Albuquerque's Café Da Lat is a friendly, family-owned spot is a favorite of locals who are more than happy to scarf down authentic Vietnamese fare like banh mi — lemongrass pork or beef layered with daikon, cilantro and hot peppers and sandwiched between two pillows of French bread. Or try a whole catfish fried to a golden brown and served with ginger dipping sauce. If that doesn’t suit your fancy, how about spicy eggplant with pork, or crispy Vietnamese crepes stuffed with meat and veggies accompanied by a scrumptious dipping sauce? Café Da Lat’s simple chic décor and friendly service makes it versatile enough for an evening date or a quick lunch. Prices are reasonable, with entrees ranging from $7 to $12.

Café Da Lat
5615 Central Avenue NE

Albuquerque, NM 87108

(505) 266-5559

Not many people think of pumpkins as food — they use them for Jack-o-Lanterns at Halloween and table decorations on Thanksgiving. But this versatile squash is actually a wonder in the kitchen, and it also packed with nutrients! Here are some recipe ideas.

–        Pureed pumpkin makes a great substitute for zucchini or carrots in breads and muffins. its hearty sweetness adds a lot to the flavor and a wonderful color. It's best to use a cheese grater to roughly grate the flesh before you mix it into the batter.

–        Pumpkin seeds are actually very high in vital nutrients and make a delicious and healthy snack. Known as “pepitas” when roasted, it’s very easy to make them yourself. Separate the seeds from the pulp, wash them, and dry them well. Then season the seeds with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them at 400 degrees until they become fragrant and shine.

–        Pumpkin also works really well as a base for Mexican soups and sauces. Roast and puree the meat before seasoning it with garlic, jalapeno, salt, and pepper. It’s wonderful over enchiladas or served with spicy chorizo sausage.

–        If you're a coffee fan, you've likely tried a seasonal pumpkin spice lattes. To make this treat at home, use two teaspoons of pumpkin puree, lightly sweetened, along with vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Add this mixture to any hot beverage for a warm, comforting autumn flavor.

Diners are raving about Farina’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar. "Best pizza in Albuquerque" – if not the world — seems to be the general consensus! In addition to Italy’s original pizza, the Margherita, there are other selections like the ‘Bianca’ with fresh mozzarella, parmigiano, ricotta, truffle oil, sage and artichoke hearts. Carnivores should try the ‘Carni Curate’ with pepperoni, prosciutto, salami and mozzarella. Pair your pizza with an antipasti or salad and wash it down with a selection from their extensive wine and beer selection. If you have room for a bit of dolce (sweet) after your meal, try the coffee granita with vanilla bean cream. Yum. Yes, it’s a bit noisy and the tables are elbow-to-elbow, but isn’t that what a true Italian trattoria is all about?

Farina Pizzeria & Wine Bar
510 Central Avenue SE
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 243-0130