Despite some rumors that have been flying around, Blue Cactus Grill on Coors is indeed still slinging meals through their kitchen doors, and have even recently expanded to do catering and baking.

They made an appearance at today’s Chef Knockout at the Albuquerque Convention Center, serving up not savory items but an assortment of teeny cupcakes in pretty good flavors like lemon and mocha. But the variety that caught my ear and then my tastebuds was the Sopaipilla Cupcake – a mellow white cake with just a hint of whatever flavor it is that you get when you deep fry bread dough. The kicker is a buttery honey frosting and a drizzle of extra honey right over the top.

Brilliant.

Food festivals are gaining traction in this lovely Land of Enchantment.  The latest shindig to hit the calendar is the Taste of New Mexico, held in from October 7th to October 9th downtown on the Civic Plaza.

The weather should be fantastic for sampling foods from local restaurants and (hopefully) some interesting information on New Mexican cuisine in general.  Says the press release, “Albuquerque and Bernalillo County will stage a “Taste of New Mexico” promotion to support the restaurant industry. On Oct. 8-9, 50 restaurants will offer the public sample tastes and products at One Civic Plaza Downtown.”

I hope the chile will be hot, the blue corn vibrantly indigo, and the tortillas fresh and steamy, so help me New Mexico.

Wow, it’s getting crazy around here, both with the impending triple-digit temps as well as a slew of events and activities all over our lovely Duke City.

Last weekend was the Wine Festival, and despite the gorgeous weather, it just seemed a little lackluster this time around.  Less wineries, less yummy samples . . . or was it just me?

Never mind that, this weekend tons is going on for you to eat, sample, savor, and relish.

The Saturday Downtown Grower’s Market is starting up, and you can get your fresh produce, cheese, eggs, and honey in the delightful Robinson Park.

Sunday there is the third annual Local Food Festival and Field Day. At the Gutierrez-Hubbell House at 6029 Isleta SW, from 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.  Taste goodies from local chefs and food producers, gardening workshops, and live musical-ly stuff.

Enjoy the steamy weather, and keep eating local food – it’s good for the tummy.