Hmmm...this review is tough for me because I like what Memphis Mojo Cafe does, I just don't know if I was that enamored by it. It is one of those situations where the food was unique, prepared perfectly, but I am not sure that I really liked the flavors. Weird? I know; but it is what it is.
Food: I ordered the Smokehouse Burger and so did my brother. My wife had some sliders (but I do not remember which). We also had the tots, onion rings, and fries. The burger is definitely good. It is also definitely seasoned well; but almost too well. The flavors reminded me of 'jerk' seasoning, or Caribbean-styled flavors. I guess I am just not a fan of that. The candied bacon, caramelized onions, and the spicy aioli were all really nice; but at the end of the day, it isn't something I would order again. What I need to do is get back here and try something different to confirm my opinion; but now that I have relocated, I don't see myself ever coming back.
Though the components of my burger were nice, it overshadowed the natural flavor of the meat. I think the cheese may have been Gouda, and although that is decent, I think I would much rather a sharp cheddar or even American (I know, I know ... American, right?). My brother and I had the same sentiments abut the burger. It is one of those burgers that I may mix-in every few months just to have something different; but it is definitely not something I could eat on a regular basis. Lastly, it is important to note that with how unique their burgers are, the buns are extremely unspectacular. I like mine butter-toasted, soft, and with a little bit of texture. These were disappointing. Burger 4 / 5 (3 +1 for uniqueness)
Tots, Fries, Onion Rings: This really saddens me because they were cooked perfectly. They were perfectly seasoned, and perfectly crispy. The problem is, they were fried in old oil. What does old oil taste like? It leaves a little bit of a bitter aftertaste in your mouth. This is something I am very sensitive to, and it ruined the flavor of all of the aforementioned items. This saddens me. 2/5 (4 - 2 for bad oil)
Food: 3 / 5
Service: Despite the 'miss' on the food, the service was exceptional. The cook (maybe the owner) came out and asked everyone how their meal was. Not in a cheesy way like the managers at Red Lobster and other chain restaurants where they just do it because it is their job. This guy really gave a crap about what you thought. In addition, he said goodbye to us as we left. Lastly, and I almost forgot to mention, the girl who took our order was also really pleasant and nice -- way more so than the typical Memphis food service employee. In a city such as Memphis, the worst place on Earth for receiving good service from anywhere, this place was really a breath of fresh air.
Service: 5 / 5
Atmosphere: Maybe it was the welcoming and friendly service, or maybe it was the unique art on the walls; but this place had a great vibe to it. Additionally, it was immaculately clean, and I saw the cook wiping down counters and such in between orders. Loved seeing that
Atmosphere: 5 / 5
Price: For what I got, I don't think I got a great value. In fact, it may have been a little bit below average. Do they use high quality products? I would say yes, but the end products didn't justify the cost for me.
Price: 2 / 5
Final Thoughts: Memphis Mojo Cafe is a place I like because they provide excellent service and a friendly atmosphere that you cannot find at many places in Memphis. For that reason alone, I would return and try something else if I were ever to return to the area. Unfortunately, I really was disappointed with the food, but mostly with the fried items. read more