15 Best & Fun Restaurants in Tucumcari (NM)

The Mother Road and western hospitality converge at Tucumcari. This Quay County city is in New Mexico, United States. Tucumcari is the County’s seat. It had a population of 5,207 in 2021.

The city is famous as the stop for Interstate 40 cross-country travelers. The city is the abode of several unique attractions.

When it comes to great food, there are endless possibilities here at Tucumcari. It doesn’t matter if you’re craving something savory or sweet — there’s something to tempt your palate at the various Tucumcari restaurants.

Here are some of the best restaurants in Tucumcari, NM.

Restaurants in Tucumcari, NM

1. Watson’s BBQ

Watson’s BBQ

In a state known for its green chile and red enchiladas, Watson’s BBQ in Tucumcari might seem out of place. But this unassuming little spot is one of the best places to eat in Tucumcari, NM, if you’re craving for a mouthwatering barbecue.

The New Mexico representative on Thrillist’s list of the top small-town eateries in the nation was Watson’s BBQ just a month before it was voted one of the most significant barbecue spots in the country.

The meats are the focus of the menu at Watson’s, which is relatively uncomplicated. You can pick from perfectly smoked ribs, brisket, chicken, and sausage. Due to their tenderness and flavor, the ribs are particularly outstanding.

The sides at Watson’s are nothing to sneeze at, either. The baked beans are hearty and flavorful, and the coleslaw is crisp and refreshing.

Watson’s is undoubtedly the best BBQ spot in Tucumcari if you’re looking for some. The sides are equally as excellent as the top-notch meats. It’s the ideal location for a relaxed lunch or dinner.

Visit Watson’s BBQ from 8 am to 4 pm every day. They are closed on Sundays.

Address: 502 S Lake St, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-461-9620.

2. Del’s Restaurant

Del’s Restaurant

For more than 50 years, Del’s Restaurant in Tucumcari, New Mexico, has been a neighborhood favorite. The eatery is renowned for its kind service and home-style fare. Del’s is a fantastic location for a filling breakfast, delectable lunch, or a tasty dinner.

It will interest you that the eatery’s famous green chile cheeseburgers have been highlighted in publications and television. This is why it is one of the best restaurants in Tucumcari, NM.

Every one of your favorite breakfast foods is available on Del’s Restaurant’s breakfast menu. Enjoy a hearty breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, or French toast to get your day off to a great start. You can also consider a fruit bowl or yogurt parfait for something a little lighter.

Del’s Restaurant offers a selection of soups, sandwiches, and salads for lunch and dinner. The daily soup is always famous, and the sandwiches are made with freshly baked bread from local bakeries.

Try famous Del’s burger, which comes with all the fixings. The salads are an excellent way to achieve your recommended daily intake of vegetables because they are made with fresh, locally farmed ingredients.

Del’s Restaurant welcomes guests Mondays through Saturdays from 6 am to 9 pm.

Address: 1202 U.S. Rt. 66, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-461-1740.

3. La Cita

La Cita

Tucumcari’s La Cita restaurant served many Route 66 westbound travelers introductions to Mexican cuisine.

When La Cita, a landmark that had fed countless hungry travelers and tourists, closed its doors in 2004, it sent shockwaves across the Route 66 community. However, by 2006, it reopened with new owners and a repaired neon sign.

The eatery is renowned for both its delicious, authentic Mexican food and its warm, welcoming ambiance. Open for breakfast, lunch, and supper, La Cita Mexican Restaurant serves a selection of Mexican fares such as stuffed sopapillas, chicken fajitas, burritos, Frito pie, and more.

La Cita also offers a variety of seafood dishes, such as the Camarones a la Diablo, which is shrimp sauteed in a spicy chipotle sauce.

Visit La Cita today and get a taste of Mexico!

Opening hours are 10 am to 9 pm on Mondays through Saturdays and 7 am to 2:30 pm on Sundays.

Address: 820 S 1st St, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-461-7866.

4. Donut Pro

Donut Pro

A local favorite for fresh, delectable donuts is the Donut Pro Restaurant in Tucumcari. For over 20 years, the eatery has earned a reputation for serving some of the most incredible donuts in the city.

The restaurant is open early, so you can get your donuts before work or school. The donuts come in a wide range of flavors on the menu, including traditional options like chocolate and vanilla, as well as more unusual options like green chile and strawberry.

To help you fill up before starting the day, Donut Pro also offers a selection of breakfast and lunch options.

Whether you’re visiting Tucumcari or a resident, stop by Donut Pro for a tasty treat.

Donut Pro operates seven days a week from 5 am to 2 pm.

Address: 623 E Rte 66 Blvd, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-282-3331.

5. Denny’s

Denny’s

One of the best Tucumcari restaurants is Denny’s. It is a traditional American diner. They have been offering decently priced, high-quality cuisine in wholesome servings since 1953. Their lights are always on, bringing visitors from around the world into a place where everyone is welcome.

People can kick back and be themselves at Denny’s Mountain Road Diner while savoring traditional American comfort food and reasonable prices.

