Des Moines’s vibrant taco scene is a tapestry of flavors and traditions. From bustling food trucks serving up authentic street-style tacos to cozy taquerias offering innovative fusion creations, Des Moines’s taco spots are a testament to the city’s love affair with this beloved dish. This guide highlights the top taco spots in the city.
In a nation crazy about tacos, every city boasts its champions. Des Moines, a melting pot of flavors and traditions, is a prime example. From humble food trucks to bustling taquerías, the search for the city’s best tacos is also a journey through its neighborhoods and a glimpse into the soul of its vibrant community. Join us as we explore the delicious tortillas and perfectly seasoned meats of Des Moines’s top taco spots
Tacos La Familia
9/10 (842 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-244-6659
Flavorful dishesAssortment of salsasFriendly service
Tacos La Familia is a gem, offering flavorful dishes that leave you satisfied. The Birria pizza and assortment of salsas steal the show, making this spot a must-visit. The atmosphere is inviting, the service is friendly, and the food is top-notch, with each dish packed with fresh and tasty ingredients.
Tacos Degollado
9.2/10 (603 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-559-7509
AuthenticFlavorfulFriendly
Tacos Degollado is a must-try spot for authentic Mexican fare in Des Moines. The tripas, lengua, and azada tacos are fan favorites, bursting with flavor and served with all the proper fixings. The food truck staff provides quick and friendly service with loaded tacos and delicious quesadillas. The sangria is a perfect pairing for the mouthwatering dishes offered at this cash-only gem. Expect moist and flavorful meat, great tortillas, and a variety of salsa options to enhance your dining experience. Don’t be fooled by the food truck exterior – Tacos Degollado delivers exceptional Mexican cuisine that will leave you craving more.
El Michoacano Taqueria
9.2/10 (490 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-277-1826
Quick serviceVegan optionsAuthentic flavors
El Michoacano Taqueria is a gem – the menu is conveniently accessible via QR code, you order at the counter, and your food arrives quickly and flavorful. The staff is warm, and the option for vegan dishes sets it apart from other Mexican spots in town. Whether you’re a vegan or a meat-lover, El Michoacano Taqueria offers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine in a cozy hole-in-the-wall setting, making it a must-visit spot for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Mi Lindo Mexico ️- Taco Truck
9.2/10 (149 reviews)
| Directions | +1 515-803-0925
Convenient locationFlavorful carne asadaFriendly staff
Mi Lindo Mexico – Taco Truck is a hidden gem conveniently located just off the interstate, providing easy access for hungry travelers. The carne asada and el pastor tacos are absolute must-tries, hitting the spot and leaving customers raving about the quality of the food. With a wide selection of items on the menu and quick service, this taco truck offers a perfect, inexpensive meal for those on the go. The clean flavors and generous portions make every bite a delight, while the friendly staff adds a welcoming touch to the overall experience.
Tacos Villanueva
9/10 (320 reviews)
| Directions | +1 515-528-8805
Unique burrito optionsFlavorful hot sauceGenerous portion sizes
Tacos Villanueva in Des Moines has become a local favorite, offering unique and delicious options that stand out from your typical taco joint. The carne asada burrito, made with ground chuck instead of steak, is a must-try and definitely worth the eight bucks. The hot sauce is surprisingly tasty and pairs perfectly with any order. From steak street tacos to chorizo burritos, every item is fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned. Don’t miss out on their tortas if burritos and tacos aren’t your thing – they are almost as good as the burritos, according to loyal customers.
Tacos La Barca D.C
9.4/10 (95 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-904-7044
Flavorful birriaEfficient serviceSolid carne asada
Tacos La Barca D.C. is a local gem with a loyal following, and for good reason. The birria tacos and carne asada tacos are on another level, leaving customers in awe with every bite. The birria, especially, is a standout dish that is raved about by many. The service is efficient and accommodating, with some customers even mentioning that their orders were brought straight to their car. The mix of flavors and the quality of the food make this spot a must-visit, with many customers claiming it as their new favorite taco joint.
