Lila Molino + Cafe — Restaurant in Dubai

I had high hopes for this restaurant, but unfortunately, the experience was disappointing.

Food: The quality was very average, and my order was incorrect. I specifically requested sunny-side-up eggs with runny yolks, but I received one completely overcooked, two at a medium level, and for some reason, there were three eggs instead of two. It seemed like they realized one was overcooked and tried to cover it up by stacking the others on top, which was a poor decision. Drinks: We ordered a cold brew café de olla, and it was not enjoyable at all. The flavor was overwhelmingly strong and unbalanced. Worse, both my boyfriend and I experienced stomach issues immediately after drinking it. I had to rush to the restroom first, and shortly after, he did too. He’s still feeling unwell. We ended up leaving both drinks almost untouched on the table, and not a single staff member asked if something was wrong or why we hadn’t finished them. It was very obvious that we didn’t enjoy them, yet no one seemed to care. Service: The service was far from welcoming. Our server seemed uninterested and uncomfortable, rushing through our order without really listening. When we asked for something extra—like sugar—his attitude made it clear that he was annoyed.

Overall, the experience was not good, and I wouldn’t recommend this place based on the poor food quality, lack of attention to detail, and...

TL, DR: Good food doesn't beat good service. And acknowledge the problem instead of getting defensive.

We came in for breakfast around 12 and were struggling because of the heat. We asked if there's a problem with the AC or if it was just us. After 15 minutes - we realized it wasn't us and there was a problem with the Fresh Air unit which they then started to fix.

Eventually a senior manager/co-owner came up and asked how we were doing. We said that it was hot and maybe you should be upfront to guests that the AC is struggling. He proceeded to: Say it was 25 degrees and that's acceptable Say I didn't "look" like I was sweating so it was fine

I will say my breakfast tacos were great but my companion could barely eat the food because of the heat.

Also do note, that if you come in before 1 pm, you will have to pay full price for valet which was extremely overpriced - but that's on Al Serkal's policy.

So if you're ok with being mansplained that you aren't sweating and it's not too hot - maybe give them another shot.

Final thought - I know this is a much loved homegrown restaurant (the Jumeirah branch is lovely) but maybe lose some arrogance and treat a...

Lila Molino and company serve some freaking good Mexican dishes. The restaurant area is upstairs with an industrial modern decor, sitting about eighty. Lila Molino also doubles as a coffee roastery, café, and concept store selling handpicked Mexican crafts, local farm produce, homemade tortillas, chips, and salsa. The authentic menu offers breakfast until 1 pm on weekdays and 5 pm on weekends. The menu stars include slow-roasted goat barbacoa, tamales of chicken, and a smokey eggplant sandwich. The tamales of chicken with green salsa (AED 40) were tasty and flavorful, and the salsa was perfectly complementary to the corn chicken patty. The serving size could be larger, but it is, without a doubt, highly recommended. The French toast is indulgent with a caramelized top and thick and soft brioche covered in fruits. Drink-wise, the cold-brewed rose white iced tea (AED) was fresh and 100% natural. The service is efficient but casual, giving you the sense of a community hangout. Lastly, the music is fun and energetic, playing Spanish tunes. Until further notice, Liila Molina is my favorite spot in Dubai for authentic Mexican eats in a casual, inviting,...