Taste the best
Discover Menu
Breakfast - Chorizo & Egg Burrito
Shrimp Fajitas Plate
Taco Salad
Bean & Cheese Nachos
About the Place
El Jacalito Restaurant
El Jacalito Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Las Cruces at 2215 Missouri Ave, is a hidden gem that delivers authentic Mexican flavors with a refreshing twist. This cozy spot may be small, but it packs a powerful punch in both flavor and hospitality. From the moment you step inside, the warmth of the staff and the aroma of freshly prepared dishes set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
The menu is a celebration of bold, home-style Mexican cuisine with a modern touch. Their burgers are not just burgers—they’re an experience. The Carne Asada burger, infused with tender grilled meat and a fresh squeeze of lime, stands out as a must-try. Equally impressive is the Green Chili cheese burger, a local favorite that balances spice and savor. Each burger is paired with hand-cut, perfectly seasoned fries that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering the perfect sidekick.
What’s truly exceptional here is the attention to detail and freshness in every bite. The breakfast burrito and chili bacon mac and cheese showcase versatility, hitting comfort food notes with every forkful. The chilaquiles fare exceptionally well, with eggs cooked just right and beans made from scratch—not canned—highlighting the restaurant’s focus on authenticity and quality ingredients.
Beyond food, El Jacalito stands out for its heartfelt service. The owner and staff nurture a sense of community that is rare and precious. Stories of the owner personally treating regulars with respect, the genuine smiles at the counter, and the quick delivery of complimentary chips and homemade salsa reflect a dedication that transcends the plate. It’s a place where affordability meets artisanal care, where every visit feels like coming home.
For anyone passing through Las Cruces or looking for a local favorite, El Jacalito Restaurant is more than a stop—it’s a destination for great food, genuine hospitality, and memorable flavors. Whether you crave bold Mexican classics or inventive burgers kissed by green chile heat, this is the spot where quality and heart come together.
Stories & Reviews
Guestbook
“ Some of the best burgers in town. Fresh cut French fries. Try the Carne Asada burger and ask for some lime with it! The owner is really friendly, and he always treats my dad who goes all the time with kindness and respect. I highly recommend this place. GREAT food and horchata. ”
“ Omg!! We were traveling through Las Cruces and decided to stop here because of the reviews and MAN!! The food was amazing!! I got the green chili burger with their handcut fries and my husband got the combination platter. We would give this 10 stars if we could! The flavors are incredible! Make sure to buy some of their homemade salsa! Staff was super friendly and restaurant was very clean. We will always stop here if ever in the area!! ”
“ One of the best places I have eaten. Affordable and delicious. Green Chilli cheese burger didn't disappoint, buddy had carne asada quesadilla. Hand made fries fried and seasoned. Washed it down with a fanta....will be back there is so much more to try. Green Chilli salsa was also amazing. All major credit cards and Gpay. ”
“ Had a breakfast burrito and the chili bacon Mac and cheese. Absolutely Delicious! Really ticked my craving checkbox today. I only wish I had been more hungry to try other more traditional menu items. The staff were also very kind and attentive. ”
“ It's such a little spot, so little that the drive-thru window is in the lobby. But it's sooooo good. Price wise, it beats most other Mexican restaurants, and the staff here are great! The chilaquiles were good, the egg was done how I liked it, and the beans didn't taste from can. For the price, most other spots would charge me $5-$8 more and is less fresh. Can't wait to try the burgers next time! Little note: it is so small that the bathroom is around the back of the building outside. ”