38 Best Mexican Restaurants in Des Moines

Find Des Moines' top spots for Mexican cuisine right here. Indulge in the city's top-notch Nachos, Steak Burrito, Fajitas, and other delicious dishes.

Tacos Degollado Mexican • $
1717-1815 University Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Steak Tacos De Carne Asada
Chicken Burrito
Flour Tacos
Quesadilla
Jarritos
Torta

“Bang for your buck, you can’t beat Tacos Degollado, just east of 19th n University in Des Moines. This place wins HANDS DOWN in my opinion. Always have gotten the “special” part of the order right for everyone I have brought there. No onions never had onions, no cilantro always without cilantro. You cannot beat this for the quality, quantity and price. In DSM, as far as our street food goes, it’s the best in its category. You won’t be disappointed. Mucho Gisto!“

4.8 Superb44 Reviews
El Michoacano Taqueria Mexican • $
2922 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Vegan Nachos Michoacanos
Vegan Michoacano Burrito
Carne Asada Burrito
Empanadas Rellenas
Carne Asada Tacos
Vegan Empanadas
Vegan Burrito
Street Tacos
Vegan Tacos
Enchiladas

“The server was very nice and the atmosphere is very charming, I got the enchiladas, I thought it was a bit overpriced for 13 dollars but they give you an enormous amount of food, and the chicken and tortilla were both very well seasoned and made to “

4.7 Superb72 Reviews
Bar Nico Mexican • $$
428 E Locust St, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Maitake Mushroom Tacos
Markus Molitor Riesling
Mushroom Street Tacos
Smoked Duck Enchiladas
Nico's Chips & Salsa
Pork Belly Carnitas
Hanger Carne Asada
Carne Asada Tacos
Shishito Peppers
Coconut Custard

“Celiac safe!!!! I was so excited when I learned this! I was diagnosed a few months ago and I haven’t been able to eat out since. I finally had a girls night and it was incredible! No anxiety around eating (iykyk) and everything was sooo delicious. Will definitely be going back!“

4.6 Superb107 Reviews
Faustinos Taqueria Mexican • $
Recommended
4944 Franklin Ave Ste I, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Quesabirria Taco De Res Con Consome and Vamprio with Ground Beef
Nino Kids Burrito Chicken or Ground Beef
Taco De Tinga De Pollo an Taco De Asada
Daily Soup - Birria Ramen
Birria De Res Con Consome
Chilaquiles Con Chorizo
Complementary Salsas
Chilaquiles Verdes
Picaditas Mexicanas
Carnitas Burrito

“What this place lacks in charm & atmosphere, it makes up with food & service. I didn’t know this place existed until a couple of weeks ago and if you drove by, you would likely miss its Just steps away from the Franklin Library, it’s the perfect post library lunch spot. I have never had a cactus street taco before and theirs is delicious! Loved the mint-cucumber drink. Really want to try the hibiscus one next time. I’m excited to go back.“

4.7 Superb69 Reviews
El Bait Shop Bar & Grill • $
200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Wrapped Tater Tots
Fried Cheese Curds
Mashed Potatoes
Beef Stroganoff
Chicken Wings
Beer Flight
Deviled Eggs
Velvet Elvis
Fish Tacos
Hot Beef

“Always a fun place to hang out with friends after work. They have great food and cold drinks. Atmosphere is amazing! It is worth to at least try it once, you will be back.Parking: It does get tight for parking. Plenty of street parking. Park next to them or go just a little east and park there.“

4.5 Superb123 Reviews
Tacos La Familia Mexican • $
1610 6th Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Camarones A la Cucaracha
Carne Asada Street Tacos
Spicy Shrimp with Heads
Burrito De Carne Asada
Consome De Borrego
Enchilada Special
Birria Pizzadilla
Fried Burrito
Chips Y Salsa
Birria De Res

“I've been to Mexico many times, and always struggled to find good tacos in America. This place has the best tacos I've ever had in USA and rivals many from Mexico.I liked the 3 sauces they bring to every table, and they have fresh free chips (homemade) and salsa.Service was prompt and friendly. The house salsa (for chips) was not the best (i would recommend them a bit more salt and lime), but those sauces for the tacos were awesome.We can't wait to go back!“

4.6 Superb74 Reviews
El Taco Guapo Mexican • $
3005 Douglas Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Street Tacos
Arroz Rice
Quesadilla
Burritos
Frijoles

