The University of New Mexico sits right along Route 66, which celebrates its centennial in 2026. Our campus is surrounded by both historic landmarks and new developments to visit through Albuquerque’s stretch of the iconic highway. 

Established in 2020, 505 Central Food Hall is one of the newest and trendiest eateries in Downtown Albuquerque. They host eight different local vendors, making it the perfect ‘something-for-everyone’ spot. The options range from Detroit-style pizza to Hakata-style ramen, from smash burgers to spicy chicken.

VENDORS 

• Thicc Pizza Co.
  • This vendor offers Detroit-style pizzas, characterized by their thickness, rectangular shape and crispy caramelized cheese crust.
• Stackers Burger Co.
  • These smash burgers are sure to leave your mouth watering–especially if you order their award-winning item, “The Burqueño,” which features Hatch green chile.
• kūKri Chicken
  • With spice levels ranging from “mild” to “insane”, this hot chicken spot is sure to test your tolerance. Need to calm your tastebuds? Be sure to try their famous banana pudding or sip on a specialty drink.
• Lai Lai Kitchen
  • You’re telling me a chicken fried this rice? Just kidding. You can’t go wrong with some classic Chinese cuisine, and Lai Lai has all the favorites from Kung Pao chicken to egg rolls.
• Himawari
  • Sick of slurping Cup O’ Noodles in your dorm room? This authentic Hakata-style ramen with ingredients imported directly from Japan is definitely an upgrade. No worries if you’re not into noodles, they also have some fresh sushi options to peruse as well.
• Humble Coffee
  • Every food hall needs a good caffeination station, and Humble has amazing locally-roasted coffee. The menu features some southwest-themed signature drinks such as “The Fiesta” chai latte and “The Cowgirl Mocha.”
• Moonwalk Bar & Packie’s Bar
  • For our 21+ Lobos, Moonwalk offers signature beers and cocktails with local brews and spirits. Packie’s is a low-key sports bar with brews and brauts. Maybe you can even catch a Lobo or United game while you’re there.

505 Central Food Hall is located less than 10 minutes from Main Campus. Spanning 13,000 square feet (plus outdoor seating), it is the perfect place to bring a group of Lobos for breakfast, lunch or dinner. With so many options to choose from, even your pickiest friends are sure to find something they’ll enjoy.

Beyond the amazing food, they host fun events and shows like Trivia Tuesdays every week at 7pm (complete with prizes). 505 Central Food Hall also partners with Bands of Enchantment and the Kimo Theater every year, supporting the local music scene. 

Fun fact: the name “505 Central” is not only a little nod to Albuquerque’s area code, but also the actual address of the business, 505 Central Ave. 

Route 66 in Albuquerque – 505 Central Food Hall