If you’re craving authentic Mexican food in Salt Lake City, Red Iguana is a name you can’t miss. Known for its bold, traditional flavors and award-winning mole sauces, this iconic restaurant offers a vibrant taste of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage.
Whether you’re a local or visiting Utah, the Red Iguana menu promises an unforgettable dining experience rooted in family tradition and passion.
A Rich History of Tradition: The Story Behind Red Iguana
Founded in 1985 by Ramon and Maria Cardenas, Red Iguana Salt Lake City started as a dream to bring real Mexican cooking to the region. Today, the family continues to preserve authentic recipes passed down through generations.
Every dish served here tells a story of culture, history, and love, making it more than just a meal but a celebration of Mexican heritage.
Red Iguana Salt Lake City Menu With Prices
Appetizers
| Item | Price | Description |
| Killer Nachos (Veg Option Available) | $11.79 | Totopos with refried beans, pork chile verde, chorizo, cheese, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, olives, jalapeños. |
| Nachos Regulares | $7.49 | Housemade chips with refried beans, melted cheese, jalapeños, sour cream, olives, tomatoes. |
| Housemade Guacamole (Serves 4+) | $11.79 | Fresh avocado, tomato, onion, serranos, cilantro. |
| Enchiladas Potosinas (4) | $10.69 | Empanada-style corn masa filled with queso fresco, green onions, red chili, fried, topped with cheese. |
| Rajas de Chile Poblano con Queso | $9.69 | Roasted poblano strips sautéed with tomatoes, onions, melted jack cheese. Add chorizo (+$1). |
| Hongos al Ajillo | $7.99 | Mushrooms, garlic, butter, white wine, chili flakes. |
| Encurtidos (4) | $10.69 | Pickled jalapeños stuffed with shrimp & queso fresco, fried, topped with salsa española. |
| Chile con Queso w/Totopos | $7.99 | Anaheim chile, jalapeños, onions, tomato, Velveeta, jack cheese. |
| Shrimp Quesadilla | $10.69 | Grilled shrimp, jack cheese, flour tortilla, sour cream. |
| House Quesadillas (10” Flour Tortilla) | ||
| – Jack Cheese | $7.99 | |
| – Cheese & Rajas Poblanas | $9.19 | |
| – Cheese & Mushrooms | $9.19 | |
| – Cheese, Potato, Chorizo | $9.19 | |
| – Cheese & Shredded Chicken | $9.99 |
Soups & Salads
| Item | Price | Description |
| Sopa del Dia | $6.49 | Daily scratch-made soup. |
| Sopa de Queso | $6.49 | Anaheim chiles, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, garlic, chicken broth, jack cheese. |
| Killer Chicken Salad | $8.59 | Chipotle chicken, pecans, mayo, mustard, mixed greens, avocado, totopos. |
| Red Iguana Dinner Salad | $7.49 | Mixed greens, grilled nopales, tomatoes, pepitas, cotija, choice of dressing. |
| Add Protein | +4.99-6.99 | Chicken, prawns, sirloin, or fish. |
Mole Dishes (Served with rice, beans, tortillas)
| Item | Price | Protein | Key Ingredients |
| Mole Negro | $16.79 | Chicken/Turkey | Chocolate, raisins, peanuts, walnuts, banana. |
| Mole Amarillo | $16.79 | Chicken | Golden raisins, yellow tomatoes, habanero. |
| Mole Poblano | $16.79 | Turkey | Guajillo/ancho chiles, peanuts, chocolate. |
| Mole Verde | $16.79 | Chicken/Turkey | Poblano, jalapeño, pepitas, avocado. |
| Mole Coloradito | $16.79 | Carnitas | Pine nuts, almonds, ancho chile, chocolate. |
Combination Plates (Served with rice & beans)
| Item | Price | Description |
| Poblano Plate | $15.49 | Sour cream chicken enchilada, taco a la Iguana, beef tostada. |
| Tapatio Plate | $15.49 | Enchilada, chile relleno, beef/chicken flauta. |
| Iguana Plate | $15.49 | Enchilada, chile relleno, hard-shell taco. |
