Spirit Winds Cafe and Gift Source: a hidden treasure in Las Cruces

Located just a few blocks from New Mexico State University is the inconspicuous yet exceptional Spirit Winds Coffee Bar and Gift Source. At first glance, visitors will notice Spirit Winds’ bright neon sign and striking exterior paint. Upon entering, mod-style lime green chairs, miscellaneous wall art, and an eclectic yet extensive gift shop give a feeling of fun, youth, and vibrancy to the café.

Despite being locally owned, Spirit Winds has an impressive offering of coffees including Café Americanos, Mochas, Breves, lattés, espressos, cappuccinos and more. There are also more than 30 different varieties of tea, both hot and iced, including flavored blacks, reds, whites, and greens. Be sure to try the Republic of Tea collection, which offers cleverly named specialty teas such as “get smart” and “get some zzz.” Enjoy your own pot right at your table in a customized Spirit Winds mug or buy a package to take home. If caffeine isn’t your thing, take your pick of more than 20 different flavor syrups for a custom Italian soda.  Enjoy with a freshly made scone or croissant.

And then there’s the fare. Spirit Wind’s menu offers a healthy yet gourmet variety of wraps, burgers, salads, and paninis, each served with your choice of salad, chips and salsa, or pasta salad. The chicken panini and black bean burger come highly recommended. For those dining in, assorted novelty rubber ducks serve as table markers.  

An example of the cafe's unique wall art. Photo by Stephanie J. Montoya

While awaiting your order or sipping your latté, stroll through the Café’s one of a kind gift shop, spanning an entire half of the building. The shop includes an impressive selection of novelty stationary, trendy clothing, sculptures and jewelry by local artists, and charms, toys, and knickknacks of all sorts. A taco-shaped wallet, wind-up toys, and Mexican skull-themed art are among the treasures you’ll encounter.

Spirit Winds is one of Las Cruces’ hidden treasures. With bright and artistic style, friendly service, and a wide range of gifts and novelties, it’s a great place for a quick lunch break or to pass a few leisurely hours. The food is both healthy and delicious, and for around $7 per sandwich combo and $3 per coffee, it’s easy on the wallet.

Spirit Winds is open Monday- Friday from 7 AM – 7PM, Saturday from 7:30 AM- 7 PM, and Sunday 8 AM- 6 PM. Free Wi-Fi, outdoor dining, and takeout are available. Located at 2260 South Locust St., 575-521-1222. Look for the hanging coffee cup.