Buce Burguers – Las Hamberguesas A La Lena
Do you remember that 1970’s television commercial for shampoo? “You’ll tell two friends, and they’ll tell two friends, and so on and so on.” That ‘spreading the word’ is exactly how we came to love the delicious meals offered by Yonathan and his team at Buce Burguers.
Yonathan Bernal is originally from Puerto Vallarta and now lives in Bucerias with his two dogs and roommate. Yonathan has been in the restaurant business all of his adult life, including bartending at Sukha for seven years. One year ago he decided to open his own enterprise, Buce Burguers.
Alexis, Yonathan’s roommate, translated for the purpose of our interview – many thanks to you, Alexis!
Alexis explained that, although every night is busy, Buce Burguers is much busier on weekends. If you plan to attend, be sure to make a reservation. They are open Wednesday to Sunday, 6:00pm to 12:00am.
We asked Alexis why Yonathan decided to focus on serving burgers. He replied, “Well, he really loves burgers, and he’s a great cook!”
A La Lena translates to “on the wood,” and Alexis described the grilling process. “It is not a regular grill, it’s wood fired.” When asked what kind of wood is used, he replied, “It’s a special, secret wood!”
We gobbled down wings with fixin’s, La Gringa Burger with pickle choices, and very tasty papas fritas.
Life took place around us as we sampled the agua de jamaica, cold beer and red wine, observing families strolling past and folks heading home from work, a few dogs and the occasional crowing rooster. It’s a peaceful setting, and the service was fantastic.
I overheard a group approaching the street-side restaurant. One of them said to another, “How did you find this place?” She responded, “I have no idea where I heard about it but knew when I saw it. And, there was a couple sitting right there, she pointed, and they said ‘the burgers are phenomenal.'”
We ended up chatting with the newcomers, three couples from Canada. Not knowing each other before this season, they met at Villa Tayrona and became fast friends. Explaining why their group came for burgers, Walter from Manitoba said, “Our friends told us it was the best burger anywhere.”
They might just be right!
Now you need to visit Yonathan and enjoy a treat from their varied menu. It won’t be long before you’re introducing your own Amigos to Yonathan and his burgers-extrordinaire!
Reservations – WhatsApp 322 360 8800
Located at Guadalupe Victoria #50, at the same intersection as Kape and Culi’s Restaurant.
December 19, 2022 – Original story published February 17, 2022 – these menus reflect 2021 prices and may have since changed.
Special thanks to Fernando, Alexis and Brian Norman for photo contributions.
