I absolutely love Mexican food! I was told by my neighbors and several colleagues that the Monte De Rey restaurant near Tanglewood Park was fabulous. It was late on a Tuesday evening, and I did arrive around 9:20pm. I knew that I wanted something quick and simple, so I didn't feel that guilty that the restaurant closes at 10pm. I should have realized that there was a problem when I arrived. The parking lot was empty of cars and also had a lot of trash lying about in the parking spaces near the door. Unfortunately, I decided to go inside. I was greeted with an icy stare. I asked if I could be seated. I was begrudgingly escorted to a table. I did order a simple dinner of 2 tacos with rice and beans. I also ordered one cockktail, which was on special that evening. I was brought a basket of warm chips and salsa to eat while I waited for my food. The chips and salsa were delicious! Some of the freshest tasting, crispy chips I have had in some time. The salsa was also fresh and tangy. After a very short while, my food arrived. Again, the food was delicious. The tacos were flavorful, with crispy shells and the rice and beans were also great. I ate quickly, as I knew that they would soon be closing. The manager on duty that night turned all of the lights off and locked the restaurant doors at 9:44pm. I was surprised because the sign posted outside stated that they were open until 10pm. Okay. No problem for me- I am actually finished with this great meal. I was quite full from eating one taco and the rice and beans. I asked the waitress for a takeout box. The manager on duty suddenly appeared and informed me that I could not take the chips and salsa home. I was stunned. I have never had this happen to me in ANY MEXICAN RESTAURANT or any sort of restaurant. I had never during the meal asked for a refill of these chips and salsa. These were merely the ones brought to my table for me to enjoy while I was waiting for my meal to arrive. They were quite good, and I saw no reason to have them thrown away. I muttered, "Uh... okay???..." I did wonder why I was not allowed to take them home. I was "allowed" to take home my other unfinished taco, however. Puzzling, indeed. Good sense and sanitary measures would dictate that the aforementioned basket of chips and salsa would simply be thrown in the trash after I paid my bill and left. Hmmm. Maybe not. Perhaps they are to be saved and served to tomorrow's lunch crowd. The reason that I was treated in such a way is unfathomable and really just inexcusable. Despite the great food, I will NEVER be back. I will be sure to relay the "chips and salsa" policy for dine-in guests to all of my colleagues and friends. Mi Pueblo has so much more courtesy and good manners. read more