New Mexico has an enchanting mix of rich culture, stunning landscapes, and, I discovered, a hidden gem of a coffee shop—the Bean Espresso Bar in Mesilla. Tucked away in this charming town, right near Las Cruces, this café offers the perfect blend of cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and artisanal coffee that’s crafted with care. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just looking for a relaxing spot to unwind, The Bean is worth a visit.
Address and How to Get There
The Bean of Mesilla
2011 Avenida de Mesilla
Las Cruces, NM 88005
Getting there is easy, especially if you’re exploring the Las Cruces area. If you’re coming from I-10, you’ll want to take Exit 140 toward Avenida de Mesilla. The café is situated on this road, just a few blocks down, so you can’t miss it! This location is near historic Mesilla Plaza, which makes it a perfect stop before or after a day of sightseeing.
For anyone navigating with GPS, here’s a handy Google Maps link for directions to The Bean Espresso Bar in Mesilla.
First Impressions: A Cozy, Welcoming Spot
As soon as I walked into The Bean, I felt a warm, welcoming vibe that immediately put me at ease. The café is designed with earthy tones, warm wood finishes, and plenty of cozy seating, giving it a homelike feel. The artwork on the walls—some of it from local artists—adds character, and there’s a mix of comfy couches, tables, and a few bar-style seats near the windows that overlook Mesilla’s quiet streets.
One thing that immediately stood out was the friendly staff. Everyone I encountered was passionate about coffee and eager to make sure each customer felt at home. They took time to explain the different options on the menu, and I loved that they emphasized locally sourced ingredients, which gave the whole experience a strong sense of community.
The Coffee: A Brewed Work of Art
The main draw, of course, was the coffee. The Bean sources high-quality beans and offers a range of brews for every taste. Being an espresso enthusiast, I went straight for a classic espresso shot to test the basics—and it didn’t disappoint. The flavor was rich, bold, and smooth, with just the right balance of acidity and sweetness. It was clear they put a lot of care into each cup.
For my second round, I couldn’t resist trying one of their specialty drinks, the Mesilla Mocha. This isn’t your average mocha—it’s made with rich chocolate and a hint of cinnamon, giving it a unique, New Mexico-inspired twist. The blend of flavors was exquisite, and it perfectly captured the café’s spirit. They also offer a range of pour-over options, cold brews, and even a nitro cold brew that’s ideal for hot desert days.
More Than Just Coffee: The Food and Pastries
The Bean Espresso Bar has more than just great coffee; they also serve a small but well-curated menu of breakfast items, sandwiches, and pastries. I arrived mid-morning, so I went with the classic breakfast burrito—a New Mexico staple. It came packed with eggs, cheese, green chile, and bacon, all wrapped in a soft, warm tortilla. The green chile added a spicy kick that made it uniquely local and delicious.
For something lighter, they offer fresh pastries made daily. I tried their scone of the day, which was cranberry-orange, and it was the perfect combination of sweet and tangy. They have a variety of other options too, including muffins, croissants, and cookies, all baked with care and attention to detail.
The Perfect Work or Study Spot
As someone who sometimes works on the go, I was thrilled to find that The Bean is also an ideal spot to catch up on emails or do some writing. They offer free Wi-Fi, and the layout is spacious enough that you can set up a laptop without feeling like you’re taking up too much room. There were a few other remote workers while I was there, quietly sipping coffee and tapping away on their keyboards.
There’s an abundance of natural light streaming in through the windows, which creates an inspiring atmosphere for getting work done. And for those needing a quick break, the patio seating outside is a great option to enjoy New Mexico’s sunshine while still being productive.
The Community Vibe
One of the things that really stood out during my visit was how much The Bean felt like a community hub. It’s the kind of place where you can see locals catching up over coffee, students studying in a quiet corner, and tourists like myself soaking up the atmosphere. Throughout my visit, I noticed that many of the regulars were greeted by name, which speaks volumes about the café’s connection to its community.
The Bean also supports local artists by showcasing their work, which brings a touch of Mesilla’s unique culture right into the café. They sometimes host small events, from open mic nights to art showcases, which makes it clear that they’re committed to being more than just a coffee shop—they’re a gathering place.
Exploring Mesilla: Making a Day of It
One of the best parts of visiting The Bean is its location in Mesilla. After enjoying my coffee, I took a short walk to the Mesilla Plaza, a historic spot known for its charming adobe buildings, quaint shops, and rich history. Mesilla has been around since the mid-1800s, and it’s known for its vibrant cultural heritage. Wandering around the plaza, I found unique shops selling handmade pottery, woven textiles, and Southwestern jewelry. It’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon, and you can feel the history in every corner.
Visit The Bean!
My visit to The Bean Espresso Bar was a refreshing break from the usual coffee chain experience. This café has everything—great coffee, delicious food, friendly service, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you want to stay a while. It’s clear that The Bean isn’t just about serving coffee; it’s about building community, celebrating local culture, and creating a space where people can come together.
If you’re ever in Las Cruces or Mesilla, I highly recommend making a stop at The Bean. It’s more than just a coffee shop—it’s a piece of Mesilla’s charm, a place where you can feel the heartbeat of the town. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax, a cozy workspace, or just a fantastic cup of coffee, The Bean has it all.
So next time you’re in the area, pop in for a cup of Mesilla Mocha and take a moment to savor the atmosphere. You might just find yourself coming back for another visit.
