Salsa Mexican Grill — Restaurant in Gauteng

Dear Bedfordview - Salsa Mexican Grill

I am writing to express my deep dissatisfaction and concern regarding the recent behavior of a new manager at your restaurant. As a long-standing customer of nearly five years, I have always enjoyed my experience at your establishment, until now. Unfortunately, my most recent visit has left me extremely disappointed and compelled to bring this matter to your attention.

Upon arriving to collect my order, I was shocked to find that there was no designated area or signage indicating where customers should wait for order pickups. This lack of clarity resulted in a confusing and frustrating experience for me and other patrons. Previously, there had always been a designated spot for customers to wait, allowing for a smooth and organized process. It is baffling to me that this aspect of customer service, which was previously well-managed, has deteriorated under the supervision of the new manager.

Moreover, the behavior of this new manager was nothing short of appalling. Not only did he fail to address the absence of a waiting area, but he also displayed a complete disregard for basic respect and courtesy towards customers. His actions and remarks clearly showcased racist tendencies and a lack of empathy towards people in general. I found his behavior deeply offensive and unacceptable, and it is disheartening to witness such unprofessional conduct from a manager representing your establishment.

As a valued customer, I have always appreciated the quality of your food and the welcoming atmosphere of your restaurant. However, I cannot overlook these serious issues, which tarnish the reputation of your establishment and negatively impact the overall customer experience. I strongly believe that it is essential for you to address these concerns promptly and take appropriate actions to rectify the situation.

I request that you thoroughly investigate the matter and take immediate steps to ensure that all staff members, particularly the manager in question, are trained to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, respect, and inclusivity. It is imperative that your employees understand the importance of treating all customers equally, regardless of their background or ethnicity. Additionally, I kindly urge you to reinstate a designated waiting area for order pickups, as it greatly contributes to the smooth operation of your business and customer satisfaction.

Please know that I am sharing my experience not to damage your reputation, but rather to highlight the areas that require urgent attention and improvement. I believe in the potential for positive change and hope that you will take my concerns seriously. I sincerely hope that you address these issues promptly and restore the welcoming and inclusive environment that your restaurant once represented.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I trust that you will take appropriate action and work towards resolving these concerns. I look forward to seeing the necessary changes implemented and to continue enjoying the quality of your food and service...

I have been to Salsa a few times and the last two times the food has felt like it has been of a lower standard. So this review will be split into 2 parts. My initial visits and my two most recent visits.

My initial impressions. It is located in the main food court of Bedford Centre. It is reasonably busy most nights giving it a good atmosphere of music and conversation. The food that I had ordered was served within 10min of me ordering it. The menu is set out on a piece of paper and you tick the things that you want, that makes it nearly impossible for the wrong food to be given to you.

My recent visits. The past two times I have been there I have received poor waiters with sub par training. My food took nearly half an hour on both occasions (the one day I was one of 3 tables which is unacceptable). On the most recent occasion I was at a birthday party and there were quite a few underaged girls attending the party and the waiter asked if anyone wanted desserts and the one girl stated "No, because I am fat." the waiter proceed to look at her stomach and pinch it once to prove that she was not fat. I feel like that goes a bit too far.

The Nachos. Don't get me wrong. This is my favourite item on the menu but there is one fault. When they get served to you the top layer is nice and crispy, covered in cheese. The closer you get to the bottom the more soggy it gets. Now I know this is unavoidable due to the way food works when there is melted cheese and source on crispy chips. I suggest that they serve it in 2 courses but that would add complexity and cost...

When last did you eat at a Salsa Mexican Grill? It feels like forever, when we use to hang out there and just have some fun.

Thankfully the Salsa Mexican Grill Bedford Centre is still open. Haven't been here in years. The menu has changed, as expected. The drinks are still as good. Loved my Litchi and Mint Margarita. The food however, is ok, but not as great as before.

We ordered the Jalapeño bottle caps, the Chicken folded Quesadilla and the Los Nachos Tacos. Both were made with panko crusted chicken, and it was tasteless. There was just something missing in the coating of the chicken. Even my fold over. The top had the crusted chicken slightly dry. And the bottom half all the salsa, crema, jalapeño, tomato, onion etc. It felt like 2 different meals. They should rather chop up the chicken pieces and mix with the other ingredients and lay it on half of the Quesadilla, and then fold over so that there is flavour all around. The chips and the spices were yummy.

Service was good and we did speak to the manager about the chicken, as we added the table sauces to our food to give it a little boost. I just can't remember their names (sorry this is what happens when you don't post immediately)

BUT, I will always be a Salsa Fan and I will be back for some R&R... not the type you thinking of...