“Fresh great tasting food with plenty options, you can’t go wrong. I bought two steak tacos, two chicken tacos, rice, and elote in a cup. Everything was fantastic! The employees were extremely friendly and food was done quickly. I’ll be back again “

4.9 Superb34 Reviews
La Ventanita Snack Bar Ice Cream Shop • $$
605 Douglas Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Raspado Snow Cone
Elote Chorreado
Mangonada Mix
Banana Split
Tosti Elote
Piña Loka
Sabriloco
Esquites

“This place is pretty neat! Had never been to a funky gourmet style ice cream shop before and this was certainly fresh and fun... And the girls who served us were really sweet! Had a fun time just hanging out and trying something different! We'll be back!Parking: Reserved patron parking around to the right side of building when facing the front of the shop which is located in the back of another Mexican restaurant!“

4.9 Superb34 Reviews
Primos Tex Mex Bar & Grill Tex-Mex • $
1140 E Army Post Rd, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Quesadilla Fajita Lunch
El Grande Burrito Steak
Quesadilla with Rice
Chimichanga Dinner
Quesadilla America
Molcajete Supreme
Seafood Molcajete
Monster Burrito
Chips & Salsa
Street Tacos

“Awesome food, Great quality ingredients, and Outstanding service!Lots of great dishes to choose from on the menu. Prices are very fair as well.If you haven't already tried them out, I highly recommend you do!We'll keep coming back! Yum!“

4.5 Superb62 Reviews
Fuzzy's Taco Shop Tex-Mex • $
300 W Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy Suite 120, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Cilantro Lime Rice and Potatoes
Shredded Brisket Burrito
Our Famous Chips & Queso
Brisket Nachos Supreme
Shredded Chicken Nachos
Breakfast Taco Plate
Breakfast Burrito
Spicy Pork Nachos
Queso and Chips
Guac and Chips

“I love Fuzzys! Their management and service team are just the best. Good food. Good people.Dietary restrictions: Tacos are great for dietary needs! Corn tortillas are gluten free and plenty of vegetarian modifications availableParking: First hour is free with validationWheelchair accessibility: Handicap parking available, restaurant is on ground floor“

4.4 Superb87 Reviews
Tacos Villanueva Mexican •
1601 E University Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Carna Asada Taco
Steak Burrito

“Got 4 street tacos (1 chicken, 1 steak, 2 asada) and they were some of the best tacos I’ve ever had. The asada was my favorite. Make sure to try the spicy red sauce on your food, it’s actually hot without being offensive. Will definitely be back when I’m in the area “

4.8 Superb23 Reviews
Tequila Restaurant & Cantina Mexican • $
2824 Easton Blvd, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Beef Enchilada with Rice and Beans
37 Fajita Taco Salad Shrimp
Mexico City Street Tacos
Mexican City Steak Tacos
Combination Fajitas
Carne Asada Taco
Chips and Salsa
Chicken Fajita
53 City Tacos
Margheritas

“Excellent service, fast, professional, reliable, and the freshest food around. Drinks are exceptional. Try the Cadillac Margarita, it’s delicious! Best carnitas street tacos in Iowa. You won’t find another authentic Mexican restaurant around here. Absolutely amazing food.“

4.6 Superb34 Reviews
Kung Fu Tap & Taco Bar • $
210 Indianola Rd, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Tacos Like Mom Made
Kung Fu Tacos

“This is the best bar in the metro. Your average patron varies between bikers, hippies, and people in the service industry. The drinks are cheap and good, but the atmosphere is second to none. They also are the only place in town to get food late night as they serve tacos until 1:30-2“

4.6 Superb33 Reviews
Taqueria Veracruz Mexican • $
725 E University Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Carne Asada Tacos
Chorizo Tacos
Steak Tacos
Tamales
Burrito
Lengua

“I really like the food here, There is a variety of choices to pick from tacos, burritos, quesedias, tortas, lots of drink choices, I'm really impressed, with how fast they have my order ready..The prices are reasonable. The location is convenient, for the Lutheran Hospital Staff and patrons. it's easy to get in and out and there is ample parking, The people who run the " Taco Truck * are very nice.“

4.8 Superb20 Reviews
Pueblo Viejo Mexican • $
3841 E 14th St, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Camarones Ala Diabla
Chicken Chimichanga
Chicken Quesadilla
Fajita Quesadilla
Chips and Salsa
Chicken Fajitas
Nachos Cheese
Steak Fajitas
Chile Relleno

