What should I order at El Azteca?
El Azteca
Fajitas
Most frequently praised dish in the reviews; called the most delicious, very juicy, and specifically recommended as pork fajitas.
Chips and salsa
Repeatedly mentioned as a great starter, with reviewers praising the homemade/complimentary chips and the good, mild salsa.
Queso
Frequently recommended alongside the chips, described as tasty and a favorite item, though one review noted it was a bit runny.
Pork tacos
Highlighted as especially delicious and singled out as the best pork tacos one reviewer had found.
Burrito deluxe
Praised for having great flavor and spice, with both the chicken and beef burritos in the combo described as amazing.
Mushroom quesadilla
Specifically mentioned as delicious and recommended by a reviewer who ordered it with a non-alcoholic drink.
Fried ice cream
Called fantastic in one review, making it a notable dessert recommendation.
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
About El Azteca
El Azteca is a Mexican restaurant in Ames, Iowa, known for Tex-Mex dishes, fast service, and a casual, cozy, trendy atmosphere. Reviewers consistently praise the fajitas, pollo al chipotle, chimichangas, chips and salsa, and margaritas, along with the friendly, attentive staff. The restaurant is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, and reviewers often mention generous portions and strong value in the $10 to $20 price range.
Amenities & services
From the business
- Identifies as Latino-owned
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Sports
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Payments
- Checks
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is El Azteca known for?
El Azteca is best known for its fajitas, especially the fajitas package and pork fajitas, which reviewers call juicy, delicious, and a standout Tex-Mex specialty. People also frequently mention the fast service and complimentary chips and salsa that arrive quickly after seating.
What dishes are most recommended at El Azteca?
Reviewers most often recommend the fajitas package, pollo al chipotle, chimichangas, and pork tacos, with the burrito deluxe and mushroom quesadilla also getting specific praise. Chips and salsa, queso, and fried ice cream are recurring favorites for starters and dessert.
What is the atmosphere like at El Azteca?
The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, with lots of TVs for watching sports and a setting that works well for groups, families, and solo diners. Reviewers mention it as a comfortable place for weekend outings, game nights, and birthday meals with larger parties.
Is El Azteca a good value, and what is the price range?
Yes, reviewers repeatedly call it cheap, good value, and worth the wait, and the listed price range is $10 to $20. Portions are described as massive, and several reviews say the food quality, service, and lunch specials make the price feel especially fair.
How long is the wait at El Azteca during busy times?
On busy Friday and Saturday nights, reviewers report waits of about 10 to 20 minutes, often with a take-a-number system. Even then, guests say the line moves quickly and the food comes out fast once seated.
Is parking available at El Azteca?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does El Azteca have vegetarian options?
Yes, El Azteca offers vegetarian options.
Is El Azteca kid-friendly?
Yes, El Azteca is good for kids.
Restaurants like El Azteca in Ames
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