We were told to come here for the best Mexican restaurant in Albuquerque. First, it's a take-out place that has a few somewhat dirty picnic tables outside where you can eat. Second, although the portions are ample, the food is somewhat greasy and very salty. It's been in operation a long time and seems to be very popular and crowded.... More

The stuffed sopapillas are awesome! they are big but taste delicious as well as the flat tacos, i eat there EVERYTIME im in Albuquerque NM the prices are reasonable the staff is friendly & fast theres seating outside, the resturant is ALLWAYS packed with customers

I know that people from Albuquerque love this place, but their food is not good. the tamales are very expensive. The portions are big but who would want to eat a huge amount of bad food? If you are looking for good new mexican fast food, you would be better off going to Hurracane's. or if you have lots of... More

I think my expectations were high after reading reviews--not realizing its a cafeteria style rather then restaurant. The food was too greasy for me. All orders are take out only however they have a picnic table in the parking lot.

Very informal, order at a conter and you have just a few picnic tables out back. But the stuffed sopapillas, and actually everything else is fantastic! I no longer live in NM but when I visit, I go straight to El Modelo for my "fix"! Its that good...now be warned it is not in a good neighborhood and it looks... More

Tamales? This is the place! It is not a convenient location to the north valley, but so worth the trip. It is simply a must if you want to fill your freezer with tamales. Not sure which is the better, green chili chicken or red chili pork, so you buy both.

This is a hometown favorite and the entire family calls this a go-to place for authentic red and green chile tamales, enchiladas and the best original tacos around.

First I will absolutely praise El Modelo for their always friendly staff & prompt service. Really, as busy as El Modelo usually is, these folks are fantastic. The old building has character & stands as a local monument to stick-to-itiveness. The food though, leaves me wanting. The last few times I've eaten there, I've been disappointed. Today, I have to... More

This place is take out only. Looks like old warehouse. Huge kitchen in back with lots of workers. Always busy. Good prices. A little hard to find but so worth it