Everyone is Calling This SE Minnesota Mexican Restaurant With a Buffet and Massive Margarita Towers the Best in the Entire State
Authentic Flavor That’s Hard to Find in Minnesota
As someone who moved here from Texas, I can tell you that good Mexican food in Minnesota can be hit or miss, but this locally owned gem has earned a loyal following across Southeast Minnesota, and once you’ve eaten there, you’ll understand why.
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If you ask anyone in Dodge County where to find the best Mexican food around, maybe even in the entire state, you’ll likely hear the same answer: Plaza Morena in Dodge Center. And I completely agree.
This spot has become an area favorite for good reason. Owners Mario and Silvia are two of the nicest, most down-to-earth people you will ever meet. They have poured their hearts (and decades of experience) into creating a family-friendly restaurant where every guest feels at home. You’ll see them greeting customers, running food, refilling drinks, and serving right alongside their staff. That’s a testament to how much pride they take in their restaurant.
Plaza Morena’s kitchen crew also knows what they’re doing. You'll see them back there carefully crafting traditional and specialty Mexican dishes that are as authentic as they are delicious.
Their famous flaming cheese appetizer (yes, it’s literally on fire) is our go-to starter. And their Molcajete, a bubbling bowl of grilled meats and veggies, has become something of a local legend. Look at that beauty in the video below...
The Only Mexican Lunch Buffet and Towering Margaritas
Plaza Morena also offers the only Mexican lunch buffet in the Rochester area. This is no wimpy buffet either; it has more than you’ll ever need: freshly made quesadillas, entrees like chicken poblano, fajita chicken, enchiladas, tacos, beans, rice, tortillas, and a lot more. The buffet even has a full toppings bar with sour cream, guac, queso, shredded cheese, lettuce, jalapeños, etc. And the price is a steal at $13.99 for all of that. (available weekdays 11 am to 2 pm)
If you’re feeling extra festive, bring your crew and get one of their 100-ounce margarita towers (also a steal at just $45), and you’ll leave feeling good and full!
Part of what makes Plaza Morena special is its sense of celebration. If you’re there for a birthday, anniversary, or any other special occasion, they’ll hand you a sombrero to wear, bring out a free dessert surprise, and make sure everyone in the room joins in on the fun. It’s the kind of energy that makes you want to come back again and again.
What Locals Are Saying About Plaza Morena in Dodge Center
You don’t have to take just my word for how great Plaza is; the plethora of 5-star reviews will back that up, too. Here’s just a handful of them:
“They have the coldest draft Modelo served in a frosty mug, and the fancy daiquiris and margaritas are equally amazing. Their salsa is one of my very favorites. Highly recommend!” — Heather Rose Morris
“The owner is always there greeting customers, which is very caring, and the food is phenomenal! The flavors of the sautéed onions, peppers, meats and seafood are exceptional… Outstanding.” — Lawrence Veith
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“Every meal I’ve tried is excellent, drinks are great, lunch buffet is amazing and you could not find a better staff of people.” — Ryan Johnson
“Love this place. Their Molcajete is out of this world and very well priced. We’ve never had a bad experience.” — Jared Martin
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Gallery Credit: Carly Ross