Tucked away on Blairs Ferry Road in northeast Cedar Rapids, Mextizo, a modern Mexican fusion spot transforms traditional recipes from Mexico City and Guadalajara into something extraordinary.
The restaurant creates an immersive dining experience that feels like stepping into an authentic Mexican courtyard 🌺, where owners’ passion for their homeland cuisine shines through every carefully crafted dish.
How Mextizo won local’s hearts
Mextizo captured Cedar Rapids’ attention through the perfect blend of authentic Mexican heritage and innovative presentation.
Owners Ozzy Aguirre and Ariel Barrios, both from central Mexico, brought their combined restaurant expertise from successful ventures like Tequilero in Vinton and Cafe Tacuba to create something special.
The duo understood that Cedar Rapids already had plenty of Mexican restaurants, so they focused on exceptional service and unique menu items that reflected their Mexico City and Guadalajara roots.
The restaurant quickly won over locals with its stunning interior atmosphere featuring retrofitted trees, wicker lighting, and vibrant murals of Frida Kahlo that transport guests to a Mexican patio.
But beyond the Instagram-worthy décor, it was the authentic street food fusion and handmade corn tortillas that truly set Mextizo apart.
Head chef Charlie leads the kitchen alongside Oswaldo, pouring passion into every dish using only the freshest ingredients.
The combination of warm hospitality, exceptional margaritas, and dishes that taste like home cooking from central Mexico created an instant following among discerning Cedar Rapids diners.
Food Highlights
- Street Quesadillas: Handmade corn tortillas filled with various meats and fried to perfection – a preparation method that converts even corn tortilla skeptics with its amazing flavor and generous portions
- Quesabirria Tacos: Corn tortillas filled with rich birria beef and cheese, served with the traditional consommé for dipping – described as “delicious” by multiple reviewers
- Enchiladas Mixtas: Four different types of chicken enchiladas featuring various sauces including an adobe-colored sauce reminiscent of mole with savory cinnamon notes – authentic flavors comparable to central Mexico
- Chimi Gorda: A substantial chimichanga that customers return for repeatedly, praised for its satisfying size and flavors
- Elote: Mexican street corn served off the cob with spicy seasonings – noted as “beyond excellent” despite being quite spicy, with authentic corn silk still present
Atmosphere
The restaurant creates a lush, garden-like environment that feels like entering a Mexican grandmother’s patio 🌿.
Artificial flowers and ceiling greenery are warmly lit by wicker fixtures, while oversized booths easily accommodate large groups.
The walls showcase beautiful murals of Frida Kahlo alongside graffiti-style Mexican artwork that adds vibrancy to the space.
Servers wear fun in-house t-shirts with clever sayings about tacos and margaritas, always greeting guests with genuine smiles.
The festive music and lively energy create a welcoming atmosphere perfect for celebrations or casual dining, making every visit feel like a special occasion 🎉.
Bottom Line
Visit Mextizo for authentic Mexico City street food, phenomenal handmade corn tortillas, exceptional service with knowledgeable staff, stunning Instagram-worthy décor, and the best-balanced margaritas in Cedar Rapids that perfectly complement their innovative Mexican fusion menu.
Address: 1140 Blairs Ferry Rd NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
📞 (319) 200-3767
🕔 Mon-Thu 11 AM–10 PM, Fri-Sat 11 AM–11 PM, Sun 11 AM–9 PM