Tastes of the 4-States: Mis Arcos Mexican Restaurant
For more than a decade, Mis Arcos has been a Carthage favorite—serving up family-inspired recipes, expanding its menu with new flavors, and welcoming guests like friends while celebrating the community that has embraced it.
Mis Arcos has been part of the Carthage, Missouri, food scene for almost 11 years. Owner Manny Maturino takes pride in what he has built, serving dishes inspired by his family's recipes and the traditions he grew up with. He is also a big supporter of the community and a familiar face to many, always welcoming quests as if they were friends.
Recently, Mis Arcos has added seating, updated restrooms and created a third bar. The menu is expanding as well. Soon, guests will see a marinated Spanish-style ribeye, fresh house salads and el pastor on the list.
During my visit, I tried two new items that are bound to become favorites: the birria tacos and the beef barbacoa tacos. With the new bar, there's also a drink menu. Mezcal lovers can choose from the Mezcalito or the Mezcal Anejo, each served in a way that highlights its unique characteristics. There are also fruity and fun options, such as the Blue Hawaiian Margarita and the Mango Strawberry Margarita. For groups, the margarita flight is a great option, with strawberry, tamarind hibiscus and mango flavors to share with friends.
Manny said customers had been asking for birria tacos to make their way onto the Mis Arcos menu, knowing how well he could make them. They are filled with tender meat that simmers for hours with spices, then paired with melted Pepper Jack cheese and tucked into tortillas dipped in a rich broth made with four kinds of peppers. At the table, the tacos are dipped again, giving each bite a mild yet complex flavor. The barbacoa tacos are simpler but just as good, with tender beef on a double stack of corn tortillas topped with onion, cilantro and a squeeze of lime that brings it all together.
If you haven't visited Mis Arcos before, here are a few recommendations that have been best sellers for years. The Chicken Milanesa, Pollo Primavera, and Angry Nachos are longtime favorites, and my personal pick is the Enchiladas Durango.
Catering has become an important part of Mis Arcos. From weddings to company parties, Manny and his team bring thesame food and hospitality that guests enjoy in the restaurant. It goes far beyond a taco bar, with full meals presented elegantly to make any gathering feel special.
Mis Arcos also knows how to celebrate with the community. For Carthage's Maple Leaf Festival, they'll set up a stage in their parking lot with live music. During football season, Chiefs fans will find plenty tocheer about with drink specials during games and discounts for anyone who shows up in their team gear. Their party room, already a popular choice for private events and holiday gatherings, is also the place to be for live music on Friday nights.
The community has shown its appreciation in return. Mis Arcos has received regional favorites awards for several years, a reflection of how much people enjoy both the food and the welcoming atmosphere Manny has created.
After more than a decade, Mis Arcos has become part of everyday life in Carthage. It is where people gather to celebrate, share a meal or simply enjoy their timetogether. With Manny's warm welcome and a menu that reflects what customers want, Mis Arcos has secured its place as a community favorite.
Mis Arcos • 1926 Garrison Ave., Carthage, MIssouri
Open Saturday-Thursday 11am-9pm & Friday 11am-9:30pm
