Why Locals Love Abelardo’s Mexican Fresh
Nestled conveniently at 1538 Army Post Rd in Des Moines, Abelardo’s Mexican Fresh is a vibrant gem for lovers of authentic Mexican and taco restaurant fare. This lively spot is a must-visit for anyone craving bold, fresh flavors served up in a warm, family-friendly environment where friendliness greets you as eagerly as the sizzling dishes.
Abelardo’s specializes in classic Mexican cuisine with a fresh twist, promising a satisfying experience for every palate. Their menu boasts an impressive variety—from the hearty and flavorful Carne Asada Burritos praised by loyal customers, to their indulgent Hawaiian Rice Bowl that blends grilled pollo asado, chorizo, melted Chihuahua cheese, caramelized onions, and sweet pineapple for an irresistible fusion of taste and texture. The rice bowls exemplify true craft, with options like the smoky Pollo Asado Rice Bowl featuring grilled chicken, black beans, and vibrant pico de gallo, delivering a perfect balance of savory and fresh.
Families frequent Abelardo’s, drawn by thoughtful options for kids such as the simple, comforting Kids Cheese Quesadilla and the flavorful Kids Taco Meal served with choice sides, making it a place where even the youngest diners feel catered to. The tostadas lineup, including Carne Asada, Adobada, and Carnitas Tostadas, consistently receives applause for their crisp tortillas topped with fresh lettuce, cheese, and perfectly seasoned beans—a harmonious blend of textures and traditional Mexican flavors.
Dining here is more than just a meal—it’s an experience suffused with genuine hospitality. The attentive and friendly staff, especially noted at the drive-thru window, elevate the ease and comfort of ordering whether you're grabbing lunch on the go or settling in for a casual feast. Customers rave about quick service without sacrificing quality, a testament to Abelardo’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
One cannot talk about Abelardo’s without mentioning their standout dishes like the generously portioned chimichanga with its impeccably crisp breading and the thirst-quenching, creamy Horchata that provides the perfect pairing to any meal. The nachos here are touted as “next level,” piled high with creamy cheese and fresh guacamole that make every bite irresistibly rich and satisfying.
While some have noted minor details such as rice texture and bean seasoning, these moments are vastly outweighed by the overall quality, spirited ambiance, and flavorful authenticity that keep guests returning time and again. Whether you are a local or just passing through, Abelardo’s Mexican Fresh delivers a vibrant taste of Mexico with a heartfelt community touch that’s hard to find elsewhere in Des Moines.
In sum, if you crave fresh ingredients, generous portions, and the kind of flavorful Mexican dishes that comfort and excite simultaneously, Abelardo’s Mexican Fresh is where you need to be. It’s more than a restaurant; it’s a flavorful journey wrapped in warm smiles and served with pride.
See the Space & Food
What Makes This Place Friendly
- Delivery
- Drive-through
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
- Serves local specialty
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Wheelchair-accessible toilet
- Comfort food
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Toilet
- Casual
- Quiet
- Accepts reservations
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
- Free of charge street parking
- Free parking lot
Real Reviews from the Community
- Mar 23, 2026
The woman at the drivethrough window was very friendly! Our food was hot and delicious. Definetly plan on going back Update: Came again for more food. I got #7 with beef and then guacamole/cheese nachos. So filling and delicious! The woman at the drivethrough, very friendly. I was surprised how fast I got my food. I didn't feel like I waited very long at all. I love it here!
- Mar 8, 2026
This is mine and my family’s favorite place in Des Moines. Any time they visit we have to go once if not twice! Everyone working there is always friendly and happy to accommodate any changes to orders. The food is phenomenal! We especially love the carne asada burritos.
- Feb 2, 2026
Service is fast and friendly. Had a #18 carne asada burrito combo. Burrito was really good, thin flour tortilla, steak, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, onion. Rice was kind of dry and salty. Beans with shredded cheese on top were unseasoned and just okay.
- Feb 1, 2026
5 Stars – An Absolute Must-Try Mexican Food Spot! If I could give more than 5 stars, I would! Abelardo’s is hands-down the best Mexican restaurant I’ve been to in years. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a warm, welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home. But let’s talk about the food—WOW. The nachos at Abelardo’s are next level. We’re talking about a mountain of crispy, golden chips absolutely smothered in melted cheese, perfectly seasoned beef or chicken, fresh jalapeños, sour cream, guac, and more. Every bite is a flavor explosion. I’ve tried nachos all over, and these are easily the best nachos in town—no contest. The burritos? Massive, stuffed to the brim, and bursting with flavor. Whether you go for carne asada, al pastor, or their classic bean and cheese, you’re getting a meal that’s both hearty and delicious. Don’t sleep on the taquitos either—crispy, golden, and packed with savory goodness. Wash it all down with their creamy, ice-cold horchata—a cinnamon-sweet dream that completes the perfect meal. Prices are extremely reasonable, portions are generous, and the service is lightning-fast—perfect whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout on a busy day. The staff is always friendly and efficient, which makes the experience even better. Abelardo’s is a hidden gem that deserves all the love. Whether you’re craving a quick bite or planning a casual dinner with the family, this place hits every mark. Do yourself a favor and go to Abelardo’s—you won’t regret it. Best Mexican food around, no question.
- Jan 26, 2026
Driving there a plan was landing and it was beautiful right by the airport. The portions they gave me was huge and tasted great. Didn’t take too long of a wait I had the chimichanga the breading is really good and their corn Chata drink is perfect. Best fast food Mexican I’ve had by far I would recommend. - side note usually don’t write reviews but I’m impressed
- Jan 4, 2026
I'm so happy that the one here on Army post just opened up. The place is very clean and new looking. The staff was really friendly and very helpful. I always love getting their California burrito all the time and their horchata. The horchata so very tasty. It's very close to my home and work place so I'll be sure to go there a lot. I highly recommend this place!
- Dec 25, 2025
Looking inside I could see it was cute and festive. I go through the drivethru. I order the chili relleno burrito. It was so perfect with the balance of every ingredient. They are quite tasty and come with hot sauce if you so desired. I am given the red and the green.( No plastic packets were given) This hot sauce is authentic! The portion is huge as well as a homemade tortilla that it was wrapped in..... Phenomenal! Service is always excellent (and with a smile). It is well worth the price they asked for it. I love mexican food and I have been a few times. I am surprised that the reviews on this place are low, but that doesn't stop me. I have gone to places with a higher review and been disappointed. This is my new favorite go to and I'm so happy that they are open late. I highly recommend!!
- Dec 5, 2025
I recommend this location. Food never disappoints. Always has everything fresh. I recommend the tacos, tortas, burritos. I also recomen the rice bowls.