| Mexican Plate | $15.49 | Chile verde burrito, hard-shell taco, tostada. |
Tacos & Burritos
| Item | Price | Description |
| Tacos Don Ramón (3) | $12.29 | Sirloin tips, chorizo, cotija, pico de gallo. |
| Guacamole Tacos (3) | $10.69 | Hard-shell, lettuce, cheese, tomatoes. |
| Flautas (2) | $10.49 | Fried rolled tortillas with chicken/beef, guacamole, sour cream. |
| Burritos (2) | ||
| – Carne Asada | $11.79 | Sirloin tips, rice, beans, pico de gallo. |
| – Chile Verde | $10.69 | Pork, smothered in green chile. |
| – Refried Bean & Cheese | $8.49 |
Desserts
| Item | Price |
| Flan (Caramel/Chocolate) | $4.95 |
| Tres Leches Cake | $4.95 |
| Fried Ice Cream | $5.50 |
| Xango Cheesecake | $7.99 |
Sides & Extras
| Item | Price |
| Refried Beans | $1.25 |
| Spanish Rice | $1.25 |
| Corn Tortillas (3) | $0.80 |
| Flour Tortillas (3) | $0.85 |
| Guacamole (3 oz) | $3.40 |
Breakfast (Served all day)
| Item | Price | Description |
| Huevos Rancheros | $11.79 | 3 eggs, salsa ranchera, jack cheese, rice, beans. |
| Chilaquiles | $11.79 | Totopos with chorizo, egg, salsa española, mole poblano, garnishes. |
| Sunrise Burritos (2) | $11.79 | Pork chile verde burritos topped with eggs. |
Comforting Egg Dishes
| Item | Price | Description |
| Huevos Rancheros* | $11.79 | 3 eggs cooked to order topped with salsa ranchera, jack cheese, served with rice, refried beans & tortillas. |
| Papadzules | $10.49 | 2 corn tortillas filled with boiled egg & pipian, topped with mole verde, salsa española, melted jack cheese, pickled red onions. |
| Sunrise Burritos* | $11.79 | 2 pork chile verde burritos smothered in chile verde, topped with 2 eggs cooked to order. |
| Chilaquiles | $11.79 | Housemade totopos with pork chorizo & egg, salsa española, mole poblano, garnished with cheeses, crema, avocado, served with refried beans. |
| Huevos Motuleños* | $13.99 | Pork carnitas with mole amarillo, jack cheese, 2 poached eggs, bacon, flour tortilla chips, Spanish rice & refried beans. |
| Huevos con Chorizo | $10.19 | Housemade pork chorizo scrambled with eggs, served with rice, beans & tortillas. Add tomato/potato (+$0.79). |
| Monterrey Plate (Machaca con Huevo) | $11.29 | Shredded beef grilled with bell peppers & onions, scrambled with eggs, double refried beans, cotija/fresco cheese blend. |
Tostadas (Gluten-Free)
| Item | Price | Description |
| Traditional | $9.99 | 2 crisp corn tortillas with refried beans, jack cheese, choice of seasoned chicken or shredded beef, lettuce, sauce, tomatoes, sour cream, olives. |
| Guacamole | $10.29 | Features housemade guacamole. |
| De Machaca | $9.99 | Shredded beef grilled with bell peppers, onion & egg. |
Sides of Goodness
| Item | Price |
| Mole (3 oz) | $3.25 |
| Mole (1 cup) | $4.79 |
| Refried/Black Beans | $1.25 |
| Fried Plantain | $1.75 |
| Sour Cream (3 oz) | $1.45 |
| Sour Cream (large) | $3.59 |
| Pico de Gallo (3 oz) | $2.25 |
| Pico de Gallo (large) | $3.75 |
| Guacamole (3 oz) | $3.40 |
| Guacamole (cup) | $4.49 |
| Spanish/White Rice | $1.25 |
| Corn Tortillas (3) | $0.80 |
| Flour Tortillas (3) | $0.85 |
| Chile Verde/Colorado (cup) | $5.49 |
| Chile Verde/Colorado (bowl) | $7.99 |
Classics
| Item | Price | Description |
| Puntas de Filete a la Norteña | $17.99 | Top sirloin tips sautéed with bacon, jalapeños, onions, tomatoes, served over almond mole with refried beans & tortillas. |
| Cochinita Pibil | $14.99 | Achiote-rubbed pork loin slow-roasted, shredded, served with black beans, rice, pickled red onion. |
| Pechuga Poblana | $16.99 | 8oz grilled chicken breast with tomatillo salsa, poblano strips, 3 tiger prawns, black beans, rice & tortillas. |
