If you love Mexican food, you’ve probably heard of Utah’s most popular Mexican restaurant. The Red Iguana has two locations in Salt Lake City, and it offers delicious food and friendly service. Here’s a lesser-known restaurant that has the same roots, and it’s hiding in a basement in the city. Once you find it, you’ll be back time and time again:

You’ll find Blue Iguana right in downtown Salt Lake City, but it’s kind of hidden. Climb down this flight of stairs and go into this door to find some of the best Mexican food in the state.

Rex Strother/Google The restaurant was purchased from the Red Iguana family in 1989, so it comes from the same great traditions as Red Iguana! The address of the restaurant is 165 S. West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101.

The entrance is tucked away in the plaza next to Benihana. Once you’re in the general area, you can’t miss it.

Jacob Broadhead/Google

The restaurant is cozy and inviting. Exposed wood beams and brick walls make you forget that you’re underground.

Jordan Johnson/Google

The atmosphere is just the beginning! You’ll want to kick off your meal with some homemade guacamole, which always gets high marks from guests.

jessica powell/Google

The enchiladas are to die for, and come with a variety of fillings, including beef, chicken, chili verde, and seafood.

zomato/Google

Other popular menu items include fajitas, tacos, and burritos, each with delicious sauces and mouthwatering meats and cheeses.

Rodney Fletcher/Google

If you have a huge appetite, you might want to take on the Burrito Grande. It’s a humongous burrito filled with beef, chicken, chili verde, rice and beans. If you can finish the whole thing, they’ll give you a free dessert.

cindy esquivel/Google

If you eat the Burrito Grande, you likely won’t have room to tackle your dessert, but someone at your table will be happy to eat it for you. The tres leches cake is absolutely divine, and you’ll also want to try the caramel flan.

cindy esquivel/Google

Blue Iguana has a full liquor license, and the margaritas here are tasty and creative. You can also enjoy a Mexican or craft beer, glass or wine, or other cocktails.

Blue Iguana/Facebook

Blue Iguana can be pretty crowded, especially on weekends, but it’s well worth the wait.

Jose Ruiz-Partida The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m..

See the full menu on Blue Iguana’s website, and follow its Facebook page for daily specials. Have you dined at Blue Iguana? What’s your favorite item on the menu?

Rex Strother/Google

The restaurant was purchased from the Red Iguana family in 1989, so it comes from the same great traditions as Red Iguana! The address of the restaurant is 165 S. West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101.

Jacob Broadhead/Google

Jordan Johnson/Google

jessica powell/Google

zomato/Google

Rodney Fletcher/Google

cindy esquivel/Google

Blue Iguana/Facebook

Jose Ruiz-Partida

The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m..

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