
$Johnston
Mexican
Down-to-earth Mexican joint with a large menu, including combo plates, lunch specials & margaritas.
5825 Merle Hay Rd, Johnston, IA 50131, USA

More nearby: Johnston restaurants and things to do, Restaurants in Johnston
Listing last updated September 30, 2026
We don't have hours for this place yet. Call ahead before you go.
on Google
Written March 25, 2026
Flame The Taqueria: Johnston's Bold Answer to Authentic Mexican Street Food
If you're searching for the best Mexican food near Des Moines, Flame The Taqueria on Merle Hay Road in Johnston is exactly the kind of neighborhood gem worth knowing about. Tucked at 5765 Merle Hay Rd, this vibrant taqueria brings the energy and soul of authentic Mexican street food to the north Des Moines metro with flavors that are anything but ordinary.
From the moment you step inside, the menu tells a story of passion and craft. Signature dishes like Birria Tacos, Mango Shrimp Tacos, and Birria Enchiladas Rojas have earned Flame a loyal following among Johnston and Des Moines diners who crave something genuinely bold. Seasonal specials, like their beer-battered Alaska cod taco with jalapeño cilantro lime tartar sauce and pickled red onions, prove the kitchen isn't afraid to get creative while staying rooted in authentic Mexican tradition. Wash it all down with a classic Jarritos and finish with fresh churros for the full experience.
Flame The Taqueria is designed for every kind of visit — whether you're dining in with family, grabbing takeout on a weeknight, or ordering delivery straight to your door. Located along one of Johnston's most accessible corridors, the restaurant is easy to reach from anywhere in the greater Des Moines area with convenient parking and welcoming hours seven days a week. Planning a larger gathering? Their full-service catering and popular food truck bring those same bold flavors directly to your event.
With glowing reviews, a rewarding loyalty program, and a menu that keeps locals coming back, Flame The Taqueria has firmly established itself as one
Flame The Taqueria is a local Mexican restaurant located in Johnston, strategically serving the greater Des Moines metropolitan area. Situated conveniently on Merle Hay Road, the restaurant offers authentic Mexican cuisine at budget-friendly prices for local residents and visitors.
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Sign in to reviewAnswered from the details on this page for Flame The Taqueria in Johnston, Iowa.
Flame The Taqueria is listed as a Mexican restaurant in Johnston, Iowa.
Google lists Flame The Taqueria at $ on its one-to-four-dollar-sign scale.
Flame The Taqueria is at 5765 Merle Hay Rd, Johnston, IA 50131, USA. The map on this page shows the spot.
(515) 723-8934.
Yes. The Menu section on this page has the menu we captured from their site, with the date we captured it. Their own menu is at https://flametaqueriadsm.com/menu.
Google rating 4.7 of 5.
Mexican places first, then the rest, closest first. Straight-line distance.

$Johnston
Mexican
Down-to-earth Mexican joint with a large menu, including combo plates, lunch specials & margaritas.
5825 Merle Hay Rd, Johnston, IA 50131, USA

$
Mexican
Counter-serve Mexican joint serving burritos with custom toppings, plus quesadillas & nachos.
5340 Merle Hay Rd, Johnston, IA 50131, USA
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Italian
5775 Merle Hay Rd, Johnston, IA 50131, USA
$
Steakhouse
Relaxed white-cloth spot with classic & updated American fare plus a long wine list & a full bar.
5810 Merle Hay Rd, Johnston, IA 50131, USA
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