Caliche's Frozen Custard

If you are looking for the perfect place to cool off on a hot day, be sure to stop by Caliche's Frozen Custard. This iconic establishment in Las Cruces, located in the Southwestern USA, specializes in a unique dessert—frozen custard. What sets it apart from regular ice cream is its incredibly thick, creamy texture and rich flavor, achieved by using only the freshest ingredients and preparing the base daily.

The restaurant at 590 S Valley Dr is rightfully proud of its high rating and the love of local residents. The menu here is a true kaleidoscope of flavors: from classic combinations with berries and chocolate to bold regional specialties. For example, this is where you can try signature desserts inspired by New Mexico traditions that you are unlikely to find anywhere else.

In addition to sweets, Caliche's offers an excellent selection of traditional American snacks, including the legendary Nathan's All Beef hot dogs and hearty sandwiches. This place perfectly captures the atmosphere of a cozy family cafe where attention to detail and product quality come first, turning a simple ice cream run into a memorable gastronomic event.

To check the current menu or inquire about group visits, you can contact the establishment directly. The Caliche's Frozen Custard team is always happy to help guests navigate the variety of flavors and seasonal offers.

Below is detailed contact information for reaching out and finding the location on the map:

The main reason to visit Caliche's Frozen Custard is, of course, to taste their legendary desserts. Don't hesitate to order the Green Chile Sundae if you want to experience a true taste of New Mexico, where the sweetness of the custard contrasts with the heat of local green chile. Fans of the classics will enjoy signature blends like Adobe Mud with Oreo cookie pieces and espresso, or The Gizmo, generously drizzled with hot fudge and caramel.

For those who are seriously hungry, the menu offers an impressive list of hot dogs. Look out for the Super Dog with a double portion of chili or the Windy City Dog, prepared in the best Chicago traditions. If you're looking for something lighter, try the Mesquite Smoked Turkey sandwich on a delicate croissant, often served with homemade potato salad.

A visit here is a great opportunity for the whole family to relax. You can watch how the famous shakes, malts, and floats are made, or pick up a few pints of custard to go to continue your journey. The atmosphere encourages casual conversation, and the variety of toppings—from fresh savory pecans to gummy worms—turns choosing a dessert into a fun game.

The establishment is located in the southern part of Las Cruces at 590 S Valley Dr. It is situated in close proximity to the New Mexico State University (NMSU) campus, making it a popular spot for both students and travelers passing through the state.

The most convenient way to get here is by car. The restaurant is located near the busy Valley Dr, has its own parking lot, and is perfect for a quick stop during a road trip across the USA. If you don't plan on driving, you can use taxi services or popular apps like Uber and Lyft, which are very active in the area.

As for public transport, Las Cruces operates the RoadRUNNER Transit bus network. You can check routes passing through South Valley, though traveling by car or ride-sharing will save you a significant amount of time. For those staying within walking distance of the South Valley area, a stroll to the cafe is a pleasant addition to your day.

Frozen custard has deep roots in American dessert culture. Unlike regular ice cream, it contains egg yolks, which, combined with a special slow-churning process, gives the product an incredibly dense and velvety texture. Caliche's Frozen Custard prides itself on continuing this tradition by preparing a fresh base every day.

Interestingly, this Las Cruces establishment has masterfully combined the classic American diner format with the unique flair of New Mexico. This is where the famous Green Chile Sundae was born—a bold experiment where sweet custard meets the piquancy of local green chile, a true symbol of regional cuisine.

Over years of operation, Caliche's has evolved from a simple cafe into a genuine local landmark with an impressive rating. It is often cited as a must-visit for any food tourist, as it reflects the hospitable atmosphere of the Southwest and a commitment to quality valued by generations of visitors.

While the menu constantly expands with modern combinations like croissant sandwiches or signature lemonades, the loyalty to the original custard recipe remains unchanged. This blend of innovation and respect for tradition makes every serving of dessert a small part of the city's gastronomic history.

A standard visit to Caliche's Frozen Custard usually takes about 30–60 minutes. This is plenty of time to explore the extensive menu, place an order, and leisurely enjoy your chosen dessert or a hearty hot dog at one of the tables.

If you visit during peak hours or are planning a full meal with the family, your stay might extend to an hour. In any case, the format of the establishment accommodates both a quick snack on the go and a pleasant break in the middle of a busy sightseeing day.

The establishment is open daily, allowing guests to plan their visit at any convenient time. From Monday to Thursday, the doors are open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, the restaurant stays open an hour longer—until 10:00 PM, which is perfect for a late dessert after an evening stroll.

On Sunday, Caliche's Frozen Custard opens a bit later, at 12:00 PM, and welcomes visitors until 9:00 PM. Please note that the hours for some delivery services may vary and may end earlier than the restaurant's main schedule.

Exploring the surrounding area after a delicious treat is a great way to continue experiencing the culture and atmosphere of this region. Within a few kilometers of the cafe, you'll find both historical sites and places for active family recreation.

A walk through the nearby streets will reveal architectural landmarks and modern entertainment centers that harmoniously complement the city's character. Below is a list of interesting places located nearby: