Support Local: Albuquerque Small Businesses to Love This Season

Albuquerque is a city built on community—on local entrepreneurs, family-owned shops, makers, growers, and creatives who add depth, flavor, and personality to every neighborhood. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, supporting small businesses is one of the best ways to invest in the health, culture, and spirit of our city.

This season, take a moment to explore some of Albuquerque’s standout small businesses. These local gems bring something special to the table, and your support helps keep the heart of our city thriving.

Red Rock Roasters – For the Coffee Enthusiast

Tucked away in Albuquerque’s North Valley, Red Rock Roasters has been perfecting locally roasted coffee for decades. Their beans are sourced from small farms around the world, roasted in-house, and served with a no-frills, community-first approach. If you're looking for a morning pick-me-up or a thoughtful gift for a coffee lover, this is the perfect place to start.

What to try: The New Mexico Piñon blend or any of their small-batch seasonal roasts.

The Octopus and the Fox – Handmade Goods With Personality

If supporting local artisans is your love language, The Octopus and the Fox should be at the top of your list. This cozy shop off Central features handmade goods from dozens of New Mexico makers. You’ll find everything from art prints and jewelry to hand-poured candles and funky apparel.

It’s the ideal spot for unique gifts with a true Albuquerque flair.

What locals love: The rotating selection—no two visits are the same.

Rude Boy Cookies – Something Sweet for Everyone

Cookies are always a good idea, but Rude Boy Cookies takes it to the next level with fresh-baked treats that balance nostalgia and creativity. Their classic flavors—like chocolate chip and snickerdoodle—are always crowd-pleasers, but their seasonal creations like biscochito cookies and dairy-free options make them a standout.

Plus, their community involvement and partnerships with local organizations make each purchase feel even better.

Fan favorite: The cookie-of-the-month and their milk bar.

Mask y Más – Art, History, and Culture

This beloved Old Town shop showcases hand-carved masks, folk art, jewelry, and handcrafted pieces from New Mexico and Mexico. Whether you're looking to decorate your home or searching for a meaningful, culturally rich gift, Mask y Más offers items that blend artistry with tradition.

It’s also a great place to learn about the history and symbolism behind the masks and the artisans who create them.

Must see: Their Day of the Dead–inspired pieces.

New Mexico Piñon Coffee – A Local Classic

If you’ve lived in Albuquerque for more than five minutes, you know about New Mexico Piñon Coffee. Their roastery and café bring the aroma of freshly roasted beans to the Westside, and their flavored coffees—especially piñon, Mexican spiced chocolate, and Adobe Morning—are iconic statewide.

A visit makes a perfect Saturday morning outing, and their gift sets make holiday shopping easy.

Pro tip: Grab a warm drink and enjoy it on a walk along the Bosque.

Why Supporting Local Matters

When you shop at small businesses in Albuquerque, more of your money stays right here in our community. You're helping local families, supporting local jobs, and contributing to the unique character that makes our city unlike anywhere else.

Small businesses are often the backbone of neighborhoods—they’re the places that remember your order, greet you by name, support local nonprofits, and show up for our community again and again.

Explore Albuquerque with Us

As Your Casa Team powered by PLACE, we’re more than real estate professionals—we’re community connectors. Whether you’re exploring new neighborhoods, getting to know local businesses, or planning for a future move, we’re here to guide you with trusted expertise.

If you ever need a recommendation—or want to learn more about life in Albuquerque—visit www.PLACEnm.com to stay connected.