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(515) 822-7499
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4100 SE 14th St Des Moines, IA 50320 United States
Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Sopa de Mariscos
Plato Especial Catracho
Carne Asada Tradicional
Sopa de Mondongo o Pata
About
El Pollo Catracho
Welcome to El Pollo Catracho, a vibrant culinary destination tucked away in Des Moines, Iowa. Located at 4100 SE 14th St, this delightful eatery specializes in authentic Honduran cuisine that transports you straight to the heart of Central America. If you're seeking a refreshing escape from the typical dining experience, you’ve just struck gold.
As soon as you step inside, you’ll be enveloped by the welcoming ambiance and the tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen. El Pollo Catracho excels at offering a diverse menu filled with rich and robust flavors, yet it’s particularly celebrated for its fried chicken, known locally as Pollo Frito con Tajadas. For just $10.00, you can savor a generous and satisfying portion that promises to exceed your expectations—just ask Judy D., who raved about her experience, stating it was “amazing” and “a huge plate of food.”
Beyond the crispy fried chicken, the menu features an array of traditional dishes like Chuleta Frita for $12.00 and Pescado Frito for $12.00, alongside vegetarian options like Tajadas con Carne Molida, which is a delightful blend of ground beef, plantains, and fresh salads, priced at $7.00. Additionally, the kids' menu offers tasty choices at pocket-friendly prices, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Dining at El Pollo Catracho is more than just a meal; it’s a complete experience. The restaurant embraces a casual atmosphere, perfect for families and groups, and features outdoor seating, allowing guests to soak in the sunshine while enjoying their meal. They also make it easy for you with takeout and delivery options, and their acceptance of credit cards makes dining even more convenient.
The highlight of the dining experience here? The authenticity. Aja L. describes El Pollo Catracho as “a delightful hidden gem” where every dish tastes like it was made with love directly from a family kitchen. Customers like Sonya B. rave about the generous portions and the warmth of the staff, highlighting the inviting service provided by staff members like Wendy.
Whether you're indulging in a refreshing Horchata or one of their natural juices for $2.00, the drinks are as fresh and delightful as the food. And if you're feeling adventurous, be sure to explore dishes beyond typical Mexican fare—this is your chance to broaden your culinary horizons!
So, why not take a culinary trip to Honduras right here in Des Moines? El Pollo Catracho invites you to immerse yourself in their rich cultural dining experience. Whether it's a family outing or a meal with friends, each visit promises satisfaction and flavor that will leave you eagerly planning your next visit. Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure!
For reservations or more information, call (515) 822-7499. Your taste buds will thank you!
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“ The food was so good! I had the pollo frito con tajadas and it was a huge plate of food. The fried chicken is amazing here. My son had the chicken wings and he said they were probably the best he has ever had. My margarita was delicious as well! We had great service on a busy Saturday night and the owner checked on us a few times as well. Can't wait to come back and try different things on the menu. ”
“ super sweet server named wendy helped us. we love honduran and this place is authentic and delicious. generous portions, good prices, and seriously yummy. not sure who is in the kitchen but it tastes like someones mom or grandma is making everything with love. and i keep seeing all these things about it being somehow challenging because they are from another country - come on people - it's 2025- pull out your phone and google shit - you can find out what's in any dish, what it tastes like, etc. -- i am just so grateful to be able to enjoy delicious food from other places - expand your culinary horizons! ”
“ Still the best fried chicken meal in Des Moines area!! Might feel a little intimidating to non Spanish speakers but is well worth taking the chance. El Pollo Frito Especial is the BOMB!! ”
“ The food is fantastic, everything I've had here is delicious! It's a hidden south side gem! ”
“ Whew! A delightful hidden gem in Des Moines. There are many hidden gems, but not many Honduran restaurants - especially in Iowa. You definitely walk into another country when you enter here. I think that's why so many of us foodies eat internationally. It's cheaper than a plane ticket! Prices are fair for the glorious food you get - and portions are big! You won't walk away hungry. Mouth watering authentic Honduran dishes and fresh drinks! Don't stick to same ole Mexican. Try other Latin American flavors! Why not take a trip to Honduras at El Pollo Catracho? ”
“ We were looking for something "different" and landed on this place. Boy am I glad we did! It easily has the best horchata that I've ever had! After that, I was excited to try more. We ended up with a starter of empenadas, which were wonderful. Our meals consisted of a mixture of baleadas, tacos, carne asada, and one other that I cannot name. LOL Almost all were served with sides of cabbage (I'd call it a form of coleslaw), pickled onions (I didn't ask, but this is how they appeared), and a nice pico de galla. Everything is made from scratch and it showed. Even something like the carne asada had a little extra flavor than the usual plain meat taste that I've had at many other places. The dining room consists of tables and a small bar. I have no complaints after this visit! It was all wonderful! We will definitely go back as there are many other dishes to try. I don't know how long they've been in there, but I'm sad we haven't tried them until now. ”
“ Had the pastolitos, delicious! Will eat here again! Staff was very friendly. Service was quick! Definitely recommend! ”
“ The food is unique for Des Moines and very authentic. We are able to find something for everyone in our family. The staff is friendly. It is family owned and operated. Even though we had the pollo before half of us could not resist getting it again. Everything we had was delicious The biggest problem is you get too much food! ”
“ The beans and salsa with chips served when you walk in are perfect. I never like green sauce but this is exceptional. I love the cheese sprinkled on everything. The chicken tacos are more like taquitos. This is a lot of food! They are very tasty with seasoning in the chicken. Loved the salad on the side and pickled onions, etc.. this is the second Honduran restaurant in Des Moines and I love them both! ”
