About Us

Crafting Memories With Every Meal, Since The 1950s

Welcome to Stufy's Restaurant, founded by culinary pioneers Ray Madrid and Lawrence Villanueva. Our journey began in the 1950s when Ray, then Head Chef at the Albuquerque Country Club, opened Mexican Maid restaurant in downtown Albuquerque. With a unique sopaipilla machine and cherished recipes, Stufy's was born in 1968, carrying on a tradition continued today by Paul Madrid and Lawrence Villanueva II since 1989.

Paul eventually retired in 2003, with Lawrence II continuing the legacy. In 2007 he was joined by his sister, Catherine V. Beckmann. In 2023, the restaurant welcomed Maria Landeros and Julio Docando as new family members and store owners, carrying on the stuffed sopaipilla story into the future.

Stufy's is known as "the home of the stuffed sopapillas" — serving New Mexico for more than half a century with authentic NM food. Our menu offers 14 different stuffed sopaipillas, each prepared to order using local ingredients. In addition to sopaipillas, the menu features traditional New Mexican offerings such as breakfast burritos, huevos rancheros, tacos, enchiladas, tamales, tostadas, rellenos, burritos, burgers, dinner plates, desserts, and salads.

Lawrence Villanueva II outside Stufy's Candelaria location

Carrying On the Legacy

Lawrence Villanueva II has continued the family tradition since 1989, preserving the original stuffed sopaipilla recipes and the warm, welcoming spirit that has made Stufy's an Albuquerque institution.