Red Iguana

Mexican · Street Food · Salt Lake City, UT

4.4 (5,380 · Yelp ) ·$$ ·Mexican ·Est. 1985 ·

About

Bar: Full bar

The smell of rich mole sauce hits you as you walk through the door. Red Iguana has been a Salt Lake City staple since 1985, serving Cardenas family recipes that span over 50 years of Mexican cooking. You'll find more than 100 recipes on the menu, including seven different complex mole sauces. The jalapeño, cucumber, and mango margaritas are a must-try.

The place is always busy, especially on weekends. Expect a wait, but the line moves fast. Portions are generous, so consider sharing. It's casual, family-friendly, and attracts a mixed gay-straight crowd. If you're near downtown, The Copper Onion is another great spot nearby. Make a reservation to save time.

Features

  • Family recipes from the Cardenas family
  • Full bar with jalapeño and mango margaritas
  • Outdoor seating available
  • Reservations accepted
  • Big portions ideal for sharing

Cuisine

Mexican

Good for

Family FriendlyCasualAll AgesStreet FoodFast Casual

Practical

Mixed Gay/StraightOutdoor SeatingBike ParkingGood for KidsReservationsDeliveryCateringTake-OutCredit Cards AcceptedVegan FriendlyVegetarian FriendlyFull BarLunchDinnerParking LotGood for GroupsTable Service
4.4

What people say

Rated from 5,380 reviews. 37 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp

From the community

“Get the enchiladas suizas!”

I stopped at Red Iguana for lunch while in town and had the fantastic enchiladas suizas. Each order includes two tasty mole enchiladas. It's a popular spot, so be ready for at least a half-hour wait.

A visitor · Over a year ago

“worth the wait”

I'm visiting town and someone suggested Red Iguana. Got there before 6PM and it was already packed. Later there was a line out the door. The food was excellent, real Mexican cuisine. Huge portions—we split a soup and a combo plate and it was more than enough. The waitstaff were nice to look at.

A guest · Over a year ago

“Holy Mole!”

Don't be mistaken—this city offers more than just bland church potluck food. Three years later, I still vividly remember the mole enchiladas I had at Red Iguana. They have a wide variety of choices and truly authentic, distinctive flavors in their sauces. It's been three years, but they must be doing something right.

A recent visitor · Over a year ago

“they added 2 new locations should help the lines and wait”

Amazing nachos.

A local visitor · Over a year ago

“Your best choice for qualtiy Mexican fare”

You might have to wait for a table, and you might feel squeezed in with other customers, but hold on. The food is great, the menu is extensive, and the prices are fair. They also serve alcohol. Probably the best spot for Mexican food in the state.

A visitor · Over a year ago

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Red Iguana take reservations? +

Yes, reservations are accepted.

Is there outdoor seating? +

Yes, Red Iguana offers outdoor seating.

What type of cuisine is served? +

Mexican cuisine, with over 100 family recipes including 7 different mole sauces.

Is there a dress code? +

No, the atmosphere is casual and family-friendly.

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