The best restaurants take you to a different time and place, but not too many of them successfully transport you a century or more into the past! Yet, that’s definitely the case for Old West Mexican Restaurant, a unique western restaurant in Iowa. Located in the heart of Des Moines, this unique, themed restaurant is dedicated to taking visitors back to an age of cowboys, adventurers, and old-timey saloons serving up classic grub and tall drinks. Of course, the wild west of lore had deep Mexican and American roots, so the menu here tends heavily toward Mexican classics. But not just any Mexican classic – the star attraction here is sizzling fajitas, brought to your table in dramatic style and assembled on the spot. They put on as much of a show as the rest of the restaurant!

From the side of the road, Old West Mexican Restaurant might look like any other taco joint - but don't be fooled!
Derek H/Google Local
Inside, this restaurant is a cowboy's dream come true. Every corner of the restaurant is themed to the Old West.
BradandJen McCleary/Google Local
That extends to the Mexican menu, which contains classics like burritos, tacos, and enchiladas on plates loaded with rice, beans, and salad.
Debbie/Google Local
Odds are you'll see what the specialty is as soon as you walk in - it's sizzling fajitas, brought to your table in style.
Jason Reis/Google Local
Old West Mexican Restaurant puts more effort into its menu than many themed Mexican restaurants (and don't miss the seafood section of the menu!).
BradandJen McCleary/Google Local
Of course, it wouldn't be a Wild West saloon without a classic bar. The bartender is likely to know any Southwest-themed drink you're thinking of.
Milton Eclatt/Google Local
But the favorite here is definitely the massive frozen margaritas, serving as drink and dessert all in one.
Tom Z/Google Local
When the weather is nice, consider having a meal on the patio - the theme continues outside, too!
BradandJen McCleary/Google Local

Have you been to Old West Mexican Restaurant in Des Moines? Tell us about your experience in the comments section. If you’re interested in paying a visit, the Old West Mexican Restaurant website and Old West Mexican Restaurant Facebook page have the full menu and the latest specials. Interested in exploring more of Des Moines history? Check out the city’s iconic Asian gardens, or book a night at the historic Surety Hotel, built in 1913.

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Old West Mexican Restaurant, 4138 Fleur Dr #2324, Des Moines, IA 50321, USA