On East University Avenue, a few minutes from the New Mexico State University campus, Voodoo Burgers brings a playful, hands-on spirit to a familiar kind of meal. Opened in September 2022 by longtime Las Cruces restaurateur Jake Harkness, the restaurant leans into the strengths of a small, local business: a delicious menu, owners who are present every day, and fresh ingredients.
As a small, locally run restaurant, Voodoo Burgers keeps its menu and operations intentionally simple. Focusing on fewer items allows the kitchen to spend more time on each one, refining recipes and ensuring consistent preparation in each order.
How Did Voodoo Burgers Get Its Start?
Before opening Voodoo Burgers, Jake Harkness spent roughly 16 years running Jake’s Café, a well-known Las Cruces restaurant. When that chapter closed, he chose to stay in the restaurant world but rethink the format.
Voodoo Burgers opened in September 2022 with a simpler setup and a shorter menu. The goal was to keep Harkness closely involved in the kitchen while building a place that felt relaxed rather than rushed. By narrowing the focus to burgers, chicken, and a handful of sides, the restaurant settled into a rhythm that matched both the space and the team behind it.
How Is Food Prepared at Voodoo Burgers?
At Voodoo Burgers, food preparation is built around daily, in-house routines rather than large-scale production. That setup supports a calmer kitchen pace and keeps preparation aligned with each day’s service.
Hamburger patties are formed in the kitchen instead of arriving pre-made. Beef is delivered fresh each morning from a local butcher, and buns are baked on site each day. Working this way keeps the food closely tied to the day’s service, with ingredients prepared in smaller batches and used soon after they are made.
What Are Some Highlights on the Menu?
The menu at Voodoo Burgers is built more like a greatest-hits list than a long catalog. Burgers lead the way, backed by a few well-built chicken options and sides that show up ready to do their job.
A few standouts include:
Voodoo Burger
Two beef patties with American cheese, green chile, Voodoo seasoning, and house Voodoo sauce, stacked on a freshly baked bun.
Big Messy Guacamole Burger
A generously topped burger built around creamy guacamole and classic fixings, designed to live up to its name.
Grilled Onion Mushroom Swiss Burger
A savory option with grilled onions, mushrooms, and Swiss cheese layered over a beef patty.
Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Breaded chicken with a noticeable kick, balanced by the softness of the house-made bun.
Voodoo Fries
Fries topped with cheese and Voodoo sauce, meant for sharing or enjoying on your own.
Portion sizes range from sliders to double-patty burgers, making it easy to adjust a meal without overthinking the order. Kids’ meals are also available for smaller appetites.
Who Is Behind the Counter and the Kitchen?
Voodoo Burgers is run by two owners who split responsibilities to keep the operation personal and efficient. Jake Harkness is in charge of the kitchen, staying hands-on with food preparation and the flow of service. Ina Arellano serves as chief operating officer and general manager, overseeing front-of-house operations, staffing, and the day-to-day logistics that keep the restaurant moving.
That division allows each owner to focus on what they do best, and it shows in how smoothly the restaurant runs during busy hours.
How Does Voodoo Burgers Support the Local Community?
Community involvement at Voodoo Burgers is built around specific relationships rather than broad campaigns. The restaurant regularly hosts giveback days with the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity, donating twenty percent of sales on selected days. These events are coordinated and promoted by both the restaurant and the organization.
Beyond that, Voodoo Burgers has catered to military groups and New Mexico State University swim meets and maintains discount programs for service members, educators, school employees, and blue-collar workers. The emphasis stays on consistent, local connections that grow over time.
Where Is Voodoo Burgers and What Should You Know Before Going?
Voodoo Burgers is located along East University Avenue in Las Cruces, within easy walking and driving distance of the New Mexico State University campus. The restaurant sits on a busy commercial stretch, so parking availability can vary depending on the time of day. In addition to dining in, customers can call ahead for takeout or place orders through popular delivery platforms.
Helpful details before you go:
- Address: 1001 East University Ave., Suite D4, Las Cruces
- Phone: 575-523-5770
- Typical hours: Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; closed Sunday
For the most up-to-date hours or ordering options, check the restaurant’s official Facebook Page or call directly.
Looking for a Laid-Back Burger Stop Near Campus?
Voodoo Burgers fits neatly into the everyday routines of Las Cruces. It is the kind of place that works for a quick lunch, an easy dinner, or a low-key meet-up near campus, without the pressure of planning or pretense.
With its playful menu, hands-on owners, and relaxed pace, it has carved out a spot that feels easy to return to, especially on days when a familiar burger is exactly what you want.
Frequently Asked Questions About Voodoo Burgers
Is Voodoo Burgers locally owned, and who runs it?
Yes. Voodoo Burgers is locally owned and operated by Jake Harkness and Ina Arellano. Jake handles kitchen operations and food preparation, while Ina manages front-of-house service, staffing, and daily logistics. Their direct involvement means decisions are made on-site rather than by outside management. Updates, hours, and announcements are shared through the restaurant’s official Facebook page.
How expensive is it to eat at Voodoo Burgers?
Most burgers and sandwiches are priced in the low-to-mid teens, with sides available separately. Smaller portions, such as sliders and kids’ meals, provide lower-cost options. Prices are clearly listed on the menu, which helps guests decide before ordering. For current pricing and specials, checking the restaurant’s Facebook page is the most reliable option.
Does Voodoo Burgers have options beyond beef burgers?
Yes. The menu includes breaded chicken sandwiches and strips, as well as a spicy black bean burger for guests looking for a meat-free option. Portion sizes also vary, which helps accommodate lighter meals or shared plates. Staff can answer questions about menu items directly at the counter.
Do I need to plan ahead or make a reservation?
No reservations are required. Voodoo Burgers operates as a casual, walk-in restaurant. Because hours can shift, especially around holidays or special events, it is a good idea to confirm current hours through the restaurant’s Facebook page before heading over.
Story sponsored by VOODOO BURGERS
Posted by LasCruces.com
