We decided to try something different since we were in Tampa and made reservations for 8:15 PM. When we arrived, the entrance was packed and there was no host or hostess in sight. Several couples were waiting. While standing there, we heard a woman tell another patron she did not have a reservation, yet when the manager came out to seat guests, he seated a large group and then that party of three before the rest of us who had reservations. Shortly after, he loudly announced, "Reservations first," which was confusing considering what we all had just witnessed.
When we were finally seated, we were initially placed at the worst table in the room by the kitchen and bathroom but were accommodated after requesting a move.
We then waited 10-15 minutes before the manager instructed Daniel to take care of us. Daniel ended up being the highlight of the evening--professional, apologetic, and attentive despite circumstances clearly outside of his control.
We ordered empanadas, only to find out the flavors we wanted were sold out. Daniel brought cheesesteak, four-cheese, and shredded beef instead. The cheesesteak had decent flavor but was dry. Overall, the empanadas were very doughy and the meat lacked moisture.
We then ordered the All Beef Parrillada. When it arrived, my wife checked the temperature and tasted a small piece. Immediately after, a server returned and said the dish wasn't ours and took it back. We watched her walk into the kitchen and then bring the same tray out to another table seated two tables away--who had been seated after us. That was extremely concerning.
To make matters worse, we were then informed that mashed potatoes were no longer available and needed to select another side--yet the table that received the dish we had touched was served mashed potatoes. We ended up with extra rice and spinach. The spinach was oily with no noticeable garlic, salt, or seasoning. The rice was plain white rice with peas and carrots and little flavor. The steak itself, however, was well-seasoned and prepared nicely.
During our visit, we also noticed another Black couple seated next us who waited at least 30 minutes without being greeted or even served water. They eventually left. Shortly after, the table was seated with white males who were greeted and attended to within 10 minutes. That observation was very difficult to ignore after talking to them.
Daniel did not charge us for the empanadas, spinach, or the sangria (which he made promptly so we wouldn't experience another long wait). The sangria was very good. His professionalism and sincere attitude were the only things that salvaged the evening.
Overall, the service inconsistencies, food execution, and handling of dishes--especially serving a plate that had already been touched--were disappointing and extremely concerning. We came for a different experience, but unfortunately left questioning whether we would return.
2 stars for steak taste and season and Daniel's effort. read more