Unearth The Voyage
Craving bold flavors that locals swear by and visitors plan trips around? The Red Iguana in Salt Lake City delivers plate after plate of unforgettable Mexican dishes, with moles that win hearts at first bite. You get a lively vibe, friendly service, and prices that feel like a steal for the quality. Come hungry, leave thrilled, and start plotting your next visit before you even walk out.
1. Signature Mole Experience
The Red Iguana is famous for mole, and you can taste why the moment a spoon hits the plate. Each sauce has layers of flavor that build slowly, from toasted chiles to chocolate and warm spices. You can sample several styles to find your favorite without guessing.
Ask for the mole sampler and take your time with each bite. You will pick up smoky notes, nutty depth, and a touch of sweetness that balances heat. It is the best way to understand why this place has a loyal following.
Pair your chosen mole with tender turkey or pork for a classic combo. Staff will guide you if you feel overwhelmed by options. By the end, you will have a go-to order and zero regrets.
2. Mole Negro
Mole Negro at The Red Iguana is deep, glossy, and captivating. The sauce has a bittersweet edge from dark chiles and chocolate, grounded by toasted seeds and spices. Served over juicy turkey, it turns a simple plate into a celebration.
The texture is velvety and clings to each bite, slow-cooked to coax out complex aromas. You will notice a hint of smoke, then raisin-like sweetness, then a warm finish. It is rich enough to share, yet you might keep it all to yourself.
Add rice and beans to balance the intensity and scoop up every drop. Corn tortillas help pace the richness and keep things cozy. If you try one mole, this classic sets the bar.
3. Mole Amarillo
Mole Amarillo brings a sunny, chile-forward brightness that feels uplifting from the first forkful. The sauce leans savory with gentle heat and a silky body. It is less sweet than darker moles, so flavors of herbs and chiles lead the way.
Over pork or chicken, the sauce shines without overwhelming. You will get clean, focused notes that taste fresh and comforting at the same time. The plate looks beautiful, making it easy to recommend for first-timers.
Ask for extra tortillas to swipe the last streaks from the plate. A squeeze of lime wakes up the sauce even more. If you like bold but balanced, this one belongs on your shortlist.
4. Mole Poblano
Here is the mole many people picture when they think of Mexico. Mole Poblano at The Red Iguana leans gently sweet with chocolate and dried fruit, anchored by toasted sesame. The sauce glazes tender chicken and turns every bite into comfort food.
The sweetness never takes over, thanks to smart heat and spice. You will taste cinnamon, clove, and nutty layers that linger pleasantly. It is a crowd-pleaser and a safe bet for sharing.
Order a margarita or horchata to complement the spice. The contrast keeps your palate fresh and ready for the next bite. You will clean the plate without trying.
5. Mole Coloradito
Mole Coloradito sits between dark and bright, delivering a gently sweet, chile-forward profile. It works beautifully on enchiladas, letting tortillas soak up the sauce and turn buttery. The Red Iguana nails the texture so it coats without drowning.
Expect notes of toasted chiles, a touch of fruit, and a mellow finish. You can taste the care that goes into the simmer. It is satisfying without feeling heavy, ideal for lunch or a light dinner.
Ask for onions and crema if you like extra richness. The toppings add contrast and a little tang. This dish is a quiet star that rewards slow bites.
6. Mole Verde
Mole Verde brings fresh energy with tomatillos, herbs, and pumpkin seeds. At The Red Iguana, it lands bright and slightly nutty, making chicken or pork taste lively. It is a great pick when you want lighter flavors without losing depth.
The green hue signals a different mood from the dark sauces. You will catch cilantro, toasted seeds, and a small kick of heat. Each bite feels clean, and the aromas invite another forkful.
Try it with a side salad or grilled veggies to keep things crisp. Corn tortillas keep the focus on the sauce. You will leave feeling satisfied, not stuffed.
7. Carnitas Plate
The carnitas at The Red Iguana arrive with crispy edges and juicy interiors. You get that slow-cooked richness that makes tacos impossible to stop eating. The seasoning is simple and confident, letting pork shine.
Load up warm tortillas with meat, salsa, and a squeeze of lime. The balance of fat, acid, and heat hits perfectly. It is the kind of plate that disappears faster than planned.
Ask for extra pico or a hotter salsa if you crave more kick. Beans and rice round things out without stealing the show. Carnitas fans will feel right at home.
