Red Iguana
Business Information
RestaurantsDiscover
performance
| MONDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 10:00PM |
| TUESDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 10:00PM |
| WEDNESDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 10:00PM |
| THURSDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 10:00PM |
| FRIDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 10:00PM |
| SATURDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 10:00PM |
| SUNDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 10:00PM |
Message from the Business
At The Red Iguana in Salt Lake City, they specializes in traditional Spanish Mexican, and pre-Hispanic cuisine. Serving up authentic mole sauces which were found on the table of ancient Aztec Emperors, this Mexican restaurant has something for everyone to enjoy.
Established since 1985, The Red Iguana is renowned locally and worldwide for its rich food and authentic atmosphere. The menu offers pescado a la veracruzana (fresh fish of the day), cochinta pibil (shredded roast pork loin basted with achiote lending a smoky delicious piquancy, served with black beans, rice and tortillas) and much more. They use unique yet traditional Mexican recipes passed down over the generations.
With daily specials, catering services and a fun and friendly atmosphere, The Red Iguana is the perfect place to dine with friends and family. Come visit The Red Iguana in Salt Lake City today.
provided by
CitySearch
Customer Reviews (72 reviews)
GerriClass88
on Citysearch Oct 19, 2009oh this place is good, very good. sure there may be a waiting line, but it's because the food is excellent. this is one of the best places serving food in slc. it does though of course have it's imperfections mainly... (more)
dalishas
on Citysearch Sep 20, 2009The wait is much too long for a restaurant that serves bad food. I don't know what all the hype has been about but the food is NOT good. There was so much cinnamon cooked into EVERYTHING that I couldn't take more than a... (more)
hellokitty666
on Citysearch Sep 11, 2009Red Iguana 736 W North Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84116 Headline For the love of god, can RI get a decent place for people to wait or WTF? It's complete torture to wait for a table at RI; usually some beggar comes up and... (more)
pukasue
on Citysearch Jun 25, 2009I use to always order take out from this place and the Mole and sala are great but I stopped going here as everytime I got my food to go I would get back to work and my food was cold and many time just wrong.... (more)
peterbigglesworth
on Citysearch Jun 23, 2009Red Iguana is the Orrin Hatch of Mexican Restaurants. Orrin Hatch took office about the same time Red Iguana opened. They both took Utah by storm and established their presence as a major player in their respective... (more)
jefe121
on Citysearch Jun 16, 2009This is the best mexican restaurant in Utah. Nothing else comes close. I order something different each time, and it's always good. You can't go wrong here. (more)
monstermolly
on Citysearch Mar 01, 2009I love this place. Every time my in-laws come to town they take my husband and I here. It has authentic Mexican food and a cool (but crowded) atmosphere. The food is always great! If you don?t like waiting outside in... (more)
SoCalBoyLivinginUtah
on Citysearch Feb 12, 2009This has to be one of the few places in the entire state of Utah that KNOWS what authentic Mexican food is, should taste like, and how to cook it up right. I have eaten here twice now since I've lived in Utah, and it's as... (more)
katasurfer
on Citysearch Dec 25, 2008We have been here often, many of our friends love this place, but one thing.... we do not understand why everyone goes crazy about the food.... we feel it is quite average... but fun place to go, like the family and the... (more)
knittergrrl
on Citysearch Dec 22, 2008We love the Red Iguana. Have been many times and have never been disappointed. Everything on the menu that we have tried has been great. The service is always quick and thorough. Did I mention the food is fantastic? It... (more)
Kelli_76
on Citysearch Oct 21, 2008Red Iguana is the best Mexican food I have ever had. It's always my first choice when going out to eat. How anyone could poorly rate this place is beyond me. Try the Cochinita pibil- slow-roasted pork served with... (more)
pismo7
on Citysearch Aug 20, 2008I go to the Red Iguana all the time.... I think I'm addicted. I've tried several things on the menu but I always come back to the Puntas de filete a la Nortena. Long name, but so delicious! The steak is always tender and... (more)
lewisss
on Citysearch Jun 19, 2008I visit Austin frequently on business and Red Iguana is the only Tex Mex in Utah that comes close to the food I eat while I'm there. You gotta try the moles. (more)
KaliKakes
on Citysearch Jun 13, 2008I have been to the Red Iguana twice now...still I'm not sold on the "killer mexican", but I'm not going to say they are absolutely awful. They are constantly busy, so the wait can be a problem, however if you are up for a... (more)
