Welcome to Flame Cantina
At Flame Cantina, the vibrant spirit of Mexican cuisine shines brightly. Nestled in Ankeny, Iowa, this culinary gem invites you to indulge in authentic flavors crafted with care. Their signature dishes, such as the mouthwatering Enchiladas Rojas and the rich, slow-braised Birria Tacos, are a testament to their dedication to quality and freshness. Diners rave about the warm, inviting atmosphere and exceptional service, making every visit feel special. The blend of classic recipes and creative interpretations, like Not Your Mama's Mac & Cheese, ensures there's something for everyone. Flame Cantina is more than a restaurant; it's a celebration of culture and community.
- 1315 SW Oralabor Rd, Ankeny, IA 50023, United States Hotline: +1 515-963-7719
Welcome to Flame Cantina, a vibrant gem nestled in the heart of Ankeny, Iowa. Located at 1315 SW Oralabor Rd, this culinary oasis serves up an impressive array of authentic Mexican dishes that not only tantalize the taste buds but also embrace the rich traditions of South-of-the-Border cuisine.
The moment you step inside Flame Cantina, you’re met with an inviting atmosphere, thanks to the friendly staff and cozy interior—perfect for a casual dining experience or a vibrant gathering. The restaurant prides itself on its commitment to quality, using fresh ingredients to craft dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re craving something classic or adventurous, the menu is sure to excite every palate.
- Street Eats: For those looking for a quick bite, the street tacos are a must-try. Choose from a variety of meats, all served with fresh cilantro, onions, lime, and a choice of Flame salsa. The tacos are not just delicious; they exude authenticity with each bite.
- Specialty Items: For a twist on comfort food, try the Not Your Mama's Mac & Cheese, a delectable fusion of macaroni, bell peppers, and a rich queso sauce topped with a generous layer of cheese. Or indulge in the Enchiladas Blancas, filled with succulent chicken or birria and topped with warm queso. Patrons rave about the birria tacos, known for their rich, slow-braised flavor and perfect dipping broth.
- Salads: Don’t miss out on the Avocado Chopped Salad. This gluten-free option offers a refreshing mix of greens, roasted corn, and a creamy chipotle dressing that elevates traditional salad fare.
Customer reviews speak volumes about the quality and consistency at Flame Cantina. Diners like Shannon P. have praised the restaurant’s to-go orders for being hot and ready, while others have highlighted the warm, welcoming vibe and exceptional service. From the birria enchiladas to the mango margaritas, each dish has a special touch that keeps guests coming back for more.
If you’re looking for a lively spot to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, Flame Cantina should be at the top of your list. The combination of fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a standout choice in Ankeny. Whether you're dining in or catching their food truck, Flame Cantina never disappoints. So gather your friends, come hungry, and prepare for a flavorful journey like no other!

I love Flame Cantina! Tonight I ordered the birria enchiladas/cilantro rice/pinto beans w/warm corn tortillas to-go, and everything was delicious! My order was hot and ready on time. Shout out to the hard working ladies in the kitchen Be well!

Had lunch here on Tuesday about 11ish. Great decision! My better half and I loved the lunch. Our server, she was awesome and the food and drinks were

Flame was a delicious stop! The service was great & the food was fresh. I also thought the restaurant was very clean & had a great vibe. Don’t miss out on the street corn!

I don't often eat Mexican but I have to say my husband and I were very impressed with this restaurant. We had homemade tortillas with pico and queso. The best I have ever had. I could have eaten these all night. As I don't eat Mexican, I had the cowboy burger which was surprisingly delicious. I leapt across and tried out some of my husband's enchilada, beans and rice and loved the flavors. If you like flavors from South of the border or are a little adventurous, this is a must try. The restaurant is warm and cozy. The staff is friendly and there is plenty of parking. It is busy so come early if you are like me and prefer a booth

Great experience with my first visit this past weekend. Staff was super friendly and helpful with suggestions. Really enjoyed the food, not huge portions as compared to the prices, but very high quality. We'll be back!

Birria Tacos and Mango Margaritas were delicious! Went on a Friday night with a larger group and got seated quickly and our server was awesome!

Amazing everything. I loved the mango shrimp tacos and my boyfriend loved the cowboy burger. I also tried a new drink they added that day and it was really good. The drink had tequila in it and it tasted like citrus; mind you we both don't care for tequila (him especially) and we couldn't taste it.

Flame Cantina is absolutely incredible! From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly service. The food is next level—fresh, flavorful, and made with care. The birria tacos are a must-try, packed with rich, slow-braised beef and served with the perfect dipping broth. The chips and salsa are made fresh, and the queso is fire! Whether you’re dining in or catching their food truck around town, Flame Cantina never disappoints. This is easily one of the best spots for tacos in Ankeny—highly recommend!