Skier, hiker or casual wanderer, the moment you step onto the bustling pedestrian street of Chamonix you’ll hear a familiar sizzle and smell freshly fried fries drifting from Poco Loco. This unassuming joint, tucked just a few minutes from the towering silhouette of Mont Blanc, has turned the classic American burger concept into a local institution. Whether you’re hunting for a hearty meat‑packed patty, a colourful vegan burger topped with avocado, or a quick snack after a cable‑car ride, the menu delivers on every front while keeping an eye on the Alpine vibe that defines Chamonix. The spacious outside seating area, a pet‑friendly policy, and a steady flow of chilled beer and sangria make it a perfect pit‑stop after a day on the slopes.
What sets Poco Loco apart isn’t just the food – it’s the atmosphere that mixes fast‑food speed with mountain‑cairn coziness. The walls are lined with vintage ski posters, the scent of freshly ground coffee mingles with the mountain air, and the staff greets you with a smile that feels as warm as a chalet fireplace. In the following sections we’ll explore the location, the menu highlights, practical details like opening times and payment options, and why this spot consistently earns glowing reviews from locals and tourists alike.
Table of Contents
What makes Poco Loco a must‑visit in Chamonix?
At first glance Poco Loco appears as a straightforward fast‑food outlet, but a deeper look reveals a carefully curated American cuisine experience adapted to Alpine tastes. The kitchen pushes the envelope with
- Classic cheeseburgers that pack a smoky punch
- Signature “Poco Loco” burger with jalapeño mayo and cheddar‑on‑chip crumble
- A robust selection of vegan options, from the plant‑based burger to a tofu‑filled hashbrown wrap
The aroma of sizzling meat is balanced by the bright notes of fresh herbs that grow in nearby alpine gardens, giving each dish a subtly local character. Moreover, the establishment isn’t just about filling bellies – it’s a social hub. You’ll often hear hikers swapping stories about the latest gondola ride, or snowboarders comparing the best powder runs on the Aiguille du Midi. This blend of food, community, and mountain culture creates a vibe that is hard to replicate elsewhere.
Why the “Poco Loco” burger became a legend
The star of the menu, aptly named the “Poco Loco” burger, combines a juicy beef patty with smoked paprika, caramelised onions, and a secret aioli that hints at garlic and lemon zest. Served on a toasted brioche bun, it is accompanied by a mountain‑hand‑cut portion of fries seasoned with sea salt and rosemary – a fragrant nod to the surrounding pine forests. Regulars claim it’s the perfect fuel before heading up the Brevent cable‑car, while newcomers love the bold flavour profile that doesn’t shy away from being a bit “loco”.
Location, ambience and outside seating
Poco Loco sits at 47 rue du Docteur Paccard, a short stroll from the main train station and a stone’s throw from the iconic Mont Blanc tramway. The address places it right in the heart of the Chamonix pedestrian zone, making it an easy waypoint for anyone exploring the town on foot or by ski lift. The outdoor terrace overlooks the bustling Rue Paccard, providing a perfect spot to people‑watch while you munch on a sandwich or a hashbrown bite.
One of the most appreciated features is the outside seating area that stays open during the summer months, allowing diners to soak up the sunshine and the distant glow of Mont Blanc. In winter, heated lanterns are hung along the railing, creating a cosy, Alpine‑café ambience even when temperatures dip below freezing. Pets are welcome, so you can bring your furry companion along for a snack after a trek up the Mont Blanc trail.
Accessible amenities
The venue provides free Wi‑Fi, wheelchair‑friendly entrances, and a small children’s corner with crayons and mountain‑themed puzzles. For those in a rush, there’s a dedicated “takeaway” window that operates on a separate counter – perfect for grabbing a quick vegan burger before boarding the next gondola.
