
Authentic New Mexican flavors, the original Cocina Azul experience in Albuquerque.
THE ORIGINAL Cocina Azul at 12th & Mountain Rd brings authentic New Mexican flavors to Albuquerque in a casual, welcoming spot. Guests praise hearty green chile dishes, such as a beef and potato stew with fresh tortillas, and note friendly, knowledgeable service. The menu features soups, tacos, and sopapillas, with consistent quality and a focus on authentic regional cuisine.
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Authentic dishes featuring Hatch green chile, including stews, enchiladas, and tacos made with fresh ingredients.
Hearty stew with diced beef and potatoes, rich in flavor and customizable heat levels, a local favorite.
Variety of tacos with proteins like brisket and battered fish, served with fresh tortillas and sides.
Creamy green chile chicken soup and traditional Fideo, available in cup or bowl sizes for a comforting meal.
Complimentary fried dough served with honey, a sweet finish to your New Mexican dining experience.
Flexible service options with efficient takeout for on-the-go meals and cozy dine-in for a relaxed atmosphere.
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Overall rating
Benjamin Watkins
I tried the Frank Jr’s Bowl of Green Chile Stew, and it was outstanding. It’s a hearty Hatch green chile stew with diced beef and potatoes, rich in flavor and just the right level of heat. I was told it used to be made with pork and is now made with beef, and the change works. The beef adds depth and blends well with the green chile without overpowering it. The tortilla on the side was fresh and well-made, not an afterthought. This location has a classic New Mexican feel, casual, welcoming, and focused on the food. Service was direct and efficient. If you’re looking for authentic New Mexican cuisine in Albuquerque and want to experience green chile done right, Cocina Azul’s original location is an easy recommendation. I’d come back specifically for the stew.
Destanee Lopez
The food was good (especially the chile!!) but we picked it up and my enchiladas were cold - the cheese wasn’t even melted. The burrito and the potatoes were piping hot though. We might try to dine-in another time because everything else was great.
Sotiri Platis
Excellent food, and even better service! Arianna was knowledgeable, professional, and personable. Being from out of town, we had lots of questions, which she didn’t hesitate to answer. Arianna even accommodated my special off-menu request for a sopapilla stuffed with smoked brisket, and topped with green chiles. The combination was outstanding! If you want a guaranteed excellent, authentic New Mexican meal, and friendly service with a smile, go to The ORIGINAL Cocina Azul, and ask for Arriana by name — you won’t be disappointed!
chandru gurnani
Arrived 25 minutes before closing and was greeted by the staff who said they were closing. I would have enjoyed eating there but I ordered to go. The food didn’t disappoint me, I usually visit ABQ once a year and their food is consistently great. We ordered shrimp tacos and cheese enchiladas. Decent size portions, green chile (chicken) soup is good and addictive if you like chicken and a kick of a spice, just good enough spicy! Tortilla chips are homes made and tasted fresh low on salt 👍
Rolando Otero
This is a sweet taste of New Mexico hidden in a neighborhood in Albuquerque. We were on our way through New Mexico and found this on Trip Advisor and the reviews were spot on. Everything about this gem was first class. We tried the soups and found out you can order a cup size, which was plenty since we added a taco plate. I had the green chili chicken soup that was so creamy and rich. My wife got the Fideo which she said reminded her of the way her mom made it. We shared the street taco plate that has six small tacos but you can change up the proteins. My loved her brisket and I got the battered fish one. Both rocked it! You finish the meal with a complimentary sopapillas (fried dough) that you cover with honey. Definitely a highlight from our trip.