Two well-known Albuquerque eateries — Laguna Burger and Frank’s Famous Chicken & Waffles — opened concessions at the Albuquerque International Sunport on Monday, bringing more local food choices to arriving and departing passengers.

Laguna Burger, which began as a small roadside grill in Laguna, built its reputation on green chile cheeseburgers and straightforward, regional flavors. Maxine Velasquez, president and CEO of the Laguna Development Corporation, said bringing the brand to the airport is a chance to introduce visitors to New Mexico’s culinary identity as soon as they arrive.

Velasquez emphasized the shop’s goal of sharing the “authentic spirit” of the area and making sure travelers get a taste of local cuisine right in the terminal. The Sunport location will feature the signature items that made Laguna Burger popular back home.

Frank’s Famous Chicken & Waffles has been part of the Albuquerque dining scene for more than a decade. Founder Frank Willis, who moved from Los Angeles in the early 1990s to play for the New Mexico Lobos, started the business with his sister Tiffany from her apartment before growing into a larger storefront in 2019. The restaurant has earned repeated recognition from a local magazine as a top pick in the city over a long stretch of years.

Willis said opening at the Sunport is a way to return the community’s support by sharing the family’s food and culture with visitors. Both new concessions will be operated by Tailwind Concessions, giving travelers quick access to regional favorites like green chile cheeseburgers and chicken-and-waffle plates while at the airport.