Located in the heart of Cedar Rapids, Mextizo offers a vibrant culinary experience that beautifully blends the flavors of Mexican and Latin American cuisine. Known for its warm ambiance and dedication to fresh ingredients, Mextizo has quickly become a favorite dining spot for locals and visitors alike.
The menu reflects a rich heritage with an innovative twist, inviting guests to explore a variety of traditional dishes alongside creative new flavors. Whether you’re craving savory tacos, hearty bowls, or refreshing beverages, the Mextizo Cedar Rapids menu presents an array of options that cater to diverse palates and dietary preferences.
What sets Mextizo apart is its commitment to authenticity combined with a modern touch. The chefs use carefully sourced ingredients to ensure every bite delivers a memorable taste experience.
The menu is designed to be approachable yet exciting, featuring dishes that range from comforting classics to bold, inventive plates. This balance makes Mextizo the perfect place for casual dining, family gatherings, or an evening out with friends.
Exploring the menu reveals a thoughtfully curated selection where every dish tells a story.
Beyond just the food, Mextizo’s menu emphasizes a cultural journey, highlighting the rich culinary traditions of Mexico and Latin America. The vibrant presentation and well-paired flavors show a passion for quality and creativity.
Whether you are a fan of spicy salsas or prefer more subtle, herb-infused dishes, Mextizo’s offerings are designed to please and surprise. The dining experience here is not just about eating; it’s about savoring the rich tapestry of flavors that define this unique and welcoming establishment.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizers at Mextizo Cedar Rapids are designed to awaken the senses and set the tone for the meal ahead. These small plates offer a variety of textures and flavors, from crispy to creamy, spicy to mild.
Each starter is crafted to showcase the fresh ingredients and bold spices that characterize the menu.
Popular choices include the classic guacamole made fresh at the table, bringing a creamy, zesty start to your dining experience. The Queso Fundido, melted cheese combined with chorizo or mushrooms, offers a rich, indulgent flavor perfect for sharing.
For a lighter option, the Ceviche features fresh fish marinated in citrus and herbs, providing a refreshing and tangy bite.
Many appetizers come with house-made salsas and chips, emphasizing the importance of quality accompaniments. These starters not only complement the main dishes but also stand on their own as flavorful introductions to the meal.
- Guacamole – Freshly made with ripe avocados, lime, and cilantro
- Queso Fundido – Melted cheese with chorizo or mushrooms
- Ceviche – Marinated fish with citrus and fresh herbs
- Elote – Grilled Mexican street corn with cotija cheese and spices
“The appetizers at Mextizo are a perfect balance of tradition and innovation, setting a flavorful foundation for every meal.” – Local Food Critic
Tacos and Traditional Plates
Mextizo’s tacos and traditional plates are the heart of the menu, offering an authentic taste of Mexican street food culture with a modern flair. These dishes are carefully prepared with a focus on bold, balanced flavors and high-quality ingredients.
The tacos are served on soft corn tortillas, filled with a variety of proteins such as slow-cooked carnitas, grilled steak, or marinated chicken. For vegetarians, options like roasted poblano peppers and mushrooms provide equally satisfying choices.
Each taco is garnished with fresh cilantro, onions, and house-made salsas that range from mild to fiery.
Traditional plates include classics like enchiladas, tamales, and chiles rellenos, each with a unique recipe that highlights regional Mexican influences. These dishes are perfect for those seeking a more substantial meal while still enjoying the vibrant flavors of Mexico.
Taco Varieties
- Carnitas – Slow-roasted pork with a crispy finish
- Carne Asada – Grilled steak with a smoky char
- Pollo Adobado – Chicken marinated in adobo spices
- Vegetarian – Roasted poblano, mushrooms, and queso fresco
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Spice Level |
| Carnitas Tacos | Pork, onion, cilantro, salsa verde | Medium |
| Carne Asada Tacos | Beef, lime, onions, salsa roja | Medium |
| Enchiladas Verdes | Chicken, green sauce, cheese | Mild |
| Chiles Rellenos | Poblano peppers, cheese, tomato sauce | Mild |
Signature Bowls and Salads
Mextizo’s menu also features a selection of signature bowls and salads that emphasize fresh, bold flavors with a healthy twist. These dishes combine a variety of ingredients to create balanced meals that are both satisfying and nutritious.
The bowls typically start with a base of rice or greens, layered with seasoned proteins, beans, fresh vegetables, and topped with vibrant salsas or creamy dressings. These options are perfect for those looking for a fulfilling lunch or dinner without feeling overly heavy.
Salads incorporate traditional Mexican ingredients such as black beans, corn, avocado, and queso fresco, often paired with zesty lime dressings or smoky chipotle vinaigrettes. The combination of textures and flavors ensures each salad is anything but ordinary.
- Grilled Chicken Bowl – Rice, beans, grilled chicken, avocado, salsa
- Vegetarian Quinoa Bowl – Quinoa, roasted vegetables, black beans, lime dressing
- Chipotle Shrimp Salad – Mixed greens, chipotle shrimp, corn, cotija cheese
- Caesar Salad with a Twist – Romaine, cotija cheese, tortilla strips, creamy dressing
“The signature bowls at Mextizo are a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, perfect for a wholesome meal.”
Sides and Extras
The sides and extras at Mextizo provide a wonderful opportunity to complement your meal with classic accompaniments or to add extra layers of flavor. These thoughtfully prepared dishes enhance the main plates and offer guests a chance to customize their dining experience.
