Leña y Carbon restaurante — Restaurant in Cartagena

This was our second visit to this restaurant. We returned because my wife really enjoyed the pechuga (chicken) dish during our first visit. Unfortunately, the food quality wasn't consistent this time - it was merely average. However, the service was the biggest disappointment.

Our server, an older gentleman with some gray in his hair and glasses, was notably cold and unfriendly. I tried multiple times to get his attention while he was standing directly in front of our table. He appeared to ignore me despite my raised hand and attempts to call him over. Eventually, another server had to assist us instead.

The black hostess at the front entrance was equally problematic. We noticed she checked on neighboring tables with white customers to ask how their experience was, but completely skipped our table when making her rounds.

We were visiting from Barranquilla, and while the live music was enjoyable (there was even a famous guest performer that night), the poor service overshadowed any positives. With so many other establishments offering great food AND better service, we won't...

Waiters can be a little cold, and be careful cause they add an automatic 10% tips on the bill. one of them even took the receipt with him, just so we wouldn’t notice the service included.. too bad, we had just enough time to see it on the bill. However, we were nice enough to add a little more tips on top of the gratuity, cause living in the United States, we feel 10 % for the hard work they do isn’t enough.. But beside that, a lovely experience. Food is great for the price. We came two nights in a raw and I tried the ribeye and filet mignon, both excellent quality, like in a authentic French bistro. Cocktails and wine, great too. The LIVE BAND playing tropical music on both nights was a charming addition to the experience! Please, don’t forget to leave them a little tip too, as we saw many customers leaving the restaurant without tipping, just ignoring them on their way out : shame on these...

Upon arriving, we were greeted and sat down promptly. Our server, Leonor, asked where we were from and brought over an American and a Cuban flag. Such a thoughtful touch! The owner even came up to the table to chat with us and ask how everything was. I had the churrasco and my fiancé had the asado de tira. The steaks are quality cuts of meat and the portions are do not disappoint. Our sides were the plátano maduro and salad which were very good too. Everything was fresh and hot upon arriving at the table. Service was fast; yet not rushed. I was amazed at how fast the entrees came out and the speed did not affect the flavor whatsoever! Margaritas are great too. Their service with a smile is appreciated and the attention to detail was fantastic. And as for the live music, it was not too loud. Very pleasant. Overall, if definitely be back on my next trip and highly recommend...