Let’s be honest: that burger you’re craving right now is basically the same burger you’ll want when you’re 80. No point denying it, just accept it. So where in Rio Rancho should you be sinking your teeth into one today—and for decades to come? That drive-thru-only spot with the wobbly stools and one napkin dispenser doesn’t sound so satisfying now, does it?
Burger King
$ | (505) 891-3200 | WEBSITE
Fast food joints are often a mixed bag, which probably means inconsistent experiences, which likely means some will look at a drive-thru line as if it just cut them off in traffic. If yours is a bit like that then we suspect Burger King will suit you quite well. This is the restaurant that consistently delivers fresh, made-to-order burgers in Rio Rancho, which roughly translates to: let’s get a quick, decent bite. It’s a fast and friendly place. The kind where ordering a Whopper Jr.
with cheese can (and should) lead to grabbing those much-better-than-McDonald’s French fries. A hungry stomach and patience for the occasional cold item are recommended.
Upscale Rio
$ | (505) 273-2574 | WEBSITE
Few burger joints in Rio Rancho ‘get it’ as much as Upscale Rio does. This grown-up comfort food spot is almost impossible to dislike, even by someone who dislikes everything. The pleasant, comfortable room is buzzy but calming, like a backyard barbecue that serves you blue cheese bacon burgers. At night it becomes a bit more relaxed and cozy, which will probably make for an evening of satisfied sighs and chocolate shake mustaches.
Upscale Rio isn’t the perfect restaurant, because there’s no such thing, but it is perfect for your family dinner, and lots of other situations.
Blake’s Lotaburger
$ | (505) 892-5591 | WEBSITE
Nothing excites your grandparents more than a reference they know. Like when you talk about The X Factor, or that ex-friend they met once at your eighth birthday party. That’s what’s so great about Blake’s Lotaburger: it’s so well known. But even if your grandparents don’t know it, they’ll like it. This restaurant pioneered burgers in New Mexico: it’s got a big story, and also some very reasonable prices.
That said, grabbing a green chile burger and onion rings through the efficient drive-thru, and feeling like you’ve made it (in a down-to-earth satisfying way, not a Kardashian one) is a pretty irresistible combination.
Five Guys
$ | (505) 896-9700 | WEBSITE
Ah, classic, classic burgers. Literally, classic. They’ve spent years giving you a steady supply of smash patties and Cajun fries from their counter behind your better judgment. Finally repay the craving with a trip to Five Guys. This seriously American burger joint in Rio Rancho has plenty of options, from gluten-free buns to rich, juicy burgers, as well as sides like those famous fries.
Inside you’ll find good music playing and a clean, welcoming environment, but there’s also that friendly staff greeting you with warmth if that takes your fancy on a hungry day.
Carl’s Jr.
$ | (505) 891-3443 | WEBSITE
Whether it’s a late-night craving, or a quick lunch break, or you just want to give your appetite an excuse to indulge in some classic American comfort food, Carl’s Jr. on Unser in Rio Rancho is a solid choice. There are fresh, meticulously made burgers and fries that hit the spot every time. There’s polite and helpful service, with drive-thru cashier Magdaleno known for his graciousness and kindness.
And there’s a reliable location that consistently delivers fresh, great-tasting food without disappointing.
Bob’s Burgers
$ | (505) 994-2425 | WEBSITE
Bob’s Burgers is a local burger joint in Rio Rancho with a clean, open interior that feels welcoming, and if you’ve ever seen a hungry traveler stumble upon a roadside diner by chance, then you’ve got a pretty clear idea of how regulars react to that ranchero burger. In the evening you can settle in with a hot bowl of chili and a friendly server ready to fix any order issues, and on a busy day you can grab a seat and appreciate the overall quality despite the occasional salty fries.
Turquoise Desert Taproom
$ | (505) 835-4701 | WEBSITE
Your friends have been telling you that ‘Turquoise Desert Taproom has the best burgers in Rio Rancho’ since you first moved to New Mexico. Take them to this cozy spot. This proper local taproom has been serving up some of the best fried cheese and B.L.A.T.s in town, and has enough community pride to rival any neighborhood joint. Be warned though, it’s always popular for game nights so the tables can get a little sticky at times.
Jack in the Box
$ | (505) 771-2100 | WEBSITE
In fast food terms, Jack in the Box is definitely one we’d classify as a reliable go-to, and that’s one of the reasons we think it’s an excellent choice to go to with your kids. That and its consistently satisfying food. This clean Rio Rancho restaurant matches convenience and quality in everything it does. A lot of the food reads as standard fast fare slapped in a wrapper, but when you eat and look at their burgers, it tastes anything but that.
The place is very family-friendly chain: bright, tidy. But you won’t find any pretension here.
Whataburger
$ | (505) 771-4904 | WEBSITE
Fast food prices can be pretty surprising for everyone, not least a demographic of people who remember when burgers cost a dollar and fries were always hot. That’s why having a consistently tasty burger is a smart move. Even when you’re in a hurry. Whataburger is one of our favorites in Rio Rancho. The burgers at this popular spot are delicious and satisfying – not least their signature patty – and the fact you’ll get a decent meal means it’s burgers all round.
