Review: La Iguana – Best Mexican Restaurant in Branson, Missouri
Branson, Misssouri has no shortage of interesting restaurants and we have probably a dozen or so Mexican restaurants.
Most of them are about the same… but, among the best of those are:
Elenita’s (Hollister restaurant is nicer than the Branson location and only one exit south of the strip – nice selection of Mexican beer there);
Cantina Laredo on the Branson Landing (near the fountains, fantastic selection of Tequila makes their Margaritas the best in town!);
El Portal (interesting spices in their sauces makes them a stand out); and
Las Fuentes (an old stand-by, the family has been around for a while with their distinctive recipes… unfortunately their little building is getting a little run down. But, the food is still good.)
But, there is a new and exciting restaurant in town that beats them all by miles (…even Cantina Laredo!).
It’s La Iguana located on the west end of “the Strip” (76 Country Blvd.) where you will also find most of the famous Branson theatres. La Iguana is conveniently located on the north side of the road in a little strip mall – easy in and easy out, even in heavy Branson traffic.
What makes La Iguana a stand out – the first thing, that is – is the quality of the food. Everything is fresh. Even the sauces (I hate tartar sauce – but they make their own and it’s actually good!) are freshly made by top notch authentic Mexican chefs. Hot sauces range from pretty hot to gringo mild. They take great care with each of their recipes.
They offer tacos, tostadas (topped with lettuce and avacado) burritos and more.
Carne Asada (steak seasoned to perfection) Morelia style
Pollo Salsa Roja (Chicken red salsa)
Al Pastor
Carnitas (Michoacan style)
Pescado (Fish taco) Ensanada Style
Camaron (shrimp) San Felipe style
This is just the beginning… they offer a selection of Mexican sodas and a wonderful beverage called “horchata” that is a kind of rice milk with cinnamon and other spices.
The offer entire plates as well and do quite a lot of take out business. But, I think if you visit once, you will enjoy the food and the entire environment of this little restaurant that you will soon be back – not only for the food, but for the warmth and friendly smiles.
If you stay for long, you may find yourself chatting with the friendly staff who will trade stories with you about travel and art. These people really know how to enjoy food and life!
This restaurant has an almost European feel to it. Each little table is neatly decked in red and the walls display two stunningly beautiful posters of the owners’ native city in Mexico.
There is yet another reason that you will want to visit La Iguana again and again. The price is right. This is probably one of the least expensive dining experiences in town… especially given the quality of the entire experience.
So, if you are in Branson or plan to visit soon, please stop by La Iguana and see for yourself. You will not be disappointed. This is the best Mexican food I’ve had since the last time I was in Mexico!
You’ll find La Iguana online at www.laiguanatacosandburritos.com or in person at:
Safari Incredible Creatures – Iguana Baby
