New Mexico's historic brewpub in Las Cruces, serving small-batch beers and legendary nachos.
High Desert Brewing Co. is a cornerstone of the southern New Mexico craft beer scene, operating as one of the state's oldest continuously running brewpubs since it opened its doors in July 1997. Founded by Bob and Donna Cole, this beloved neighborhood spot is located in a light industrial area of Las Cruces at 1201 West Hadley Avenue. Housed in a low-key, unassuming building, the taproom boasts a charmingly divey, no-frills atmosphere that instantly makes visitors feel like locals. Inside, the space features simple wooden tables, local event flyers, and a warm, unpretentious vibe, while the outdoor patio is dog-friendly and equipped with heaters for cool desert nights. It is a community hub where patrons gather for weekly live music and a relaxed, slow-down-and-enjoy-life attitude.
The brewing philosophy at High Desert focuses on small-batch production, with ales and lagers crafted on-site in batches of about 100 to 200 gallons to guarantee peak freshness. The brewers keep a rotating selection of eight to ten beers on tap at any given time from a broader repertoire of over 25 distinct recipes. High Desert is particularly celebrated for its IPAs, which have consistently won accolades in New Mexico's competitive annual IPA challenges. Beyond their hop-forward creations, the tap list features crowd favorites like their smooth Porter, crisp Amber, and seasonal fruit wheat beers. For those seeking non-alcoholic options, the brewery also produces its own house-brewed root beer, which can be ordered by the glass or taken home in a growler.
Unlike places that rely on rotating food trucks, High Desert Brewing Co. features a full-service kitchen that serves up classic, comforting pub grub with a distinct Southwestern flair. The undisputed star of the menu is their legendary plate of nachos. Served on a massive pizza pan, a large order of these chips is piled high with queso, black beans, salsa, diced tomatoes, jalapenos, and sour cream, easily feeding a small crowd. The menu also includes green chile cheeseburgers, quesadillas, and wings, making it a perfect spot to refuel after a day of hiking in the nearby Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument or exploring the historic plaza of Mesilla. Despite facing a temporary setback from a kitchen fire in March 2023, the brewery has rebounded thanks to fierce community support, remaining a vital watering hole in the Chihuahuan Desert.
If you are traveling with a group, order the large nachos: they are served on a massive pizza pan and can easily feed four to six people. Pair them with one of their award-winning IPAs or a glass of their house-brewed root beer.
Coffee & Craft — Roadside fuel stops curated by Basecamp West. The best coffee shops, craft breweries, diners, and eateries worth the detour on your next Western road trip.