When I headed into Santiago's, I was hungry. I was also about to trek up a mountain - assisted by a tram.

I wanted something hearty and tasty. And Sandiago's did not fail to please.

The huevos rancheros with green chile sauce could have fed two, but I had no problem eating it all.

More impressive than the meal, if that's possible, was the view. Sandiago's is located at the base of the Sandia Mountain Peak. As such, lots of tourists dine here. But it doesn't have a tourist feel; the place feels as local as any of the restaurants in town felt.
In fact, a local recommended the place to me.

I initially chose to eat on the balcony but was forced inside by the wind; Albuquerque can get chilly even in early October. Inside, even though the place was crowded, my meal was delivered quickly and the service was beyond friendly.

Though it's a trek to get there, you should check out Sandiago's if you find yourself in this part of the country. The ride to the top of the mountain is not mandatory.

I didn’t feel like a tourist until I boarded the tram.

In fact, I was able to relax on the 45 minute drive to the Sandia Peak Tramway. The drive was fairly easy and, as my car took me higher into the mountains, I felt at peace.

But, when I bought that $7 ticket and stood in line with the several dozen other people waiting to board our “flight” to the top of the mountain, I began to feel a bit cheesy.

Everyone in line had their camera equipment; some had on sweatshirts and hats they bought in the gift shop.

It didn’t get more tourist-y than this.

But then, my ride began.

A fifteen minute and nearly three mile ride up turned into a sight-seeing experience like no other. And, believe or not, I saw more than mountains. The plant life on the way is amazing; you don’t see these blooms in many other areas.

There was a bit of a history lesson, too, as the tour guide/tram operator talked us through the history of different rock formations.

Once we arrived …