Discover Rio Rancho! If you’re seeking a place that feels like home, offers excellent food and drinks, and has a genuine commitment to the community, your search ends here. Turtle Mountain Brewing Company is more than just a place to eat; it’s a story crafted with passion, family, and considerable effort. Let’s explore what makes this local favorite stand out.
A Passion for Craft Beer
The story of Turtle Mountain Brewing Company started with a profound appreciation for fine beer, cultivated over many years. Proprietor Nico Ortiz’s enthusiasm was sparked during a student exchange in Germany at age 16. This experience set him on a path of extensive exploration, spanning over two decades and visiting numerous restaurants, bars, and breweries worldwide. This lifelong devotion to the art of brewing forms the basis of Turtle Mountain, with the goal of providing that world-class beer experience locally in Rio Rancho.
A Name Rooted in Heritage
The name “Turtle Mountain” carries deep personal meaning, serving as a sincere tribute to Nico Ortiz’s late father, Alfonso Ortiz. Alfonso, originally from Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo, held the Tewa name “Okú-Pín,” meaning “Turtle Mountain.” This name was not only a direct acknowledgment of his father’s heritage but also represented the invaluable encouragement and essential financial support Alfonso provided, making the brewpub’s opening possible. It’s a name that signifies family heritage and a strong connection to the region.
Good Beer, Great Food, Real Community
At its heart, Turtle Mountain Brewing Company operates with a straightforward yet impactful objective: to provide the people of Rio Rancho and nearby areas with delicious, high-quality food and drinks at affordable prices. They are dedicated to cultivating a relaxed and welcoming environment where everyone feels accepted. This commitment includes fostering a sense of belonging, aiming to be a true neighborhood gathering spot where customers are treated like friends.
The brewpub has certainly received considerable recognition for its focus on quality and community. Their dedication to high standards has been recognized, earning them a solid three-and-a-half-star rating in the Albuquerque Journal and a “Best of: Pizza” award from CitySearch.com.
Further establishing their reputation, they secured a prestigious gold medal at The Great American Beer Festival in 2018 and have been featured in national industry publications such as All About Beer Magazine and Brewpub Magazine. Locally, they have been honored multiple times in the Alibi Best of Burque Readers Poll as Rio Rancho’s best restaurant, confirming their status as a cherished local establishment.
