Longtime Albuquerque Restaurant Casa de Benavidez Up for Sale

The iconic New Mexican eatery has been a local staple for decades.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Casa de Benavidez, a beloved New Mexican restaurant that has been a fixture in Albuquerque's North Valley for over 50 years, is now up for sale. The family-owned establishment, known for its authentic cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, has decided to close its doors and put the business on the market.

Why it matters

Casa de Benavidez has been an integral part of Albuquerque's culinary landscape, serving as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Its closure would mark the end of an era and the loss of a cherished community institution that has weathered the changing tides of the city's dining scene.

The details

The Benavidez family, who have owned and operated the restaurant since it first opened in the 1970s, cited retirement and the desire to pursue other opportunities as the primary reasons for putting Casa de Benavidez up for sale. The restaurant is known for its traditional New Mexican dishes, including enchiladas, tamales, and the signature green chile stew.

  • Casa de Benavidez first opened in the 1970s.
  • The restaurant is now up for sale in 2026.

The players

Casa de Benavidez

A historic New Mexican restaurant that has been a fixture in Albuquerque's North Valley for over 50 years.

Benavidez family

The family that has owned and operated Casa de Benavidez since its opening in the 1970s.

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What’s next

The Benavidez family is actively seeking a buyer who will continue the restaurant's legacy and maintain its commitment to serving authentic New Mexican cuisine.

The takeaway

The impending closure of Casa de Benavidez marks the end of an era for Albuquerque's culinary scene, as the loss of this iconic institution will be deeply felt by the local community. The sale of the restaurant presents an opportunity for a new owner to preserve the Benavidez family's legacy and continue to serve the city's residents and visitors with the same warmth and hospitality that has defined Casa de Benavidez for over five decades.