Faustinos Taqueria
9.6/10 (158 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-255-1410
Unique cactus tacoFlavorful moleRefreshing mint-cucumber drink
Nestled close to the Franklin Library, Faustinos Taqueria may not catch your eye at first glance, but this hidden gem is worth discovering. The cactus street taco is a unique standout, paired perfectly with the refreshing mint-cucumber drink. The flavorful mole de pollo and variety of tacos are a must-try, accompanied by an array of salsas and complimentary chips. While some dishes like the Asada Tacos may need a bit of refinement, the overall experience is elevated by the friendly service and authentic Mexican flavors.
Taqueria Veracruz
9.2/10 (310 reviews)
| Directions | +1 515-421-7995
Delicious TacosFriendly ServiceAffordable Prices
Taqueria Veracruz is a beloved taco spot where patrons rave about the delicious food and friendly service. Customers enjoy the variety of menu options, from tacos to tamales, all at a reasonable price. The tacos, especially the cabeza and al Pastor varieties, receive high praise, and the flavorful salsa verde is a must-try accompaniment. The staff at this taco truck are quick, efficient, and welcoming, making for an enjoyable dining experience every time. With ample parking and convenient location near Lutheran Hospital, Taqueria Veracruz is a go-to spot for satisfying your taco cravings.
El Rey Burritos
9.2/10 (479 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-221-3577
Unique flavorsFast serviceAbundance of queso
El Rey Burritos is a standout in the Des Moines area, known for their unique take on traditional Mexican cuisine. The tender asada is a standout, offering flavors that are both familiar and distinct. The fast service ensures you can enjoy your meal without any complaints – their standard tacos are a must-try, showcasing their commitment to doing things their own way. The balance of sauces and abundance of queso add to the overall experience, making El Rey a top choice for burrito enthusiasts. The Jarritos soda selection is a nice touch as well, providing a refreshing beverage option to complement your meal.
Tasty Tacos
9.2/10 (1782 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-266-4242
Delicious tacosQuick serviceHomemade taco sauce
Tasty Tacos lives up to its name with delicious offerings at reasonable prices. The star of the show is definitely their tacos, with hot and tender fried shells that are like little pillows. The service is quick and efficient, allowing you to enjoy your food in the restaurant or take it to go. Their homemade taco sauce adds an extra layer of flavor to an already tasty meal.
Tasty Tacos
9/10 (1670 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-285-1946
Soft shell chicken tacosEfficient serviceHomemade hot sauce
Tasty Tacos is a Des Moines staple known for its soft shell chicken tacos and poppers. The service is efficient and the option to call ahead for pick up is convenient. They also offer their hot sauce and taco seasoning for purchase. The Original flour tacos are a must-try, filled with a flavorful mixture of meat and beans, topped with homemade hot sauce. While some customers have experienced issues with portion sizes and cold food, overall, Tasty Tacos continues to be a popular choice for affordable and tasty Mexican cuisine.
Taqueria Los Pinos
9.2/10 (190 reviews)
| Directions | +1 515-770-6189
Authentic flavorsFriendly staffFair prices
Taqueria Los Pinos is a hidden gem in Des Moines, serving up delicious, authentic Mexican fare that truly stands out. With flavorful pastor and asada tacos, accompanied by their amazing salsas, this taco truck offers a culinary experience worth the drive. The carne asada dishes are a must-try, showcasing fresh ingredients and a perfect sear on the meat. The friendly staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making it a top choice for taco lovers in the area.
Tasty Tacos
9/10 (1373 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-262-1100
Iconic Puffy TacosAffordable PricesFriendly Staff
Tasty Tacos in Des Moines is an iconic spot that offers delicious Texas style Puffy tacos and flour chip nachos. The flour tacos, especially the steak and original ones, are highly recommended and the prices are surprisingly low compared to other Latino restaurants. While the corn tortillas are standard, the clean locations and friendly staff make it a worthy stop when in Des Moines. It can get busy during the lunch rush, so be prepared for a wait if you visit during peak hours.
