Laguna Burger might have an Albuquerque address, but as any local will tell you, it’s an experience that’s truly miles away from the city bustle. For years, this unassuming burger joint has been drawing crowds, and for good reason. Even before social media buzz, word-of-mouth made Laguna Burger a must-visit destination, consistently ranking as a top spot for those in the know. While many flock to the well-known locations, especially the one conveniently located near the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque, the real heart of Laguna Burger lies a bit further west, beckoning those who crave an authentic taste of New Mexico.
New Mexico’s history is etched with tales of journeys across harsh landscapes. Long before modern highways, settlers braved treacherous trails in pursuit of a new life. These paths, though romanticized in history, were far from easy. The famed El Camino Real, for instance, included a stretch so unforgiving it was named “Jornada del Muerto,” the “route of the dead man.”
Detailed construction of a Laguna Burger, showcasing layers of ingredients like beef patty, green chile, and cheese, a culinary art in New Mexico.
The arrival of railroads transformed travel in New Mexico, making it safer and more comfortable. Today, New Mexico’s trails evoke admiration and recreation, not fear. This spirit of exploration and discovery paved the way for a different kind of trail – a culinary one. In 2009, the concept of culinary trails took root, celebrating the unique flavors of New Mexico. The first of these was the Green Chile Cheeseburger Trail, a tribute to the state’s beloved, unofficial dish.
This trail ignited a statewide quest for the best green chile cheeseburger. Over 8,000 votes poured in, highlighting nearly fifty restaurants across New Mexico, from small diners to roadside stands, all serving their rendition of this iconic burger. Among these contenders, a convenience store with a humble name, “Home of The Laguna Burger,” stood out, capturing the hearts and taste buds of many.
Driving along I-40, you might spot signs for Laguna Burger, perhaps mistaking it for casino promotion. That would be a mistake. Laguna Burger is genuinely exceptional, crafting some of the finest green chile cheeseburgers in New Mexico. They start with fresh, never-frozen, 100% ground beef, creating a juicy half-pound patty of pure burger bliss. Today, Laguna Burger has expanded to several locations, with the most recent strategically placed across from the Route 66 Casino, bearing an Albuquerque address on Central Avenue. Yet, stepping inside feels like entering a classic diner tucked within a local market. Beyond the convenience store aisles, you’ll find a dedicated space where the magic of the Laguna Burger happens.
Cheromiah Marshall, Laguna Burger grill master, smiling while preparing burgers, highlighting the passion and 'love' that goes into each New Mexico Laguna Burger.
While the Laguna Burger dining area might be small, with limited counter seating and a cozy dining room, the irresistible aroma of grilling beef permeates the entire store, acting like a delicious beacon. Take a moment to peruse the menu, which offers a range of diner favorites, place your order, and find a spot. For a front-row seat to the burger artistry, grab a stool at the counter and watch your green chile cheeseburger come to life.
There’s a palpable sense of care in every Laguna Burger. The staff shirts proudly declare, “Is it the beef or is it the love?”. Grill masters like Cheromiah Marshall embody this sentiment, infusing both quality ingredients and genuine passion into each burger. Cheromiah’s engaging personality and playful banter add to the experience, making the wait for your burger entertaining. His humorous responses about the local sourcing of beef and green chile only enhance the authentic, New Mexican charm of Laguna Burger.
Crowded Laguna Burger location in New Mexico, illustrating its popularity and the long lines of burger enthusiasts.
Cheromiah proudly shared tales of Laguna Burger’s accolades, including placing second in Governor Richardson’s green chile cheeseburger challenge and garnering the most votes on the Green Chile Cheeseburger Trail. With a touch of humor, he declared, “now we’re the best,” a claim that’s certainly hard to argue against when you taste their burger.
Each Laguna Burger is a testament to made-to-order quality, far from the realm of fast food. You can observe the process as staffers carefully shape and weigh the generous eight-ounce beef patties. During grilling, the flavorful Bueno brand green chile is added to sizzle alongside the beef, and cheese is melted to perfection at just the right moment. The burger is then completed with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mustard, all nestled in a sesame seed bun.
Full house at Laguna Burger, New Mexico, showcasing the cozy diner atmosphere and the demand for their famous green chile cheeseburgers.
The result is a perfectly seasoned, juicy burger patty cooked to a delightful medium-well. The vegetables are crisp and fresh, and the green chile delivers a pleasant kick that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering it. It’s a burger so satisfying, you might be tempted to order another, but its generous size, especially when paired with their fresh-cut, never-frozen French fries, might just be enough. These fries are golden and crisp, hitting that perfect balance of texture and taste.
Laguna Burger’s menu extends beyond their namesake burger, offering a surprising variety for such a compact space. From foot-long hot dogs and chili cheese dogs to grilled cheese sandwiches on Texas toast, Frito pies, chicken tenders, onion rings, and taquitos, there’s something for everyone. However, the Laguna Burger remains the undeniable star of the show.
Don’t just take our word for it. Esteemed Albuquerque podcasters Hannah and Edward have lauded Laguna Burger, and Andrea Feucht, when asked by The Guardian of London to name Albuquerque’s top cafes and restaurants, included the 66 Pit Stop, Home of the Laguna Burger, among her top ten. By any measure, this unassuming green chile cheeseburger haven is a solid ten out of ten.
The world-famous Laguna Burger paired with golden French fries, a must-try meal in New Mexico.
Note: While Laguna Burger at the 66 Pit Stop carries an Albuquerque address (14311 Central Avenue, N.W.), it’s located outside the city’s urban core. To get there, head west on I-40 and take exit 114. You’ll find it directly across from the Route 66 Casino.
Laguna Burger
66 Pit Stop
14311 Central Avenue, NW
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Web Site | Facebook Page
(505) 352-7848
LATEST VISIT: 19 June 2016
1st VISIT: 15 June 2010
# OF VISITS: 5
RATING: 21
COST: $$
BEST BET: Green Chile Cheeseburger, French Fries, Frito Pie
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