“All their foods are delicious! ¡Todas sus comidas son deliciosas! ¡Nos sentimos siempre muy bienvenidos! We always feel very welcomed! The people are great: from cooking to serving, they are all bilingual and the food comes out quick and tasty! Thank you! ¡Su gente es genial: desde los cocineros a los meseros; son todos bilingües y la comida sale rapidísimo y gustosa! ¡Muchas gracias! Congratulations and keep this excellent restaurant! ¡Felicitaciones y que continúen este excelente restaurante!“

4.3 Superb81 Reviews
La Rancherita Taqueria y Gordita Mexican • $
1106 Army Post Rd, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Cabeza Taco Asada Taco and Al Pastor Taco
Chips and Cheese Dip
Enchiladas De Pollo
Carne Asada Plate
Gorditas de Carne
Rice Beans And
Lunch Fajita
Chips Salsa
Guacamole
Menudo

“We have been here once for dine in and twice for takeout. As someone who is from a Mexico border area and grew up eating Mexican food , this is some of the best mexican food i've found In iowa. Specifically, he guacamole is the best that I have Found in iowa since I moved here years ago. We have had nachos, burrito, tacos, and a couple dinner plates , and everything has always been good. The Rice and beans don't have as much flavor or seasoning, but to be honest, I don't usually eat them anyway. Definitely recommend.Two entrees (fajitas and huge nacho plate), two guacamoles, plus tax and a 20% tip was under sixty bucks (my sons budget)“

4.3 Superb63 Reviews
El Patron Authentic Mexican Cuisine Mexican • $
4351 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Tacos De Carne Asada
Chicken Quesadilla
Seafood Enchiladas
Fajita Quesadilla
Parrillada Azteca
Chips and Salsa
Street Tacos
Birria Tacos
Choriqueso
Meat Dish

“Food is delicious, the margaritas not so good for Wednesdays Margaritas night? they are weak and tasteless but the food is so scrumptious!!!!!I just ordered online and forgot to order beans and as a one time courtesy they are sending some! I appreciate that because that is all my daughter will eat!Update Baria tacos ? were very dry today and fatty! Kind of a waste of money! Unfortunately probably will never order from here again. ?“

4.3 Superb62 Reviews
La Cabaña Mexican Bar & Grill Family • $
1435 Army Post Rd, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Seafood Chimichanga Dinner
El Cazuelos Mar Y Tierra
Fajita Quesadilla Combo
Chips and Salsa Order
Shrimp Fajita Nachos
Enchiladas la Cabana
California Burrito
Fajitas Acapulco
Fried Ice Cream
Marcos Burritos

“I noticed that they had decorations up for Valentine's Day. They have margarita specials. I had the lime margarita which was delicious. And steak fajitas. The service was great and the food came quickly. And they give you chips and salsa as much as you want free of charge.Kid-friendliness: They do have a kids menu.“

4.3 Superb52 Reviews
Tacos Puebla Mexican •
Des Moines

“This place is delicious. Just tried it based on the reviews…there aren’t many, but they’re all correct. Super nice people, great quality food…I had a couple beef tacos…better than any taco I’ve had at Malo or any “upscale” Mexican place in town. You’re silly if you don’t eat here on the regular, which I will be doing.“

5 Superb11 Reviews
Puro Puebla Food Trucks •
3220 SE 14th St, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Taco De Arrachera

“Puro Puebla is definitely one of the best food trucks in the Des Moines area. The portions are huge, the food is great, and it leaves you craving for more. The owners and staff are very nice people, too. Definitely recommend to those looking for delicious authentic Mexican food.e“

5 Superb9 Reviews
Taqueria La Esperanza Mexican • $
1547 E Grand Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Steak Tacos with Avocado
Tacos Carne Asada
Asada Tacos
Burritos

“Absolutely delicious !The presentation and aroma...the singe on the asada...the chorizo along with Verde and Rojo sauce absolutely ?I will 100% be back !I always like to start off with the carne asada tacos because if you can't get that right than I don't wanna do business. I always go at least on sauced up and one as is and all was delicious!!Something a little different is the cheese on these. Normally I don't find cheese in the street tacos...and it was ?Even the tortillas are on point, not falling apart.Check out the pictures of the Taco Truck Traveler and Eating with Alabaster !“

