Not all pubs can give you the pubbing experience which Irish pubs do. Located in the heart of the Nob Hill district in Albuquerque, Two Fools Tavern gives you a true feel of Ireland. A fireplace keeps the insides of the pub warm and cozy, while illuminating and adding to the beauty of the wooden interiors. The seating arrangement is generously done, which makes Two Fools a class a apart from the usual dingy and cluttered pubs. Due to its casual and inviting atmosphere, it provides for the perfect place to relish some authentic Irish pub fare and indulge in conversations. Needless to say, the pub stacks up on a variety of Irish stouts, beers and intoxications which complement the delicious food.

Gecko's may not be the hottest bar and restaurant around, but its modest and casual atmosphere still makes it a hit among the youth. The bar has a very warm and inviting feel to it. It specializes in a variety of wines, beers and other intoxications because of which its is frequented by the local bar mongers a lot as well. And if you're a sports freak, then this is where you can catch up on you favorite sports too, while enjoying some delectable tapas on offer. Youngsters usually come here for their daily quota of junk food as Gecko's is really famous for its burgers and sandwiches. The interiors are done very intricately with funny murals adorning the walls to retain the youthful and relaxed atmosphere of the place. Come here to enjoy a round of drinks with your friends. Gecko's Bar & Tapas is open on weekdays from 11.30am and on weekends from 12pm.

Bumblebee's puts a healthy twist on the kind of burrito 'n taco fare found everywhere in New Mexico. Replacing the usual heavy meat and chile are fresh fish and veggies, in innovative combinations. The "Tito Burrito," for example, contains avocado, basil, rice, corn, cabbage, pico de gallo, a meat option and "Bumblebee's secret sauce." Laid-back dining is the order of the day: you pay at the counter then await delivery to your table, stopping to graze from the chips and homemade salsa bar in-between. The atmosphere is all about fun, featuring bright colors, murals and hanging bee-shaped pinatas.

Annapurna Ayurvedic Cuisine and Chai House serves healthy and delicious vegetarian Indian food and drinks, and specializes in vegan fare prepared in the Ayurvedic tradition. It was awarded "Best Vegetarian Menu" and "Best Vegan Baked Goods" by readers of the Weekly Alibi, Albuquerque's alternative weekly newspaper. Try the thali, which translates as "plate" in Hindi and effectively serves as a sampler. Served in a series of small bowls on a spinnable round tray, it is a fun way to experiment with a selection of different dishes. Keen chefs may want to inquire about the Ayurvedic cooking classes available from the restaurant's knowledgeable owner.

Tucked into a part of town that you might not otherwise stop in, the entryway of Orchid Thai is a door into another place. The space is cavernous, so reservations are rarely required. The nearby student population is well-represented. With an extensive menu, the owner and chef bring over 20 years of experience serving old familiar dishes and exciting new ones, too. Though the flavour is a bit more subtle than many other Thai restaurants, vegetarian dishes are not overwhelmed. Appetizers are well-presented and quick. A similarly wide lunch menu is a great deal on weekdays.

The Red Ball Cafe, situated in an historic district on the heart of the Camino Real, is a true Albuquerque tradition. Founded 75 years ago, this mom n' pop joint has long been a mandatory pit stop for campaigning politicians, as evidenced by the many photos of visitors such as John Kerry and George W. Bush. The Red Ball lays claim to being "home of the original Wimpy burger", and you can try one for 99 cents. In keeping with this theme, depictions of Popeye characters are painted on the walls, and comic strips decorate the table tops. Traditional New Mexican cuisine rounds out the rest of the menu. - Pip Lustgarten

The excess and simplicity of mid-20th century America is reflected in this diner. The food is predominantly American with some Greek thrown in. The biscuits and gravy come one, two or three to a plate with slices of spicy sausage. The 1/3-pound burgers are huge with oozing garnishes and surrounded by long thick French fries. For dinner, massive, tender 16-ounce T-bone steaks are served with choice of baked potato or fries, salad and vegetable of the day. Beer and wine is available.

Burgers, sandwiches and steaks dominate the menu at this restaurant, and the bar offers over 20 beers on tap. Chef Steve Gallegos has taken traditional dishes and added a dash of Southwestern flavor. His Clam Chowder, would be great even without the addition of green chilli. But the chilli gives it a unique tang that fills a void nobody realized was there. The menu is a mix of sandwiches, traditional Mexican dishes and desserts. Sandwiches range from less than USD5 for a standard club, to less than USD7 a Grilled Chicken, Chile and Cheese on Wheat.

This small restaurant looks deceiving because of its size, but it is very popular. The staff of Teriyaki Queen and Thai Cuisine Buffet are friendly and makes you feel right at home as soon as you walk in. Place your order at the window and in five minutes or less your meal is ready. The Thai Buffet is not too overwhelming, but it gives you enough choices to satisfy your taste buds. The Teriyaki plates are served with steamed rice and vegetables. The combination plates are served with Fried Rice and Spring roll. This one satisfies every large appetite!

The friendly staff at Joe's Pasta House makes your dining experience wonderful. This quaint Italian restaurant serves excellent cuisine at a reasonable price. Beer and wine are offered, with Cribari as the house wine.  Try the authentic garlic bread with olive oil and spices. The restaurant also has weekend specials that change every week so you can always fry something new. Simply delicious!