marichey
on Citysearch Nov 30, 2007I intentionally wait to eat mexican cuisine until I can go here. This seating is a little tight, but I could care less. It's the best in Utah. Try it, try everything it's all wonderful. I go here at least twice a month and I... (more)
gotbeautyqueen
on Citysearch Nov 13, 2007Mole! Mole! Mole! enough said. Well, ok....not enough said.....for a reason I cannot explain, RI has THE best chips and salsa in the whole wide world! (more)
saltlake
on Citysearch Nov 01, 2007The other reviews are right, they have great food. However, after eating dinner all of us got sick. I made a friendly phone call to give the owner a heads up that something wasn't right with their food. I thought that... (more)
betsymaynard
on Citysearch Oct 24, 2007When we have friends from out of state visit, we take them to the Red Iguana. When they return, they always want go back. Some tell us they only reason they want to come to SLC is to eat at the Red Iguana. This place has the... (more)
bizztang1980
on Citysearch Jul 15, 2007I love this place! I live in Phoenix, however I have family in SLC that I visit a few times a year. Everyone knows that when we go to SLC The Red Iguana has to be one of the places we go to eat. The Cochinita Pibil is jaw... (more)
jacquesbonhomme
on Citysearch Jul 02, 2007The wait is a challenge so I arrive a little early or a little late to avoid peak times. Allow me to say: I LOVE MOLES!!! And the Red Iguana is the only restaurant I have visited in the USA that makes so many Moles Sauces... (more)
Citysearch User
on Citysearch Apr 21, 2007Try to go as early as youcan because it does fill up fast. But thefood is great adn the service is too. I would send everyone who likes mexican food here because the smell is great and the food is better.... (more)
niccoslc
on Citysearch Aug 15, 2006The food is well worth the wait. You know it is good when you see the lines on the sidewalk outside. The mole negro is superb. Authentic. (more)
jilliebean2002
on Citysearch Jul 18, 2006I have not been to the Red Iguana in years and I miss it. On business trips to SLC I would always go there for lunch. If you are a traveller to SLC, don't miss it. (more)
trinsicx
on Citysearch Jul 04, 2006Red Iguana has the best Mole I've ever tasted. It does get a bit crowded, and the staff sometimes has difficulty meeting the demand. Food has always been fantastic, and they serve actual beer without any hassle. I... (more)
Heather S.
on Judys Book Mar 17, 2006A restaurant with a long line extending from inside to outside on the sidewalk can only mean one thing--THE FOOD IS AWESOME! Surprisingly enough, every time I've gone to the Red Iguana, I haven't had to wait more than... (more)
Citysearch User
on Citysearch Jan 29, 2006I've driven past the Red Iguana many times and always noticed a huge line of people lined up outside of the restaurant and the parking lot PACKED. I had heard from friends that it was the best Mexican food you could get in... (more)
kaleighsgramma
on Citysearch Dec 31, 2005We have a lot of family from out of State that come to visit us in Utah. First stop after the airport is always the Red Iguana. We live in Utah County, but travel North often for the delicious food they have to offer.... (more)
tuffship
on Citysearch Dec 29, 2005Read many reviews and decieded to try the Red Iguana while on vacation. Arrived early on a tuesday, It was already getting crowded. Sat right down and great service. Just as described, small and busy. Mole is good and... (more)
doctor_stu
on Citysearch Nov 30, 2005Had a visitor from Los Angeles last week and went here for dinner and then to the lighting at Temple Square and downtown. Our guest was blown away by the food. We LOVE this place!! The hardest ting is deciding what to eat.... (more)
ithinkfoodisgreat
on Citysearch Oct 16, 2005It astounds me that anyone would feel justified in rating this restaurant poorly. The food is AMAZING!! First of all, if you would ever say that Mexican food is "too spicy," perhaps you should consider whether or not... (more)
Citysearch User
on Citysearch Oct 04, 2005The Red Iguana has excellent food at an excellent price. The staff is friendly and fun. The food showed up before the expected wait time so that was another bonus. I would recommend this restraunt to anyone that is... (more)
woodly05
on Citysearch Sep 22, 2005My wife and I moved here in Feb and we have been hooked on this place since we moved here. The best mexican food we have both ever had (we are very picky) We now eat here at least twice a week. Never had a bad plate!! GREAT... (more)
darializa
on Citysearch Sep 20, 2005I've been to the Red Iguana several times and I've been tremendously impressed with their food every time! Their moles are fabulous, and they will let you sample the different flavors so that you can make a good choice... (more)
Paul M.
