El Aguila Real Mexican Restaurant

4.2 ( 524 reviews )
$10–20
4351 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310, United States
El Aguila Real Mexican Restaurant, located at 4351 Merle Hay Rd in Des Moines, Iowa, has quickly established itself as a beloved local gem. Patrons sing its praises for both the vibrant atmosphere and authentic, flavorful dishes that celebrate Mexican cuisine. Customers rave about the generous portions and outstanding value, consistently noting that they leave satisfied without breaking the bank. The restaurant's hot salsa is frequently highlighted as a standout, complementing dishes that are described as "bountiful" and infused with rich Mexican flavors. Diners appreciate the swift and friendly service, with many longtime visitors coming back for the comforting familiarity of favorite dishes and familiar faces behind the counter. The extensive vegetarian menu also receives acclaim, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to catering to diverse dietary preferences. One review emphasizes the delightful blend of flavors in the carnitas salsa verde, which is hailed as "divine." Additionally, the restaurant's colorful decor adds to the overall dining experience, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. With a strong sense of community and dedication to quality, El Aguila Real serves up a delicious escape into authentic Mexican culture. It's no wonder locals recommend making this eatery your go-to destination for satisfying, delicious meals.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Service options
    • Offers kerbside pickup
    • Has no-contact delivery
    • Offers delivery
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves food
    • Serves small plates
    • Serves vegetarian dishes
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs available
    • Has kids' menu

Reviews For El Aguila Real Mexican Restaurant

Brodie
May 28,2025
This has been one of my favorite restaurants in Des Moines since they were at their previous location. I am so glad that they were able to reopen after the flood! The food is excellent today as it always has been. They have tasty hot salsa and all of their dishes are flavorful and bountiful. You get a lot of food for the price and the food that you get is really good. Highly recommend!
Doug Sullivan
May 11,2025
This comfortable local restaurant is a place we eat at a couple of times per month. It always has quick, friendly service and delicious food. It must treat its employees well because the same people have been serving us for years. The prices are reasonable as well.
Lee I
Apr 13,2025
Service was great, and food was tasty! We all ordered off of the lunch menu, portions were great without being huge for a fair price. They did mess up and order, but corrected it without a fuss. There is a pretty decent sized vegetarian menu, and it wasn’t hard to make a dish vegan. The restaurant was cute, and it was clean as well. We’ll definitely be back!
Allen Smith
Mar 30,2025
For those who have read my reviews previously you know I love Mexican food. Had not eaten here before today, boy did I miss out. By far the best salsa and chips of all those visited previously. The carnitas salsa verde were divine. Succulent and tender with subtle heat it doesn't get any better. Top it off with actual authentic corn tortillas and superb rice and beans. This will be my go to from now on.
Nathaniel V Durell
Mar 27,2025
I really enjoyed the restaurants design. They had really colorful artwork and it was pleasing to the eyes. The food came out very quickly and I got a lot for 15. Two whole plates worth. I ordered one of the big combinations and it was great.
Katie Luksetich
Mar 21,2025
Wow, best Mexican I’ve had in a while! Everything was a better version of the Mexican restaurant regulars. Incredible enchiladas, filling was well flavored. Poblano was a style I haven’t had but HAD to finish, best on the plate. Very friendly, attentive host and server. It was a random stop but will be back, obviously recommended!!
Erika J. Worley
Mar 7,2025
This is my favorite Mexican place where I take all my dates, friends, and family at some point. Generally, basic Mexican food at a good price is similar across the board, so I will not dwell on the yummy food. Instead I will say that the location is deceiving (kind of the basement of a strip mall thing near the Douglas/Beaver intersection). Once you step inside, you really have a fun place to be. The bar is very nice and a little separate from the dining room, as is the party room. Clearly the space used to have a Chinese restaurant in it since the ceiling still has an "oriental" looking facade. The restaurant has made up for this by having brightly colored booth seats and chairs at the tables. The menu is really big, but I still like it. The one downside might be that the servers have usually been pretty in and out, not a lot of fuss, but the owner (I think) is so friendly that it doesn't even matter. And it gives everyone space to enjoy their meal, which usually comes out fast. No one I bring there is ever disappointed.
Ted Brightman
Feb 28,2025
Nice atmosphere and they got the glass pepsi imported from Mexico.. very good service and food. Carnitas in salsa verde

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