The Source: Best Ethnic Food 2010
Out of a myriad of wonderful international food offerings in the region, La Reyna Supermarket and Taqueria of Iowa City won the most votes from our adventurous foodies! They gushed over La Reyna’s “to die for” pico de gallo, guacamole, and margaritas, and called the salsa and tamales “unbelievable.” Many voters raved about owners Carmen and Carlos Legaspi’s authentic Mexican dishes, reasonable prices, and “great service.” One reader said, “I grew up in Mexico, and this is the closest you’ll find between here and Chicago.” Congrats to our new winner, wowing our diners with their “no frills . . . but fantastic food” approach!
The Source: Best Unsung Restaurant 2010
If you’re craving freshly prepared, authentic Mexican food, then head straight for La Reyna—if you can find it! “My location is not very visible,” admits the always charming Carmen Legaspi, who with her husband, Carlos, owns the restaurant/grocery store on 1937 Keokuk Street in Iowa City. Those who do find La Reyna sing its praises—loudly. Homemade pico de gallo, vibrant guacamole, savory enchiladas, tasty tacos, fresh tamales—all made from scratch from family recipes.
“My food is not commercial,” Carmen says. “We like people to enjoy and comment about the food—this is the most important for us, that it’s good and authentic and fresh.”
Traditionally, lard features prominently in Mexican food, and La Reyna is no exception. Carmen, eager to please her vegetarian customers, is constantly introducing new non-meat dishes, including the popular Rajas Con Queso, made fresh with poblano peppers.
Other Comments
• “Unlike any other Mexican food in a town full of Americanized Mexican food.”
• “From the atmosphere, to the people, to the food, this is as authentic, family-owned as you will ever get.”
• “Best salsa we’ve ever had; if you haven’t tried it, you are missing out (Pico De Gallo)”
• “Carmen’s tamales are to die for—they have vegetarian tamales, for crying out loud.”
“My food is not commercial,” Carmen says. “We like people to enjoy and comment about the food—this is the most important for us, that it’s good and authentic and fresh.”
Traditionally, lard features prominently in Mexican food, and La Reyna is no exception. Carmen, eager to please her vegetarian customers, is constantly introducing new non-meat dishes, including the popular Rajas Con Queso, made fresh with poblano peppers.
Other Comments
• “Unlike any other Mexican food in a town full of Americanized Mexican food.”
• “From the atmosphere, to the people, to the food, this is as authentic, family-owned as you will ever get.”
• “Best salsa we’ve ever had; if you haven’t tried it, you are missing out (Pico De Gallo)”
• “Carmen’s tamales are to die for—they have vegetarian tamales, for crying out loud.”
Interview in Hoopla
Read Carmen's interview in Hoopla about La Reyna and find out all about our Ristorante!
