We'd initially tried to go to Outback just across the street, but the wait time here was WAY less than 2 hours on a Saturday evening. It was busy, but they kept up pretty well. We waited about 10 minutes before being seated.
Drink orders were promptly taken, and complimentary chips, salsa AND bean dip were placed on our table. That was a pleasant surprise- I don't recall bean dip ever being included without charge & it was very good! Much appreciated we got a bowl of each, at each end of the table for a party of 6. ...only, the containers the salsa & bean dip were served in looked like they came straight from the Fry's Marketplace shelf. Totally obvious it wasn't fresh or made in house.
I'm glad I stuck with water because the margarita one ordered was basically an icee with a pinch of margarita mix. And the cocktail the birthday girl ordered, she sent back because it was overly sweet- said it was literally drinking straight blue curaçao (I tasted it & entirely agree- a child would have loved it but no good for a $14 cocktail!). Water was a "hit" for me.
The mini chimi appetizer was good. So were the mini street tacos one of the kids ordered. Birthday girl & her partner loved the chicken fajitas. I opted for my favorite- the chili relleno & sour cream chicken enchilada combo. The chili relleno was pretty good, better than I've had prior. Just, generally lacking in flavor, which is always the case. The chicken enchilada had a bit more flavor, but the side of rice & beans was nothing special. Both a bland filler to round it out.
The downfall- both of us that had a chicken enchilada (myself & one of the kids) included in our meal ended up with an upset stomach a few hours later. Found that a bit coincidental it wasn't just one of us. Luckily it wasn't full blown food poisoning but we do think the chicken used in the enchiladas was either bad or tainted.
Overall the restaurant is very spacious & nicely decorated. The staff was great & attentive. It took a while to get our main dishes but that's understandable for how busy it was on a Saturday & I think the staff did a great job at keeping up. Just seems like the bar & kitchen were the ones overwhelmed so it didn't pan out the best as far as food & beverage.
I'd say that MAYBE I'd give it another chance, just not very eager after feeling quite ill before bed last night (and this was the only thing consumed). Alcoholic beverages aren't something I'd order after the disappointing ones the rest of my party tried. And, chicken enchiladas aren't going to be the first choice with my palate for a while. But I will mention for the rate most places are hiking their prices- this was not bad at all for what we ordered. Very reasonable & less than $15 for a full entree. The complimentary chips, salsa & bean dip do make it worth it, regardless if they came via bulk order in cheap containers- still good!
I don't live in the vicinity where this restaurant is located so I can't say I'd go out of my way to visit again. But, if I do happen to be in the area again, it's a maybe. read more