4.7 Superb13 Reviews
Señor Tequila Mexican Cuisine & Tequila Bar Mexican • $
3411 SE 14th St, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Chicken Salad
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Fried Ice Cream
One Chimichanga
Shrimp Fajitas
Quesadilla
Molcajete
Guacamole
Queso Dip
Carnitas

“Wow, Nicely decorated place, large, big long bar. The food is excellent, to the detail flavor, presentation, and amount. We always Go for Thirsty Thursday, {2 for 1, Drafts n Margs} Best deal. Always order something different for food Burritos, Quesadillas, our Faves Molcajete,pic, Hers Mojarra, its all good.The staff, cooks all very friendly, But the Best Bartender around and {Owner} Emilio,, Very pleasant outgoing and makes it fun being there, very appreciative, Also did I mention they have great Bands Music on the weekends,, Gotta check this place out.“

4.2 Good56 Reviews
Taco John's Fast Food • $
5824 Douglas Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

3 Street Tacos Trio Steak
Potato Oles
Taco Bravo
Meat

“Okay, I have to share an experience. I just left a negative review for Taco Bell. About 2 miles from the store.On august 22 I went to taco bell down the street I waited 11 minutes, did not get waited on while everybody at the drive thru was getting waited on (about 8 to 10 people). The manager said after eleven minutes it'd be quicker if you used the kiosk. I am not an employee of taco bell. I generally don't use self check out either.At any rate I drove down the street. Four minutes away walked up to the counter at taco john's. After three minutes I had my food and was out the door. I just want to say a lot of people only leave feedback when they're upset. I am just the opposite. But occasionally I do leave negative feedback.Taco John's your people did a great job. Keep up the good work, thank you.“

4.5 Superb18 Reviews
Tacos zacatecas Tacos •
2427 E University Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Burrito
4.9 Superb9 Reviews
Fernando's Mexican Grill Mexican • $
2650 University Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Burrito
Steak Burrito
Taco Salad
Chips

“Fresh pressed tortilla, loaded with meat and whatever toppings this steak and chicken burrito was top tier a d then they finish it off on the griddle for a nice char on both sides! Would definitely recommend looking forward to going again. Also didn’t know there were three restaurant options (a fried chicken and a Mediterranean hummus restaurant) at the one on University Ave so it really can be a one stop shop for a variety.“

4.3 Superb27 Reviews
Henry J's Taco House Tacos • $
2924 SW 9th St, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Two Taco Plate with Rice and Beans
Flour Bean Tacos with
Tacos and Enchiladas
Two Taco Dinner
Refried Beans
Taco Salad
Flour Taco

“Great stop for a quick bite! Better tacos than Tasty Tacos - I said it. The meat and beans are mixed but it’s very good with great flavor and good heat. Less than $10 for three flour tacos. The cashier was terrific too! Wholeheartedly recommend!“

4.2 Good39 Reviews
Tasty Tacos Mexican • $
1400 E Grand Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Original Flour and Corn Tacos
Original Flour Taco
Chicken Soft Tacos
Original Enchilada
Fried Cheese Curds
Steak Flour Taco
Flour Chips
Taco Salad
Beef Taco
Steak

“We were visiting from out of town, and we were looking for somewhere to have lunch. Tasty Tacos turned out to be the perfect spot for us to stop at. I ordered a chicken enchilada and a taco and it was very good. I would come back again and I wish that there was a place like this in my hometown.“

4.1 Good67 Reviews
Gorditos Los Tios Mexican Food Truck Mexican • $
1824 Hubbell Ave, Des Moines
4.9 Superb7 Reviews
Old West Mexican Restaurant Mexican • $
4138 Fleur Dr #2324, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Large Lime Margherita on the Rocks
Fajita Quesadilla
Rice and Beans
Ashley Burrito
Diane Special
Fajita Nachos
Chips & Salsa
Chile Relleno
Cheese Dip
Enchilada

“Welcomed as soon as we arrived. I ordered a margarita as I looked over the menu. Decided to have a taco salad with beef. I asked for no refried beans and it came as ordered. Homemade shell and plenty of toppings will have me going back soon.“

4.1 Good59 Reviews
Habanero's Mexican • $
3200 Forest Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Complementary Chips and Salsa
Chicken Fajitas
Chips & Salsa
Chicken Tacos
Carne Asada
Cheese Dip
Taco Salad
Guacamole
Enchilada
Nachos

“This is a great local spot to eat some classic Mexican food! Good service, good food, and good drinks! My only reason for 4 stars and not 5 is that their parking lot is small, and there is not a lot of street parking available. If it was easier to park here, we would visit much more often!“

