Fiesta Jalapenos — Restaurant in Ankeny

Saw several other reviews out there already for Fiesta Jalapeños in Ankeny so decided to stop by tonight for dinner. We could definitely tell that it was new, as it still had that new, clean look and feel. It was a bit crowded due to a couple of large parties there but we were still able to be seated right away.

First up was the chips and salsa. Now, I’m not a salsa eater typically, but I did like this salsa. It was not very cilantro-y and had the tiniest bit of spice.

After that we ordered the Queso Fundido appetizer (melted cheese with chorizo). It was pretty good, nothing special. I think that next time we’re just going to try the queso on its own to better compare it to other places.

For meals I had the Chori Pollo and the mister had the Seafood Enchiladas. Both were pretty good! Nice and hot and fresh. I thought that the Chori Pollo had good flavor but could have used more queso or sauce as it was a bit dry on its own. I did appreciate that I could get black beans instead of fried beans and I really like how hot (temperature) the flour tortillas came out. Mister said that his was tasty and had a little kick. However, the tortilla had a strange flavor to it (maybe a soft corn tortilla?). He really liked the rice too and said that it was nice to get rice with some actual flavor to it.

All in all, it was an enjoyable experience. The restaurant itself was really nice. All the staff was very friendly and personable. We’ll be back to...

4.4* (out of 5) Food: 4* Atmosphere: 5* Value: 5* Service: 4* Would I go back / Recommend?: 4* (Probably) Total check/person: $16

06/02/2024 We had heard of Fiesta Jalapeno's before, but actually ended up here a little by accident today, as we planned lunch at the Best Burger in Iowa restaurant next door, but it was inexplicably closed for the day. The weather was great and the patio looked inviting so we optioned for Mexican instead.

The menu options were good and our group ended up sampling quite a few of them as the pictures will show. You will see pictures for each of the following below: Carnitas Tacos, Lobster Relleno, Spicy Grilled Burrito, Burrito Bowl Grilled Chicken & Steak, Chimichangas Supremas, Lobster Chimichanga and Chips & Salsa.

We found all of the food to be solid and above average with the exception of the chips, which weren't my favorite. While not having any alcoholic drinks contributed, the value is quite good...as we only spent $16 per person before the tip. I loved the lively, open atmosphere and would likely return if in the area again in the future.

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When we first moved nearby, this was our FAVORITE Mexican spot. Quality was always top notch. However, it’s definitely gone downhill over the last several months. Our go to were the street tacos-meat was overflowing, two perfect tortillas, great salsa. Now, meat is pretty sparse, only one tortilla, and they changed the salsa. They are still good, don’t get me wrong that’s why we have kept ordering-but the last four times we have ordered online, they don’t give us the side of beans we pay for. We kept saying it was probably just a one time error and in a pinch we would order from them again, but this fourth time really sent me over the edge. I tried calling the restaurant five different times and no one ever answered, I couldn’t even leave a voicemail. I was hoping to ask if they have stopped serving as a side (although it’s an option online just to give benefit of the doubt) and to let them know about our experience so they could be aware of what’s happening. But since I can’t get in touch with someone and don’t want to take time out of my day to drive there, we’re just going to resume ordering from another...