Located in the heart of Las Cruces, Miguel’s On Mesquite stands out as a culinary gem that beautifully fuses traditional Southwestern flavors with contemporary dining experiences. The menu is a carefully curated journey through vibrant tastes, fresh ingredients, and bold spices that reflect the region’s rich heritage.
Whether you’re a local craving comfort food or a visitor eager to explore authentic New Mexican cuisine, Miguel’s On Mesquite offers an inviting and memorable dining atmosphere.
The menu is thoughtfully designed to cater to a variety of palates, blending classic Mexican dishes with innovative twists, ensuring that every bite is both exciting and satisfying. From savory starters to indulgent desserts, each dish is crafted to highlight the essence of mesquite-smoked ingredients and locally sourced produce.
Guests often find themselves returning not just for the food but for the warm, welcoming ambiance that complements every meal.
Understanding the diverse options available is key to fully appreciating what Miguel’s On Mesquite has to offer. The following sections delve into the menu’s highlights, specialities, and unique features, providing a comprehensive overview that helps diners make the most of their visit.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Beginning
Starting your meal at Miguel’s On Mesquite means indulging in appetizers that excite the palate and prepare you for the courses ahead. The appetizer menu is a vibrant mix of traditional Mexican starters and creative small plates, each showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Popular choices include the mesquite-smoked chicken wings, which are marinated in a blend of local spices and grilled to perfection. These wings are known for their crispy skin and juicy interior, offering a smoky flavor profile that is both bold and balanced.
Another standout is the queso fundido, a rich, melted cheese dish served with warm tortillas and topped with chorizo or sautéed mushrooms. It’s the perfect combination of creamy and savory, ideal for sharing among friends or family.
The appetizers also feature lighter options such as fresh guacamole made from ripe avocados and served with house-made tortilla chips. This classic starter is enhanced with hints of lime and cilantro, providing a refreshing contrast to the richer dishes.
- Mesquite-Smoked Chicken Wings – Spicy, smoky, and tender
- Queso Fundido – Melted cheese with chorizo or mushrooms
- Fresh Guacamole – Creamy avocado with lime and cilantro
- Elote Street Corn – Grilled corn with cotija cheese and chili powder
“The appetizers at Miguel’s On Mesquite set the tone for an unforgettable meal, blending tradition with innovation in every bite.”
Signature Entrées: Mesquite’s Masterpieces
The heart of Miguel’s On Mesquite’s menu lies in its signature entrées, where mesquite grilling techniques meet authentic Southwestern flavors. Each entrée is a showcase of culinary craftsmanship, designed to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients with a smoky twist.
One of the most celebrated dishes is the Mesquite-Grilled Ribeye, a tender and juicy steak that is seasoned with a proprietary blend of spices before being grilled over mesquite wood. The result is a perfectly charred exterior with a deep, smoky flavor that complements the meat’s richness.
For those seeking seafood, the Mesquite-Smoked Salmon offers a delicate balance of smokiness and freshness. Served with seasonal vegetables and a tangy citrus glaze, this dish exemplifies the restaurant’s ability to elevate classic ingredients with thoughtful preparation.
Vegetarian diners are not left behind, as the menu includes dishes like the Grilled Portobello Mushroom, marinated in chipotle and garlic, then charred over mesquite flames. This entrée provides a hearty, flavorful option that stands on its own as a main course.
- Mesquite-Grilled Ribeye – Bold, smoky steak with signature seasoning
- Mesquite-Smoked Salmon – Fresh salmon with citrus glaze and seasonal sides
- Grilled Portobello Mushroom – Chipotle-marinated and mesquite-charred
- Chicken Mesquite Fajitas – Tender grilled chicken with peppers and onions
Comparing Popular Entrées
| Entrée | Main Ingredient | Cooking Technique | Flavor Profile |
| Mesquite-Grilled Ribeye | Beef steak | Mesquite grilling | Smoky, savory, rich |
| Mesquite-Smoked Salmon | Fresh salmon | Mesquite smoking | Smoky, fresh, citrusy |
| Grilled Portobello Mushroom | Portobello mushroom | Mesquite grilling and marinating | Earthy, smoky, spicy |
Tacos and Burritos: Wrapped in Tradition
For those who love handheld classics, Miguel’s On Mesquite offers an impressive selection of tacos and burritos that combine traditional flavors with the restaurant’s signature mesquite touch. These dishes are perfect for casual dining or a quick yet flavorful meal.
The taco offerings range from carne asada to grilled fish, each wrapped in warm, freshly made corn or flour tortillas. The fillings are generous, and the menu allows customization with a variety of salsas and toppings, from spicy roja to cooling crema.
Burritos are equally enticing, filled with a hearty mix of rice, beans, and your choice of protein. The burritos are then grilled lightly, adding a subtle crispness to the tortilla that enhances the overall texture and flavor.
- Carne Asada Tacos – Grilled steak with fresh cilantro and onions
- Mesquite-Smoked Fish Tacos – Served with cabbage slaw and chipotle mayo
- Vegetarian Burrito – Beans, rice, grilled vegetables, and cheese
- Chicken Al Pastor Burrito – Marinated chicken with pineapple salsa
“The tacos and burritos at Miguel’s are a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the Southwest, wrapped in every bite.”
