Elevate National Burger Month with Santa Fe's Premier Green Chile Cheeseburgers
May is National Burger Month, and in Santa Fe, the essential ingredient that transforms any burger into a culinary standout is New Mexico green chile. Experience how this signature flavor elevates the classic American burger. Discover our expert recommendations for the best pairings of flavor and heat.
Good, Better, Best: Go Southwest for Superior Burgers
While "best" lists can be subjective, Eater.com accurately highlighted The Santa Fe Bite's green chile cheeseburger as one of the 21 essential U.S. burgers. Enjoy it on their outdoor patio along the Old Santa Fe Trail, where passersby envy your choice. Eater has praised this burger before, a testament to its excellence amid competition from across all 50 states.
Tempted by this iconic Santa Fe Bite burger? (Photo Credit: The Santa Fe Bite)
Prime Burgers at Santa Fe's Railyard
After The Bite's relocation from its Bobcat Bite origins, Second Street Brewery claimed top honors in last year's Green Chile Smackdown—our annual burger competition (watch for its fall return). Their champion, the Alien Burger, features beef, bacon, green chile, cheese, and a green chile relleno, available at all locations. Or customize your own while enjoying their craft beers.
Savor a local brew at Second Street Brewery's Railyard location while awaiting your burger.
Discover New Mexico Flavor at the Mine Shaft Tavern
The 2014 People's Choice Green Chile Cheeseburger winner offers a scenic drive along the Turquoise Trail. Located in historic Madrid, the Mine Shaft Tavern serves a half-pound Black Angus patty with aged cheddar, roasted and fire-roasted green chiles on a brioche bun—quintessential New Mexico comfort food.
Afternoons at The Mine Shaft Tavern are a cherished tradition.
Cowgirl BBQ's Mother Burger: A Smackdown Favorite
For dinner, try Cowgirl BBQ's Mother Burger, the 2013 People's Choice winner. This blend of buffalo, bacon, and beef pairs with green chile and brie on a chile-cheddar bun for bold flavor. Enjoy live music, and note the dog-friendly patio.
Nick Peña of Food Tour New Mexico endorses the Mother Burger at Cowgirl BBQ. (Photo Credit: Nick Peña)
Simply Perfect: Caffe Greco's Classic
Among Smackdown contenders, Caffe Greco stands out for its straightforward grass-fed beef, melted cheddar, fresh-roasted green chile, and hearty bun. Its Canyon Road spot is ideal for art gallery hopping.
Caffe Greco enhances the all-American cheeseburger with vibrant green chile.
Hotel Dining Delights
Santa Fe hotels offer exceptional burgers. Hotel Santa Fe's Amaya features the Amaya Burger (bison or beef), and Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi serves the Anasazi Buffalo Burger—both 2014 Smackdown finalists.
Savor the Meyer lemon aioli on Chef Marc Quiñones' burger at Luminaria.
Four Seasons: Sunset and Spectacular Burgers
Head north to Four Seasons Santa Fe for sunset views from their patio. Pair a margarita with a burger topped with candied chile bacon and crispy poblano—don't skip the onion rings.
Vibrant flavors at Four Seasons Santa Fe. (Photo Credit: Four Seasons Santa Fe)
Celebrate National Burger Month Santa Fe Style
Ready for a green chile cheeseburger? Incorporate one into your Santa Fe getaway this May for an unforgettable experience.
