Blake’s first Lotaburger was opened in Albuquerque more than fifty years ago by Blake Chanslor, a native Texan who moved to Albuquerque after World War II. Commonly known by various names, such as; Lotaburger, or Blake’s, the first Blake’s Lotaburger was in operation in 1952. It has many existing locations mainly in New Mexico and as of 2009 there were over 76 stores in different cities with Albuquerque containing most of them.
Blake’s Lotaburger is distinguished by its introduction of green chiles to the burger and has been hailed by National Geographic as the world’s best green chile cheeseburger. Much attention has been paid to Blake’s for its cheeseburger which is now called the Lotaburger as a trademark outlet. Apart from the green chili, there is also Blake’s special green or red sauce for those who want another flavor.
There are various foods served at Blake’s Lotaburger other than hamburgers; from a variety of sandwiches ranging from chicken to turkey breast to roast beef and even halibut. There are even hot dogs, corn dogs, chili dogs, chili bowls, and chili pies. If you’re an early riser, there’s Blake’s Lotaburgers that offer a breakfast menu that ranges from eggs to breakfast burritos.
If you’re having a function and like Blake’s menu for meals, they offer on-site catering for events with a full menu that includes a variety of foods from fruit platters to just about anything you fancy.
All Blake’s Lotaburger stores are owned by the company and have a construction division that handles the task of building the franchise stores. Blake’s also owns and manages the operation of its body shop, refrigeration shop, vehicle shop, cabinet shop, maintenance fleet, and a commissary.
This gives Blake’s the freedom to customize its own fast food outlets. Therefore, Blake’s Lotaburger stores have a distinctive red and white color scheme and outdoor seating areas with red and white striped umbrellas. Each store has a “Blake man” who holds up a sign with Blake’s name on it. Some of the older Lotaburgers were walk-ups, but most had indoor seating. Newer designed Lotaburgers have a drive-through.
Chanslor did not remain the owner, in 2003 he sold his interests in the franchise to Brian Rule. The franchise was launched in 1952 with an initial investment of $5,300. Blake’s Lotaburger is considered the best chain burger restaurant in New Mexico and is listed in the New Mexico Tourist Information Guide as the best place to get cheeseburgers.
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