José — Restaurant in Dallas

I was so excited to try this place based on the great reviews but was highly disappointed. Parking: Complimentary Valet seemed to be the only option for parking. Took about 8 minutes after pulling up to get valet due to long line of cars.

Service: Took almost 20 minutes after being seated to get drinks. Had to flag someone down to get service. The server, Brandon, great personality but proved to be untruthful. Said he couldn't believe our server had not got to us yet, apologized and said he would take over our table to ensure we were taken care of... come to find out from the manager, he was the server for our table all along. This was a "story" Brandon told us to try and take the heat off him for neglecting our table. The neglect continued throughout the night. Seemed short staffed but the truth would have been preferred. Did not get a receipt or to view a receipt, was told to enter my card in the small card reader at the table. Unsure what I was billed for but for my 1 enchilda dinner, 1 soda and 1 margarita, it was $56 which seemed to not add up and be around $14 more expensive than what the menu quoted. Again, did not get to see what I was billed for nor provided a receipt. Was not able to get a receipt. Seemed shady.

Food: Disappointing! Nothing was hot, the queso flameado was more of a room temperature glob of cheese that needed to be cut with a knife. When mentioned to Brandon, he said "that's our flameado, maybe you're thinking of queso?" And brought us some queso. I knew and know what flamedo should look and taste like and that was not it. The dinner was ok - got enchiladas, they were served room temperature. The meat was great but the sauce was ok, not good but edible. My opinion, mediocre tasting food, nothing was served hot, overpriced.

Drinks: Margaritas were very good but a long delay to get another drink. Again, possibly a staffing issue. Welcome to the post COVID staffing issues. I get it. Sodas seemed flat. Possibly pouring from a bottle or can.

Enviorment: crowded, loud and not special. For some reason, I was expecting this to be more of a intimate setting, lower lighting and softer experience. This was just another run of the mill, packed restaurant. Nothing special.

Overall, would...

José on lovers was a breath of fresh air. Its Guadalajara style cuisine that is vibrant and flavorful. I arrived during the dinner hour just in time before the rush. This place is bustling with customers and wait staff. The parking lot quickly filled up. The layout is open with enclosed patio seating as well. I opted to be inside because my allergies are up level 8 that night. I warmly greeted and got some help on my cocktail options. I wanted something slightly sweet but a little boozy. Mexican Candy was recommended and I loved it. Mexican Candy is Codigo 1530 Blanco, Caribbean Pineapple Liqueur, Cranberry Juice, Morita Syrup, and Watermelon garnish. I eagerly sipped and then chips and salsa was delivered to my table. I could hear the music playing and it got me swaying in my chair. I was definitely in a vibe. I usually stay away from the red salsa because it can be too hot. It was served warm and it was delicious. It had subtle heat with fresh chips that I truly enjoyed. Of course they had a Verde salsa; it was so good. I was ready to cancel my order and just live on chips and salsa for the rest of my life but before I blinked my appetizer arrived. Incredible service and again the place was bouncing. I was prepared to have long leisurely wait with no problems. I love elotes but everyone has jumped on the bandwagon and throw things together. That wasn’t the case. The corn was freshly roasted. It brings out the unique sweetness that is balanced with the heat of queso añejo, butter, lime juice and chili powder. It reminded me of the local elotes vendor but dressed up for a night on town. I loved it. After a couple of bites, and retreating back to my salsa my entrée came. I looked at it and my stomach said, “Girl where are you going to put it on your back?! I was stuffed. I ordered Avocado stuffed with house smoked salmon, mango habanero, aioli, Chile de árbol sauce and micro greens. I did taste but waved my white flag and ask for take-out. I enjoyed the whole experience at José. I can’t wait to go back…I mean like next week...

We were instantly greeted by a friendly & welcoming host which kicked things off on the right foot. We were seated in less than 3 minutes and our waiter Cesar was very knowledgeable and friendly. He gave us his recommendations on drinks and food which were a hit with the group.

La Malinche cocktail was refreshing, dash of sour, and with a little spicy kick. The mocktails were just the right kind of sweet & refreshing. The salsas they provide with the chips are delicious as we finished them with the chips almost instantly.

The carnitas de olla were tender and some pieces had a little bit of a crisp to them. The machete is more than enough for two people but the tortilla does get a little hard to eat if you don’t eat it while it’s warm almost tough to chew down. The tacos al carbon were good we wouldn’t go as to say the best ever but definitely a pleasing meal. The carne asada was also a good choice the potatoes it comes with were a little on the over salted side and a little over cooked as well. The deserts were also good with just the right amount of sweetness.

We had specifically gone to try out the tacos de tacha which on the show Taco Chronicles consist of lobster tail but unfortunately that day the taco consisted of pork ribs which was unfortunate since we were visiting from out of state.

Overall we enjoyed our dinner very much, the service was friendly and welcoming, and the esthetics were modern with a touch of Mexican roots. We would go back to try out other dishes and drinks next time we’re...