Cartel Taqueria - Qbn — Restaurant in Queanbeyan East

This was a great experience although I wish I could rate 4.5 stars because I think there are a few things they could improve that I will mention at the end.

Ultimately, I already can't wait to go back and try more things. It was a 20/30 minute wait for a table and then maybe another 20/30 for food to arrive. The food and drinks are quite expensive but I would say it's definitely worth it. The aesthetic of the venue and the general area is so nice!

When my group first arrived we were confused by the line to order and where we wait to get seated. I know there is one printed out page explaining to join the line on the other side but I didn't see this immediately and when we went to the other side there was no one waiting and no line so we just went up to a random server who said she would take our name for the table. I personally really wanted to sit outside on the picnic rugs but we were originally given a table inside, I asked if there were other tables involved and she said we could sit at a free table outside after she had cleaned it, which she did very quickly. So this was all great and handled well, but ideally it would have been great if we had been asked when she first wrote our names down if we had any preferences for the table. Also, when I lined up for drinks I couldn't see a menu displayed and had a quick look but I couldn't see a pile of them around either so I wasn't able to decide what to order until I got to the front of the cue and asked then. Final quick thing, I went on quite a hot day, so this might not be relevant typically, but for some reason the people at the front of the order line were stopping just after reaching inside the building so the cast majority of the line was spent outside. This didn't bother me too much even though I did hear comments about the heat, but when I reached the front of the line I was confused why there was so much inside space and people were just choosing to start the line so far back. I understand that this was probably so people could access the bar area more easily but if, even on hot days, the line could be better sheltered (or potentially an outdoor fan) that would be amazing.

Also I understand this isn't necessarily your domain it would be awesome to see some more disability parking(even one more...

A Disheartening Shift at The Cartel Taqueria Mexican Restaurant The Cartel Taqueria Mexican Restaurant has long been a special place for me as one of my favourite destinations for authentic Mexican cuisine. Full of anticipation, I recently returned with friends, eager to relive the vibrant dining experiences of the past. The food, I’m thrilled to report, lived up to our expectations; each dish paying a passionate homage to Mexico’s rich culinary heritage. Yet, amidst the culinary triumphs, our experience was tainted by a palpable shadow—the service. From the moment we walked through the door, an uncomfortable tension hung in the air like a thick fog. The staff appeared impatient and overwhelmed, with plates clattering and dishes being unceremoniously dropped, shattering the warm and inviting atmosphere I once cherished at this bustling eatery. The demeanour of the employees was also disheartening. Instead of the usual friendliness, they seemed defensive and disengaged, leaving my friends and I feeling more like intruders than guests. It was tragic to witness the lively ambiance I once adored morph into a hurried, unwelcoming rush, especially given the limited seating and tight time constraints placed on diners. Adding to this, I was alarmed by the lack of hygiene practices on display. I watched in disbelief as staff emptied leftover food from plates into a bin within the dining area, retrieving dishes that had fallen in and then without a second thought to wash their hands before serving. The noise of clattering plates and the sight of food languishing on the floor were not just concerning; they were blatant displays of poor restaurant hygiene. While The Cartel Taqueria still dazzles with its mouth-watering cuisine, the joyful Mexican vibe that used to envelop each dining experience has sadly faded away. If you’re seeking remarkable food, you will undoubtedly find it here. However, be prepared for a service experience that may leave you feeling less than satisfied. I can only hope that management takes notice of these issues and works to revive the joyful essence that once made this restaurant a delightful and...

I would give ' 0 ' for the poor customer service. We came back without eating at this restaurant. I went three times to let the owner know prior to Sunday, that I will bring 30 people on Sunday (elderly disabled and kids as well). She said 'come around 5 pm, we will set up a table outside' . When we went there, there was no table for us. She asked us to wait in the queue. We left without foods after 45 minutes wait. I found the owner is quite rude with very poor customer service. If they don't take a booking , at least show some respect to a person who came 3 times to inform so that there will be no wait time especially for elderly and disabled! Very disappointed.

In response to owner' s comment: If we were So Much after a discount, we wouldn't have come there anyway after not getting a discount. Your response in itself shows the way you treat people let alone customers. The moment we walked in we found we are not welcome here being old, disabled and coloured people.  Many good restaurants offer  discount, so that was  just an  enquiry made about it. If you have a No booking Policy then why you told me prior to our visit that, come at 5 pm on Sunday, and you  will keep a table for us! Your reputations will be ruined soon with your attitude. Your unprofessional, discriminatory  behaviour will not take you anywhere further. This is  clearly highlighted  all in your response. Who would like to come to your restaurant anyway with such an egoistic behaviour. I can't believe such people are running a restaurant. How dare you say' I will remember you-' ...