Cafe Lush: Albuquerque's Hidden Gem for Heartfelt Hospitality and Flavorful Fare
A Neighborhood Love Story in Every Bite
In the heart of Albuquerque, nestled between downtown buzz and residential calm, you'll find a cozy corner cafe that feels more like home than a restaurant. Cafe Lush, lovingly operated by Tom Docherty and Sandy Gregory, has been serving up scratch-made meals and warm smiles for over 14 years. Their story isn’t just about great food — though there’s plenty of that. It’s about community, consistency, and a deeply rooted love for the neighborhood they call home.
Just blocks from their house, Tom and Sandy found their perfect spot when a friend pointed out a "for rent" sign. What began as an empty shell turned into a beloved local hub, thanks to Tom's 50+ years of culinary expertise and Sandy's unmatched front-of-house warmth. Together, they created a dining experience that’s welcoming, accommodating, and irresistibly delicious.
From the terracotta prison-made bricks lining the exterior to the historic roots dating back to the 1930s, Cafe Lush is steeped in Albuquerque’s charm. But it’s the lively laughter from diners, the staff who know your name and your order, and the heartfelt hugs from Amy the hostess that make this place unforgettable.
A Menu as Unique as Its Creators
Tom and Sandy's creativity shows up on every plate. Their menu isn’t just versatile; it’s designed to delight every diner. With options that cater to gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and traditional tastes, Cafe Lush has earned national attention — even being listed on the National Celiac Association's website as a trusted stop.
Signature dishes like the award-winning French toast and the inventive breakfast pizza (made with a hash brown crust) are frequent favorites. Guests rave about the Marlowe sandwich, featuring Tom’s house-made green chile sausage, peach mustard, and pickles. Each dish has a backstory and often a name inspired by friends, family, or local characters, giving the menu a delightful personal touch.
Everything is made from scratch — from the desserts and pastries (many of which are gluten-free) to the ice creams and sorbets, like blueberry espresso or pina colada. And let’s not forget the "Lush Dust," a unique house blend that adds a flavorful spark to both sweet and savory creations.
A Gathering Place With Heart
At Cafe Lush, community isn’t just a buzzword — it’s the reason the doors open each morning. Regulars like David, who reads his New York Times over coffee, are part of the family. The staff, many of whom have been with Tom and Sandy for years, share in that familial spirit. Becca, the long-time manager, and Fran in the kitchen help keep the rhythm of the cafe strong and steady.
The cafe also supports local causes, giving back through gift certificates and other donations. During the pandemic, the Gregorys kept things afloat through grit, downsizing operations temporarily and relying on loyal customers. They even signed the papers to buy their building the day before the COVID shutdown — a leap of faith that ended up saving their business thanks to community support and timely relief programs.
Despite temptations to expand, Tom and Sandy are devoted to staying small and intentional. "People expect to see us," they say, and their presence is part of the magic. It’s that consistency, that handshake across the counter, that sense of being seen and known, that makes Cafe Lush truly lush.
A Brush With Stardom and Local Fame
Being in downtown Albuquerque, Cafe Lush has naturally become a go-to for the film industry. Their space has hosted shoots (including a dramatic scene from a well-known series), and they frequently fill catering orders for studios and production crews. Even a vegan actor once found comfort in their plant-based offerings.
The cafe has also won numerous accolades over the years, from best grilled cheese to hot plate honors in Albuquerque Magazine. But perhaps the highest praise comes from the consistent five-star reviews across platforms like Yelp and Google.
One guest gushed, "This place is a gem! Their breakfast pizza is genius, and everyone here treats you like family." Another regular wrote, "Every time I visit Albuquerque, Cafe Lush is my first stop. It just feels good to be here." Still others commend the gluten-free offerings, noting how rare it is to find such quality and variety.
Why Cafe Lush Should Be Your Next Meal Stop
Whether you're a longtime Albuquerque resident or a traveler looking for a local gem, Cafe Lush offers more than a meal. It offers connection. Here, hospitality is handcrafted, just like the food. Every bite tells a story, and every visit feels like a warm embrace.
Open Monday through Friday for breakfast and lunch, plus a special Saturday brunch, Cafe Lush is a must-visit for food lovers and community seekers alike. Just remember — if you visit once, you’ll be back. And next time, they might just start making your order before you even sit down. For more info, visit their website: https://www.cafelushabq.com/
Café Lush
700 Tijeras Ave. NW.
Albuquerque NM 87102