| Enmoladas | $10.69 | 3 corn tortillas filled with refried beans, topped with mole negro, queso fresco/cotija, pickled red onions. |
| Gringas (2) | $16.79 | Carne adobada with pineapple, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions in a 10″ flour tortilla. |
| Ramon’s Famous Fish Tacos | $16.79 | Grilled mahi mahi in corn tortillas with spicy coleslaw, cucumber salsa, limes, Spanish rice. |
| Camarones Sonora | $17.89 | 7 tiger prawns sautéed in garlic butter, lemon, pepper, served with rice, black beans & tortillas. |
| Pescado a la Veracruzana | $17.89 | Fish of the day pan-fried, simmered in tomato sauce with jalapeños, capers, olives, served with grilled pineapple & rice. |
| Enchiladas a la Lago Salado | $11.79 | 2 corn tortillas filled with potatoes & chorizo, topped with enchilada sauce, cheese, sour cream, served with chicken salad lettuce wrap. |
| Carne Asada a la Tampiqueña* | $17.99 | 10oz NY steak, cheese enchilada, refried beans, guacamole, tortillas. |
| Steak a la Ranchera* | $16.99 | Diced NY steak in green chile-tomato-potato sauce, served with rice, beans & tortillas. |
| Encebollado* | $16.99 | 10oz NY steak topped with sautéed onions & chorizo, served with rice, beans & tortillas. |
| Ramon Jr’s Quesadilla SF | $11.99 | 10″ flour tortilla with carne asada, cheeses, olives, pico de gallo, jalapeño, avocado, sour cream, served with coleslaw & black beans. |
Enchiladas
| Item | Price | Description |
| Enchiladas Suizas (Not Traditional) | $10.99 | 2 corn tortillas filled with sour cream chicken & avocado, topped with mole poblano, melted jack cheese, sour cream. |
| Red Iguana Traditional | $9.49 | 2 corn tortillas with shredded beef, chicken, or cheese, topped with red chile enchilada sauce, melted jack cheese. |
| Enchiladas Verdes | $10.99 | 2 sour cream chicken enchiladas topped with mole verde, jack cheese, roasted pepitas. |
| Enchiladas Amarillas | $10.99 | 2 pork carnitas enchiladas topped with fiery mole amarillo, jack cheese, crema mexicana. |
| Enchiladas Poblanas | $9.69 | 2 sour cream & cheese enchiladas with traditional sauce, jack cheese, avocado, sour cream. |
| Mango Enchiladas | $10.99 | Pork carnitas in corn tortillas, topped with sweet-spicy mango mole (raisins, yellow chiles, mango), jack cheese. |
| Entomatadas (Least Spicy) | $9.49 | 2 sour cream chicken enchiladas topped with salsa española, jack cheese, jalapeño. |
| Enchiladas Rancheras | $10.99 | Jack cheese in corn tortillas, topped with sautéed mushrooms, salsa ranchera, melted cheese, green onions. |
Mexican Specialties
| Item | Price | Description |
| Chile Verde | $12.59 | Diced pork in green chile-tomatillo sauce, served with rice, beans, and tortillas. |
| Chile Colorado | $12.59 | Diced sirloin in red chile-tomato sauce, served with rice, beans, and tortillas. |
| Chile Rellenos (2) | $12.59 | Anaheim peppers stuffed with jack cheese, fried, topped with salsa española, served with rice/beans. |
| Carnitas | $14.69 | Beer-fried pork with spices/orange, served with refried beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, jalapeño, tortillas. |
Fajitas
(Served sizzling with bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, pico de gallo, guacamole, jalapeño, tortillas)
| Protein | Price |
| Chicken | $14.49 |
| Top Sirloin | $15.99 |
| Tiger Prawns | $15.99 |
| Vegetarian | $13.29 |
Two Convenient Salt Lake City Locations to Serve You
Red Iguana Salt Lake City has two popular locations to accommodate all diners:
Red Iguana (Original Location): 736 West North Temple Street — a local favorite known for its cozy and colorful atmosphere.
