Las Cruces sits in the high desert between the Organ Mountains and the Rio Grande, where the flavors of New Mexico—red chile, green chile, mesquite smoke—blend beautifully with barbecue tradition.
Here, pitmasters pay homage to Texas and Kansas City, but always weave in local ingredients and Southwest spice.
Expect smoked meats finished with chile sauce, rich beans, and tortillas sharing the platter with cornbread.
Desert sunsets, friendly crowds, and a dash of spice: Las Cruces’ BBQ scene is both unique and unforgettable.
1. The Shed BBQ
One of the most-revered smokehouses in town, The Shed is known for its wood-fired brisket, smoky pulled pork, and the kind of ribs that fall apart when picked up.
You’ll get all the classic Southern sides, but don’t skip the creamy green chile mac and cheese—Southwest comfort at its best.
The Shed is friendly, welcoming, and lively, with heaps of local awards and a devoted following among barbecue purists.
2. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
This outpost of the Texas-style chain is a Las Cruces favorite—especially for large family portions, brisket sandwiches, and tender turkey breast.
There’s an attention to classic technique here: slow-smoked meats, house-spun sides (creamy slaw, baked beans, potato salad), and the option to sample every sauce in the house.
Great for BBQ on the go and big group dinners.
3. The Game II Sports Bar & Grill
A sports bar with a passion for barbecue, The Game II is beloved for its hefty smoked chicken wings, juicy brisket plates, and signature BBQ sandwiches.
They put their New Mexican twist on many sides, from green chile queso fries to chipotle slaw.
It’s a fun, upbeat place for watching the Aggies play, hanging out with friends, and tucking into saucy, tender smoked meats.
4. Rollin’ Smoke Barbecue
Rollin’ Smoke started as a food truck and now pops up at events and breweries as well as private catering.
Their Texas-style brisket is the big draw, but don’t miss the smoky, perfectly glazed pork ribs and the sausage links with just the right hit of pepper.
Count on daily specials, homemade sauces, and sometimes dishes with a local twist—like green chile BBQ.
5. Sparky’s—Just Down the Road in Hatch
It’s about 30 miles out, but locals and visitors alike will tell you: no barbecue pilgrimage in southern New Mexico is complete without a stop at Sparky’s.
This kitschy, quirky spot is half-burger-stand, half-barbeque shrine, and all about big flavors.
The green chile cheeseburger wins fame, but their slow-cooked pulled pork sandwiches and slabs of ribs, doused in spicy BBQ sauce, are legendary. Look for live music and a family-friendly, colorful vibe.
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