Green'z at Tin Can Alley: Where Global Culinary Experience Meets Fresh Mediterranean Flavor in Albuquerque

A Culinary Journey from Algeria to New York to Albuquerque

When you walk up to Green'z inside Tin Can Alley, you're greeted not just by the inviting aromas of sizzling spices and fresh herbs, but also by the story of a chef whose culinary journey spans continents. Meet Alex Hadidi, the passionate chef-owner behind Green'z, a Mediterranean haven in Albuquerque that celebrates healthy eating with bold, handcrafted flavor.

Originally from Algeria, Alex's first spark of culinary inspiration came from his aunt, whose cooking turned even the humblest ingredients into gold. That early exposure to French and Turkish influences laid the foundation for a lifelong love affair with food. After studying in Yugoslavia and training at the prestigious French Culinary Institute in New York City, Alex spent nearly three decades refining his craft in high-end kitchens like Tribeca Grill and Aqua Grill. His journey eventually led him to Santa Fe, where he opened Café Mimosa, and finally to Albuquerque, where Green'z was born.

Alex’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and devotion to his craft. From humble beginnings to haute cuisine, and now to hearty, health-conscious dishes served in a bustling food hall, Green'z is the culmination of a lifetime in the kitchen.

Mediterranean Magic with a New Mexican Twist

At Green'z, the menu is a flavorful tapestry of Mediterranean classics fused with local New Mexican flair. Alex crafts every dish from scratch, drawing on decades of international experience and a dedication to cooking with purpose. Every sauce is made fresh, every ingredient thoughtfully sourced, and every meal cooked to order with precision.

The most popular dish? The chicken shawarma bowl, featuring spiced chicken rubbed with Alex’s signature seven-spice blend that includes a nod to the Southwest with green chile. It’s a fan favorite for good reason. Then there are the Mediterranean gyros, where traditional ingredients like roasted meats and onion are sautéed with New Mexican green chile, bringing a bold regional twist that’s both unexpected and delicious.

The menu stretches across the Mediterranean map—with Italian pastas, French-infused sauces, Greek-style salads, and North African spice. And for those with dietary needs, Green'z is a haven. Alex welcomes guests to customize dishes freely: swap couscous for quinoa, build your own salad, or ask for something totally off-menu. One popular customer request? "Just make me something," to which Alex responds with improvisational flair, creating custom-composed salads that keep diners coming back.

Affordable, Fresh, and Made to Order

In a world of hidden fees and complicated menu pricing, Green'z keeps things refreshingly simple. One flat price—$15 for everything on the menu—ensures customers focus on flavor, not cost. It’s a rare find in the modern dining landscape: gourmet quality, handcrafted meals, generous portions, and no surprises at checkout.

This simplicity doesn’t mean shortcuts. Quite the opposite. Every meal is cooked to order; nothing is pre-prepared. The results? Vibrant dishes that don’t need extra seasoning or last-minute adjustments. With authentic techniques like searing meats at high temperatures and finishing with residual heat to preserve moisture, Alex ensures each bite hits the mark.

Open seven days a week from 10 AM to 8 PM, Green'z provides a consistently excellent option for lunch, dinner, or anything in between. And while Alex is too modest to brag, guests quickly realize that every dish comes with a side of passion and artistry.

Big Dreams, Local Roots

Despite his impressive resume and ambition to one day take Green'z national, Alex remains deeply rooted in Albuquerque. He’s grateful for the city’s diversity, its growing food scene, and the creative energy that fuels his kitchen. And while he’s not a fan of social media, he’s all about real connection—one meal, one customer at a time.

Green'z has quietly become a go-to destination for locals seeking clean, nourishing food that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie, a curious newcomer, or just someone who loves a good gyro, Green'z offers something special. Even the Hollywood set took notice when filming in town, though the restaurant’s small team has kept things intentionally scaled to preserve quality over quantity.

Alex also gives back through community fundraising efforts, especially in schools and cancer organizations. And as he continues to document recipes and train staff, Green'z is preparing for growth—just not at the cost of what makes it unique.

Why You Need to Try Green'z Today

Green'z is more than a restaurant—it's a culinary passion project rooted in love, resilience, and authenticity. From house-made Mediterranean dishes to made-to-order improvisations, every bite is a celebration of flavor, health, and heritage.

So next time you find yourself at Tin Can Alley in Albuquerque, stop by Green'z. Whether you crave a custom salad, a bold chicken shawarma, or just want to say "surprise me," Alex and his team are ready to welcome you with warmth and world-class cooking.