by Jessa Cast
Sawmill Market, a vibrant food and entertainment venue, offers myriad options
A DISTINCTIVE ALBUQUERQUE HUB teems with energy and is located just off Rio Grande Boulevard, near Interstate 40. The Sawmill Market—so named for the Sawmill District, built atop old sawmill grounds—offers guests a social center unlike any other in our area. Featuring an array of food and beverage merchants, a touch of retail and plenty of gathering options, the market is a hive of activity.
This venue celebrates local culture like everything owned by Sawmill Market’s parent company, Heritage Hotels & Resorts. Not only was the market itself constructed by local craftspeople, from steelwork to painting, but it also exclusively features homegrown merchants.
“We feature local artisans,” says Sawmill Market’s food and beverage director, Trevor Randall. “We have no corporate chains and never will. Our company is all about heritage, and we really lean into that.”
From breakfast to cocktail hour, a bevy of options makes choosing challenging. Quench your thirst at coffee shops, a taproom and several bars. For the hungry, fare selections run the gamut: barbeque, burgers, New Mexican, vegan, pizza, Vietnamese, Mediterranean, sushi and more. A sampling for the sweet-toothed includes paletas, baked goods, Japanese ice cream and artisanal chocolates.
We have no corporate chains and never will. Our company is all about heritage, and we really lean into that.
–Trevor Randall
Stop at Estella Floral Design for a customized arrangement of fresh flowers or at Mercantile Cafe for locally made gifts. New concepts like Swoon, a sweets bar with a 1950s vibe, and a Spanish-fare station are both set to open this autumn.
How does one navigate this bustling marketplace? “There are a couple different ways to get se rved. The general market is counter service with open seating,” says Randall. “While most merchants’ fare is grab-and-go with a variety of indoor and outdoor seating options, there are two restaurants offering table-side service.” Flora, a Mexican concept, offers traditional dishes from ceviche to flan; West Cocktail & Wine Bar offers brunch, rustic tapas and charcuterie.
Both the atmospheric yard area, which hosts karaoke, bingo and table games, and the Mill Room are available to rent for private events.
Guests who prefer carryout can take advantage of the Taste of the Market online ordering system. “You can order from any of the twenty-seven vendors, pay for it all on one credit card swipe and pick it up to bring the market experience home,” says Randall.
Insider’s tip: Because the market is situated close to Hotel Chaco, where visiting movie and television show cast members often stay, there are occasional celebrity sightings. So, as you browse the food options, keep your eyes peeled not only for the delectable delights but also for some distinguished guests.
