Don Julio Mexican Kitchen - Lake Mary — Restaurant in Longwood

Review of Don Julio’s in Lake Mary, FL

⭐ 1 out of 10 Stars

My recent visit to Don Julio’s in Lake Mary left me thoroughly disappointed, a stark contrast to my previous positive experiences here. This meal was supposed to be a highlight, but it fell short in nearly every way, starting with the ordering process and ending with a lackluster meal that did not live up to its reputation.

I ordered the “El Califa De Leon,” expecting to receive three tacos, as the menu under the “La Taqueria” section states “Order Three Tacos.” Right below this heading, the menu explains the types of tacos available, leading me to believe that this dish would include three. However, when my plate arrived, I was surprised – and not in a good way – to find only two tacos. At first, I assumed there might have been a mistake, so I double-checked the menu. It turns out the configuration of the menu had simply misled me. The way they outline their offerings under “La Taqueria” section is confusing, to say the least, creating expectations that don’t align with what’s actually served. I’m all for creative menu design, but when it leaves customers perplexed, it might be time for a redesign.

The disappointment didn’t end with the confusion over taco quantity. When I took my first bite, I quickly realized these tacos were a far cry from what I would expect at a place that claims to offer Michelin-quality dishes. The ribeye, which should have been juicy and flavorful, was instead dry and tough, with none of the tender texture or seasoning that would normally make a steak taco stand out. It seemed as though the meat had been overcooked or left sitting for too long before being served, resulting in an unappetizing chewiness. If I were craving a dry steak on a basic corn tortilla, I might have been satisfied – but for $17, I expected much, much more.

The toppings didn’t help matters. The guacamole, typically a rich, creamy addition that can elevate a taco, was lackluster and underwhelming. It lacked the fresh, zesty flavor of quality guacamole, instead tasting like it had been prepared with minimal effort or attention to seasoning. Combined with the dry ribeye, the whole experience felt like eating a bland taco that had none of the vibrancy or taste I associate with authentic Mexican food. To be fair, the corn tortillas themselves were fine, but even a good tortilla can't salvage a taco when the filling is this disappointing.

Given the price and Don Julio’s reputation, I expected the “El Califa De Leon” to be something special – a standout dish that would reflect the restaurant’s acclaim. Instead, it felt like a poorly executed attempt at an elevated taco, and I couldn’t help but feel misled by both the menu and the dish’s description.

As for the service, it was passable but far from extraordinary. The staff was attentive enough, but there was no attempt to engage or check in on my satisfaction, even after I mentioned the confusion with my order. Typically, service here has been friendly and responsive, so I’m willing to chalk this up to a busy night. However, it would have been nice to feel more like a valued guest, especially given the underwhelming meal.

In summary, this visit to Don Julio’s was a major letdown. Between the confusing menu setup, the dry and flavorless “El Califa De Leon” tacos, and the lack of standout service, the experience didn’t justify the premium pricing or the restaurant’s high regard. For $17, I expected a well-thought-out, flavorful dish that would capture the essence of a Michelin-quality taco, but instead, I left feeling disappointed and unfulfilled. Normally, Don Julio’s has been a reliable go-to for me, but after this experience, I’m...

VERY VERY disappointed in the service is an understatement. Walked in the door at Lake Mary location at roughly 9:20pm closing time is 10PM and there were still people dining in. Stood by the front door for a few minutes never once was greeted or acknowledged by the host that was right there and completely ignored me until i said something. I was finally seated and immediately was asked what I wanted to drink and what I wanted to order because the kitchen was closing in 10 minutes which no one informed me about when i walked in the door and before seating me. I felt completely rushed from the minute i sat down. While I was waiting for my food the employees started sweeping, dusting, mopping floors, wiping tables, and shutting off some of the lights on the other side of the restaurant. Finally my food came at about 9:45pm and was abruptly set on the table in a very rushing careless manner. At this point i felt very uncomfortable and awkward so i respectfully asked the waiter for some to go boxes because i felt very rushed and all the employees were directly staring at me waiting for me to finish and leave. While I was waiting for the boxes I could clearly hear some of the employees chattering/gossiping about the situation and about me having asked for boxes and making it sound as if I was being difficult which was never the case. The manager/supervisor was standing there and not once corrected their behavior and instead was joining them. I find it EXTREMELY unprofessional to talk about a customer while they are still sitting in the restaurant. They assumed that I didn't understand what they were saying and they were wrong. As a Mexican customer I'd have to sadly say that this has been my WORST restaurant experience and it was definitely far from the welcoming friendly atmosphere and service that I'm used to when I visit other Mexican restaurants. I will never return nor would I EVER recommend this place to any other friends or family. This restaurant was highly recommended to me by a friend of the owner, and it is unfortunate to have to give him this type of feedback. I don't normally write reviews, but this experience was definitely bad enough to warrant a review in hopes that it is read and taken into consideration for improving their...

I’ve been here many times now because it’s so delicious! Every single time in the past few years I’ve gone, the food is fantastic. There hasn’t been a time where it wasn’t good. The servers are also very welcoming and kind and are assumedly used to white people ordering in butchered Spanish. Our server today was named Sergio, and he was so nice and funny!!! Great service per usual.

I have a little story to tell. I was out of the country for six weeks with no access to Mexican food. While the food where I was staying was delicious, it got to a point where I needed another kind of nutrition. One day, I was sat on a bench looking out at rolling green hills, cypress trees, and vineyards; birds were singing and flying across the setting sun; a breeze brushed across my face and I thought to myself, “Oh my God, I need Mexican food. I need Don Julio tacos.” And this is 100% true, I swear it. A few weeks later I got to a bigger city (still out of country) and decided to try a Mexican place that I found. I ordered a quesadilla, and while it was pretty good, that was not a quesadilla. There is no name for what it was. I won’t try to give it one. Anyway, sitting in this place, my mind wandered back to Don Julio’s. In only one week I would be returning to Florida, and I swore to myself I would get good Mexican food… I could see my future… taste it… and it would be bright and scrumptious.

Finally I returned to Florida. Today was the day I fulfilled my promise. And it was religious. I got the birria taquitos and they were so yummy OMG. Perfectly crisp tortillas, savory and comforting broth, fall-apart meat, and the green salsa is refreshing and packed with flavor. It’s sad that it was beautifully presented, because I destroyed it. My travels beforehand consisted of ancient ruins, excavation, archaeological discoveries, and adventures… but they did not consist of Don Julio’s dishes. I needed this today. I see the sun differently. Life is beautiful.

I will be returning to this restaurant...