Balloon Fiesta Dining Guide — Cantina Hospitality Restaurants in Albuquerque

Julian Nunez
Sep 23
4 min read

Updated: Sep 26

Welcome to Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta — the world’s largest hot air balloon festival! Whether you’re watching early morning balloon launches, exploring the Balloon Fiesta Park, or enjoying evening glows, you’ll need the best places to eat nearby.

Cantina Hospitality Group features some of the top restaurants in Albuquerque — from award-winning breakfast and brunch to fresh sushi, ramen, Thai food, poke bowls, boba tea, and desserts. Scroll below to find the perfect spot, complete with menus, directions, and links to our Balloon Fiesta Dining Guide.

🍣 Poki Poki Cevichería — Asian-Latin Fusion Near Balloon Fiesta

Located in Albuquerque’s Northeast Heights, Poki Poki Cevichería is a local favorite for Hawaiian-inspired poke bowls, ceviche, and tacos. Whether you’re craving seafood or cooked entrées like steak, chicken, or carnitas, there’s something for every taste.

👉 View Poki Poki Menu | Get Directions to Poki Poki

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☕ The Sweet Cup — Boba Tea, Coffee & Desserts in Albuquerque

Need a sweet break during Balloon Fiesta? The Sweet Cup serves boba tea, coffee, and homemade desserts in Albuquerque’s Northeast Heights. With free Wi-Fi, cozy seating, and online ordering for quick pickups, it’s the perfect stop for a midday treat near Balloon Fiesta Park.

👉 View Sweet Cup Menu | Get Directions to Sweet Cup

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🍜 Tamashi — Authentic Sushi & Ramen in Albuquerque

With two locations (Northeast Heights and Westside), Tamashi offers Japanese ramen, izakaya appetizers, and fresh daily seafood. “Tamashi” means soul — and every bowl is crafted to comfort and impress. A great choice for family dining or date night after Balloon Fiesta events.

Tamashi Locations:

👉 View Tamashi Menu | Get Directions to Tamashi North East

| Get Directions to Tamashi Westside

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🍣 Sushi King — Albuquerque’s Original Sushi Since 2002. Now Offerings All You Can East Sushi!

A pioneer in the Albuquerque sushi scene, Sushi King is home to the famous New Mexico Green Chile Roll. Since 2002, we’ve been serving the city’s freshest sushi, sashimi, and rolls. Stop in for lunch or dinner before heading to Balloon Fiesta Park.

👉 View Sushi King Menu | Get Directions to Sushi King

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🌶 Thai Boran — Traditional Thai Cuisine in Albuquerque | Balloon Fiesta Dining Guide

At Thai Boran, centuries-old traditions and bold flavors meet in a menu full of curries, noodles, and Thai classics. Inspired by Szechwan influences, our dishes are flavorful, complex, and satisfying. Perfect for those craving spicy comfort food during Balloon Fiesta.

👉 View Thai Boran Menu | Get Directions to Thai Boran

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🥞 Brekki Brekki — Albuquerque’s Best Breakfast & Brunch

“This Ain’t Just Breakfast.” At Brekki Brekki, enjoy gourmet pancakes, Eggs Benedict, and morning cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients. Voted America’s Best Breakfast, it’s the ideal stop for Balloon Fiesta mornings before the mass ascension.

👉 View Brekki Menu | Get Directions to Brekki Brekki Albuquerque

Get Directions to Brekki Brekki Rio Rancho

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Farina Alto — Pizzeria & Wine Bar in Albuquerque

Timeless Flavor, Local Charm ✨

Welcome to Farina Alto, a beloved neighborhood pizzeria and wine bar in Albuquerque’s Northeast Heights — and now a proud member of Cantina Hospitality Group. Known for our handcrafted pizzas, fresh house-made pastas, and carefully selected wines, Farina Alto is the go-to spot for Italian comfort food with local charm.

Pair your meal with a glass from our curated wine cellar or enjoy a pint of Cantina Craftworks beers & ciders served on tap. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special celebration, every visit is designed to be memorable.

📍 10721 Montgomery Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111📞 (505) 298-0035

👉 View Farinai Menu | Get Directions to Farina Alto Albuquerque NE

💡 Balloon Fiesta Visitor Dining Tips

Peak Times: Breakfast 7–11am, dinner 5–8pm. For faster seating, visit off-peak hours.
Large Parties: Call ahead — some locations have limited group seating.
Parking: Free lots and street parking available; check Google Maps for road closures during Fiesta.
Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-friendly options available at most restaurants.
Pro Tip: Save directions to your phone for quick Fiesta-day navigation.

Why Choose Cantina Hospitality During Balloon Fiesta?

With six of Albuquerque’s favorite restaurants, Cantina Hospitality offers diverse dining options close to Balloon Fiesta Park. From breakfast and coffee stops before the balloons rise to sushi and ramen after the evening glow, we’ve got you covered.

👉 Bookmark this page for the best restaurants near Balloon Fiesta Albuquerque.