New Mexico Restaurant Association

10/26/2026

NMRA members Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa and El Monte Sagrado were recently featured in an Axios travel roundup highlighting some of the top experiences in Taos, showcasing the exceptional hospitality and unique experiences that make Northern New Mexico a sought-after destination.

New Mexican food is half the reason to drive the 3.5 hours from Colorado Springs to Taos.

10/26/2026

New Mexico restaurants are hiring—and the NMRA Job Board is where the industry goes to find its next great hire. Whether you’re building a team or looking for your next move, this is the statewide hub for real opportunities in hospitality. Jump in and get connected. https://business.nmrestaurants.org/jobs

10/23/2026

What if your membership could help lower operating costs, improve efficiency, and potentially put money back into your business? That's exactly what NMRA's Member Programs & Savings are designed to do. From discounted services and negotiated rates to trusted business partners and cost-saving solutions, NMRA members have access to benefits that can make a measurable impact on their bottom line. Whether it's streamlined payment processing through one of our trusted partners or workers' compensation coverage through FISIF with potential dividend opportunities, these programs help restaurants keep more of what they earn. Smart operators know that every dollar counts. Explore the savings available to you and discover why these member-exclusive programs are among the most valuable benefits of NMRA membership.

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10/23/2026

Restaurant operators are constantly adapting to changing markets and customer trends. As NMRA member Annapurna's World Vegetarian Cafe closes its Eubank location, owner Yashoda Naidoo is already exploring opportunities for expansion in other areas of Albuquerque. We applaud the resilience and forward-thinking approach that keeps New Mexico's hospitality industry moving forward.

A longtime New Mexico-based vegan restaurant is closing one location while considering spots for a new store on the Westside.

10/22/2026

Get to know NMRA CEO Victoria Sánchez Martínez. Learn more about her background, leadership experience, and vision for New Mexico's hospitality industry.

NMRA Welcomes New CEO Victoria Sánchez Martínez Current NMRA CEO Carol Wight Introduces New CEO Victoria Sánchez Martínez It is my great pleasure to introduce Victoria Sánchez Martínez as the next Chief Executive Officer of the New Mexico Restaurant Association. I have known Victoria since the...

10/22/2026

National Food Safety Month may be over, but food safety is a year-round commitment. ServSafe's collection of resources, including training posters, meeting guides, quizzes, and practical tools can help restaurant teams reinforce best practices and strengthen their food safety culture every day. Explore these valuable resources and keep food safety at the forefront of your operation.

Every September, ServSafe empowers foodservice professionals to prevent safety violations with training and resources.

10/21/2026

Albuquerque restaurants are facing proposed Food Service and Retail Ordinance changes that could reshape inspections, permitting, food truck operations, temporary events, and day-to-day compliance requirements. NMRA is urging restaurant owners, operators, managers, and employees to review the proposed rules and participate in the upcoming public hearing, highlighting concerns that a new four-color inspection grading system could create customer confusion and unfairly impact businesses that remain legally open and serving the public. Industry feedback is critical to ensure policymakers understand the real-world effects these changes could have on restaurant operations, costs, and Albuquerque's hospitality community.

Albuquerque Food Code Changes The City of Albuquerque is considering amendments to its Food Service and Retail Ordinance that could affect restaurant inspections, permitting, food safety compliance, food trucks, catering operations, temporary events, and other areas of restaurant operations. A publi...

10/20/2026

In case you have been living under a rock, we want to make sure you keep these industry leaders at the top of mind all year and not just during HIA!
Meet Manager of the Year Joey Fernandez of Philmont Scout Ranch , Chef of the Year Chef Brendan Gochenour of Inn of the Mountain Gods , Restaurateur of the Year George Gundrey of Tomasita's and Atrisco Cafe & Bar , Community Service Award honoree Janice Argabright of the The Original Owl Bar & Cafe , Faces of Diversity recipient Jeremiah Richardson of Proofed Bread Company, Industry Champion Bill Focke of Ben E. Keith Foods , and Lifetime Achievement Award winner Ed Linderman of Butter Smith Kitchen & Pies , Village Inn Pancake House, and Corner Bakery Café. Their impact is felt statewide—explore their stories and join the celebration on the full awards page.

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10/20/2026

Every election shapes the operating environment for restaurants, bars, hotels, and hospitality workers across New Mexico. From workforce policy to licensing rules to economic development — your vote directly affects our industry’s future. Here’s what you and your teams need to know to make a plan and show up:
October 20

• Recommended deadline to request an absentee ballot

(Applications must be received 14 days before Election Day)
October 31

• Final day of early voting

November 3 — Election Day

• Polls open 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• Same‑day registration available at every polling place

• Absentee ballots must be received by 7:00 p.m.

✔️ Make your plan — and encourage your team to do the same!

Check your registration, find your polling place, or request an absentee ballot through the New Mexico Secretary of State website. A few minutes today ensures your voice is counted on November 3.
Our industry is stronger when hospitality shows up. Let’s vote.
https://www.sos.nm.gov/voting-and-elections/