Menu highlights: burgers, vegan delights and more
The menu at Poco Loco is a blend of classic American comfort food and thoughtful Alpine twists. Below is a snapshot of the most popular items, each paired with a brief
| Item | Description | Price (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Poco Loco Burger | Beef patty, jalapeño mayo, cheddar‑on‑chip crumble, brioche bun | 12.50 |
| Vegan Burger | Plant‑based patty, avocado, lettuce, tomato, vegan aioli | 11.90 |
| Classic Cheeseburger | Beef, cheddar, pickles, ketchup, mustard | 10.80 |
| Fries & Hashbrown | Hand‑cut potatoes, rosemary, sea salt; served with ketchup | 4.20 |
| Chicken Sandwich | Grilled chicken, lettuce, mayo, whole‑grain roll | 9.50 |
Beyond the burger lineup, the eatery serves a rotating selection of local beers and a refreshing glass of sangria, ideal after a long day on the ski slopes. The beer list includes a crisp Alpine lager, a fruity wheat brew, and an occasional craft import for the more adventurous palate.
For those seeking lighter bites, the vegan options extend to a quinoa‑based “Buddha bowl” with seasonal vegetables, a chickpea‑filled wrap, and a side of sweet potato hashbrown. Each dish is prepared with locally sourced produce, ensuring freshness while supporting regional farmers.
Visitor experience: reviews, photos and the vibe
Across travel platforms, Poco Loco consistently earns five‑star ratings. Guests frequently mention the friendly service, the authenticity of the “Poco Loco” burger, and the spectacular view of Mont Blanc from the terrace. Below are a few highlighted excerpts gathered from recent reviews:
“Best vegan burger ever! The patty was juicy, the toppings fresh, and the view of the mountain while eating was unbeatable. Will be back every winter.” – Alex, June 2025
“A perfect stop after a day on the slopes. The fries were crispy, the beer cold, and the staff made us feel right at home. Pets are welcome, which is a huge plus for my dog.” – Marie, February 2025
Visitors also love sharing photo moments on social media, often tagging the restaurant alongside the iconic Mont Blanc silhouette. The influx of user‑generated content helps keep the vibe fresh and dynamic, reinforcing Poco Loco’s reputation as a cornerstone of Chamonix’s culinary scene.
How the vibe translates into everyday moments
Imagine exiting the Aiguille du Midi cable‑car, cheeks flushed from the altitude, and spotting the bright red sign of Poco Loco across the street. You order a burger, sip a local lager, and watch sunset colours wash over the glacier. Nearby, a group of snowboarders laugh over a shared plate of fries, while a family of hikers enjoys a quick bite before their next ascent. It’s moments like these that make the venue more than a restaurant – it’s a living snapshot of Alpine life.
Frequent Asked Questions
Do you offer vegan burgers and other plant‑based dishes?
Yes. The menu features a dedicated vegan burger, a quinoa Buddha bowl, and a tofu‑filled hashbrown wrap. All vegan items are clearly marked with a leaf icon, making it easy for plant‑based diners to spot their choices.
Can I bring my dog to the outdoor terrace?
Poco Loco is a pet‑friendly establishment. Dogs are welcome on the outside seating area, and the staff provides water bowls upon request. Inside, pets are not permitted for hygiene reasons.
What are the opening hours during the summer?
During the summer months (June – September) the restaurant opens at 07:30 and stays open until 22:00 from Monday to Saturday. Sundays see a slightly later start at 09:00 and closing at 20:00.
Which payment methods are accepted?
The venue accepts cash, Mastercard, Visa, Apple Pay, and Maestro. All major contactless options work at the point of sale, and the staff can process split bills if you’re in a group.
Is there a takeaway service for quick meals?
Absolutely. A separate takeaway counter handles orders for both dine‑in and on‑the‑go customers. Orders are usually ready within 5‑10 minutes, depending on the dish.
Do you have Wi‑Fi for guests?
Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the restaurant and the outdoor terrace. The password is printed on each table’s card holder.
Why Poco Loco should be on your Chamonix itinerary
From its prime location just steps from the historic heart of Chamonix to its diverse menu that caters to meat‑lovers, vegans, and snack seekers alike, Poco Loco delivers a reliable and memorable dining experience. The blend of American cuisine with local Alpine touches, the welcoming ambience, and the consistent positive feedback from travelers make it a natural stop on any valley adventure. Whether you’re planning a day on the ski slopes, a hike up the Mont Blanc trail, or simply a leisurely stroll through the town centre, a meal at Poco Loco adds flavour to the journey and a touch of comfort after the mountain’s challenges.
So next time you find yourself on the streets of Chamonix, let the sizzle of the grill guide you to 47 rue du Docteur Paccard. Grab a burger, relish the view, and let the spirit of the Alps seep into every bite.
