I ate here with a friend on Saturday for lunch. There was a counter where it looks like you could go up to order and they had menus up above, but there was also a sign saying see yourself. This was a little confusing to us, but we chose a seat and were greeted quickly. We decided to order some margaritas. I got the lime, which was delicious. they start you off with some chips and salsa where they give you three different salsa. I really enjoyed this as it was a lot of fun to try so many different things. My favorite was the green one. I also decided I wanted to order the side of beans and was super excited when I saw that I came with Quesa on top.These were absolutely delicious. For my main meal, I got several different street tacos. My favorite was the chorizo, but overall, I enjoyed all of them. I also got the Asada, Pollo, shrimp and carnitas. Overall, the food and service was great. My main issue with the atmosphere is it was very sticky to walk on the floor, the seats needed to be cleaned and the walls needed to be cleaned as well.
Overview
Rancho Alegre Restaurant is a hidden gem in Des Moines, IA, where you can enjoy an authentic Mexican food experience like no other. Located at 3308 Indianola Ave, this restaurant brings the flavors of Mexico straight to your table, offering a menu that will satisfy any craving for traditional, flavorful dishes. Whether youβre in the mood for tacos, enchiladas, or something more adventurous, this spot has something for everyone.
What sets Rancho Alegre Restaurant apart from other Mexican eateries is its commitment to authenticity. As soon as you step inside, youβre greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a meal with family or friends. The staff is friendly and eager to make your dining experience memorable, always willing to offer recommendations or explain the ingredients in a dish. From the colorful decor to the sizzling plates, every detail at this restaurant screams authenticity.
The menu at Rancho Alegre offers a wide range of dishes, each prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. If youβre a fan of classic Mexican flavors, you canβt go wrong with the tacos, which come with a variety of fillings like carnitas, beef, chicken, or fish. The carne asada is tender and flavorful, while the carnitas are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, slow-cooked to perfection. Each taco is served with a side of salsa, adding just the right amount of heat and zest.
For those looking for something a bit heartier, the enchiladas are a must-try. They come stuffed with your choice of meat or cheese, smothered in a rich, flavorful sauce, and topped with a generous portion of melted cheese. You can also opt for the chile rellenos, which are stuffed with cheese or meat, coated in a crispy batter, and served with a side of rice and beans. These dishes represent the heart of Mexican comfort food and are sure to leave you satisfied.
One of the standout features of Rancho Alegre Restaurant is its dedication to traditional cooking methods. The flavors here are deep and complex, the result of time-honored recipes passed down through generations. The ingredients are sourced locally when possible, ensuring every dish is fresh and flavorful. This focus on quality is evident in every bite, and itβs clear that the chefs take pride in serving only the best to their customers.
Another favorite on the menu is the sizzling fajitas. Served on a hot plate, the aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. The sizzling combination of grilled meats, peppers, and onions creates a wonderful, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the warm tortillas and toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. Whether youβre dining solo or sharing with a group, the fajitas are always a crowd-pleaser.
If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to leave room for dessert. The fried ice cream at Rancho Alegre is a local favorite, offering a perfect balance of crunchy and creamy textures. The flan is another delightful treat, made with rich caramel and a smooth, velvety custard. These desserts provide the perfect end to a satisfying meal, leaving you with a sweet taste of Mexico that lingers long after youβve finished your meal.
Rancho Alegre Restaurant isnβt just about great food; itβs also about creating an experience. The friendly staff, vibrant atmosphere, and consistent quality make this a spot youβll want to return to time and time again. Whether youβre a Des Moines local or just passing through, Rancho Alegre provides an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the richness of Mexican cuisine.
For those who love Mexican food, Rancho Alegre Restaurant is a must-visit. The combination of authentic flavors, excellent service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it one of the best spots in Des Moines to enjoy a delicious meal. The next time you find yourself in the area, donβt miss out on this culinary treasure. Youβll leave full, satisfied, and eager to return for more.
Good to know
Service options
β Takeaway β Dine-in β DeliveryHighlights
β Fast service β Serves local specialtyPopular for
β Breakfast β Lunch β Dinner β Solo diningAccessibility
β Wheelchair-accessible car park β Wheelchair-accessible entrance β Wheelchair-accessible seating β Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
β Alcohol β Beer β Cocktails β Coffee β Comfort food β Happy-hour drinks β Private dining room β Quick bite β Small plates β Vegetarian options β WineDining options
β Breakfast β Brunch β Lunch β Dinner β Counter service β Dessert β Seating β Table serviceAmenities
β ToiletAtmosphere
β Casual β Cosy β QuietCrowd
β Family friendly β GroupsPlanning
β Accepts reservationsPayments
β Credit cards β Debit cards β NFC mobile payments β Credit cardsChildren
β Good for kids β High chairs β Kids' menuParking
β Free of charge street parking β Free parking lot β ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
It doesn't look like much from the outside, but we were pleasantly surprised with the food and service! The waitress was very prompt and the food was served fast. The food was delicious and decently priced. I got the sopes and everyone tried them and loved them. We even ordered more of them. One of our kids ordered chicken strips and fries. They said that they were very good. We will definitely be back!
An exceptional smaller Mexican restaurant. My family have been coming here for years, great service and very affordable. As well as family friendly and suitable to groups of all sizes. Would highly recommend the sopes or any of their signature mixed margaritas
It was like being served a home cooked meal. Service was friendly and prompt, and the prices were very affordable.
Consistently good every time I've ordered. The enchiladas and Horchata are delicious
Authentic, delicious Mexican cuisine! They do need to clean a bit better. Walls at our booth had some food spattered on it!
All 3 salsas they brought to the table with chips where very good. I had the tacos, two each charizo and steak, they where excellent. A couple of other people in our party had the shimp faitas and raved about them as well. Prices are very reasonable. We had a very large group so food came in waves and a little slow thus the 1 star reduction but would have only taken 1/2 a star if I could have. I will definitely go back when I'm in the area again.