8. Enchiladas Suizas
Enchiladas Suizas at The Red Iguana feel like a hug on a plate. Creamy tomatillo sauce blankets tender chicken and melts into the tortillas. The tang of the sauce keeps each bite lively, never heavy.
Cheese bubbles across the top and adds a salty lift. It is classic comfort with a fresh twist from the green sauce. You will find yourself chasing the edges for crispy bits.
Pair with rice for texture contrast and a splash of hot sauce for brightness. The portion is generous enough to share. Still, there is a good chance you will not.
9. Carne Asada
When you want steak, the carne asada delivers clean, smoky flavor. The Red Iguana grills it to a juicy finish and serves it with classic fixings. Each slice has a satisfying chew without toughness.
Build your own tacos with pico, beans, and tortillas. A squeeze of lime brightens the char and wakes up the seasoning. It is straightforward in the best way.
Consider adding a side of guacamole for creaminess. The balance of fat and acid makes the plate sing. Steak night just found a new standard.
10. Chimichanga
Few things beat a perfectly fried chimichanga, and this one checks every box. The shell shatters lightly, revealing juicy shredded beef and melty cheese. It is indulgent without going overboard.
Fresh toppings keep the richness in balance. You get crunch, heat, and a cool crema finish in every bite. The Red Iguana nails the textures so nothing feels soggy.
Ask for a side of spicy salsa if you like a kick. This is comfort food that travels well if you are grabbing takeout. Expect happy silence at the table.
11. Gluten Free Friendly Options
If you eat gluten free, The Red Iguana makes it easy. The menu clearly marks options and the staff helps steer you to safe picks. Corn tortillas, grilled meats, and many moles fit seamlessly into your meal.
Cross-check with your server to confirm sauces and sides. You will feel cared for rather than limited. It is refreshing to have real variety without compromise.
Consider starting with chips and salsa, then moving to mole or carne asada. Finish with flan if you want a classic sweet note. You will leave satisfied and relaxed.
12. Salsas and Chips
Warm chips and house salsas set the tone the moment you sit down. Each salsa has personality, from bright tomatillo to deeper roasted chile. It is easy to keep snacking while you wait.
Ask which salsa pairs best with your entree. The staff will point you toward complementary heat levels. It is a small touch that makes the whole meal feel curated.
Save room for the main event by pacing yourself. You can always request a refill if you need more. The simple things done right create the best first impression.
13. Drinks: Horchata and Margaritas
Horchata cools things down with cinnamon and creamy comfort. It pairs beautifully with spicy plates and rich moles at The Red Iguana. If you prefer a cocktail, the classic margarita brings clean citrus bite.
Ask for salt on the rim and lime to keep flavors crisp. You will notice how the drink resets your palate between bites. It turns dinner into a slow, happy rhythm.
Non drinkers have plenty of options, including aguas frescas. Everyone at the table can find a match. The right sip makes the food shine brighter.
14. Ambiance and Service
The vibe at The Red Iguana is lively without feeling chaotic. Colorful decor and a buzzing dining room set a fun tone for dinner. You feel welcomed the second you step inside.
Servers know the menu and guide you toward your perfect mole. They check in at the right moments and keep things moving. It feels like a well run family spot with heart.
Expect a wait at peak times and enjoy it as part of the ritual. The energy builds anticipation for that first bite. Once seated, you will settle in fast.
15. Practical Info: Hours, Location, and Price
You will find Red Iguana at 736 W North Temple St, Salt Lake City. It is open most days from 11 AM to 9 PM, with later hours on Friday and Saturday, and closed on Thursday. Check the website for updates before you go.
Prices run about 10 to 20 dollars, which feels like a deal for the quality. The rating sits high for good reason with thousands of reviews. Parking can be busy, so plan a few extra minutes.
Call (801) 322-1489 or visit rediguana.com for details. The location is easy to reach near downtown. You will be glad you made the trip.
16. Takeout and Wait Strategy
Peak times can mean a wait, but you have options. Put your name in and grab a nearby spot to relax, or order takeout if you are on the go. The crew works fast and keeps orders organized.
Call ahead to check estimated times and daily specials. You will avoid surprises and time your meal right. Takeout holds up well, especially for carnitas and enchiladas.
Ask for extra salsa cups and tortillas to round out your meal at home. Everything reheats easily if needed. You still get that signature flavor without the line.
