Desert Diamond restaurant expands hours, experiments with monthly specials to serve Socorro’s late-night crowd

At Desert Diamond Restaurant on South Highway 85, owner Elias Jacquez is used to long days, tight labor pools and the constant surprises that come with running a small‑town kitchen. But after six years in business, much of it shaped by COVID‑19, inflation and staffing shortage, Jacquez is leaning into creativity, community feedback and a new late‑night menu to keep the doors open and customers fed.

Jacquez, a Socorro native and former county court compliance officer, bought the restaurant from longtime owner Theresa just weeks before the 2020 shutdowns.

 “I took over that February and the lockdown took place in March,” he said. “I’ve been getting kicked in the face pretty much since day one… but you just get stronger.”

Desert Diamond recently launched a late‑night menu, staying open until 12:30 a.m. on select nights, a rare option in a town where most kitchens close by 9 p.m.

Jacquez said the idea came from his own frustration leaving local bars with nowhere to grab a meal.

 “I was upset I couldn’t go anywhere to even grab a burger,” he said. “So, I figured maybe I should be the solution.”

The condensed late‑night menu focuses on burgers, fries and other easy‑to‑train items. It also gives his new evening cook a chance to learn without being overwhelmed. 

“Steady growth is fine,” Jacquez said. “Slow, steady, sustainable growth is preferred.”

Jacquez said the extended hours have already attracted a surprising crowd, employees from other restaurants finishing late shifts.

While Desert Diamond’s core menu centers on American and New Mexican staples, Jacquez keeps himself motivated by offering once‑a‑month experimental specials. The dishes range from swordfish steaks to alligator bites, and even kangaroo tenderloin, which sold out.

“It tasted gamey, kind of like elk,” he said. “There’s definitely a learning curve, and I lose money on these specials, but it keeps me engaged.”

Upcoming ideas include bangers and mash and corned beef hash for St. Patrick’s Day, with additional themed dishes planned through the summer.

Jacquez said the specials help break the monotony of daily service.

 “If you do the same things, you get bored and lose the drive,” he said. “This keeps me from getting bored.”

Desert Diamond is open 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. most days, but on the first Sunday of each month, the restaurant serves breakfast, a tradition that draws regulars looking for something different.

Jacquez credits his staff for allowing him to try new ideas, including delivery through DoorDash and the late‑night shift.

 “I might be the owner, but you can’t make it work without staff,” he said. “I have a pretty solid crew willing to try these different things with me.”

Word of mouth remains the restaurant’s strongest advertising. Jacquez, who is often recognized around town, said customers don’t hesitate to offer feedback, good or bad. 

“If I’m screwing up, trust me, people will tell you,” he said with a laugh. “But that’s what I like. Just come talk to me.”

Despite the challenges, Jacquez said he still enjoys coming to work.

 “I don’t necessarily hate coming to work every day,” he said. “I’m a local guy. This is my little town.”

With new specials, expanded hours and a willingness to adapt, Desert Diamond continues to carve out its place in Socorro’s dining scene, one late‑night burger and interesting special at a time.