Calientes Restaurant Llc

I have been here a few times to support local restaurants in Albuquerque and always came away with a decent if not underwhelming dining experience. The owner was usually in and would always say hi. I moved across town, so I stopped going there regularly, but decided to stop in for their Sunday brunch. It had been pretty good in the past, and the wait staff very friendly as well. The two young women running the place today were not friendly at all and seemed extremely reluctant to be there. I was only checked on once and no smile, no words, just cold attitude. When I asked the other girl if I could have my drink refilled, she said she'd go get "my waitress", even though she wasn't doing anything herself. The food was only ok, as it was cold and clearly been there since the buffet began hours ago. When I left, the girl who rang me up gave me a dirty look and just spouted out my total, no "How was your meal?" or anything. The only conclusion I could come to is that the two girls are related to the owner and can't be fired anyway. I really don't know what these other gushing reviews are talking about and can only assume they are from friends of the owners or relatives. The kind of unfriendly, cold service, lazy work ethic, and mediocre food are exactly why these locally owned restaurants are dying out here. Luckily, Perea's has moved into their new location just down the street South on Juan Tabo, and I would suggest going there rather than Caliente's for the simple reason that the service is better and the food is not bland, but incredibly tasty. If the owner reads this, just know that I'm very disappointed with how the restaurant turned out. I will not be returning.
Dec 16th, 2013

Delicious red chili enchiladas and spicy salsa. Friendly staff!
Jul 27th, 2013

We had Calientes cater our wedding. It was worth every penny! The food was great, Leo the owner is super friendly and when we first met him at the restaurant to sample food, he ended up giving a full lunch to us and our 4 kids on the house! The calabicitas and Tres Leche are to die for. The best I have EVER had! Thanks Leo for everything!
Apr 8th, 2013

From a native New Mexican , the food brought back a taste of nostalgia . A true taste of New Mexican food with homemade and fresh taste . Congratulations Calientes ! Keep up the good work and good food .
Feb 20th, 2013

Excellent food, top notch chile, and unbelievable steaks.
Dec 27th, 2012