Denny’s offers dine-in options, but if you want to take the meal home, you can place an online order at Dennys.com or through their mobile app.

When it comes to appetizers, breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this diner works to provide customers with their favorite diner fare, featuring dishes like sizzling skillets, hand-dipped milkshakes, beef burgers, and the renowned Build Your Own Grand Slam.

This Tucumcari eatery is always moving forward. The workers never stop moving, aiming higher, and seeking greatness. They are receptive to new, creative ideas and believe teamwork and accountability are the keys to success.

Denny’s is open 24 hours.

Address: 2021 S Mountain Rd, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-461-3396.

6. Arby’s

Arby’s

Arby’s is a chain of fast food restaurants specializing in roast beef sandwiches, founded in 1964 in Boardman, Ohio. As of 2018, Arby’s has 3,342 locations across the United States.

The chain’s signature item is roast beef sandwiches, although it also sells chicken sandwiches, fish sandwiches, salads, and wraps.

At Arby’s, there is a sandwich for every taste, from the traditional roast beef to the more unusual turkey and Swiss. And don’t forget to try one of their famous curly fries; they make the ideal side for any meal.

Among the best places to eat in Tucumcari, NM, for a quick and delectable supper is Arby’s Restaurant. The service is pleasant, and the food is created to order and is fresh. You can’t go wrong with a visit to Arby’s Restaurant in Tucumcari, New Mexico.

Operating hours are 6 am to 10 pm daily.

Address: 1900 S Mountain Rd, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-461-1900.

7. Blake’s Lotaburger

Blake’s Lotaburger

Blake Chanslor, a WWII Navy Veteran, started a New Mexico Tradition in 1952 when he flipped the first Lotaburger. Blake’s Lotaburger has established itself as a cultural landmark in the Land of Enchantment after 70 years.

Blake’s is a favorite among residents and a must-stop for visitors to the Southwest because of the natural ingredients they use to prepare fresh meals.

Their signature “New Mexico Style” Lotaburger comprises two substantial, fresh, premium beef patties, melted cheese, and the distinctive, flame-roasted Hatch Green Chile.

Blake’s also offers milkshakes, chicken sandwiches, bacon breakfast burritos, and Blake’s chili bowl.

Blake’s Lotaburger runs through the week from 8 am to 10 pm.

Address: 2523 S 1st St, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-461-0011.

8. Kix on 66

Kix on 66

A traditional counter and booth restaurant, Kix on 66, serves classic American fare for breakfast and lunch. Kix on 66, known for its hearty portions and home-style cooking, has been a local favorite for years. It is a great place to stop for a meal when traveling through Tucumcari, being among the best restaurants in Tucumcari, NM.

The menu at Kix on 66 features a variety of American classics, including burgers, sandwiches, pancakes, huevos rancheros, French toast, green chili omelets, salads, and entrees like chicken-fried steak and meatloaf.

In addition to its regular menu, Kix on 66 also offers a daily special, which is usually hearty and budget-friendly.

Kix at 66 is also an excellent option for outdoor seating. They have a large patio area perfect for people watching or enjoying the scenery.

If you’re ever in the area, stop by Kix on 66 for a delicious and memorable meal.

They are open daily from 6 am to 8 pm.

Address: 1102 E Rte 66 Blvd, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-461-1966.

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9. Pow Wow Restaurant and Lounge

Pow Wow Restaurant and Lounge

Pow Wow Restaurant and Lounge in Tucumcari is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by Native American culture. The restaurant is decorated with beautiful Native American art and artifacts.

The restaurant offers takeaway and dine-in options and a dance floor, and live music on weekends.

Explore their extensive menu options that include tacos, quesadillas, smothered burritos, combo fajitas, hamburgers, rib eye steak, shrimp scampi, rice and beans, spaghetti, chips, and salsa.

The Pow Wow Lounge is the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing cocktail or beer after a long day exploring Tucumcari.

They are open Sundays through Thursdays from 11 am to 10 pm and on weekends from 11 am to 11 pm.

Address: 801 W Tucumcari Blvd, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-461-2587.

10. Loretta’s Burrito Hut

Loretta’s Burrito Hut

Local Tucumcari eatery Loretta’s Burrito Hut is well-known for its mouthwatering burritos. For more than 20 years, the family-run Mexican restaurant has been serving burritos that are freshly cooked and made to order.

The menu here is straightforward but offers a wide range of tasty alternatives. The burrito, which may be ordered with fillings like chicken, beef, pork, or veggies, is undoubtedly the restaurant’s hallmark dish. The rice and beans that come with the burritos are always freshly prepared to order.

Quesadillas, tacos, and nachos are just a few of the other Mexican-inspired foods that Loretta’s Burrito Hut serves in addition to its famous burritos. Burgers and fries are only a few American-inspired foods at the eatery.

Visit Loretta’s Tuesdays through Saturdays from 7 am to 7 pm.

Address: 321 E Rte 66 Blvd, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-461-9661.

11. Golden Dragon Chinese Restaurant

Golden Dragon Chinese Restaurant

One of the top restaurants in Tucumcari, NM, is Golden Dragon Chinese Restaurant. It is committed to giving its customers a memorable and fantastic dining experience.

