With 90 tequilas in stock, you're sure to find one you love!

Inevitably, when asked what one’s favorite Mexican restaurant is, the response is "this great little place with authentic food and sombreros on the wall." One step into Dos Rios and it’s clear this place is something different.

Cobalt blue walls, metallic accents and sleek dark wood are a far cry from terra-cotta stucco. But don’t be intimidated by the posh interior, most of the patrons are casually dressed. The atmosphere inspires a festive, uninhibited feeling.

Cinco de Mayo

In the United States, Cinco de Mayo has become (much like St. Patrick’s Day) a reason to go out to the bar and celebrate with friends. The holiday commemorates the victory of Mexican forces over the French at the Battle of Puebla. It is observed in Mexico and several other countries around the world as a celebration of Mexican heritage.

Dos Rios will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo all day on Monday, May 5th (even though they are normally closed on Mondays). Live music, a D.J. and Salsa dancing will entertain celebrants. Drink specials will begin at 11 AM and run through the evening.

Más Tequila

Whether you are a tequila connoisseur or think you hate the stuff, Dos Rios has a drink you'll love made with one of their 90 tequilas. Their best selling margaritas include the Dos Rios Margarita, a traditional margarita with a good balance of sweet versus tart made with El Jimador Tequila.

Don't know what you want? The bartenders are trained to inquire about a guest’s tastes and make a recommendation based on each individual’s preferences. If a patron declines to try a margarita, a variety of mixed drinks, traditionally made with other liquors, are offered as tequila cocktails, including Bloody Marias and mojitos.

In order to really taste and appreciate the tequila, drink it straight ¬¬? and not as a shot. In Mexico, tequila is often sipped along side sangrita, a traditional tomato based drink mixed with herbs. Dos Rios makes their own sangrita in-house from a traditional Mexican recipe. Super high-end tequilas such as Cabo Wabo "Uno Ultimate" and Don Julion "Real" are served neat and range from $18 to more than $40.

If you are interested in learning more about tequila, Dos Rios offers Tequila U: Continuing education on Tequila. A multi-media presentation teaches attendees about tequila’s history, culture, agriculture and mystic. The next class is tentatively scheduled for the first week of May.

General Manager, Anthony Rivas, says the premium tequila industry is exploding and the demand for top shelf tequila is ever rising. “The premium brands are so complex in their flavors and aromas,” says Rivas. He compares sipping silver, reposado and anejo tequilas to sipping the wide range of fine whiskies, each with it’s own nuances and aromas.

Cosina

After all that tequila, it’s best to explore Dos Rios' extensive menu of appetizers, soups, salads, main courses and desserts. Even if you don't like guacamole, you might want to give theirs a try. It is made table-side, exactly how you want it: chunky or smooth, onions or no onions and any level of spiciness from one to ten. Three varieties of salsa are also made in-house.

Entrees stray from the typical tortilla, rice, and beans, smothered in cheese. The menu offers both classic Mexican cuisine and modern takes on traditional dishes.

Meals feature a variety of meats and seafood served with fresh corn masa tortillas. No mystery meat here: the Chuletas de Puerco features Niman Ranch double cut pork chops and duck chorizo tacos are available. Mushroom tacos are just on of the many vegetarian menu items offered. Finish up with Key Lime Margarita Pie.

En Conclusión

Dos Rios Cantina and Tequila Lounge is a metropolitan take on traditional Mexican cuisine, and unlike anything else in Iowa. It immediately became a hot spot upon opening in 2007 and is still going strong. Stop in for a drink, lunch or dinner Tuesday through Sunday. The bartenders and wait staff want you to have a great time and are knowledgeable enough to ensure whatever you order will be to your liking.