El Centinela Mexican Restaurant — Restaurant in Braselton

Hello everyone!!! We just finished a 3 mile at Cherokee Bluffs... a must do for all. Nice trail and the grounds very well maintained. Now let's get to this eatery!! We truly enjoy coming here to dine . This time was the first of dining outside when the heavens decided to open up, with no weather indication of rain in the forecast. The meal was delish as always. Must get the pobolano pepper for an appetizer very DELICIOUS!! Upon arrival we did inquire and requested server Julio. To our disappointment he was on break. He is very friendly and very attentive to his patrons. Right down to making sure you have adequate napkins, chips and salsa. We had ordered the shrimps tacos in the past very delicious. Julio again very good at what he does insisted that we do the shrimp tacos topped with avocado slices. Very very good. The presentation of the tacos was perfect! However, this time it wasn't like the first time. I do not know why it wasn't. Side note, we have been here about 2 hours enjoying our time outside and conversation. Had to go inside to pay our bill. The cashier was very rude, disrespectful and nonprofessional on all levels. Again inquired about Julio, he is still on break.. 2 hours later. What does this say 🤔 I think 🤔 😕 when we ask for Julio and if we are told that he is on break.. we will leave. He is very attentive to his patrons which speaks volumes of him. We don't have to asked for napkins, chips and salsa or to go boxes nor chase down our tab. JULIO. .. THANK YOU!! CHEERS 🍻

A side note...

We do know when Julio works and when he is off. I will say, next time we inquire about if Julio is on shift and we are told he is on break... regrettably not to any fault of Juilo, we will not be back The food is delish, not taking away from that. DO NOT APPRECIATE being lied to nor being deceived. Service only received a 2$ tip when they should have received a 13$ tip. Was very...

My family has been coming to this restaurant for over 15 years. We’ve made countless memories here and always enjoyed the food and service—until now.

For the first time, our waiter was Julio, and unfortunately, he set the tone for one of the worst experiences we've ever had. He didn’t greet us, never smiled, and didn’t even tell us his name—we had to ask at the end just to write this review. Only 3 minutes after placing our order, I tried to ask for a small change (chicken instead of steak tacos), and without any apology or consideration, he bluntly said it was too late. No attempt to check with the kitchen or even acknowledge the request kindly. Later, when I was telling him how many to-go boxes we needed, he literally walked away while I was still talking.

Even the complimentary chips, which are usually a highlight, were undercooked and chewy—not crisp or fresh.

The drinks were no better. The Jamaica was the worst we've ever had—it tasted like they added raw honey or some kind of strange sweetener. My husband said it might have even been made from a powdered mix. Either way, it was undrinkable.

As for the food—zero out of ten. Not a single person at our table of 7 enjoyed their meal. The $18 steak was overcooked and flavorless. The $13 cóctel de camarón tasted like Fanta with a few shrimp floating in it. The $15.50 tacos were ice cold. The $34.50 parrillada for two was dry and burnt. And the enchiladas suizas just tasted... off. It’s clear something has changed in the kitchen—definitely not the same quality we once knew and loved.

We’re so sad and disappointed. This place used to be special to us, but after this experience, we won’t be...

WOW JUST WOW! What can I say but great things about my experience today at El Centinela Mexican Restaurant in Geogia. I found this place while on my way to visit a friend. As I entered I was immediately welcomed by a nice young lady behind the counter,as I was looking through the menu I was directed by the young lady to look at the new item page towards the back of the menu. The menu itself is very nice and well made. I ordered the" Burrito Mariachi Especiall ". The picture does not do it justice at all! When it was brought to my table I was definitely excited to get started. The burrito was huge and was perfectly toasted on the outside. I of course altered the original recipe my asking to add fries and chopped roasted jalapeno inside. I ordered it with beef Instead of chicken. They were generous with the beef and it was very moist and flavorful! I was scared that I might be shorted some beef but this place definitely isn't shy with portion size. I also ordered some homemade hot sauce that was also awesome! Not too spicy and had a hint of garlic which made my taste buds very happy. I ordered a large Horchata drink and wow this glass was huge! The Horchata wasn't too sweet like some I've tried in the past that was way too sweet. this was just right! I forgot to mention that they start you off with a nice size bowl of chips and salsa. The restaurant was very clean and neat. The staff were very welcoming and attentive. I would highly recommend this place if you are looking for Mexican cuisine. I wish I can give 20 out of 10. Thank you guys for making my visit and experience a...