This review is for Costa Vida. No idea why it is listed simply as Royal Oak as that is not what was originally entered for this new business.
I have seen huge line ups here on the long weekend and wondered what all the fuss was about! Well, it is a new NW Restaurant (whoohoo!) and it is Mexican!
It boasts itself as a 'Fresh Mexican Grill'.
Is it like Mucho Burrito? Yep! Just with more seating. And not as friendly.
Came in at 3pm on a weekday. Not busy. Staff were just kind of standing around which is not acceptable really as I could see as I went along here so many things my staff would be doing if this were my place. IE almost no forks in the self serve area, the bin for cilantro for topping selections was out which bummed me out as I love it! The tables needed to be wiped down, floors, that kind of thing.
There are daily specials which I liked and so I got the Tues special - 2 sweet pork enchiladas. Extra of course for guac but for sour cream too? C'mon!!!! Gouge!
There are the usual tacos, salads, enchiladas and a whole bunch of sides. I was disappointed that there were no specialty drinks at all, only pop to choose from.
The hottest enchilada sauce (red) is NOT at all hot but there is Tobasco right around the corner to help yourself to.
The only thing served warm on my plate were the black beans, unfortunately. And they needed seasoning.
You can tell they try to cut costs as they are stingy with absolutely everything they put on the plate. I asked for a wedge of lime and staff had to ask someone else there behind the counter if I could have one!?
My meal with drink was $9. Check out the Specials to save cash for sure. The guy ahead of me ordered a nice looking salad which I would consider for next time. This time, I went for my fave Mexican dish though. It was just ok, nothing special about it but I did like the whole wheat tortilla option.
I would not make a special trip here if you live across town or if there is a huge line I would say skip it.
Mucho Burrito has warmer food that will fill you up more for the same price and the ingredients are just as fresh. And their sour cream is included there. read more