La Juanita

If you want to experience a true taste of Mexico in the heart of Iowa, you should definitely stop by La Juanita. This is a legendary family-run Mexican restaurant located in Sioux City, which has been delighting locals and visitors to the USA with its traditional dishes for many years.

The establishment is famous for using family recipes and exceptionally fresh ingredients. On the menu, you'll find all the classic hits: from juicy burritos and tacos to fajitas and quesadillas. The restaurant is incredibly popular due to its affordability, soulful atmosphere, and consistently high food quality, backed by numerous awards and rave reviews.

Inside, guests will find a vibrant interior with an open kitchen, where you can see your order being prepared firsthand. A special charm is added by the jukebox playing Mexican tunes, creating a unique festive and cozy mood.

To inquire about current offers or group visits, you can contact the restaurant management. Here are the main contact details for the establishment:

The main reason people come to La Juanita is for the gastronomic experience. Be sure to try their famous burritos, which have received national recognition, or put together a set of various tacos: steak, chicken, or fish. Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy the traditional churros, and for a drink, you should choose the homemade horchata or a classic Coke in a glass bottle.

The restaurant's atmosphere invites you to take a moment away from the hustle and bustle. You can pick your favorite track on the jukebox (don't forget your coins!) and watch the chefs' masterful work in the open kitchen. If you're traveling with family, everything is set up for comfort: from a kids' menu with chicken fingers to convenient high chairs.

An interesting feature of the restaurant is its daily specials, which allow you to try new flavor combinations at very attractive prices. Despite its popularity and potential lines, service here is fast, and the staff is always ready to help with your choice.

La Juanita is conveniently located at 1316 Pierce St, within walking distance of the downtown area. You can get here by taxi from anywhere in the city or by car, following the main city thoroughfares toward the center.

For visitors arriving by car, there is a small free parking lot at the back of the building (east side), as well as street parking along Pierce Street in front of the entrance. The main street entrance is fully accessible for people with limited mobility and those with strollers.

Keep in mind that during peak hours, a line may form outside and extend into the parking lot; however, the professional staff works very efficiently, ensuring quick service for both dine-in and takeout orders.

The history of the establishment is inextricably linked with the Bautista family. It all began in the 1970s in California, where the owner's sister, Juanita, operated a popular food truck for twenty years. In the mid-1990s, the family moved to Iowa, and in 1998, they opened the first brick-and-mortar La Juanita, named in honor of that very sister.

Over decades of operation, the restaurant has transformed from a modest family café into a true legend. In 2013, the prestigious Esquire magazine ranked their burrito 5th on its list of life-changing foods across all of America. Additionally, the establishment regularly wins local awards, such as the Siouxland’s Choice Awards.

Many celebrities have been spotted among the restaurant's guests. One of the most notable moments in its history was serving Barack Obama's campaign staff in 2012. To commemorate the event, a photograph of owner Victor Bautista with the former U.S. President hangs in the dining room.

A visit to La Juanita typically takes 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy authentic dishes, listen to music from the jukebox, and soak up the lively atmosphere of a Mexican family establishment.

For those planning a quick bite or ordering takeout, the visit may be as short as 30–45 minutes. To avoid the long lines that often form during lunch, it is recommended to arrive before 11:30 AM or visit on weekdays.

La Juanita is open daily, offering guests the chance for a late dinner or an early breakfast. The restaurant's schedule is as follows:

• Monday — Thursday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM
• Friday — Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 AM
• Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 AM

These flexible hours make the restaurant an excellent spot for both students and anyone looking for quality food late at night.

A stroll around the neighborhood after a hearty lunch is a great way to continue exploring the local flavor. Within a few kilometers of the restaurant, you'll find numerous historical monuments and recreation areas.

Exploring Sioux City's architectural landmarks and parks will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere and see it from different perspectives.