Known as “Little Mexico”, South Sioux City has quickly become one of my most favorite small towns to discover. Living in Sioux City since 2007, I can honestly say I have not travelled over the
Known as “Little Mexico”, South Sioux City has quickly become one of my most favorite small towns to discover. Living in Sioux City since 2007, I can honestly say I have not travelled over the Veterans Bridge to our neighbor enough, but this month-long challenge got me out of my comfort zone, and through a handful of restaurants’ doors.
Mi Rancherita
Easy to pass by, and positioned in a tiny strip mall on Dakota Avenue, Mi Rancherita needs to become one of your must-tries. Checking out their menu via their facebook page, I first ordered their Barbeque Tacos and Fried Bananas, then came back the next day to get their Fried Tilapia and Choco Flan.
Since finding this local gem, I’ve made two additional visits to support this local business. I love the customer service, and can’t wait when they open for dine-in. I plan to make this a required stop when friends and family come from out of town.
Roble’s
A few blocks down on Dakota Avenue, is one of the most infamous Mexican restaurants in all of Siouxland. Quickly becoming well-known for their red tacos and red quesadillas, I decided to try both, and they did not disappoint!
With their handmade tortillas, and flavorful beef bone broth, my husband and I each agreed this was the most authentic Mexican food we had tried up to this point. They even have Menudo on Fridays and Saturdays, which is worth a trip over the bridge just for that!
Mi Familia
Having a guide who knows how to recommend local flare is the best way to experience any restaurant. Suggested to me was their filet of tilapia topped with shrimp as well as rice and guacamole on the side. In addition to the tilapia, I also ordered their burrito el gusto and fried taquitos.
Out of all the food thus far, this was the most pleasantly appealing and visually appetizing meal, and not to mention their restaurant looks like a Pueblo-style resort. Loving the outdoor aesthetics, I can’t wait until they open for dine-in and we can enjoy the full sit-down meal experience.
La Isla
By the time I got to La Isla, I was exhausted with eating so many tortillas, and was super excited about trying this Mexican restaurant that specializes in seafood. This also happened to be our last restaurant we ate at in our May challenge, and it was well worth the wait.
Hearing good things about their seafood boil bags and ceviche, I decided to order both. With the ability to adjust the spice level, I opted for medium heat. Plus, this was our first time trying their food, and we weren’t sure what to expect. Our kids were enthralled with the fully intact prawn, and we had to explain to them that this is what shrimp looks like before they are cut and cleaned.
“Little Mexico”
After trying these four restaurants in South Sioux City, I was also introduced to another four which I will have to try later in the year. Maybe I will write a month-long feature about South Sioux City next year, and this will give me a chance to show you how unique and wonderful this little town really is.
Doing this Mexican food tour allowed me to find new places I’ve never been, get out of my comfort zone, and experience a vibrant and colorful culture. I have found some local favorites which I will frequent throughout the rest of the year and the next. And unfortunately, I had to order all of my food during this challenge via take-out due to COVID-19. However, you could also say I’m fortunate, because now that these restaurants are opening back up, I get to experience their indoor atmosphere, and the food, all over again. I hope I was able to introduce you to new local eateries, and encourage you to get out and discover your city.