Favorites include traditional Mexican rice, refried beans, and fresh house-made tortillas. Each side is crafted with care, emphasizing authentic flavors and quality preparation methods.
The sides also feature unique offerings such as roasted street corn and spicy pickled vegetables, which add exciting contrasts to the meal.
Extras like extra guacamole, cheese, or additional salsa allow diners to tailor their dishes to their liking, ensuring every visit to Mextizo can be a personalized culinary adventure.
- Mexican Rice – Fluffy and seasoned with tomato and garlic
- Refried Beans – Creamy and flavorful, perfect for dipping
- Grilled Street Corn – Topped with cotija cheese and chili powder
- House-made Tortillas – Freshly prepared daily
| Side | Description | Best Paired With |
| Mexican Rice | Lightly spiced, tomato-based rice | Enchiladas, Bowls |
| Refried Beans | Creamy mashed pinto beans | Tacos, Burritos |
| Grilled Street Corn | Charred corn with cheese and chili powder | Tacos, Starters |
| Pickled Vegetables | Spicy, tangy mix of fresh vegetables | Tacos, Bowls |
Desserts
The dessert menu at Mextizo offers a sweet finish that pays homage to traditional Mexican treats with an elegant twist. Each dessert is made in-house, using fresh ingredients and classic recipes that delight the palate.
Popular selections include Churros dusted with cinnamon sugar, served alongside a rich chocolate dipping sauce. Flan, a creamy caramel custard, offers a smooth texture and deep flavor that contrasts beautifully with the meal’s spices.
For something lighter, the Mexican fruit sorbet highlights tropical fruits in a refreshing and tangy way.
These desserts provide a satisfying conclusion to your meal and reflect the same commitment to quality and flavor found throughout the menu.
- Churros – Crispy fried dough with cinnamon sugar
- Flan – Creamy caramel custard
- Mexican Fruit Sorbet – Made with seasonal tropical fruits
- Chocolate Tres Leches Cake – Moist cake with chocolate and cream
“Dessert at Mextizo is not just an afterthought; it’s a celebration of sweet traditions and flavors.” – Dessert Enthusiast
Beverages and Cocktails
Mextizo’s beverage menu complements the food perfectly with a selection of traditional Mexican drinks and creative cocktails. Whether you prefer something refreshing and non-alcoholic or a carefully crafted cocktail, Mextizo offers options that enhance the dining experience.
Non-alcoholic beverages include aguas frescas made from fresh fruits, hibiscus, and tamarind. These drinks are naturally sweet and refreshing, balancing the bold flavors of the food.
For those seeking a spirited beverage, the cocktail menu features classics like Margaritas and Palomas alongside unique house specials.
Each cocktail is thoughtfully mixed using fresh ingredients and premium spirits, emphasizing balance and flavor. The bar team also offers recommendations to pair drinks with specific dishes, adding a personalized touch to your meal.
- Classic Margarita – Tequila, lime, and triple sec
- Paloma – Tequila, grapefruit soda, lime
- Aguas Frescas – Hibiscus, tamarind, or watermelon
- Michelada – Beer cocktail with lime and spices
| Beverage | Ingredients | Suggested Food Pairing |
| Classic Margarita | Tequila, lime, triple sec | Tacos, Enchiladas |
| Paloma | Tequila, grapefruit soda, lime | Grilled Meats, Bowls |
| Hibiscus Agua Fresca | Hibiscus, sugar, water | Appetizers, Salads |
| Michelada | Beer, lime, hot sauce | Spicy Dishes, Tacos |
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Mextizo Cedar Rapids takes pride in accommodating diverse dietary needs, offering a robust selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes that do not compromise on flavor or creativity. These options highlight fresh produce, legumes, and plant-based proteins, prepared with the same attention to authenticity and boldness as the rest of the menu.
Vegetarian dishes often feature cheese, beans, roasted vegetables, and traditional Mexican staples like nopales (cactus). Vegan selections are crafted to use no animal products while still delivering rich, satisfying tastes through clever seasoning and texture combinations.
These options make Mextizo a welcoming destination for all diners, ensuring everyone can enjoy a flavorful meal regardless of dietary restrictions.
- Vegan Tacos – Roasted vegetables, black beans, avocado
- Vegetarian Enchiladas – Filled with cheese, peppers, and spinach
- Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl – Fresh vegetables and lime dressing
- Vegan Tamales – Made with masa and vegetable fillings
“Mextizo proves that plant-based dining can be both authentic and adventurous.” – Vegan Food Blogger
Conclusion
The Mextizo Cedar Rapids menu is a thoughtfully crafted celebration of Mexican and Latin American culinary traditions, infused with modern creativity and a passion for fresh, quality ingredients. Each section of the menu offers something unique, whether it’s the vibrant appetizers, the hearty traditional plates, or the refreshing bowls and salads.
The sides and extras allow for personalization, while the desserts and beverages provide a sweet and satisfying conclusion to every meal.
Mextizo’s dedication to accommodating all guests is evident through its vegetarian and vegan options, as well as its carefully designed cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. This commitment to diversity and flavor ensures that every dining experience is memorable and enjoyable.
The menu reflects not only the rich cultural heritage of the cuisine but also a desire to innovate and delight.
For those seeking an authentic yet fresh taste of Mexico and Latin America in Cedar Rapids, Mextizo offers an inviting atmosphere paired with a menu full of passion, creativity, and bold flavors. Whether familiar with the cuisine or exploring it for the first time, this restaurant provides a culinary journey that is both satisfying and inspiring.
