TEN 3’s executive chef Dennis Escovedo may only be 25 years old, but he’s already making a big impact in the kitchen. He’s at the helm of one of Albuquerque’s most iconic restaurants, located at the top of the 10,378-foot peak of the Sandia Mountains and accessible from the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway.
Chef Dennis’ journey into cooking began in high school in Taos, New Mexico, where he competed in culinary competitions. He took culinary classes for three years from Chef Benjie Apodaca.
“After the three years [of culinary classes in high school], I ended up coming to Albuquerque and going to Central New Mexico Community College for culinary arts,” Chef Dennis said. “Unfortunately during that time Chef Benjie passed away, which was pretty tough. That’s part of the reason why I keep pushing.”
He’s already had a busy career, working at Hotel Andaluz and at Bien Shur Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge before moving on to TEN 3.
@visitalbuquerque Have you eaten at Ten 3 - one of the highest restaurants on earth? It’s a must try in Albuquerque. Here is executive chef Dennis Escovedo’s favorite dish on the menu ✨ #trueabq #albuquerque #newmexico #sandiamountains #sandiapeaktramway ♬ original sound - Visit Albuquerque
His culinary inspiration comes from foods he enjoys or ate while growing up mixed with New Mexican cuisine. His version of calabacitas comes with a tempura-battered green chile, stemming from his love of Asian food.
“I like to play around with different things and try out new cooking methods and new proteins,” Chef Dennis said.
His goal is to continue to elevate the menu at TEN 3.
“I want to make it the best in the region and make it the reason people come up here, not just the Tram,” Chef Dennis said. “They’re coming for the restaurant.”
It’s clear with Chef Dennis in charge, it won’t be hard to make that happen.
“We have amazing food and amazing staff and they all work very hard,” Chef Dennis said. “We all do it for a purpose: just to be the best.”
