Cali Viejo Restaurant — Restaurant in Florida

If I could award this restaurant with 0 stars I would. This review isn’t based apon the quality of food because we all know it’s spectacular and always has been. It’s the individuals working inside the establishment who turn down paying customers when there is an empty restaurant. Only because the color of my skin is white. Every time we come here we get poor treatment we tip very well and have never complained. But every time we are there because we are typically the only white ones in the building we always catch stares and get sat in the same spot every time we come. The only part of the restaurant that no one can see us while we eat. Today we walked into the building my wife had a mask I didn’t. I apologized for forgetting one. Asked if they had one to give me. I noticed the restaurant was empty and instead of seating us in a table where we can take our masks off she said we needed to leave. The same woman who said we needed to leave and was being so stern about masks wasn’t wearing one. Her excuse was because she was “eating.” She stared at us laughing because I forgot my mask and it was so crazy I was being asked to be seated. Moments later a woman who was clearly not white. Walked in with no mask and they allowed her to come in and pick up food without a mask. I’ve never been the type to bash any great family owned and operated establishment but this one deserves to be removed from SR-60 in Brandon. We would gladly return to this restaurant if the woman server who was eating and not allowing her co worker to have a voice as she rudely interrupted her several times mid sentence Learned some customer service skills. Until then I will notify every person I know this place is unfriendly to specific races...

Wow, WOW!! When in the he Tampa Bradenton area you need to stop in. It's a family owned restaurant . Columbian food but with plates that are very similar to many latin foods. I have been a customer for many years. Not because I'm local but because it's GREAT. When visiting my grand aunt at her elderly rehab years ago we discovered this jewel of a place. My husband , auntie and I were starving for great latin food.we had dinner there and have not stopped coming in. My g an amazing aunt passed about 2-3 years ago and we had not been in the area. A few weeks ago my auntie passed too and we went to visit a friend. He asked if we liked Columbian food that there was a place with the best ajiaco/ salcosho. We said for sure let's go. We walked in and said oh my this looks like Cali Viejo. The gentleman said it's. I was like no it's in Tampa not realizing we were in Tampa we just drove from a different direction. We looked around and said OH MY God it is. This was my aunties fav. Place. Shed always say are we going to Tampa are we going to El Viejo Cali? I can't wait. She looked forward time after that me. So tears rolled in my eyes because it brought back all her love and how I wish she was there. I ordered one of her fav. Although there are many. She felt so close to me and I just could not believe the coincidence that it was the place my friend also thought of fondly. Come and enjoy there hospitality and food you won't regret it. Build your own memories at this incredibly delicious place we will come back soon as well to build new memories and continue reminiscing on...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Delicious Latin Eats and an Atmosphere That Feels Like Home 🌿🍛

Cali Viejo isn’t just about Colombian food—they offer an impressive variety of Latin dishes that keep me and my family coming back for all kinds of occasions. Whether it’s a lovely dinner or a flavorful breakfast, the Latin flair shines in every bite. 🌅🌙

I absolutely love their churrasco and bandeja paisa—rich, hearty, and perfectly seasoned. The empanadas colombianas are a must-try, especially with that spicy sauce on the side that adds just the right kick! 🌶️🔥

From the super rico pan de bono 🥐 to sandwiches—Cubanos, ham and cheese, plantain sandwiches—or even a vegetarian omelet, pancakes, there’s something for every craving. They also serve delicious soups like sancocho delicioso that are perfect for any day. 🍲✨ The fried fish is another standout—crispy, fresh, and incredible. 🐟✨

The service here is truly from another world. You’re always welcomed like family, which makes every visit feel special and genuine. 🤗 The bathrooms are clean and accessible 🚻, and the charming patio lets you enjoy a beautiful outdoor atmosphere while dining. 🌿☀️

Every visit to Cali Viejo is a win—I’m never disappointed. Great food, great vibes, and heartfelt hospitality make it a true favorite for my family and me. Highly...