There’s a reason people drive across Albuquerque specifically for Farina’s Margherita pizza, and it’s not just the downtown location.
One guest called it the best Margherita they’ve ever had, and considering they’ve spent years reviewing pizza across multiple states, that statement carries weight.
This isn’t hyperbole or travel blogger exaggeration – Farina earned recognition as one of the Top 20 Pizzerias in the country, bringing wood-fired Neapolitan technique to New Mexico’s EDo neighborhood with a distinct downtown vibe.
What Makes Farina Pizzeria Special
The restaurant operates in that sweet spot where artisanal technique meets neighborhood accessibility.
Wood-fired pizzas come out with crispy-but-not-overdone crusts, while house-made pastas and fresh salads round out a menu that goes beyond just being a pizza place.
Farina’s approach earned national recognition, but the locals who’ve been coming for 13-plus years (like the waitress who teaches art on the side) know the consistency matters more than awards.
The Story Behind the Pizzeria
Farina opened on Central Avenue SE with a mission to bring artisanal pizza to downtown Albuquerque’s EDo neighborhood.
The wood-fired oven became the centerpiece, producing pizzas that got noticed first locally, then nationally as one of the country’s top pizzerias.
The restaurant operates Monday through Saturday 11am to 9pm, closed Sundays, with a first-come-first-served seating policy that keeps things democratic – no reservations means everyone has equal access.
Food Highlights
- Margherita Pizza: This classic preparation has earned devoted fans who claim it’s the best they’ve had anywhere. The simplicity lets quality shine – San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and that wood-fired crust.
- Formaggio Di Capra: Scallion, pancetta, leeks, and goat cheese create a white pizza that guests specifically mention as addictive. The creamy base with goat cheese pairs with leeks in a way that keeps you reaching for another slice.
- Funghi Pizza: Mixed mushrooms showcase how simple ingredients prepared well can stand out. Multiple guests who’ve eaten here for years keep ordering this one.
- Chopped Salad: This fresh salad has earned 36 specific mentions, proving Farina does more than just pizza. The crispy vegetables and balanced dressing make it a worthy starter or light meal.
- Butterscotch Budino: The creamy butterscotch pudding topped with sour cream whipped cream creates excellent contrast. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you slow down and savor.
- Meatballs al Forno Balsamico: Four meatballs with golden raisins, pancetta, pine nuts, and balsamic reduction bring sophistication to comfort food. The combination of sweet raisins and savory meat works better than it sounds.
Atmosphere
Farina sits at 510 Central Avenue SE in downtown Albuquerque’s EDo neighborhood, where brick walls and art-filled space create that homey feel guests appreciate.
The moderate noise level keeps energy up without overwhelming conversation, while the trendy-but-not-pretentious vibe welcomes everyone from families with kids to date nights.
Outdoor seating accommodates dogs, and the restaurant handles groups well despite being a relatively small space – good for downtown where parking actually exists both on street and in their own lot.
Bottom Line
Visit Farina Pizzeria because earning Top 20 Pizzeria recognition nationally while maintaining neighborhood favorite status locally means they’re doing something genuine.
The Margherita and Formaggio Di Capra pizzas demonstrate wood-fired technique that justifies the reputation, while the chopped salad and butterscotch budino show range beyond just pizza.
The brick walls, art-filled space, and servers who’ve worked here over a decade prove this downtown Albuquerque spot has built something sustainable in the EDo neighborhood since opening.
Address: Farina Pizzeria & Wine Bar 510 Central Avenue SE, Albuquerque, NM 87102
📞 (505) 243-0130
🕐 Mon-Sat: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Closed Sunday)
Top 20 Pizzeria nationally | Wood-fired oven | Downtown EDo | Dog-friendly patio | First-come seating | House-made pasta