Artichoke Café

When entering the Artichoke Cafe, your first reaction might be, "I'm not in Albquerque anymore," as the vibe here feels like a swanky little New York restaurant, with its elegant decor and artwork. The energy is good here and the wait staff professional. Choose to sit in the main dining room, the wine room in the back or the sophisticated bar in the next room (bar menu or regular menu available). The food at the Artichoke is excellent. Of course, the steamed artichoke, with raspberry vinaigrette, is featured on the appetizer menu, along with other greats, like ahi tuna and crab cakes. Top drawer entrees include duck breast, rack of lamb, steaks, seafood and even a wild mushroom and boar ravioli. The Artichoke Cafe was voted Best Fine Dining, Most Romantic Restaurant and Best Lunch Spot for 2012 by Albuquerque's newsweekly, The Alibi.