With the new North Temple Viaduct open, it’s time to look to local restaurant Red Iguana on Route 218.

The Red Iguana has won Reader’s Choice award as Best Mexican Restaurant from Salt Lake Magazine, its been featured on the Food Network’s Diners Drive-Ins and Dives and continues its reign as one of the best places to eat in Salt Lake City. 

Even as the restaurant is expanding its business to other locations, Co-owner Bill Coker has remained committed to building up the community where it all began 40 years ago. “We are a part of this community,” Coker said, proudly displaying the community-developed button that reads, “Shop North Temple, I Do.”  Coker and his wife Lucy Cardenas, daughter of the original owners, have been instrumental in the distribution of these buttons at their restaurant located at 736 West North Temple.

While some restaurant reviewers laud Red Iguana for its quality and authentic Mexican food, others have mentioned the quality and excellence of the family-owned restaurant’s staff, calling them a draw in and of themselves. Meals range $7-20.

In 2013, the Red Iguana will be accessible by the new Airport TRAX line that will run down North Temple.