Best Mexican Things to Do in Des Moines

This southside taqueria on SE 14th Street serves some of the most authentic street tacos in Des Moines, with handmade tortillas and traditional fillings like lengua, cabeza, and al pastor. The casual counter-service setup keeps prices low while quality stays high. Weekend mornings bring menudo and pozole that draw crowds from across the metro.

The al pastor tacos with fresh pineapple and cilantro are as close to Mexico City street food as you'll find in Iowa.

Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines near the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Malo elevates Mexican cuisine with creative cocktails and upscale small plates. The rooftop patio is one of the best spots in the city for spring evenings, offering views of the skyline alongside tableside guacamole and an extensive tequila selection. The atmosphere skews trendy and date-night appropriate.

The duck carnitas tacos and mezcal cocktail program showcase how Mexican flavors can be both authentic and innovative.

While technically known for its 200+ beer selection, this Drake neighborhood institution serves surprisingly excellent Mexican-inspired bar food including street tacos, tortas, and loaded nachos. The casual vibe and extensive craft beer list make it perfect for groups. Located on Forest Avenue near Drake University, it's a local favorite that tourists often miss.

The combination of authentic Mexican flavors with one of the Midwest's best beer selections creates a unique dining experience.

The area around SE 14th Street and SW 9th Street is home to numerous family-owned taquerias serving regional Mexican specialties. These no-frills spots offer handmade tortillas, traditional salsas, and fillings you won't find at chain restaurants. Most have Spanish-dominant menus, which is usually a good sign of authenticity.

These neighborhood gems offer the most authentic Mexican food in Des Moines at prices that can't be beat—often $2-3 per taco.

The Jordan Creek and Valley Junction areas feature several upscale Mexican restaurants with full bars, extensive margarita menus, and Tex-Mex favorites. These spots offer comfortable dining rooms, reliable service, and flavors that appeal to mainstream tastes. Expect fajitas, enchiladas, and tableside guacamole in a polished setting.

Perfect for family dinners or business lunches where you want predictable quality and a comfortable atmosphere.

Des Moines has several excellent Mexican food trucks that set up at regular locations throughout the week, particularly in parking lots along Ingersoll Avenue and near construction sites in Ankeny and Waukee. These mobile kitchens often serve regional specialties and change their menus based on what's fresh. Quality rivals brick-and-mortar restaurants at even lower prices.

Food trucks offer adventure and authenticity—you'll find dishes like huaraches, sopes, and regional tamales that aren't on most restaurant menus.

Several panaderías in Des Moines offer fresh-baked conchas, tres leches cake, and other Mexican pastries alongside breakfast items like tamales and champurrado. These bakeries double as small groceries with imported ingredients. The southside locations near SE 14th Street are particularly authentic, with everything labeled in Spanish and locals chatting over coffee.

Start your day with fresh pan dulce and café de olla for an authentic Mexican breakfast experience that costs just a few dollars.

Many Mexican grocery stores in Des Moines have small taqueria counters in the back serving made-to-order tacos, tortas, and daily specials. These hidden gems offer incredible value and authenticity—you're eating alongside locals who grew up with these flavors. The groceries also stock ingredients if you want to cook at home.

These under-the-radar spots serve some of the most authentic and affordable Mexican food in the metro, often with daily specials like pozole or mole.