When Fong’s Pizza closed their Cedar Rapids doors in November 2022, their absence left a crab rangoon pizza-shaped hole in the New Bohemian district. The building sat empty for a short stint, until Oswaldo Aguirre and Ariel Barrios saw their opportunity to fill that hole with tacos, enchiladas and guacamole flights. Cafe Tacuba was born.
Aguirre and Barrios are no strangers to the restaurant industry in Eastern Iowa. Their other ventures — Porfirio’s Mexican Restaurant and Tequilero Mexican Restaurant in Vinton — receive rave reviews for their vibrant atmospheres, outstanding service, and, most importantly, their food. Cafe Tacuba is no exception, and brings something new to the table: they serve a full breakfast!
Cafe Tacuba’s menu is creative, fresh and the perfect blend of tried-and-true Mexican favorites with new and unique dishes and flavors. Take their chips and guac, for example. Their traditional tortilla chips are crispy and fresh, but it’s their homemade guacamole that enhances this basic Mexican restaurant appetizer. With four different flavors of guacamole, Cafe Tacuba is truly keeping things fresh and fun. And, if you can’t choose just one (I suggest the Guacamole De Mango for the perfect hint of sweetness), order the guacamole flight that features all of them!
The large dinner menu includes classics like Tacos al Pastor, Enchiladas Verdes and Chiles Rellenos, each prepared with a touch that sets them apart from the usual fare. The Tacos al Pastor, for instance, feature marinated pork, served with grilled pineapple, cilantro and onions, delivering the perfect balance of sweet, savory and spicy.
The Enchiladas Verdes are another must-try, with tortillas filled with tender shredded chicken, smothered in a tangy tomatillo sauce, and topped with crema and queso fresco. For those seeking a meal from the sea, the Seafood Enchiladas, stuffed with a generous portion of crab and shrimp, and topped with perfectly ripe avocado, lettuce and sour cream are sure to be a favorite.
In addition to its expansive lunch and dinner options, Cafe Tacuba also boasts a hearty breakfast menu for all palates. Aguirre and Barrios have put together a selection of breakfast dishes that highlight the comforting and robust flavors of Mexican morning fare, while also incorporating hearty American breakfast classics loved by all ages. The Chilaquiles, a traditional Mexican breakfast dish, features crispy fried tortillas smothered in your choice of red or green salsa, with two eggs, topped with onion, cilantro, sour cream and a sprinkle of queso fresco. It’s a perfect way to start the day with a burst of flavor and energy.
Speaking of energy, Cafe Tacuba’s coffee and espresso menu is vast and diverse. From favorites like the brown sugar latte and caramel macchiato, to Mexican-inspired espresso beverages like their Mucha Toxica, spiced cocoa, cinnamon, milk and espresso, they can surely get you caffeinated. They’ll even brew coffee the traditional Mexican way, with cinnamon sticks in a clay pot, if you order the Buenos Dias coffee!
Cafe Tacuba’s interior and overall vibe reflects the vibrant and colorful spirit of their food. Leaning into a bright and organic theme, the restaurant is filled with plants, flowers and bold yet comforting colors. The ceiling installations of fake florals add a touch of whimsy to the space, while the red rose wall in the foyer screams elegance and class.
Cafe Tacuba is more than just another Mexican restaurant in the Corridor; it is a true celebration of Mexican culture and cuisine that is innovative and fun. Whether you’re indulging in their signature dishes, enjoying a hearty breakfast or simply soaking in the cozy atmosphere over a cocktail, Cafe Tacuba makes Cedar Rapids forget all about crab rangoon pizza!
This article was originally published in Little Village’s June 2024 issue.