Salads and Sides: Fresh and Complementary
To balance the smoky and rich main dishes, Miguel’s On Mesquite offers a variety of fresh salads and flavorful sides. These options provide a refreshing contrast and round out the meal with vibrant colors and textures.
The salads range from simple garden greens to more elaborate offerings like the Southwest Caesar, which includes roasted corn, tortilla strips, and a tangy chipotle dressing. Each salad is prepared with crisp, seasonal vegetables that add a bright note to the menu.
Sides are designed to complement the entrées perfectly. Favorites include the mesquite-roasted sweet potatoes, which offer a natural sweetness paired with a smoky undertone, and the classic refried beans, cooked slowly to achieve a creamy texture.
- Southwest Caesar Salad – Roasted corn, tortilla strips, chipotle dressing
- Mesquite-Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet and smoky side dish
- Refried Beans – Creamy and flavorful classic
- Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with tomatoes and spices
Salads Versus Sides: Choosing Your Complement
| Option | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
| Southwest Caesar Salad | Romaine, roasted corn, chipotle dressing | Fresh, tangy, smoky | Grilled meats, tacos |
| Mesquite-Roasted Sweet Potatoes | Sweet potatoes, mesquite smoke | Sweet, smoky | Steaks, seafood |
| Refried Beans | Pinto beans, spices | Creamy, savory | Burritos, enchiladas |
Enchiladas and Traditional Plates: Homestyle Comfort
The menu also features a selection of enchiladas and traditional New Mexican plates that evoke the comforting flavors of home cooking. These dishes are seasoned with authentic red and green chile sauces, staples of the region’s cuisine.
The enchiladas come filled with various proteins such as shredded chicken, ground beef, or cheese, each smothered in your choice of chile sauce. The layers of flavor and texture create a deeply satisfying dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.
Other traditional plates include chile rellenos, stuffed with cheese or meat and lightly battered before frying, and the classic carne adovada, pork slow-cooked in a rich red chile sauce. These dishes capture the essence of New Mexican culinary heritage.
- Chicken Enchiladas – Filled with shredded chicken and topped with red or green chile
- Cheese Enchiladas – Classic comfort with melted cheese and chile sauce
- Carne Adovada – Slow-cooked pork in red chile sauce
- Chile Rellenos – Roasted poblano peppers stuffed and fried
“Traditional plates at Miguel’s pay homage to New Mexico’s vibrant culinary culture, delivering authentic flavors with every serving.”
Desserts: Sweet Endings
No meal at Miguel’s On Mesquite is complete without indulging in the dessert selection. The desserts blend traditional Mexican sweets with unique mesquite-inspired flavors, offering a perfect conclusion to the dining experience.
One beloved dessert is the mesquite flour churros, fried to a golden crisp and dusted with cinnamon sugar. Served with a side of rich chocolate sauce, these churros provide a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Other dessert options include flan, a smooth caramel custard that is both creamy and light, and tres leches cake, soaked in three kinds of milk for a moist and decadent treat. Each dessert is crafted to complement the smoky and spicy notes from the meal’s earlier courses.
- Mesquite Flour Churros – Crisp, cinnamon-sugar coated with chocolate sauce
- Classic Flan – Creamy caramel custard
- Tres Leches Cake – Moist and rich milk-soaked cake
- Mexican Chocolate Mousse – Light mousse with a hint of chili
Beverages: Refreshing and Authentic
Miguel’s On Mesquite offers a diverse beverage menu that complements its bold flavors. From traditional Mexican drinks to carefully selected wines and craft beers, the beverage options enhance the dining experience.
The restaurant features house-made aguas frescas, including horchata and tamarind, which provide a refreshing and slightly sweet balance to the meal. These beverages are made daily with fresh ingredients, ensuring authentic taste and quality.
For those who prefer alcoholic options, the wine list includes bold reds and crisp whites that pair well with smoky meats and spicy dishes. Additionally, local craft beers are available, offering a taste of New Mexico’s brewing scene.
- Horchata – Sweet rice milk with cinnamon
- Tamarind Agua Fresca – Tart and refreshing
- Local Craft Beers – Selection of New Mexican brews
- Wine List – Reds and whites chosen to complement menu flavors
“The beverage selection at Miguel’s is crafted to refresh and enhance, offering both traditional and contemporary choices.”
Conclusion
Miguel’s On Mesquite in Las Cruces offers a menu that is both a celebration of Southwestern culinary traditions and a showcase of innovative flavors. Every dish is thoughtfully prepared, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and the distinctive smoky essence of mesquite grilling.
The menu’s variety ensures that every diner, whether they prefer hearty steaks, fresh seafood, or vegetarian options, finds something to delight their taste buds.
The combination of flavorful appetizers, robust entrées, satisfying sides, and indulgent desserts makes Miguel’s a destination for those seeking an authentic yet elevated dining experience. Beyond the food, the welcoming atmosphere and attentive service add layers of enjoyment that keep guests returning time and again.
Whether you’re craving the rich depth of mesquite-smoked meats or the vibrant zest of traditional New Mexican dishes, Miguel’s On Mesquite delivers a culinary journey that resonates with every bite.