Taqueria La Esperanza
9.2/10 (142 reviews)
| Directions | +1 515-402-3341
Flavorful tacosUnique cheese additionPerfectly cooked meat
Nestled within a bustling area, Taqueria La Esperanza offers an authentic and delightful street taco experience. The carne asada tacos are a must-try, with perfectly cooked meat and flavorful sauces. The addition of cheese adds a unique touch, and the tortillas hold everything together seamlessly. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, the inviting aroma and delicious presentation will keep you coming back for more.
Jose’s Taco Truck
9/10 (196 reviews)
| Directions | +1 515-868-7448
Flavorful al pastorGenerous portion sizesAuthentic Mexican cuisine
Located in Des Moines, Jose’s Taco Truck is a hidden gem serving up some of the best tacos in town. The tacos al pastor are a must-try, perfectly seasoned meat with a hint of onions and cilantro. While some onions may be on the larger side, the grilled ones add a burst of flavor. The variety of food offered is impressive, from loaded potatoes to steak burritos that are truly meals in themselves. The outdoor seating area adds to the charm of this authentic Mexican spot. Jose’s Taco Truck is a reliable choice for delicious, reasonably priced tacos that won’t disappoint.
Fernando’s Mexican Grill
9/10 (507 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-255-3700
Fresh ingredientsGenerous portionsPersonalized service
Fernando’s Mexican Grill offers an array of fresh ingredients and flavorful options for customers. The burritos are a standout menu item, generously portioned and made to order with a variety of fillings. The blackened fish tacos and vegan chorizo are also highlights, showcasing the diverse offerings available. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the owner adds a personal touch to the dining experience by engaging with customers. With a central location near Drake University, Fernando’s is a convenient spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
El Taco Guapo
9.8/10 (91 reviews)
| Directions | +1 515-865-2133
Fresh ingredientsMade-to-order mealsFriendly staff
El Taco Guapo has garnered a loyal following for good reason – their delicious and fresh tacos have customers coming back for more, time and time again. The top-quality ingredients, made-to-order meals, and friendly staff make this taco truck stand out in the neighborhood. With an array of options to choose from, like steak tacos, chicken tacos, rice, and elote in a cup, every dish is guaranteed to be fantastic. The authentic Mexican flavors shine through in every bite, making this taco truck a must-visit whenever you’re in the area.
El Patron Authentic Mexican Cuisine
9/10 (427 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-254-9453
Unique flavorsWelcoming atmosphereFantastic drinks
El Patron Authentic Mexican Cuisine has gained a loyal following with its flavorful dishes and welcoming atmosphere. Customers rave about the Molcajete Rancho Fiesta, featuring surprise elements like cactus and creamy panela cheese. The drinks are consistently fantastic and well worth the price, adding to the overall dining experience. The staff receives high praise for their friendly service, with guests appreciating the attention to detail and welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant. The recent move to a larger space on Merle Hay Road has only enhanced the dining experience, making it a must-visit spot for authentic Mexican cuisine lovers.
Flame The Taqueria
9.6/10 (295 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-410-1069
Flavorful friesDelicious burritosAttentive service
Located in a small and humble space, Flame The Taqueria is a hidden gem worth discovering. The attention to detail both in the food and service is evident, making the experience truly enjoyable. The staff goes above and beyond to accommodate your needs, offering a variety of to-go containers and ensuring your meal is satisfying. The menu may be limited, but each item is a standout, from the flavorful Flame fries with a tasty dipping sauce to the mouthwatering Birria Burrito and Lola Burrito that leave you craving for more. The authenticity and quality of the food are what make Flame a must-visit taco spot.
Fiesta Mexican Restaurant
9.2/10 (692 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 515-223-0145
Flavorful dishesGenerous portionsFriendly service
Located in Des Moines, Fiesta Mexican Restaurant is a standout spot for flavorful Mexican cuisine. The Carnitas Tacos are a must-try, with generous portions of juicy meat in each bite. The modern and clean atmosphere sets the stage for a great dining experience, complemented by prompt and friendly service. The starter salsa and crispy chips are perfect additions to your meal. Whether you try the burrito bowl with chicken, the amazing choripollo, or the popular birria tacos, Fiesta Mexican Restaurant is sure to leave you satisfied and planning your next visit. The consistently delicious food, friendly staff, and inviting atmosphere make this spot a top choice for Mexican fare in the area.