While you might be in the land of plantains and fresh snapper, sometimes the only thing that will satisfy a specific craving is a thick, juicy burger with all the fixings. Punta Cana has moved far beyond basic fast food; the region now boasts a competitive burger scene where “hand-pressed,” “dry-aged,” and “artisanal bun” are the standard. From casual beachside grills to sophisticated pubs, the variety is impressive.
If you are on the hunt for a high-quality patty, we’ve found the spots that take their grilling seriously. Here are the five absolute Best Burgers in Punta Cana for your next cheat meal.
Top 5 Joints for the Best Burgers in Punta Cana
1. Burlao
$$ | AMERICAN PUB / GRILL | 📍 Puntacana Village
The Hook: 100% Angus Beef and the Quintessential American Pub Vibe.
The Breakdown: Burlao is the local favorite for a reason. Located in the popular Puntacana Village, it expertly blends the feeling of a classic American pub with Dominican hospitality. Their claim to fame is the 100% Angus meat used in every patty. The “Burlao Burger” is a masterclass in balance, offering a rich, beefy flavor that keeps the 38% of our local audience coming back weekly. It is a mandatory stop for anyone seeking the Best Burgers in Punta Cana.
2. Stacked
$$ | BURGER JOINT | 📍 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Bávaro
The Hook: The “Smash” Technique and Decadent Milkshakes.
The Breakdown: Stacked brings a modern, artisanal approach to the casual burger joint. They utilize the “smash technique,” pressing the beef onto a hot grill to ensure natural caramelization and a perfect crust. Beyond the beef, they offer great chicken alternatives and plant-based options, making it one of the most versatile spots for the Best Burgers in Punta Cana. Don’t leave without trying one of their signature shakes—it’s the classic burger-and-fry accompaniment perfected.
3. La Bruja Chupadora
$$$ | MEAT & GRILL | 📍 Bávaro
The Hook: Home of the Legendary “Maldito Gordo” Burger.
The Breakdown: For the adventurous eater, La Bruja Chupadora is a rite of passage. While they are known for their steaks, their burger menu is massive and creative. Specifically, the “Maldito Gordo” burger is a local legend designed for those with a serious appetite. The atmosphere is lively, often featuring live music, making it a top-tier choice for the Best Burgers in Punta Cana when you want dinner to be an event.
4. On a Roll Burger Bar
$$ | CASUAL GRILL | 📍 Dreams Onyx / Various Locations
The Hook: Retro Vibes and Custom-Built Flavor Combos.
The Breakdown: On a Roll offers a nostalgic, retro diner experience that travelers and families adore. The menu is straightforward and focused on high-quality grilled favorites. It captures the essence of a classic burger bar, providing consistent quality and a fun, laid-back environment. It’s one of the Best Burgers in Punta Cana for families who want a reliable, crowd-pleasing meal in a cool setting.
5. Hard Rock Cafe
$$$ | INTERNATIONAL AMERICAN | 📍 BlueMall Puntacana / Downtown
The Hook: The Iconic “Legendary Steak Burger” in a High-Energy Setting.
The Breakdown: Sometimes, you just want the familiar taste of a global icon. The Hard Rock Cafe remains a powerhouse in the local scene, specifically at BlueMall. Their “Legendary Steak Burger” features a proprietary blend of beef and is topped with an iconic onion ring. For visitors from the UK and Canada, this offers a comfortable, high-quality standard of Best Burgers in Punta Cana paired with great music and a museum-like collection of rock memorabilia.
RPC’s Burger Pro-Tips
- The “Termino” (Doneness): Like steaks, local grills may default to “Medium-Well.” If you prefer a pink center, clearly ask for “Termino Medio” (Medium).
- Upgrade Your Fries: Many of these spots, especially Burlao and Stacked, offer “Truffle Fries” or “Loaded Fries.” They are almost always worth the small extra charge!