Midwest Restaurant Chain to Open First Eastern Iowa Location

What took you so long? That's the question eastern Iowans might be asking when they learn that a popular Midwest restaurant chain is expanding eastward in the state. Especially when they discover they've been in central Iowa since at least 2011.

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The Des Moines Register says an Omaha, Nebraska-based chain of restaurants first opened in the Des Moines metro 12 years ago. Now with over 30 locations across six states, including 6 in Iowa, they're increasing their footprint in the Hawkeye State.

According to their website, Abelardo's Mexican Fresh has "mouth-watering dishes, carefully prepared with fresh ingredients! At Abelardo's Mexican Fresh, our recipe for success is simple – Great food & care makes customers return every time."

When you scroll through Abelardo's menu, it keeps going and going. For example, there are over 25 different combinations on the menu, along with a big selection of tacos, tortas, tostadas, enchiladas, burritos, quesadillas, taquitos, breakfast plates, breakfast burritos, and of course, nachos.

Judging by their Facebook page, Aberlardo's Mexican Fresh appears to have some type of daily special every Monday through Thursday. On Tuesdays, 5 tacos (hard shell, soft shell, or fried) are only $5.99. Though the hours of individual locations vary, many remain open until 2 or 3 a.m.

Friday morning, Q4 Real Estate announced that Abelardo's Mexican Grill will be moving into the former Taco John's location at 4401 1st Ave. SE in Cedar Rapids. Taco John's recently moved that location to Collins Road, next to Panda Express.

Abelardo's Mexican Grill has three locations in Des Moines, and one each in Ames, Ankeny, and West Des Moines. The opening date for the Cedar Rapids location is unknown, but we'll let you know when it's revealed.