Surpassing expectations: Ex Novo launches dazzling new dining destination in Downtown

The August launch of Ex Novo Downtown was among the most anticipated local restaurant openings in recent memory.

Much of the excitement centered around Ex Novo founder Joel Gregory鈥檚 decision to tap chef Marc Qui帽ones to run the culinary program at the new location. Qui帽ones has had a storied career in Albuquerque, culminating with his selection last year as a James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef Southwest.

Surpassing expectations: Ex Novo launches a dazzling new dining destination in Downtown

20241206-venue-v10eats — Ex Novo's Honey Bacon Wrapped Almond Stuffed Dates with Boursin cheese sauce.
Richard S. Dargan/For the Journal

Ex Novo's Honey Bacon Wrapped Almond Stuffed Dates with Boursin cheese sauce.
Richard S. Dargan/For the Journal

Whipped Burrata Salad is one of three salads on Ex Novo's small plates menu.
Richard S. Dargan/For the Journal

Beer Can Arroz con Pollo, one of the large plates at Ex Novo.
Richard S. Dargan/For the Journal

Garlic Shrimp and Chorizo topped with grilled sourdough bread, a small plate at Ex Novo.
Richard S. Dargan/For the Journal

Griddled Banana Bread with ice cream, berries and peanut butter glaze, one of the desserts at Ex Novo.
Richard S. Dargan/For the Journal

The Bitter Nun, Ex Novo鈥檚 second-floor cocktail lounge.
Richard S. Dargan/For the Journal

Ex Novo opened in August at the corner of Central Avenue and Seventh Street NW in Downtown.
Richard S. Dargan/For the Journal

Ex Novo鈥檚 past life as a tire shop is evident in the bay doors that have been converted to windows.
Richard S. Dargan/For the Journal

The dining room features a variety of seating areas and games like darts and tabletop shuffleboard.
Richard S. Dargan/For the Journal

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