and more at Frontier Restaurant in Albuquerque's University Heights. Friendly service, popular with locals and tourists alike.

Experience Albuquerque at Frontier - Tasty, Quick & Family-Friendly

Discover the rich history and community vibe of Frontier Restaurant in Albuquerque. Famous for homestyle New Mexican food and friendly service.