on Judys Book Aug 19, 2005The Red Iguana is an institution in Salt Lake City. They open at 11:30 for lunch. Better be there before that, though. The line starts to form early.The food is amazing. Most of the menu reflects the food that is local to... (more)
James B.
on Judys Book Aug 07, 2005Right on North Temple there sets this small hole in the wall restaurant called The Red Iguana. Not the most appetizing name, but step in side. Their STRONG maragrias are to die for! Can't have just one, no way! I've had... (more)
duke4life
on Citysearch Aug 02, 2005The Red Iguana is all about the food. If you want to find out what rich, flavorful Mexican food tastes like, go to the Red Iguana. The atmosphere is chill, I call it "upper-class" hole-in-the-wall. The service is... (more)
Citysearch User
on Citysearch Jun 03, 2005By far and away the best Mexican you can find in Utah, and the field is pretty formidable these days. But if you're looking for authentic in the way of seafood dishes and incredible mole sauces then you need to look no... (more)
lachacz
on Citysearch May 01, 2005the place is very crowded during lunch and the tables are close together. You will feel like you are eating with people you don't know. The food is great. Best chicke tacos I have had although I asked for flour not crispy... (more)
ucla
on Citysearch Mar 23, 2005The darker the Mole sauce the better it is. Go for the Moles. Why would you order anything else? UPDATE: With the passing of Ramone the quality has changed, and not for the better. However, the two best dishes are still... (more)
priscete
on Citysearch Jan 07, 2005I was there last December and the food was yuck! I ordered "Bife acebollado" and the steak was as hard as a rock, with plenty fat, and the rice and beans were cold! Horrible experience! Plus the restaurant is so small... (more)
mickeyhuerta
on Citysearch Jun 13, 2004There are few restaurants outsside of Oaxaca, Mexico that daily serve a list of Moles... The Red Iguana consistantly offers seven! If a blend of 24 plus ingredients in a single suace intrigues, you have found your... (more)
attorres34
on Citysearch May 22, 2004I JUST HAVE TO TELL EVERYONE OUT THERE THAT WHENEVER I GO TO THE RED IGUANA IT IS SUPERB I LOVE IT. AND THIS IS COMING FROM SOMEONE WHO KNOWS AND LOVES MEXICAN FOOD. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PLACE TO EVERYONE I KNOW, BECAUSE... (more)
Contributor
on Citysearch May 10, 2004<b>The Scene</b><br>Waiters weave between the tables, while the buzz of happy diners and rock music adds to the clatter from the kitchen. Folks come here to feast rather than to seal a business deal. It's also a... (more)
parkcityed13
on Citysearch Jun 14, 2003I've been dining at Red Iquana for many years, but the last few times was a waste of money. How can you serve beans and rice that are cold but dry on the edge? Maybe sitting on the plate too long. Sorry you miss the mark. I'll... (more)
AlTahoe
on Citysearch Jun 08, 2003Hands down the best mexican in the entire west, Nothing comes close! Good ambiance and wonderful menu items make this a must when in Salt Lake. (more)
dan15p
on Citysearch May 04, 2003Wow! I stayed in Salt Lake City in the winter of 2002 to particpate in the Olympic Games. My first Sunday there, I stumbled upon the Blue Iguana and was taken away by the taste of the food and the value that came with it. To... (more)
glojenk
on Citysearch Jan 31, 2003Was visiting slc and wanted great mexican food. Went to Red Iguana. The worst I have ever had. i lived in Ca. for 25 years and traveled and eaten much mexican food. This was by far the worst. Hamburger meat and too damned... (more)
drorge
on Citysearch Jan 24, 2003Outstanding food, large portions, nice and simple atmosphere, great service. This is the best restaurant in SLC, I believe. (more)
stewdogg42
on Citysearch Jan 23, 2003I really enjoyed the authenticity of my meal. It didn't taste like anything you could get from Dos Serrano's. Give this place a try if you're looking for authentic tasting Mexican food!... (more)
ihateslc
on Citysearch Jan 20, 2003I only have one of the moles when I go here so I probably shouldn't say anything. But the moles are great (I don't like the black mole but that is personal. The decor is appropriate. The service is efficient. They... (more)
blackdove