Location on Map:
| Field | Details |
| Google Rating | 4.6 (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) (9,727) |
| Price Range | $10–20 |
| Cuisine | Mexican restaurant |
| Features | Dine-in, Takeout |
| Description | Bustling, family-run Mexican cafe serving signature mole plus traditional & gluten-free favorites. |
| Address | 736 W North Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84116 |
| Hours | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Contact | (801) 322-1489 |
| Website | For the full menu and prices, visit the official website here. |
| Reserve a Table | For reservations, visit here: Resy |
Red Iguana 2: 866 West South Temple Street — offering the same menu with larger seating and a waitlist system to reduce wait times.
Location On Map:
| Field | Details |
| Google Rating | 4.6 (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) ((8,331)) |
| Price Range | $10–20 |
| Cuisine | Mexican restaurant |
| Features | Dine-in, Curbside pickup, Delivery |
| Description | Happening little kitchen with a festive vibe & dishes from across Mexico, including renowned mole. |
| Address | 866 W S Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84104 |
| Hours | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Contact | (801) 214-6050 |
| Website | For the full menu and prices, visit the official website here. |
| Reserve a Table | For reservations, visit here: Resy |
Both locations serve the full menu, ensuring you get the same high-quality Mexican dishes wherever you go.
What Makes the Red Iguana Dining Experience So Special?
Step inside the restaurant, and you’ll be enveloped by vibrant hand-painted murals, the warm aroma of roasting chiles, and the cheerful buzz of happy diners. The colorful décor, combined with friendly, fast service, creates an inviting and lively atmosphere that feels like a true Mexican fiesta. Whether you’re dining with friends, family, or solo, the experience is warm, welcoming, and authentically Mexican.
Why Locals and Tourists Love Red Iguana Salt Lake City
- Authentic Mexican flavors that rival those in Mexico City: Each bite bursting with fresh, traditional spices and herbs.
- Handmade mole sauces crafted from family recipes, featuring seven distinct varieties from rich and chocolatey to tangy and spicy.
- Generous portions that satisfy even the biggest appetites without breaking the bank.
- Affordable prices offering excellent value for premium quality Mexican cuisine.
- Fast, friendly service that makes every guest feel like part of the family.
It’s no surprise that Red Iguana Salt Lake City is a favorite among locals and often recommended by tourists. The restaurant’s reputation was even boosted after a visit from Guy Fieri of the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
5 Best Recommended Dishes at Red Iguana Salt Lake City
If you’re wondering what to order, start with their legendary mole sauces. They offer seven unique types, each with its own distinct character and complex flavor profile:
- Mole Negro: A rich, dark mole with layers of smoky dried chiles, bittersweet chocolate, and a subtle nuttiness from almonds. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory.
- Mole Amarillo: Bright yellow with tangy, citrus notes and earthy undertones—a refreshing twist on traditional mole.
- Puntas de Filete a la Nortena: Tender steak tips in a creamy, spicy sauce with smoky bacon and fresh green chiles.
- Chile Verde: Slow-cooked pork simmered in a tangy and vibrant green tomatillo sauce, served alongside rice and beans.
