Mexican restaurants

La Placita Taqueria

4.5 510 reviews 09:00 AM - 07:00 PM 321 W 4th St, Waterloo, IA 50701, United States

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La Placita Taqueria, nestled at 321 W 4th St in Waterloo, IA, stands out as a gem for those craving authentic Mexican cuisine. Customers rave about the quality and authenticity of the dishes, with many praising their signature items like Birria tacos, Al Pastor, and Carne Asada. Casey Van Meter Pyle encapsulates the experience perfectly, describing it not just as a place for delicious food, but also as a unique grocery destination for authentic Mexican ingredients.

Michelle Firestone highlights the special nature of La Placita, noting the remarkable Birria tacos crafted to perfection. Similarly, Sherly Aguilar relishes the quick service during a busy lunch hour and recommends the lengua tacos paired with salsa verde, emphasizing the restaurant's dedication to providing genuine flavors without overwhelming heat. The positive feedback extends to the service at La Placita, with Zachary Moye commending both the food and the welcoming atmosphere, while C A appreciates the cleanliness and organization of the grocery aspect, affirming it as an essential stop for various culinary needs.

In essence, La Placita Taqueria offers a delightful blend of exceptional food, efficient service, and a welcoming environment, making it a must-visit for anyone in search of authentic Mexican dining in Waterloo.

Photos

Amenities & More

Service options

Delivery
Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights

Fast service
Serves local specialty

Popular for

Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Dining options

Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Counter service
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities

Restroom

Atmosphere

Casual
Cozy

Crowd

Groups
Tourists

Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with La Placita Taqueria before visiting.

Reviews for La Placita Taqueria

4.5

510 reviews

100%

25%

12%

Review highlights

Based on 510 reviews

La Placita Taqueria in Waterloo, IA, is widely praised for its authentic Mexican cuisine and well-curated grocery offerings. Reviewers consistently highlight the quality and traditional flavors of dishes such as Birria, Al Pastor, Carne Asada, and lengua tacos. The food is frequently described as flavorful and true to Mexican culinary roots, appealing to both quick lunches and leisurely meals. Service is noted as attentive and friendly, enhancing the overall dining experience despite a modest atmosphere that some find unassuming. Customers appreciate the cleanliness and organization of the establishment, which combines a taqueria with a grocery store featuring fresh meats, specialty items, and beverages. Overall, La Placita Taqueria is regarded as a reliable destination for authentic food and Mexican groceries, earning strong recommendations for quality and value within the local community.

Casey Van Meter Pyle

Jun 29, 2025

Authentic place to get some great food, and or shop for some authentic Mexican groceries.

Michelle Firestone

Jun 28, 2025

I absolutely love their Taqueria as well as their grocery store. They are also the only ones I have found that serve Birria tacos they way I love. I love their Al Pastor and Carne Asada from their meat department.

Sherly Aguilar

Jun 23, 2025

Went for a quick lunch, was in and out in 25 minutes and ordered 2 lengua tacos. I had already eaten one when I remembered to take a picture. I had the salsa verde with my tacos and it wasn't really spicy. Definitely recommend if you are looking for authentic Mexican food.

Zachary Moye

Jun 22, 2025

Food and service are amazing. Don't let the atmosphere detract from trying the food. This is some of the best Mexican food I have ever eaten!

C A

May 18, 2025

This place is Priceless I went to this for herbal tea, Mangoes, authentic tacos, fruit smoothies, Dubai smoothie,fresh meats the place is clean and well organized. While I was in Waterloo this was my go to place for almost everything.

Austin Carlson

May 08, 2025

Best tacqueria in the Cedar Valley. The staff is helpful and always extremely nice, they carry great produce and grocery selections, as well as some of the best food around.

Kim Weaver

May 04, 2025

This place is amazing. That only is the food authentic but they have an amazing selection of Mexican groceries. I especially enjoyed looking at all the spices and dried peppers. I should have taken a picture of my food before I started but it looks so good I forgot to. I had the burrito with carnitas. The picture here is just half of one. I couldn't recommend this place enough. My only regret is that I don't live closer.

Phoebe Pittman

Mar 23, 2025

The market is great and we love getting meat from the deli section. Don't sleep on the restaurant portion though--that food is ! The staff has always been helpful and willing to answer questions. After your meal get a paleta or other treat from the snack shop area. ...