Your Body, and Soul, need some Zinc

The second in my series of an expatriate Chicagoan venturing into the culinary world of Albuquerque found me exploring the Nob Hill District. East of Downtown and the main UNM campus, the locals say 'if it's hip, it's on the Hill', and there is ample evidence to support that notion. While I will return to the neighborhood, my first stop was at a noted wine bar and jazz bistro called Zinc (zincabq.com), for Sunday Brunch.
As with many spots in older buildings, the original aspects, in this case brick and dark woods, meld nicely with contemporary touches like glass and shiny metals. Hundreds of wines populate the near ceiling high bar back wine rack, and its traditional wood bar with seating near the front door, which balances a bright steel and glass eating bar around the open kitchen at the rear. The second floor balcony over looking all, including the jazz guitarist, is a very comfortable perch from which to enjoy your repast.
Service was sincerely friendly and welcoming. The menu is creative and changes often - note that the menus on line need to be updated; however, what is there represents the kind of fresh and unique items one can expect upon arrival. You get a sense of pleasant anticipation as the tables near are served. The only 'complaints' heard regard portion size being too much, plates being hot and the items so good that overeating was not optional. A sampling of brunch entrees found the egg dishes perfectly cooked to order, meats seasoned or smoked well and tasty accompaniments most appropriate. You will not clean your plate and please resist taking the remaining hash brown pie home. Flavor accents range from touches of SW, French and Italian, depending upon your selection. The Mimosas actually have the right proportion of champagne in them. As far as the cost, ranging with your selections, including a drink, tax and tip, you can expect $18 - $30 per person. I will return soon, either for Monday Martini and Movie night or the food and paired beverage dinners. Food, service and music make Zinc a necessary part of your ABQ diet.

Sounds nice. My all-time favorite resto in ABQ is this.

Happy Exploring, keep us in touch!

Geo