The name and the look of the place both suggest that this is a barbecue joint. It is, but the menu is primarily Cuban, with enough Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes that those looking for any variety of taco will be satisfied. So will those whose palate finds more to like when the price is low.
The Country Flame opened in the late 1980s looking like a back-door operation of Mena's Palace, which was adjacent in those days. (It wasn't.) It got a lot of its trade from Mena's overflow, and those looking for a plate of barbecue ribs. As Cuban and interior Mexican food became more popular, the Country Flame found more adherents for that side of its menu, which dominates the action now.
Those who insist that Latin American food can't possibly be authentic or good unless it's served in a worn-out old place with mismatched silverware and marginal tidiness will love this cramped little spot.
Avoid arriving at noon, when the tables can fill up.
| Attitude | 0 |
|---|---|
| Environment | 0 |
| Hipness | 0 |
| Local Color | 1 |
| Service | 0 |
| Value | 2 |
| Wine | 0 |
