Enjoy An Old-Fashioned Burger At These 7 Underrated Route 66 Diners In New Mexico
By Monica Spencer|Published January 27, 2021
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
If there’s anything that birthed America’s road trip culture, it would have to be Route 66. That long highway snaked its way across the West and introduced travelers to incredible landscapes, landmarks, and regional cuisine.
While most towns dotted along the old road have a classic diner serving burgers and shakes, New Mexico’s diners spice things up by serving green chile-laden favorites on menus. Here’s a look at a few diners located along Route 66 that you need to check out.
Located inside an old Denny's restaurant, this diner not only looks like a classic roadside stop, but also serves up tasty dishes. Order a hearty huevos rancheros for breakfast or the patty melt with sweet potato fries for lunch.
This restaurant has a second location just a few miles away in Moriarty, but both feature a tasty diner menu that also has some New Mexican favorites. Not only will you find some tasty enchiladas and green chile burgers on the menu, you can also enjoy a meal for under $10 here.
You can find plenty of classic diner fare here, including burgers and a hearty, potato-filled breakfast, but they are best known for their Disaster Burrito. This menu option isn't for the faint of heart: it's a beef and bean burrito topped with fries, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and plenty of chile. Don't forget to request chile on the side so you can smother every inch.
Located inside a steel-sided, retro-style diner building, this little restaurant sits just outside Grants and is the perfect stop between Albuquerque and Gallup. You'll find a hearty breakfast here to fuel your day.
A Gallup staple, Jerry's is perhaps best known for its large selection of New Mexican dishes smothered in chile. However, they do have plenty of American-style meals, including a mouthwatering chile cheese burger.
Address: 406 W Coal Ave, Gallup, NM 87301
Phone: 505-722-6775