I could have chosen any place in Albuquerque to eat last week for my birthday. I love fine dining and atmosphere. I had heard so much about the Monte Carlo and wanted to try it. Decided to go for my birthday with a large group. The place is certainly interesting................almost like a Speakeasy minus the door and "the goon." My rib eye was one of the best I have ever eaten in a restaurant! (I used to work in Las Vegas, Nevada as a concierge and got comps to some of the best fine dining in the city.) The atmosphere is interesting (to say the least) but the steak was excellent. I suggest you try the Monet Carlo and the large rib eye! Can hardly wait to try a prime rib sandwich some Wednesday for lunch...........heard it is also a must do. I can still taste that melt in your mout steak!

Besides the great food, we all thought it had great atmosphere and the wait staff were friendly and helpful. I would come back in a heartbeat!

Best ribeye I have ever had.

We read the reviews before we went and even called the restaurant. I specifically asked if the beef served was "prime". Both the male who answered the phone and our waitress assured me it was. It was not. Under the best of circumstances it would have been considered a low grade of "choice". The portions were substantial but quantity does not make up for quality. The french fries were cooked with the temperature to low. As a result instead of have fries with a slightly crisp outside and tender inside we had potatoes that were essentially soaked in hot grease. All three of our meat dishes were served luke warm at best.

Our review will not affect their business it is a locals place. The wait staff is very friendly but that is not enough to have us return to see if we just caught them on a bad night. All in all an experience we do not care to repeat.

I've been in the restaurant upholstery business in Albuquerque for almost 30 years and have had lunch and dinner at every place in town and several that no longer exist. The Monte Carlo is the single best steakhouse in town. It maybe could use a bit of redo but that might also change the ambience. If you want light and airy go to one of the franchise joints for a second rate, smaller piece of meat and a waiter who'll tell you his name. Trust me, I grew up in a steakhouse in the midwest and know good meat.