on Citysearch Jan 13, 2003If you like authentic Mexican food you HAVE to visit the Red Iguana. I highly recommend their Carne Asada Tacos and their Chili Verde. I get cravings for these weekly. The prices are very reasonable. $6 for 2 good sized... (more)
trevtnyc
on Citysearch Jan 10, 2003I moved from SLC to NYC in 1993, and I tell you I still dream about the black bean soup with chorizo and white cheese (served with chips for dipping), the entomatodas and mole, and the killer nachos! The portions are huge... (more)
utahcritic
on Citysearch Jan 09, 2003A Utah institution and for good reason. It only gets better. The Mole is fantastic and the kitschy decorations are great. (more)
suisunsue
on Citysearch Jan 04, 2003I love the mole! I have tried all of them at The Red Iguana, and they are all delicious! (more)
mhaus7
on Citysearch Jan 01, 2003I have heard such great reviews I had to try it but over the years and many trys I have yet to understand what is so great about this restaurant. The food is bland and I always get the impression that it is made by people that... (more)
bap68
on Citysearch Nov 30, 2002After the closure of Cordova's, the Red Iguana has by far the tastiest food for Mexican lovers. (more)
joshxsmith
on Citysearch Nov 14, 2002If you like mexican food, this is your place. Everything down to the refried beans and guacamole were excellent. (more)
Leticia__domin
on Citysearch Nov 06, 2002THis restaurant is one of the best for Salt Lake. This may not be a big place, but has good food fast friendly service.. (more)
rquist
on Citysearch Oct 03, 2002Red Iguana is the only place in town to get a decent mole and the mole negro is to die for. Always packed and a great place for locals and out of towners. (more)
korilynn
on Citysearch Sep 25, 2002We went here for lunch, and the place was packed!! The food was very tasty with large portion sizes. The prices are very reasonable. The service was fast!!!!! It only took 5 minutes to get our food after we ordered. The... (more)
exporter
on Citysearch Sep 02, 2002wonderfully spicy, priced well, packaged to go for our busy schedule (more)
zutron
on Citysearch Aug 29, 2002This is the restaurant I always take out of town friends to. Once they've been, this is the one must eat place on their list when they come back. Great place! (more)
karen84119
on Citysearch Aug 19, 2002Of all the food places in Utah, this is the best ever. Now that I live in Indiana, if I could travel there everynight for dinner I would.... (more)
Flying_J
on Citysearch Aug 18, 2002i have been frequenting the Red Iguana ever since it was recommended to me by Dave Immergluck of the Counting Crows. The food is the best Mexican i have found in this state - and it gives great competition to my favorite... (more)
driggsfam
on Citysearch Aug 08, 2002The moles are outstanding, the killer nachos you can't pass up and they have the best salsa in the state. (more)
Imperial
on Citysearch Aug 01, 2002The Red Iguana is so good. I've never been disappointed there. It's a little out of the way from most neighborhoods, but it's worth the trip. It's got fun decor, friendly staff, and excellent mole. It's actually... (more)
kimbo75
on Citysearch Jul 31, 2002Red iguana doesn't have what the other Mexican Restaurants do--over-commercialization of the food and atmosphere. The food at Iguana is authentic and delicious, and has a different kick than most chain and other... (more)
lstapler
on Citysearch Jul 28, 2002I don't like Mexican food as much as my husband, but I do know that when we go to Red Iguana, I can be certain I will enjoy what ever I order there. (more)
2spacecadets
on Citysearch Jul 26, 2002I'm not sure why this restaurant wins any "best of." Every time I've been, it's been disappointing... mediocre food, crowded, and hated the dead lizard staring at me. 3 strikes and you're out-- I won't be going back.... (more)
jpg1020
on Citysearch Jul 08, 2002The food here is sooooo good. The food comes out so fast too. The salsa is good, but boy is it hot. I've had a couple bad servers but thats the only thing. You also get seated real quick here, not a long wait at all, and there... (more)
robyngalbos_citysearch
on Citysearch May 20, 2002I keep searching, but so far I have not found Mexican cuisine that rivals that at Red Iguana. Moles are amazing--I'm never disappointed. Chile Colorado is very tasty, too. It's no wonder it's so crowded at... (more)