Albuquerque, NM
For Soul Food in Albuquerque, the local food press points to Frank's Famous Chicken & Waffles, DS BBQ Soulfood & Seafood, and Nexus Brewery & Restaurant. Picks from Gil's Thrilling (And Filling) Blog and Albuquerque Journal, updated July 2026.
Editor’s picks
Press picks, until locals rank their own Top 5s. Sourced from the local food press. As seen in Gil's Thrilling (And Filling) Blog and Albuquerque Journal. Updated July 2026.
Frank's Famous Chicken & Waffles · Albuquerque
A Southeast Albuquerque soul-food kitchen that Gil's Thrilling Blog and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives have both featured for its fried chicken and waffles. The menu also runs catfish, collard greens, and Nashville-hot wings, and it took a 2015 Albuquerque The Magazine Hot Plate Award. Order the chicken and waffles, add a side of collard greens, and try the hot wings if you want some heat.
DS BBQ Soulfood & Seafood · Northeast Heights
A Wyoming Boulevard soul-food and seafood kitchen the Albuquerque Journal reviewed for its heaping plates. The standout is the seafood plate of catfish and fried shrimp, with an oxtail plate served over Cajun rice close behind. Hours run until the food runs out, so go early. Order the seafood plate or the oxtails, and count on cornbread and greens to round it out.
Nexus Brewery & Restaurant · Northeast Heights
A brewery and restaurant on the Pan American Freeway that Gil's Thrilling Blog calls New Mexican soul food, blending Southern cooking with local chile. The chicken and waffles took a Hot Plate Award, and the collard greens come stewed with smoked turkey. Order the chicken and waffles with a side of collards, and pair it with one of the house beers brewed on site.
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