Best Tacos in Des Moines | Top 13 Spots

13 restaurants in Best Tacos in Des Moines | Top 13 Spots

• G. Mig's 5th Street Pub — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood haunt hums with a convivial energy, where the air is rich with the savory scent of slow-cooked hog shanks and the irresistible crunch of house-made chips. Diners dive into shareable plates of creamy Iowa corn dip and zesty chipotle shrimp tacos, while the signature prime rib burger offers a decadent, elevated take on classic pub comfort. It is a warm and spirited retreat where bold flavors and hearty portions invite long conversations and effortless relaxation.
• Old West — American: Old West captures the rugged charm of a rustic outpost, where the air is perpetually seasoned with the enticing aroma of garlic-infused shrimp and flame-seared steak asado. Sizzling fajitas arrive at the table in a dramatic cloud of steam, accompanied by vibrant tacos campestres and hand-crafted enchiladas that burst with bold, sun-drenched flavors. It is a place where hearty portions and a welcoming, unpretentious spirit turn every meal into a soulful celebration of traditional comfort.
• Malo — Mexican: Malo pulses with a vibrant energy, inviting guests to gather over communal plates of bubbling queso fundido and towering, inventive nachos that redefine modern comfort food. The kitchen masterfully balances salty indulgence with coastal freshness, pairing crispy pork belly pupusas and golden fried shrimp tacos with the bright, citrus-forward zing of chilled shrimp ceviche and perfectly seared tuna. It is a spirited destination where bold textures and playful Latin-inspired flavors create a dining experience that feels like a continuous celebration.
• El Bait Shop — Mexican: Stepping into this high-energy sanctuary of salt and sizzle, guests are greeted by the irresistible aroma of golden-fried comfort and the lively, unpretentious hum of a quintessential neighborhood haunt. The kitchen elevates the art of the bar snack, turning out crispy bacon-wrapped treasures and molten cheese curds alongside their signature Velvet Elvis dip for an experience that is unapologetically indulgent. It is a place where every crunchy, savory bite is designed to be shared over cold drinks and spirited conversation, making it the ultimate destination for those seeking soul-satisfying flavors in a laid-back atmosphere.
• Fuzzy's Taco Shop — Mexican: This high-energy hangout pulses with a laid-back Baja spirit, where the air is filled with the aroma of sizzling meats and the bright, zesty tang of fresh lime. Generous tacos come piled high with everything from crunchy tempura shrimp to smoky shredded brisket, all finished with a signature dusting of feta and cilantro for a bold explosion of flavor. It is a colorful, unpretentious escape where the casual atmosphere and vibrant dishes turn every meal into a sun-drenched celebration.
• Abelardo's Mexican Restaurant — Mexican: Abelardo’s captures the vibrant spirit of a bustling taqueria, where the savory scent of charred carne asada and sizzling fajitas drifts through a warm, unpretentious space. From the fiery kick of a Spicy Diablo burrito to the comforting layers of cheese-smothered enchiladas, every plate offers a hearty, flavor-forward journey through beloved Mexican classics.
• Godfather's Pizza — Italian (Pizza is the core: This vibrant neighborhood haunt welcomes guests with the irresistible aroma of thick, golden crusts baking under a blanket of molten cheese and savory toppings. The kitchen crafts hearty, mountain-high creations where bold flavors collide, from the zesty crunch of a taco-inspired pie to the smoky, indulgent layers of a bacon cheeseburger masterpiece. It is a place of generous spirit and unpretentious charm, perfect for sharing massive, flavor-packed feasts that celebrate the classic American pizza parlor experience.
• Monterrey Mexican Restaurant — Mexican: Monterrey Mexican Restaurant hums with the vibrant energy of a traditional cantina, where the air is thick with the savory scent of seasoned meats and warm corn tortillas. Guests find comfort in a bustling midday retreat as steaming plates of classic favorites like the zesty Speedy Gonzales arrive with impressive speed alongside a diverse array of hearty, soul-warming lunch specials. Whether diving into succulent shrimp or tender chicken, every bite captures the festive spirit of authentic Mexican hospitality in a bright, welcoming space.
• Godfather's Pizza — Italian: This iconic pizza parlor invites guests into a world of hearty indulgence, where the air is thick with the savory scent of golden-baked crusts and bubbling mozzarella. From the zesty, lettuce-topped crunch of the signature Taco Pie to the towering layers of the All-Meat Combo, each slice delivers a bold, nostalgic feast designed for sharing around a crowded family table.
• Tito's Lounge — Mexican: Tito’s Lounge hums with a vibrant, social energy, inviting guests to settle into a space where the clink of glasses meets the irresistible aroma of golden-fried favorites and sizzling shareable plates. From the zesty crunch of firecracker shrimp to towering mounds of loaded nachos and savory, cheese-filled quesadillas, the kitchen turns out elevated comfort food designed for communal indulgence. This lively retreat blends the casual warmth of a neighborhood hangout with a spirited atmosphere, making it the ultimate destination for shared bites and late-night cravings.
• Tasty Tacos — Mexican: This lively neighborhood haunt pulses with the irresistible aroma of toasted corn and slow-simmered meats, drawing guests into a space where every plate is a celebration of bold, handheld flavors. Golden nacho supremes piled high with melted cheese share the table with garden-fresh taco salads and hearty burritos, offering a satisfying harmony of textures that range from the snap of a crisp shell to the warmth of a hand-rolled enchilada. It is a vibrant sanctuary for those seeking a casual yet soul-warming feast where the simple joy of a perfectly seasoned taco takes center stage.
• Fiesta Mexican Restaurant — Mexican: The air at Fiesta Mexican Restaurant hums with the rhythmic mashing of made-to-order guacamole and the savory, spiced aroma of slow-simmered birria tucked into crisp, melted quesadillas. Vibrant plates like the Baja cod tacos and the locally-inspired Iowa harvest taco salad bring a sun-drenched energy to the table, offering a festive escape where bold coastal flavors meet the warm heart of the Midwest.
• Abelardo's Mexican Restaurant — Mexican: The air at Abelardo’s is thick with the savory scent of spiced chorizo and searing carne asada, drawing guests into a bustling space where authentic Mexican comfort takes center stage. Plates arrive piled high with golden-fried tostadas and hand-rolled enchiladas draped in rich sauces, offering a vibrant tapestry of textures and bold spices that celebrate the spirit of traditional street-style fare.