The quest for the best tacos in Ankeny, IA doesn’t come with a simple map. Tucked among the city’s busy corners and quiet spots are taco joints that will make you rethink what you once called a good taco. I still remember my first afternoon weaving through Ankeny, driven by nothing but a growling stomach and curiosity. That one small taco from an unassuming shop on 1st Street set a new bar—crisp shells, warm spiced fillings, a squeeze of lime so fresh it nearly made me late for everything else I had planned.
Finding truly great tacos in Ankeny is an experience. It’s about spots you tell your closest friend about in a low voice, the ones where crowds gather even on stormy days. Each place on this list offers something distinct—whether it’s a shocking twist on a classic taco or an authentic taste passed through generations. If you’re looking to dodge the bland and the basic, lace up and let’s explore the colorful, flavor-packed taco scene Ankeny has to offer.
1. Cazador Mexican Restaurant
Cazador Mexican Restaurant has the kind of loyal following only earned over decades. On my first visit, I watched as families and friends filled the tables, each group eager for their favorites. The inviting atmosphere makes you settle in before you even glance at the menu.
What makes Cazador stand out is the boldness of its flavors and commitment to traditional recipes. Their tacos are a top pick. The grilled chicken taco, for example, comes with juicy, well-seasoned meat, wrapped in warm, soft tortillas. The steak tacos pack in even more flavor, pairing tender beef with fresh cilantro and onions.
Order the taco platter for a taste of several varieties. Each bite shows Cazador’s attention to quality and detail. If you want classic Mexican tacos done right, this is your spot.
2. Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant
Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant feels like the spot you hope to find on a quiet Ankeny afternoon. I first wandered in, drawn by the scent of sizzling spices, and left with a new favorite for taco night. The space is welcoming, with a staff who seem to know the regulars by name and aren’t shy about giving their own menu recommendations.
What sets Guadalajara apart is the freshness of their ingredients. Tacos here are never an afterthought. The grilled fish tacos, in particular, come with crisp veggies and bright salsa that add a satisfying crunch. Their vegetarian options are just as filling, with beans and rice loaded into soft tortillas and finished with a splash of house-made sauce.
Order their fish or veggie tacos if you want a lighter meal that still bursts with flavor. Each serving comes with just the right balance of texture and spice that Guadalajara is known for.
3. Tasty Tacos
Tasty Tacos is the kind of spot that stirs nostalgia for anyone who’s grown up in central Iowa. My first bite of their signature taco brought back memories of quick weekday dinners and spontaneous food runs with friends. The place is laid-back, letting you focus on what you’re really here for—the food.
The true star at Tasty Tacos is their homemade flour shell. Puffy and crisp at once, it’s a perfect vessel for their seasoned beans, chicken, or beef. Each taco is built simply but delivers big on flavor and heartiness.
Order the original flour taco if it’s your first visit. There’s nothing quite like it in town. For something lighter, their bean taco surprises with its depth and a punch of bright, fresh garnishes.
4. The Yankee Clipper
The Yankee Clipper blends bar comfort with a reliable taco menu. I first ended up here on a breezy Thursday, lured in by the lively sounds and the promise of a no-fuss meal. The crowd is a mix of regulars and newcomers, giving the place a welcoming neighborhood vibe.
What sets this place apart is the surprising care put into classic bar fare. Tacos here are hearty, with generous portions and well-seasoned fillings. Their chicken tacos hit the spot—juicy, lightly spiced, and tucked into warm tortillas with crisp lettuce and cheese.
Order the chicken taco basket for a satisfying meal, especially if you want something simple, filling, and well-executed. It’s straightforward comfort food, with just enough flavor to keep you coming back.
5. District 36 Wine Bar & Grille
District 36 Wine Bar & Grille adds a touch of sophistication to Ankeny’s taco scene. My first time there, I noticed the blend of cozy elegance and a laid-back crowd—all set for a meal that goes beyond the ordinary. The menu is creative, giving familiar dishes a tiny twist without losing their spirit.
What stands out most is the attention to quality, from the fresh garnishes to the perfectly cooked proteins. Their tacos are an experience in themselves, with thoughtful combinations and bright flavors. The blackened tilapia tacos, for instance, are light but deliver a satisfying punch of spice and freshness.
Order the blackened tilapia tacos if you want something that feels upscale but remains familiar. These tacos take classic flavors and elevate them with style.
