4th Street Mall redo bolsters Downtown restaurant prospects
Damon Scott
Reporter-
Albuquerque Business First
Although the reconstruction of Downtown Albuquerque's 4th Street Mall created some headaches for pedestrians and businesses last year, the consensus now that it's done seems to be very positive. Two restaurants have opened since the construction was completed late last year, and at least one area stakeholder is sinking $100,000 into prepping a formerly vacant space for new business.
Café Bien just opened at the edge of the 4th Street Mall at 400 and 402 Central Ave. SW in more than 5,200 square feet that owner Lindsay Cavazos re-renovated after Azul Burrito Co. ended a short run there, citing the inconvenience of the 4th Street Mall reconstruction and parking issues. Café Bien, which used to operate in the nearby Simms Building, offers breakfast, lunch and catering and is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Meanwhile, the Latin-Caribbean restaurant Café Caribe ABQ opened about a week ago in the middle of the 4th Street Mall area at 102 4th St. NW. Owner Alejandro Arteaga is in the space that was formerly Aldo's Pizzeria — which moved to a Central Avenue-fronted space. Menu items include dishes inspired by traditional offerings in Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. The restaurant is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
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