USA. New Mexico concessionaire Fresquez Companies has opened four food & beverage concepts in an upgraded airside Food Hall at Albuquerque International Sunport. A further eight concepts will follow.
The units include juice bar Rush of Prana, a new concept from vegetarian specialist Annapurna’s and Flavor of New Mexico, which celebrates New Mexico’s rich culinary heritage.
National chain Dunkin’ is among the openings while Panda Express returns to the airport which is dubbed ‘Gateway of New Mexico’. Fresquez Companies is integrating mobile technology into its operations to streamline the ordering experience.
The new Food Hall is part of Albuquerque Sunport’s US$90 million terminal renovation and is located next to the relocated bronze statue by Lincoln Fox, ‘Dream of Flight’, which inspired the project.
The renovation, which is completed in 2025, is funded through federal grants and revenue generated by the airport.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our community to modernise the Sunport for the future and tell the story of Albuquerque’s unique culture,” said Mayor Tim Keller.
“Our goal was to include as many local food brands as possible so that people from all over the world can enjoy our flavours and products created by Burqueños while providing economic growth for folks all around the region.”
In September the Sunport hosted the Taste of Sunport, a community event that showcased its revamped offerings and introduced new concessionaires such as Laguna Burger, Teller Vodka, Sadie’s, Frank’s Chicken & Waffles, New Mexico Piñon Coffee, and Indian Pueblo Kitchen, all based in New Mexico and expected to open in the coming weeks.
“We are thrilled to welcome our four concessionaires, who will elevate the passenger experience in our modernised and reimagined Sunport,” said Aviation Director Richard McCurley. “The opening of this new Food Hall demonstrates the power of collaboration among our dedicated staff, managing partners, and passionate restaurateurs who believed in our vision. We invite everyone to experience our beautiful new Food Hall and take a delicious journey through the Land of Enchantment.”
‘Dream of Flight’ marks the airport’s first major terminal renovation in 30 years. The transformation will enhance the customer experience, improve infrastructure and create opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs, said the airport company. The project will also feature retail shops with New Mexican-made products, as well as works of art commissioned by the City of Albuquerque. 
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