A Cedar Rapids Farmers Market Favorite Will Not Be at This Year’s Events

After nearly two decades, a Cedar Rapids Farmers Market staple is calling it quits! But, don't worry - there's a good reason for it.

The Salsa Guy

Tim Palmer, better known as "The Salsa Guy," has been selling his delicious salsas, guacamole, dressings, and BBQ sauces at the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Markets for the past 19 years. His stand, which was typically located on 2nd Ave near the railroad tracks, has grown in popularity over the past two decades, thanks in part to his awesome breakfast burritos! The stand became so popular that Tim finally opened his very own restaurant in the summer of 2024: Salsa Guy Cafe.

Salsa Guy Cafe

Tim's restaurant is located at 2874 Mount Vernon Rd SE in Cedar Rapids, the former home of Sweet Basil's Pizza. It's a tiny building with just a few seats for customers dining in, but that hasn't stopped it from getting a ton of attention. In fact, Salsa Guy Cafe was even one of the finalists for the 2025 Best Burger in Iowa contest for "The Conquistador Burger!" It didn't end up winning, but being a finalist is still a huge honor.

READ MORE: The Winner of the 2025 Iowa’s Best Burger Contest Has Been Revealed

In addition to burgers, Salsa Guy Cafe also serves a number of different soups and sandwiches, including "The Alfalfa's Experience," which was inspired by the classic sandwich from Alfalfa's Deli, a long-gone Cedar Rapids restaurant. The offerings at Salsa Guy are always changing, so be sure to check out their Facebook page HERE for the latest specials.

The Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market

The very first Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market of 2025 is coming up on June 7th, and ahead of the season opener, Tim made a big announcement on the Salsa Guy Cafe Facebook page. He revealed that his stand will be absent from this year's markets. The post reads:

"The Salsa Guy (aka Salsa Guy Café) will not be vending at the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market this season. It was an amazing 19-year ride but there was just no way I could pull the trigger to make it 20."

A Second Salsa Guy Cafe

The reason for the departure is because Tim has another project in the works... a SECOND Salsa Guy Cafe location! He writes:

"Due to the overwhelming response and love you have shown us here at Salsa Guy Cafe, I have been actively pursuing a 2nd location for the café. A location perfectly suited for our concept with more parking, ample seating, a drive thru window and yes, an expanded menu along with beer, wine, sangria and of course, MARGARITAS!"

Tim goes on to say that he hasn't officially signed a lease yet, but that "it is a forgone conclusion." He expects to reveal the address of the new restaurant very soon! You can check the Facebook page for the latest updates.