4.1 Good55 Reviews
Tamale's Industry Latin American • $
3800 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Strawberry Tamales
Tamale Meal
Meat Tortas
Enchiladas

“i LOVE TAMALES INDUSTRY!!!! Mexican Cuisine in and of itself amazing, but somehow, someway, Tamales Industry made it 1000x BETTER!! I thought Tamales Industry was just another mid run-of-the-mill mini mall restaurant, but I was surly mistaken. If your making the same mistake, underestimating Tamales Industry, don't. Its amazing.“

4.4 Superb13 Reviews
Rancho Alegre Restaurant (Authentic Mexican Food) Mexican • $
3308 Indianola Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

3- Two Sopes Rice and Beans
Big Four Meat Quesadilla
Carne Asada Taco
Chips and Salsa
Chips & Salsa
Taco de Tripa

“I love this restaurant it is one of my favorite Mexican spots. Very Authentic flavor the staff is always smiling and friendly. I absolutely used to loved their 7 Marez caldo it is the best seafood soup around. Im a vegetarian now so now i would highly recommend their Veggie Sopes (sans beans) simply perfection. Lovely staff, comida muy buena se las reccomiendo!“

4.2 Good24 Reviews
La Peña Mexican Restaurant Mexican • $
2010 Indianola Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Birria la Peña
Burritos

“The food here was excellent and very authentic. We ate the huevos rancheros (they serve breakfast all day) with eggs over medium (cooked to perfection) and the cheese enchiladas. Every side was delicious and we locked our plates clean and were very full and satisfied! Super affordable and very quick. There isn’t really anything else around - it’s in a residential area.Vegetarian options: Cheese enchiladasParking: Parking is on the street in a residential area“

4.2 Good22 Reviews
La Favorita Mexican • $$
1700 E Grand Ave, Des Moines

“I got carne asada tacos, rice and beans. Beans were flavorful, creamy and smooth, tacos were some of the best I’ve ever had… And the rice? It was so fluffy, when I blew on it to cool it off rice stated floating away. I don’t know how I’ve never heard of this place, but I’ll be a repeat customer for sure. 10/10“

4.2 Good22 Reviews
Taqueria Los Pinos Tacos • $
3920 E 14th St, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Carne Asada Quesadilla
Chorizo-Mexican Sausage
Burrito
Pastor
Tongue
Steak
Tamale

“Had 3 each of the pastor and asada tacos on a beautiful Sunday morning. Excellent tacos with 2 really good sauces. I’ve lived in Texas and Colorado and these are right up with the best authentic tacos I’ve ever had. The little red truck in the parking lot puts out a really nice product at a fair price. Highly recommend if you ever get on the north side of Des Moines just off of I 80!“

4.2 Good22 Reviews
Paleteria La Michoacana Ice Cream Shop • $
1552 E Grand Ave, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Torta De Milanesa De Pollo
Nachos Con Carne Asada
Carne Asada Fries

“So much to try - ice cream, Mexican popsicles (paletas), and many flavors of beverage (horchata, nuts, etc.) And all the Mexican street/fast food you can imagine. Be a kid again and take the family. Family owned business. Staff is friendly, recommended.“

4.1 Good30 Reviews
Tasty Tacos Mexican • $
5847 SE 14th St, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Flour Tortilla Chips with White Queso Sauce
Enchilada and Taco and Chips and Guacamole
Original Taco and Enchilada
Original Flour Taco
Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken Flour Taco
Flour Nacho Supreme
Cheese Enchiladas
Steak Flour Taco
Supreme Nachos

“The 3 Tacos were more like gorditas to me, shell was fairly thick and soft, but those were pretty good. The bean burrito was a bit smaller than expected, served in a container with a good bit of cheese on top, got those 4 things for 12 dollars, which felt like a deal for the amount of meat in them. There was a lot of people waiting on food in the dining area. This place needs a drive thru.“

4 Good63 Reviews
TaKbron Tacos Mexican • $$
3720 E 14th St, Des Moines

Customers` Favorites

Tacos De Pollo Chicken Tacos
Mar Y Tierra Burger
Tako Mix Platter
Hawaiian Burger
Tacos Matamoros
Tacos Al Carbon
Sopa Ranchera
Tacos Reynosa
Papa Platter
Salchiburger
4.4 Superb7 Reviews
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