El Mexicano Zapata Cantina — Restaurant in North Island

We were really looking forward to dinner considering the reviews on Google and it being rated #1 on another well known review site (!), but left feeling underwhelmed.

In line with other reviews it seems like they are short staffed. It was frustrating to see new tables being seated when we and others were still waiting for drinks orders to be taken. The staff on shift were all friendly and helpful but clearly rushed off their feet.

Next disappointment was no beer on tap, even though signs within the restaurant promoted it. We were told they don’t do beer on tap “any more”. Our first choice of bottled beer was out of stock too, which didn’t help!

The food was (mainly) the saving grace. Starters were delicious. The jalapeño poppers were the spiciest I think I’ve ever had, and El Dip was just fabulously cheesy. We did have an issue with mains - a piece of plastic which we assumed was a piece of wrapping from cheese or something - in one of the dishes. Staff quickly apologised and offered to re-make the dish. I was surprised no other service recovery, even token in nature. The other main was delicious though, Pastel de Elote. Portion sizes were generous, unless you’re incredibly hungry I’d suggest sharing a starter and main between two, or combinations thereof. To the teams credit I heard them warn another table of over ordering food which was a welcome touch.

Last orders for food and drink was called as we and others were halfway through mains. Maybe this is normal for NZ(?) but I’m sure it was a first for us.

Ambience is good, though it can feel a little cramped with the number of tables set out. It just meant a little extra navigation if needing to leave the table!

Overall, if it weren’t for the food, I’m not sure we would return necessarily. But clearly others have good experiences so perhaps we were the...

I just embarked on a culinary adventure at El Mexicano Zapata in Rotorua, and let me tell you, it was a wild ride (don't worry, no actual rides involved, just deliciousness).

Now, before we dive into the fiesta of flavors, let's address the elephant in the room (or rather, the gecko on the table): yes, things were a bit sticky. Usually it is a bit of a warning sign when the menu sticks to the table. But fear not, brave foodies, because the food here is enough to make you forget about any questionable surfaces!

We started with the beef tacos on soft shells - juicy, flavorful, and surprisingly healthy. They were like a warm hug from your abuela, wrapped in delicious tortilla blankets. But the main event, the star of the show, the Beyonce of burritos, was the chimichanga.

This beauty was a symphony of textures and taste. Picture this: a crispy shell that could withstand a mariachi dance party, stuffed with perfectly seasoned chicken that melted in your mouth, all bathed in a sauce so good it could make a cactus sing. Seriously, each bite was like a fiesta on your tongue!

Now, the only disclaimer: this culinary fiesta might leave your digestive system feeling a bit... lively. Like a baby volcano just learning to erupt. But hey, at least you'll be contributing to Rotorua's geothermal wonders, right? (Plus, it's a small price to pay for such deliciousness.)

So, is El Mexicano Zapata worth it? ¡Diablos, sí! Just maybe bring some hand sanitizer and an adventurous spirit. This cantina is a flavor fiesta you won't want to miss, sticky tables and all! (Unless you're allergic to fun and good food, then maybe stay home and eat iceberg lettuce. But who...

I am incredibly disappointed with my recent experience at Mexicano zapata gantina. My family and waited patiently for a table, and we were assured that we would be accommodated soon, and we had ordered togo meanwhile. However, even after the table were emptied we were denied and friends were there.

I cannot recommend this restaurant based on our experience. Hopefully, they improve their customer service for others in the future.

“I appreciate your response, but I feel I need to clarify. Our friends with a table of 4 were already there and we came in and there were no tables so we ordered to go. And requested your staff since we have friends here in case there will be a table of 2 we will accommodate and my kids are 4 years old only. She agreed to the request and we waited. A table of 2 got empty, nobody was waiting for that table there, so I sat there, and another staff I guess manager comes and denied the table, saying you are 4 we can not on my repeated request. That with our friends being there we will adjust. And we need it for just 20 mins as we had a tour to catch. And she denied 4 times. That’s when I said I will post a review. After few minutes when I had already posted it, she offered the table.

Additionally, at no point did I threaten your staff, which I find upsetting to read in your reply. Empty table in front of us with no one waiting was being denied. I am not sure how travelers on road trips can manage advance booking. Sometimes not being rigid and little accommodating helps! Good luck with your business....