The establishment founded by Robert and Peggy Richardson in 1982 has evolved into a New Mexican staple over the years, with four restaurants — three in ABQ, one in Rio Rancho — joining the original. Technology has advanced, but the tortillas are still made fresh daily, and the recipes haven’t changed much; they’re just being served to a larger audience.
The Burrito Express is still very much a family affair. Its locations in ABQ and Rio Rancho are run by Robert and Peggy’s kids: Martín, Tomas and Adrienne.
“We just have really grown their brand and always tried to bring that home-cooked feel,” Martin says.
One of the goals for bringing Burrito Express to the Duke City was to expose diners to the Southern brand of New Mexican food.
“It’s a different flavor altogether,” he says. “One of our really famous dishes we have is called asado, which is pork meat that’s slowly cooked on the stove with red chili. Whereas here in Albuquerque, primarily people make what’s called adovada, which is baked pork meat in red chili.”
As one might expect, burritos are the main attraction here, with myriad breakfast and lunch options from which to choose. One popular selection is the combo burrito, which comes with homemade steak, potatoes, cheese and your choice of red or green chile. All burritos can be fully customized, or patrons can choose from intriguing possibilities such as the relleno burrito, enchilada burrito or huevos rancheros burrito. Don’t let the Express name fool you, however.
Burrito Express
3500 Menaul Blvd NE, Suite 1
Two other ABQ locations, one Rio Rancho location
(505)-881-5111
Burritoexpressinc.com
