With a history that dates back nearly 200 years before the Declaration of Independence, Las Cruces is one of the most fascinating and diverse cities in the American West. Originally settled by the Native American Manso people, Las Cruces became a Spanish colony in 1598. The present-day city only took shape in 1849, when the U.S. Army laid out the town plans.
Today, you can taste a bit of this rich history in Las Cruces restaurants. Naturally, the focus is on classic Mexican, but this being New Mexico, expect a few surprises in the mix. Where should you begin? We’ll get you started with a list of our favorite Las Cruces restaurants.
Green Goods’ Dispensary’s Favorite Las Cruces Restaurants
Day’s Hamburgers
295 N Main St
Las Cruces, NM 88001
(575) 523-8665
A local institution since Grandma Day first set up shop in 1932, this casual burger joint has been making great days ever since. We mean that literally: The signature “Great Day” burger tops a grilled patty with mustard, green chiles, onion, and lettuce. The other must-have item is the chili dog, smothered in chile con carne, cheese, and onions by request. If there’s a taste of old Las Cruces, it must be Day’s. Note: As of early 2021, Day’s is only open for pickup and delivery.
Habanero’s Fresh Mex
600 E Amador Ave
Las Cruces, NM 88001
(575) 524-1829
No surprises at this staple of the Las Cruces restaurant scene; just the fresh and piquant flavors of Mexican cuisine. You’ll find all the usual suspects on order—tacos bursting with savory fillings like carne asada and shredded beef—but the more adventurous will be rewarded by unusual specialties like chicken in a verdant pumpkin seed and chile sauce, or a complex mole that features no fewer than 18 ingredients. Note: As of early 2021, Habanero’s is only open for pickup and delivery.
The Shed
810 S Valley Dr
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 525-2636
“Breakfast and brunch scratch kitchen” reads the menu, and they’re not kidding. Everything at this long-running Las Cruces favorite is made in-house, and it shows. From the benchmark huevos rancheros to migas bursting with the flavors of tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños to fluffy buttermilk or gingerbread pancakes, there’s nary a missed note. Lunchtime brings faves like southern New Mexico-style enchiladas, fettuccine enlivened with local ingredients like fresh green chilies, and a devastating country fried steak with chorizo gravy.
Jim Bobs BBQ
1290 Foster Rd
Las Cruces, NM 88001
(575) 303-2685
This family-style eatery caters Las Cruces’ barbecue fans and then some, throwing in NM classics like a green chile and cheddar burger, deep-fried “spicy bites” of marinated pork, and more. Of course, the ‘cue’s the thing here, and with pecan-smoked brisket, pulled pork and smoky sausages to choose from, it’s a fair bet you’ll leave feeling happy, stuffed, and a little bit greasy. Note: As of early 2021, Jim Bobs is only open for pickup and delivery.
You can easily pickup some takeout at this great spots after stopping by our Las Cruces dispensary!
