Downtown Albuquerque’s historic Route 66 building gets another shot at selling

After sitting empty once before, a two-story brick building on Central Avenue in Albuquerque is back on the market. The structure, built in the 1960s as a hotel, now houses Lindy’s Diner on the ground floor and several other tenants upstairs. The owners decided to sell after thirty years of running the business, hoping a new owner will bring fresh ideas to the space. Lindy’s Diner gained national attention last year when it was named one of the best diners in the country by the Food Network. Despite this recognition, the owners are ready to move on, though they plan to keep the diner open during the sale process. The building itself still has potential, with 22 unused rooms upstairs that could be converted into apartments or condos—a smart move given Albuquerque’s growing demand for downtown housing.A few years ago, the owners tried selling the building for nearly the same price, but high interest rates and low buyer interest made that attempt difficult. This time, they’re more optimistic because downtown Albuquerque is seeing a wave of new projects. Older buildings like the Wells Fargo tower are being turned into homes, and a vacant property nearby is being transformed into an arts center. The Bliss Building could follow a similar path. The new owner will have choices to make. They could keep Lindy’s Diner running, though the owners hinted they might retire the name if the diner stays. They’re even open to sharing recipes with the right buyer. The art galleries and apartments inside the building could also stay, but everything depends on the new owner’s plans. City leaders are pushing for more development in downtown areas, and this building’s location right on Route 66—part of the historic Mother Road’s 100th anniversary celebrations—makes it even more appealing. The owners believe now is the best time to sell, not just for their own retirement but for the building’s future.