5 S. Federal Avenue
Mason City, IA 50401
(641) 530-2677
The Happy Donkey Taco & Tequila Bar brings bold flavor and vibrant energy to downtown Mason City. Rooted in authentic Mexican street food, the menu features favorites like street tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and loaded nachos—each crafted with fresh ingredients and traditional flair.
Behind the bar, the experience continues with crafted cocktails, a wide selection of beer, and an impressive collection of more than 150 tequilas and mezcals—making it a go-to destination for both casual dining and a lively night out. Don’t miss their signature in-house strawberry and pineapple tequila—perfectly mixed and a guest favorite that adds a fresh, flavorful twist to any visit.
Whether you're stopping in for a quick bite, meeting friends on the patio, or exploring new flavors, The Happy Donkey delivers a fun, flavorful experience in the heart of the Federal Avenue Pedestrian Plaza.
Open for dine-in and carryout. Outdoor seating is also available.
Every great story starts with a bold idea—and in Mason City, that story begins with a taco truck.
Long before it became a vibrant downtown destination, The Happy Donkey Taco & Tequila Bar got its start as Mr. Taco, a humble food truck founded in 2011 by local entrepreneur Luis Garcia. At a time when food trucks were still a rarity in small-town Iowa, Mr. Taco quickly became a weekend staple—serving up authentic street tacos inspired by the bold, traditional flavors of Veracruz, Mexico.
Parked near downtown and local gathering spots, the truck built a loyal following the old-fashioned way: through word-of-mouth, late-night cravings, and unforgettable flavor. What began as a passion project soon became something more—a movement that brought authentic Mexican cuisine to the heart of North Iowa.
By 2016, that momentum led to the next chapter. Mr. Taco opened its first brick-and-mortar location inside Southbridge Mall, drawing crowds from day one and helping breathe new life into a space that needed energy and excitement.
But the story didn’t stop there.
With a vision for something bigger—and a belief in downtown Mason City’s future—the concept evolved once again. In July 2019, the business made the leap to the Federal Avenue Pedestrian Plaza, transforming into what is now The Happy Donkey Taco & Tequila Bar.
The name may have changed, but the heart of the business remained the same: authentic flavors, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to community.
Today, The Happy Donkey is more than a restaurant—it’s an experience. A place where tacos come with a side of festive hospitality, where tequila flows freely, and where friends gather to celebrate life, culture, and connection. Rooted in entrepreneurial spirit and built on bold flavors, The Happy Donkey continues to carry forward the legacy of Mr. Taco—one plate, one story, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
5 S. Federal Avenue
Mason City, IA 50401
(641) 530-2677
