Taino Restaurant — Restaurant in Holyoke

Paid a visit to Taino while in town. I was pleased with the presentation of the food, the quality, and especially the flavors. Deliciously prepared with fresh ingredients by expert hands that are true to the flavor and the quality that holds the goodness of authentic Dominican Cuisine. I took notice that both owners are fluent in English and Spanish while treating the customers with the unique warmth, attentiveness, and humility that characterize the Dominican People. They addressed everyone very courteously in Spanish/English due to the high volume of Spanish speaking customers and when anyone indicated they preferred English, they instantly spoke English, which to me was impressive how they can move from English to Spanish and viceversa. My experience and observation has always been favorable as they bend over backwards to provide a pleasant experience for all the customers (which moved me to write this review after several infrequent and unannounced visits). They take suggestions graciously and seriously ( I was one of the customers who casually said: “ it would be nice to have this meal with a good cold beer). Next time came to Taino, I see a variety of beer (and Wines) and was graciously offered one to savor my deliciously prepared Dominican meal. I was also impressed with their community efforts demonstrated by their participation in the reduced price meal program for 60+ customers. Great food. Great people....

If you're the type who loves to discover ethnic, storefront restaurants serving great food, you will LOVE this place. If you prefer someplace fancy with more formal service, skip it. (That will make it easier for me.) This is one of the many Latin restaurants in Holyoke that serves lots of yummy options out of a steam table (like stewed chicken, rice, beans, maybe even some oxtail). They do that here too, and it's good. BUT what makes this place so special are the all carte menu items. Like fried whole snapper or shrimp mofungo. They were incredible! In fact, it may be the most flavorful shrimp dish I've had since moving to Western MA 3 years ago. There's one more reason to go: Carlos the chef/owner. He's incredibly frriendly and loves talking about food. (Which is next to music in my favorite things to discuss)They were wrapping up for the day when we were there (they close at 7 and we showed up around 6:30) and he made us feel so welcome. While the staff were getting ready for the next day, he came and chatted with us. This guy loves food and he loves making customers happy. How can you not love a place like that? Also, don't be surprised if the peson you talk doesn't speak English. But don't let that stop you. You can...

This was my 3rd or 4th visit. I have been meaning to write a review. Taino is amazing! A hidden gem. The owners are so welcoming and warm, they make you feel right at home. The place is clean and spacious. I love the open kitchen! I got the fried chicken today, and it was outta the world. If you like fried chicken, this is the place to go. Fresh chicken chopped up, seasoned, battered, fried right there in front of you. If you drink, they have ice cold beers that you can sip on while you wait for your chicken. I have had their combo meals as well, and they have been delicious. I love the rice and beans, and their salad is really good as well.

Pictures of the chicken are missing a few pieces! I got the 12 piece, but couldn't resist having a few before remembering to...