Last week Gildshire Magazine examined special dining experiences and destinations out west. Today, we continue our culinary exploration, turning our attention toward the southern border. The great American Southwest is a proud region, and never more proud than when they talk about special foods in this part of the country. So join us on a journey that begins in Nevada and travels through Arizona and New Mexico before making two stops in Texas. Don’t forget your napkin because the flavors are going to be succulent, but don’t think this is all about barbecue. The cooks in the southwest have much more in their arsenal than a turning spit full of beef.
Cafe’ at Adele’s: 1112 N. Carson St, Carson City, Nevada: Only insiders will think of Carson City as a place to find one of the Southwest’s great restaurants, and yet here we are. The first thing you may notice when you walk in is the size of the place. In a state known for over-the-top glitz and gargantuan spectacle, Cafe’ at Adele’s is small, tastefully appointed, and charming. Expect great service, while you choose from a large selection. Top Five gem-worthy items include Duck Two Ways (choose the brandy and orange sauce), Charlie’s Chubby Chuck, and Chilaquiles de Huevos. Open 8 a.m-9 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday.
You can almost smell the Chili Relleno from here.
Rio Mirage Cafe, 13863 W. Bell Rd. Surprise, Arizona: The folks who own the Rio Mirage actually own two iterations of the same restaurant, and some folks prefer the one on Grand Ave. We like the Bell Rd, location, but you should decide. Try them both and then let us know what you think. This is Tex-Mex with a strong lean toward the “Mex” side of things. The decor is authentic to the theme and the lighting is a little subdued to shield patrons from the glaring desert sun. All in all, a fine place to go for a margarita or a full-on dinner. Top Five gem-worthy items are Chili Relleno, Jalapeno Toritos, and Chicken and Spinach Enchiladas. Open 11 a.m-9 p.m Monday-Thursday, and 11 a.m-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Sunday hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Antiquity Restaurant, 112 Romero St. NW. Albuquerque, New Mexico: With a name like “Antiquity Restaurant” one might expect this place to be stuffy, stodgy, and smelling vaguely of mold and camphor oil. One would be oh so wrong on all counts. The Antiquity Restaurant is located in Old Town (naturally) but the fare is up-to-date and delicious. Enjoy the Albuquerque that used to be, alongside the modern city of today. Then look up to the sky. “Breaking Bad” creator Vince Gilligan said he shot his show in Albuquerque because he wanted the sky to be part of the story. You will see how correct Mr. Gilligan was on that day years ago. Are you hungry? We hope so because this is going to be a treat! Top Five gem-worthy items include Filet Mignon, Chateaubriand for Two, and Spiced Shrimp. Open for dinner only, 5-9 p.m seven days a week.
The Beehive Restaurant and Saloon, 442 Cedar St, Abilene, Texas: The owners of The Beehive Restaurant and Saloon had success with their Albany, Texas location and thought, “Why not Abilene?” The folks in this west Texas town are all the better for it, because the Beehive is a hive of restaurant goodness. Some people come just for the liquor side of things, but they would do well to expand their horizons. Top Five gem-worthy items include a14-ounce rib eye (no “chuck-eye” nonsense served here), tomato-potato soup, and 14-ounce filet mignon. Open Tuesday-Friday for lunch 11:30a.m.-1 p.m., and dinner from 5p.m.-10p.m. Open Saturday for dinner only, with the same hours.
Babe’s Chicken Dinner House, 104 N. Oak St, Roanoke, Texas: If you’re going to visit Babe’s Chicken Dinner House you might as well go to the original, and that’s the one in Roanoke. Everything about this place says, “Come on in and sit a spell.” Built 109 years ago this summer, this is the only place on our list where we can name the whole menu, and therein lies Babe’s charm.
Southwest Chicken Fried Steak at Babe’s.
You will have fried chicken or chicken fried steak. Accompaniments include green salad (usually called tossed green salad down here), mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, and a muffin. The kids’ menu consists of a fried drumstick, along with the same side dishes as those afforded the grownups. Open Monday-Friday for lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m., and dinner from 4 p.m.-9 p.m. Open Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., and Sunday 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
We’re coming your way next, that is if you live in the midwest, south, or northeast. Of course we’re looking forward to you joining us for dinner. We love to meet new friends as much as we love to try their favorite restaurants.
