Most people don’t consider the Midwest a hub for Mexican cuisine. From Avon, IN, to Des Moines, IA, these restaurants prove conventional wisdom wrong with surprisingly delicious tacos.
When people think of Mexican food in the United States, their minds are drawn to places like California and the American Southwest. You don’t have to drive to SoCal to get tasty tacos, though. From Avon, IN, to Des Moines, IA, there are plenty of places to go right here in the Midwest.
La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant – Avon, IN
Let’s start close to home at La Hacienda. This hidden gem is tucked away in a strip mall, but don’t be fooled. It offers the closest thing you can get to street-style tacos, bringing urban flavor to an otherwise suburban area. Don’t forget to try the al pastor and carne asada tacos.
Don Cuervo – Avon, IN
If you’re looking for a low-key restaurant with an affordable menu that is also in Avon, IN, try Don Cuervo. Don Cuervo sells all the classics, from lengua and carnitas to chorizo tacos, and has a homemade salsa bar that’s to die for.
Taqueria Mixteca – Dayton, OH
People often come to Dayton, OH, for its vibrant arts scene and cultural attractions, but this little city also has a growing food scene. Taqueria Mixteca is a little like Dayton. It has a simple exterior, but inside its doors, you’ll find the best tacos in SW OH. Try the barbacoa or trip tacos for something a little different.
El Meson – West Carrollton, OH
A stone’s throw away from Dayton, West Carrollton, OH, is home to El Meson. El Meson is a unique Latin American restaurant that serves tacos with a gourmet fusion twist. If you’re visiting Dayton, it’s worth the drive for the smoked brisket and shrimp tacos alone.
Tacos La Familia – Des Moines, IA
Fresh tortillas and tender meat characterize the culinary experience at Tacos La Familia in Des Moines, IA. The family-run taqueria may be small, but it produces delicious food with a big flavor. Their tacos rival any you’d find in larger cities.
Taco Loco – Des Moines, IA
Tacos La Familia’s primary competitor in Des Moines is Taco Loco. This surprising go-to spot for local tacos is hidden inside a grocery store, but locating it’s worth the extra effort. Try the tripas, barbacoa, or suadero tacos for an authentic Mexican culinary experience.
La Juanita – Storm Lake, IA
La Juanita may not be fancy, but it serves up some of the best tacos in town. Follow the lead of the college kids, truckers, and foodies that frequent this hole-in-the-wall establishment and give the spicy carne adobada tacos a try if you’re in town.
Tacos El Rodeo – Bloomington, IL
Tacos EL Rodeo started as a taco truck, so it should come as no surprise that this restaurant serves up incredible street-style tacos. You can expect generous portions and delicious homemade salsas. They go great on the birria and al pastor tacos.
