Sunport Celebrates Grand Opening of Laguna Burger and Frank’s Famous Chicken & Waffles 

ALBUQUERQUE — Two of New Mexico’s most iconic eateries have landed at the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ). Laguna Burger and Frank’s Famous Chicken & Waffles made their official debut today at a ribbon cutting ceremony featuring Mayor Tim Keller, Aviation leadership, and representatives from Tailwind Concessions, which will manage the new spots. The two restaurants expand the Sunport’s growing lineup of local options that offer travelers an authentic taste of the Duke City from wheels down.

“Green chile cheeseburgers, chicken and waffles: This is Albuquerque flavor at its best,” said Keller. “Supporting local businesses like these is an investment in Albuquerque’s identity.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome these beloved restaurants to the Sunport,” said Aviation Acting Director Manny Manriquez. “They give visitors a true taste of our region and a warm welcome to Albuquerque.”

Laguna Burger brings its award-winning green chile cheeseburgers, known for fresh, never frozen certified Angus Beef and signature seasoning. What began as a roadside grill in Laguna has grown into one of New Mexico’s most recognized culinary brands, earning multiple titles.

“We are honored to bring the Laguna Burger experience to the Sunport,” said Laguna Development Corporation President and CEO Maxine Velasquez. “Our mission has always been to share the authentic spirit of New Mexico. Opening at the Sunport ensures that every traveler is welcomed with the unmistakable flavors of this place the moment they land.”

For more than a decade, Frank’s Famous Chicken & Waffles has been a staple of Albuquerque’s dining scene. Founder Frank Willis moved from Los Angeles in the early 1990s to play for the New Mexico Lobos and, missing the flavors of home, began selling soul food with his sister Tiffany from her apartment. The small family-run operation quickly grew into a popular brick-and-mortar restaurant, expanding to a larger location in 2019. Today multiple generations of the family continue to run the business, which has earned numerous accolades including “Best in the City” honors from Albuquerque the Magazine from 2013 through 2025.

“Albuquerque embraced us from the start,” said Frank’s Famous Chicken & Waffles Founder/Owner Frank Willis. “Opening at the Sunport is our way of giving that love back, by sharing the food and culture that define who we are.”

“We are proud to partner with local operators to bring meaningful, high-quality dining experiences to the Sunport,” said Tailwind Hospitality President and CEO Jeffrey Switzer. “When familiar New Mexico brands meet a thoughtfully designed airport environment, it creates something memorable for both visitors and the community.”

Tailwind Concessions has more than 20 years of experience managing airport food, beverage, and retail programs, emphasizing partnerships with local businesses and sourcing regional products. Their Sunport presence reflects the culinary character of the region, including other offerings such as Indian Pueblo Kitchen.

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 About the Albuquerque International Sunport
Owned and operated by the City of Albuquerque’s Aviation Department, The Albuquerque International Sunport is New Mexico’s largest commercial airport, welcoming over 5 million passengers each year. Served by six major carriers, three cargo carriers and two commuter airlines, the Sunport offers nonstop service between Albuquerque and 30+ destinations, with worldwide connectivity.