Duran Central Pharmacy | Albuquerque

Though it may seem odd that one of the best places in Albuquerque for New Mexican food is tucked inside a pharmacy downtown, Duran’s Central Pharmacy is a treasured anomaly. This family-owned and operated business has been filling prescriptions since 1942 and filling stomachs with delicious red and green chile since the mid 1960’s. They converted the soda fountain into a diner in 1965. The counter, with swivel chairs, is a throwback to another era.

Duran’s menu is a combination of New Mexico standards, all done exceptionally well, further enhanced by some of the most delicious red and green chile available in the Duke city. They serve made-from scratch tamales (pork or chicken), enchiladas, tacos, huevos rancheros, breakfast (and standard) burritos, burgers, quesadillas, and carne adovada.

Most meals are served with their hand-rolled-to-order flour tortillas. Unlike tortillas bought in the store, Duran’s tortillas have substance, thick and fluffy, made to sop up remnant chile on your plate. The only modern twist on the recipe is the lack of lard. Duran’s tortillas are vegetarian.

Duran Central Pharmacy for Gifts

Located within walking distance of Old Town and a short drive from downtown, Duran Central Pharmacy is not only one of the best places for New Mexican fare, it is also a treasure trove for gifts and stocking stuffers. They have an eclectic variety of items, from hand crafted jewelry (local), a book selection featuring New Mexican authors, travel gadgets and gizmos, educational toys and games, puzzles, an impressive selection of cards for every occasion, men’s toiletries and grooming supplies, an enormous selection of specialty socks, and artisan chocolate and truffles. It is easy to kill some time in the shop while waiting for a prescription or a table in the diner.If you don’t want to drive downtown, there is a secondary location, Duran’s Station, at 4201 Menaul. They serve the same great flavors in more of a traditional café layout. No pharmacy or nifty gifts at that location.

Red, Green, or In-Between