6. Abelardo’s Mexican Fresh – Ankeny
Abelardo’s Mexican Fresh – Ankeny is a local staple for those late-night taco cravings or quick lunch breaks. I once dashed in after a hectic day, looking for something quick but satisfying, and left with a new spot firmly on my radar. Service is speedy, but the quality doesn’t take a backseat.
The menu delivers variety, but the tacos are the main event. Abelardo’s keeps it simple: fresh tortillas, well-seasoned fillings, and toppings that don’t overpower the star ingredients. Their steak tacos are especially popular—tender beef, plenty of cilantro and onion, and a squeeze of lime to bring it all together.
Order the steak or grilled chicken tacos for a consistently flavorful meal that never feels rushed. These tacos show that quick service and real flavor can go hand in hand.
7. Taco John’s
Taco John’s puts its own spin on classic taco fare. My first visit was all about curiosity—would their famous Potato Olés® live up to the hype? Spoiler: they did, and so did the tacos. The vibe is unfussy, perfect for a casual lunch or quick dinner that still packs flavor.
The menu is familiar yet unique. Tacos come filled with seasoned beef or chicken, crisp lettuce, and shredded cheese, but it’s the combination of extra spices and house-made salsas that make them memorable. If you want a fast meal that doesn’t feel generic, this is your spot.
Try their softshell beef taco meal paired with Potato Olés®. The soft tortilla and savory filling work together in every bite, delivering comfort and a little kick of flavor.
8. Panchero’s Mexican Grill
Panchero’s Mexican Grill is where you go when you want your tacos paired with a dose of energy. The upbeat tunes set the pace, and the aroma of fresh-pressed tortillas draws you in before you even hit the counter. I once stopped in between errands, and the speed and freshness made it an easy favorite.
Here, every taco is built to order with tortillas still warm from the press, and fillings that taste even better than they smell. The chicken and vegetarian tacos land high on my list—packed with flavor and finished with Panchero’s signature house salsa.
Go for a custom-built taco with your favorite mix of fillings, and don’t skip the salsa. Panchero’s tacos reflect what the spot does best: fresh, bold, and never boring.
9. El Azteca Inc
El Azteca Inc is an easy pick for classic Mexican flavors in a relaxed setting. My first visit was on a rainy day—a steaming plate of tacos turned even the gloomiest weather around. The restaurant feels warm, welcoming, and truly neighborhood-friendly.
The menu offers variety, but the tacos here are worth your focus. El Azteca brings together well-seasoned meats and hand-cut veggies, layered into soft tortillas that hold everything just right. Their chicken tacos, in particular, come with a smoky, savory seasoning and plenty of fresh toppings.
Try the chicken taco plate for something filling that doesn’t skimp on freshness. El Azteca’s tacos capture the heart and comfort of a true family recipe, served up with just enough flair.
10. Mojitos Mexican Restaurant
(515) 630-5393Call
Mojitos Mexican Restaurant makes a strong impression from the moment you walk through the door. My first meal here was on a Friday night; the energy in the dining room and the aroma of spices convinced me I’d stumbled onto something good. There’s a genuine sense of hospitality that sets the tone for the whole experience.
The menu highlights bold, authentic flavors, and the tacos are a real star. Varieties range from tender grilled chicken to flavorful shrimp, each stuffed into soft, fresh tortillas and topped with crisp lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a splash of house salsa.
Order a taco trio featuring chicken, shrimp, and veggie options for a true sample of what Mojitos does best. The careful attention to seasoning and fresh ingredients makes every bite memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular taco spots in Ankeny, IA?
Some top picks include Cazador Mexican Restaurant, Tasty Tacos, Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant, Abelardo’s Mexican Fresh, and Panchero’s Mexican Grill. Each offers its own take on classic and creative tacos.
Are there vegetarian or vegan taco options available in Ankeny?
Yes. Many places like Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant, District 36 Wine Bar & Grille, Panchero’s, and El Azteca have vegetarian and even vegan taco selections. Just let the staff know your preferences.
Who serves the most authentic tacos in Ankeny?
For a taste true to Mexican tradition, check out Cazador Mexican Restaurant and El Azteca Inc. They both focus on classic taco recipes and fresh ingredients.
Do any taco restaurants in Ankeny offer delivery or takeout?
Nearly all the popular spots offer takeout, and many—including Taco John’s, Mojitos Mexican Restaurant, and Abelardo’s—have delivery through their own services or third-party apps.
Can I find gluten-free tacos in Ankeny, IA?
Yes. District 36 Wine Bar & Grille and several others provide gluten-free options. Always ask your server to ensure your selection is safe for your needs.
