Red Iguana.

Red Iguana is a Salt Lake City institution that has outgrown its modest storefront to become one of the most recognized Mexican destinations in the American West. Established by the Cardenas family in 1985, the restaurant is defined by its deep exploration of regional moles, ranging from the complex, chocolate-infused Mole Negro to the fruitier Red Pipian. While the menu spans the classics—like Carnitas a la Michoacán and sirloin-filled Tacos Don Ramon—the moles remain the primary draw for the locals and travelers who routinely line up outside. The atmosphere is perpetually festive, crowded, and unpretentious, managed by an efficient staff that keeps the pace moving without sacrificing the warmth of a family-run operation. It is a rare spot that manages to feel like both a local secret and a mandatory landmark.