This restaurant serves traditional foods like lo mein and orange chicken in an old-fashioned setting with a vintage vibe.

Every dish is prepared by the skilled chefs of Golden Dragon using only the finest, most natural ingredients. To provide the most nourishing foods for their guests, they make an effort to prepare them more healthily.

Golden Dragon provides cuisines like Hunan chicken, wonton soup, cashew chicken, fried shrimp, udon, sweet and sour chicken, pork egg rolls, and kung pao chicken.

Care has been taken to create a warm and welcoming environment where patrons can enjoy the fantastic food and the authentic setting.

They are open Mondays through Saturdays from 11 am to 9 pm.

Address: 1006 E Rte 66 Blvd, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-461-2853.

12. Godfather’s Pizza Express

Godfather’s Pizza Express

This list would not be complete without highlighting the top pizzeria in Tucumcari, Godfather’s Pizza Express. This pizzeria has been serving the Tucumcari people since 1973.

Due to its excellent pizzas, welcoming staff, and enjoyable ambiance, the restaurant quickly became a neighborhood favorite.

Pizzas at Godfather’s Pizza come in a vast range, with meat and vegetarian options. The eatery offers a salad bar in addition to a variety of appetizers and desserts.

Every customer at Godfather’s Pizza receives courteous and helpful service from the personnel, who go above and beyond to ensure their satisfaction.

Throughout the year, the restaurant also puts on a lot of entertaining events like trivia nights and live music.

Godfather’s Pizza is the ideal location for either a delectable pizza or a great night out. Both locals and tourists can take advantage of all that this Tucumcari institution has to offer.

Operating hours are 7 am to 10 pm daily.

Address: 1900 S Mountain Rd, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-461-1777.

13. Caravan Xpress Grill

Caravan Xpress Grill

If you ever find yourself in Tucumcari, New Mexico, and you’re in the mood for some hearty, traditional American fare, you should stop into Caravan Xpress Grill. It is simple to understand why this eatery is a neighborhood favorite.

All your favorite comfort meals are available at The Caravan Xpress Grill, a diner with a 1950s vibe. In addition to offering a wide variety of burgers, sandwiches, and fries, they also provide a full breakfast buffet. Both the costs and the level of service are always very favorable.

The Caravan Xpress Grill is the ideal location for a quick bite with friends or a family-friendly supper. The cuisine is consistently outstanding, and the ambiance is upbeat and laid-back.

Be sure to visit the Caravan Xpress Grill the next time you’re in Tucumcari.

They are open from 7 am to 2 am every day.

Address: 1302 U.S. Rt. 66, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-461-3140.

14. Las Chaparritas

Las Chaparritas

Las Chaparritas is the place to go if you’re craving authentic Mexican cuisine. For more than 20 years, this family-run restaurant has been dishing up authentic Mexican cuisine, and they are unquestionably experts in their field.

Your favorite Mexican dishes, including mulitas, chiles Rellenos, tamales, chicken flautas, burritos, and more, are all featured on the menu at Las Chaparritas. Only the freshest ingredients are used to prepare their meals.

They also have a fantastic range of salads and soups if you want something a little lighter. However, you can be sure that whatever you purchase will be excellent.

Las Chaparritas also has a full bar, so you can enjoy a margarita or two with your meal. And, the prices are very reasonable, especially for the quality of food and service you receive.

Enjoy authentic Mexican food at Las Chaparritas, being one of the excellent Tucumcari restaurants.

Las Chaparritas welcomes guests from 8 am to 5 pm on Mondays to Saturdays.

Address: 900-924 S Mountain Rd, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-403-5312.

15. Los Primos Hotdogs

Los Primos Hotdogs

There is only one place to go for a hot dog if you ever find yourself in Tucumcari: Los Primos Hotdogs. Since 2013, this local restaurant has been dishing delectable hot dogs, sandwiches, and more, and they’re primarily regarded as the best in the city.

You’ll be impressed with anything you order at Los Primos Hotdogs. The hot dogs are made with high-quality ingredients and come in a range of unique flavors, like the Sonoran Dog, which is topped with beans, onions, tomatoes, and jalapenos.

The sandwiches are also excellent, and they have a great selection of sides.

Check out Los Primos Hotdogs if you’re seeking a lively and welcoming restaurant in Tucumcari, New Mexico.

Los Primos opens from 10:30 am to 4 pm on Mondays to Fridays.

Address: 522 E Main St, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States. Phone: +1 575-265-2831.

Map of the Best Restaurants in Tucumcari, NM

To get around during your trip to Tucumcari, here is a map of the best restaurants in Tucumcari with markers of the top places to eat in Tucumcari, NM.

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Plan a Visit to Tucumcari

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of being on vacation and forget about healthy eating, but it’s important to pay attention to what you’re putting into your body.

Fortunately, there are numerous possibilities for nutritious food in Tucumcari restaurants. This lovely city offers everything you might want, from fine dining establishments to unpretentious cafes with a cozy atmosphere.