The local cuisine in New Mexico is tantalising and tasty, to say the least. From enchiladas and posole to hand-made tortillas and some fantastic desserts, you’re definitely not at a loss for great things to eat in this foodie state.
However, as a traveller, sometimes all you’re after is something quick and simple. You know, like a basket full of plump, juicy chicken wings. And, you’re in luck, because New Mexico is home to some of the tastiest in the country.
From Gallup to Albuquerque, this is one great place to take a road trip if wings are what you’re after. Ready to explore? Check out our picks for seven of the best spots for chicken wings in New Mexico.
Best Chicken Wings In New Mexico
How do these rankings work?
1. The 505 – Gallup
The 505 is known for its world-famous burgers and scrumptious wings. And, they’re serious about both. The burger menu extends to showcase over a full page of tasty options. And, their list of wing options is nearly as extensive when you get down into all the sauces. From plain to mild and all the way through to a delectable sweet teriyaki, they’ve got enough flavours to keep even the pickiest of eater satisfied.
2. Nob Hill – Albuquerque
More than a mere sports bar, Nob Hill is a fantastic local pub serving up elevated bar eats. This means that you can expect to enjoy well-crafted cocktails here alongside some tasty breakfast items, Bloody Marys and, of course, some of New Mexico’s best chicken wings. They load on the sauce, ensuring that while they’re full of flavour, they’re also extremely messy. It doesn’t get much better than this.
3. Frank’s Famous Chicken and Waffles – Albuquerque
Chicken and waffles is one of the most inventive, scrumptious dishes to come out of modern American cuisine. And, there are few better places to indulge than at Frank’s Famous Chicken and Waffles. Really, they’ve been featured in countless other media lists, so they really are famous. Their golden wings are plump on the inside, featuring incredibly juicy meat. And, they’re crispy and perfectly crunchy on the outside.
4. Rowley Farmhouse Ales – Santa Fe
If you’ve got some time to stop and rest, Rowley Farmhouse Ales is easily one of the best spots in Santa Fe. The massive farmhouse acts as a meeting ground of sorts for locals and visitors alike, looking for a chance to get a taste of the gastropub’s acclaimed beers on tap. Gourmet comfort food abounds, you’ll want to keep your eye on the wings. They’re served up perfectly crispy and with just the right amount of seasoning.
5. Mr Powdrell’s BBQ – Albuquerque
This family-owned business specialises in smoking meats and smothering them in some of the region’s best BBQ sauce. And, while we highly suggest you sample a platter or two, it’s best to start off with their golden, crispy wings. They certainly know how to grill them to perfection. Then, they cover them in BBQ sauces which range from Regular BBQ and Honey Mustard BBQ to Hot BBQ and XX Hot BBQ.
6. Cowgirl – Santa Fe
For the finest in American comfort eats, you’re going to want to head straight for Santa Fe’s very own Cowgirl. Patio dining and kid-friendly spaces make this a great place to stop and refuel. Order a local beer from the taproom and settle in for a full meal of nothing but their world-class wings. They’ve got three main flavours: House, Jerk or Ring of Fire, which are tossed in Salsa Diablo and served with chopped habañeros.
7. Shorty’s Bar-B-Que – Moriarty
At Shorty’s Bar-B-Que you’re able to indulge in some of the finest BBQ in the Southwest. You can, as they put it, “sit and graze or hoof it home.” Their fantastic menu features fine comfort food and lots of it. And, they keep things simple in terms of flavour, because their chicken truly doesn’t need anything fancy to taste fantastic. Choose from Regular, Hot, BBQ or Sweet. Or, get them all! We won’t judge.
I would say Clancy’s in Farmington.