Atomic Cantina

Great prices on the drinks, also a very well curated jukebox. Would definitely visit again.

One of the only things to do in ABQ and also a nice little joint to-​boot. It’s got my prerequisite funky atmosphere, fairly priced beer, oh, and did I mention that there’s NO Cover! At least not that I’ve experienced. Just walk in here or the place next door and listen to free live music. That’s unheard-​of. Even in the tiny little berg I’ve been living near in WA where they almost always charge on a Fri. night.
The latter outweighs any gripes one can come up with, especially since I’ve paid just to be able to drink at a bar where the band is knocking my eardrums with bad, bad riddims.

I was in Albuquerque for the night to start out my road trip. I read reviews that this place was fun and a great dive bar, so I was excited to go.
But, in walking towards it, 3 seedy characters were bodyguarding the entrance. One was particularly shady, staring me down like I was invading his area or something. I decided not to go in. I cannot comment on the inside, but it did look like a good dive (with pool tables!). Shame they allowed these characters guard the door like watchdogs. Oh well.

one pinball machine — the simpsons pinball party, in good condition. playfield is a little worn and grooved, but the bumpers and slingshots are some of fastest i’ve seen in some time.
great friendly staff, decent beer selection, one pool table and a foosball table to boot (even though it’s got three in the back).

If it wasn’t for this bar hosting rockabilly nights on Thursdays I would have never started swing dancing.
With friendly (and patient) patrons, fantastic local music, NO COVER, and its place in history as the source of one of my greatest obsessions and sources of happiness ever, the Atomic Cantina will always be five stars in my book.

I’ve only ever gone to the Atomic when a band I want to see is playing there. I’ve never seen a reason to go back for anything else.
Well, actually, one time I walked into the men’s room to find some guy bangin’ some chick in the stall. I left the bathroom, and shortly after that, the chick comes out, grabs some OTHER dude’s hand, and pulls him into the men’s room with her.
That was entertaining, I guess.

I like this place because its very cozy and not a club!
i have yet to see a band here… but sitting in the corner window is nice for people watching jumping from burts to atomic.
This little corner seating area is also good for looking into the eyes of partner in crime especially with that neon light glow coming from the window! They’ve gotta one pool table and one Foosball table! score!
this place is dark, and a dive… its worth it just to check out the muraled bathroom… i went there last night, and they seem to have a rock and roll kareoke on tuesdays… so i’d recommend going there if you like karaōke. if not, head next door to burts. and when you get tired of a screaming band at burts, head back to atomic, or just call it a night… this is also a nice escape from burts when the line is long… support atomic too, the beers taste the same!

Cool bar in downtown area. A little off the beaten path but fun once you get here. While I have had some lame times here due to staff situations, I have also had some good times here due to the same reason. Strong poured drinks and good cold beer on tap. Excellent bands playing is the norm.