I have always been a lover of guacamole, but my interest in Mexican cuisine grew once I was in culinary school. I was doing a group project in my final semester, and we were assigned to make a Mexican themed dinner. One of the classmates in my group was from Mexico, and I told her I was so excited to learn from her because I think many of us in the Midwest are not really accustomed to authentic Mexican. She was sweet enough to give me a few suggestions for her favorite local Mexican restaurants. It has been a couple of years since then, and I recently realized I have not ventured out for Mexican other than from her suggestions.
We asked local moms where to find the best Mexican food in Cedar Rapids, and here are the top results:
El Super Burrito
Address: 3300 Johnson Ave NW
Website: https://www.facebook.com/El-Super-Burrito-Lupitas-Bakery-135258079838690/about/?ref=page_internal
Why moms love it: “Most authentic and so good!” Counter service gives it more of a fast-food feel, but moms rave that it is still “THE BEST!” I have also heard the food is very affordable.
Casa las Glorias
Address: 2245 Blairs Ferry Rd NE
Website: http://www.casalasglorias.com/home.html
Why moms love it: “Super family-friendly. The owners are absolutely wonderful people and the food is by far the best around!”
Villa’s Patio
Address: 433 7th Ave, Marion
Website: https://villaspatiomarion.com/
Why moms love it: “My husband is Hispanic so coming from him saying this is very close to home cooking is good!” Dads love it too, as one of my husband’s buddies said that he loves their large tequila selection (if that is your thing).
El Bajio
Address: 555 Gateway Pl SW A
Website: https://www.facebook.com/elbajiocr
Why moms love it: “They have lengua!” Even if beef tongue is not your thing, this place is worth a visit alone for their smoked pineapple margarita.
I am going to be honest: I had absolutely no idea there were so many Mexican restaurants in the Cedar Rapids area. There were many more that other moms listed as their favorites. Hearing from them made me extremely excited to branch out and try something new. Hopefully, once we get to our new normal and the dust settles, you can catch me at one of these restaurants sipping on a margarita. Do not, and I repeat, do not forget the chips and guac!
Where do you get your favorite Mexican food in Cedar Rapids? Let us know in the comments or on our Facebook page!
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