- Enchiladas Suizas: Soft corn tortillas filled with tender chicken, topped with a luscious creamy tomatillo sauce and melted cheese.
Vegetarian options are plentiful, too. The Vegetarian Plate combines beans, rice, cheese enchilada, and creamy guacamole, perfect for those seeking delicious meat-free dishes.
Convenient Takeout, Catering, and Reservations
For those wanting to enjoy Red Iguana’s Mexican food at home or events, takeout and catering services are available. You can easily place your order online through their website.
While reservations are not accepted at the original location, Red Iguana 2 offers a helpful waitlist system to minimize your wait time during busy hours.
Insider Tips for Visiting Red Iguana Salt Lake City
- Arrive early or visit during weekday lunch hours to avoid long lines.
- Use the waitlist at Red Iguana 2 for quicker seating, especially on weekends.
- Parking is available on-site and nearby for easy access.
- Don’t miss the mole sampler if you want to taste a variety of their famous sauces.
- Ask your server for recommendations on spice levels to suit your taste perfectly.
Red Iguana Salt Lake City Reviews and Ratings
Overall Reviews: 4.5/5 (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) Very Good. All Reviews 4,162. Tripadvisor
Merchandise and Gift Cards: Give the Gift of Flavor
They offer gift cards available for purchase online or in-store—ideal for food enthusiasts and special occasions. You can also find branded merchandise like shirts and hats at both locations, perfect for showing off your love for this iconic Salt Lake City Mexican restaurant.
3 Mexican Restaurants Near Red Iguana Salt Lake City That Serve Similar Food
If you love the tasty Mexican food at Red Iguana and want to try other places nearby, you’re in luck! Salt Lake City has many restaurants that serve delicious, authentic Mexican dishes. Here are some of the best ones to check out:
1. Sazón
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 on Google)
- Address: 145 E 1300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84115
- Website: For the full menu, visit here.
Sazón is a cozy restaurant that serves homemade Mexican dishes. Their mole, tamales, and ceviche are full of rich flavors. It’s a great place for a sit-down dinner and is perfect for date nights or small gatherings.
2. Centro Mexican Kitchen
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5 on Google)
- Address: 329 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
- Website: For the full menu, visit here
Centro Mexican Kitchen offers fresh and simple Mexican dishes. Their tacos, chile rellenos, and nachos are popular. It’s a good place to enjoy a relaxed meal with friends or family. Everything is made fresh, and the service is friendly.
3. Taqueria 27
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5 on Google)
- Address: 1615 S Foothill Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
- Website: For the full menu, visit here
Taqueria 27 is known for its street-style tacos and tasty sides. They use fresh ingredients and offer daily specials. The menu changes often, so there’s always something new to try. Their guacamole and salsa are also customer favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Red Iguana Salt Lake City
What is Red Iguana Salt Lake City most famous for?
Red Iguana is most famous for its authentic Mexican dishes, especially its seven varieties of mole sauces that showcase rich, complex flavors rooted in family recipes.
Where are the Red Iguana locations in Salt Lake City?
The original Red Iguana is located at 736 West North Temple Street. The second location, Red Iguana 2, is at 866 West South Temple Street, just a few blocks away.
Does Red Iguana Salt Lake City offer vegetarian options?
Yes! The menu includes several vegetarian-friendly dishes such as vegetarian enchiladas, rice and beans, guacamole, and the popular Vegetarian Plate.
Can I make reservations?
Reservations are not accepted at the original Red Iguana. However, Red Iguana 2 uses a waitlist system to manage busy periods efficiently.
Is online ordering available for takeout?
Absolutely. You can place takeout orders online directly through their official website.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a local or just passing through Salt Lake City, Red Iguana offers a flavorful journey into authentic Mexican cuisine. From their bold mole sauces to their warm, festive atmosphere, this family-run restaurant guarantees a memorable dining experience. Don’t miss your chance to savor some of the best Mexican food Utah has to offer.
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