Tabachines Cocina — Restaurant in Fresno

Been one of my recent favorites since I first dined several years ago. The first dish we ever ordered was one of their signature starters, the shrimp tostada de camaron…a dish I knew would bring me back alone. Post COVID it was the treat we needed. Our second visit was just as delightful and the service equally so. So much so we decided it would be the ideal place to host my husband’s birthday dinner for our large party of our of town family and friends last December. And boy did we hype that balloon…prematurely. Alas, the service was so markedly absent that night, our meals delivered at varying intervals, cocktails that never hit our gullets, and ultimately the fare just didn’t hit the highs to which we had grown accustomed. We chalked it up to a bad night. Everyone has ‘em. Because our initial service was so unparalleled-from meeting the owner and chef during our first two experiences, coupled with such a unique and fresh simplicity -we would not be deflated. Quality has taken a hit EVERYWHERE. It’s such a bummer dining out these days we just assume hone our skills at home. That way there’s little to no disappointment and we don’t have to leave the mutt behind. He hates that. Our meals delivered tonight was meh. The short ribs are always a win. You can’t go wrong . Mine was delicious and my three other dining guests had their stab at my bowl. Had my husband not ordered the halibut we would’ve both been stuck with a dry piece of fish swimming in a very (albeit) pretty pool of pistachio parlin (dunno, dunt care). I couldn’t share with him, so I’ll leave it at that. I wish I could describe what the sauce tasted like but it was neither pistachio nor butter nor cream. Cardboard maybe? The fried onions were over salted and bitter and again unidentifiable. The mushrooms were yanked out like life vests in a drowning sea. Worst of all, the shrimp appetizer, our tried and true, has morphed into something I don’t recognize anymore. What was once a fresh and wholesome “there’s nothing like it in Fresno” was tonight a chewy crustacean doused in hot sauce atop some dollops of fresh guac. I enjoyed the cracker because it tasted like oxygen. Our waitress was very attentive so she might be our reason for another go at some point but we left agreeing we have to find...

Ah, the dining experience—a true symphony of flavors elevated by the remarkable staff who brought it all together. Let’s start with the food. The kale salad was a masterclass in balance—hearty yet refined, with kale’s robust bitterness dancing gracefully with the caesar and crunchy toppings. It was refreshing and sophisticated enough to convert even the staunchest kale skeptics. Then came the shrimp tostadas de Camarón, a revelation of textures and flavors. The briny sweetness of perfectly cooked shrimp met the crunch of a tostada, brightened by a squeeze of lime and the zest of cilantro. Each bite was like a seaside vacation for the palate. The main course, a ribeye steak, was nothing short of extraordinary. Cooked to perfection, it was tender, juicy, and imbued with a smoky char that sang of the grillmaster’s expertise. Hearty yet elegant with house made salsa, it was the kind of dish that turns a meal into an occasion. And then dessert—a warm, golden churro paired with a robust, smooth cup of coffee. Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, the churro was indulgence perfected, while the coffee was the ideal companion to round out the evening. Together, they were a sweet symphony—a fitting finale to an incredible meal. But what truly set this experience apart was the staff. From start to finish, they were deliberately genuine, offering a level of hospitality that felt personal and heartfelt. They weren’t just doing a job; they were crafting an experience. The bartender, in particular, was a standout. With unmatched creativity and attention to detail, they elevated the evening with personalized service that went far beyond expectations. Whether recommending the perfect drink or crafting a custom cocktail tailored to the moment, their passion and flair turned an already great night into something extraordinary. This wasn’t just dinner—it was a harmonious blend of exquisite cuisine, genuine connection, and unforgettable service. A true...

Our family is acquainted with the owner, & she said the food is gourmet Yukaton-style Mexican food. In fact, its name is a type of flowering tree that can be found on the Yukaton peninsula, hence the beautiful illuminated metal tree art on the wall by the entrance/hostess stand, & the flower tile wall behind the bar. The food is a little pricey, however, it was absolutely amazing & cooked perfectly (I got the carne asada dish), so it was totally worth it! The atmosphere/decor is nice, but it probably could've used some mild instrumental music. I have mixed feelings about our server - he was very helpful, however, I'm a fairly perceptive person & so I sensed a slight elitist attitude towards our party, or at least certain members of our party. I've only eaten here once about 3 months after they first opened though, so maybe they have since incorporated music, & perhaps there are better servers. I will definitely go back, & who knows, I may rate a 5...