2 out of 5 stars I drove all the way from the Inland Empire because I had a serious craving for their hibiscus tacos. I used to be a regular here, but this was my first visit in over two and a half years. Unfortunately, while the food was still phenomenal, the overall experience left much to be desired.
I ordered two hibiscus street tacos with black beans, rice, plantains, and a side of mushrooms in their delicious caper sauce. I also got the artichoke dip and a virgin blueberry mojito. The food did not disappoint. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and exactly how I remembered it. They did accommodate my request to have the mushrooms with caper sauce on the side, which I appreciated.
The service, however, was disappointing. I was not greeted or seated. I had to grab a menu myself and ended up placing my order at the bar out of frustration. It was obvious I was there to dine, but I felt completely ignored. One of the staff members also made a very forward comment about tipping. I had every intention of leaving a tip, but the way it was approached felt tactless and unprofessional.
I was also overcharged for the artichoke dip. It was listed at twelve dollars for happy hour, but I was charged eighteen. To make matters worse, they did not include any utensils in my to-go order.
At that point I just went to go enjoy my food in the car instead. The food was incredible, but the poor service made the experience frustrating. I am not sure I will...
Read moreI can’t believe I’m having to write this review . I come to this restaurant all the time and recommend to everyone I meet . I come to get take out a lot and always have friends pick up take out for me as well . I placed a to go order with Caitlyn (new hire) and asked if I could sit down while I wait for my food . Mind you it’s noon on a Friday and there are tons of tables .the problem was my outfit . She told me I had to Button my flannel before I could come in . I thought that was so strange. So that’s when Geisa (server) came. And I explain to her what happened. She was like you can sit down. And she took me to sit .I wanted to cry . I was so embarrassed . Not only did she shame my outfit, She also was not letting me sit down. Never in my life have I heard anything like that. This location is right in Venice. The ocean is two steps away. Geisa my server also thought it was odd . When I asked her for her name(Caitlyn) she would not give it to me. Then when I began to walk away from her she began shouting at me down the street As I was leaving . I have never experienced anything like this in my life. I am horrified. And I will definitely not be...
Read moreMercedes Grill has come full circle... We had a 60th b-day for about 25 people and used the Aloha Room (their new Tiki Bar which is SO CUTE!). The food was EXCELLENT - Sliders, Tacos, Quesadillas - the service/ cocktail selection / and quality from the Bartender (Will) was awesome (we had a golf theme 'Caddyshack" and he even went and got Golf Tees to use as a garnish for our MaiTais!) Our dedicated event Server (Gus) was not only attentive, he had a fun attidtude and kept the party rolling - and I really had such a great time working on a simple event menu - w/ the along with the culinary team - it was truly a top notch event. The new managers (Michael & Patrick) brought great energy - it's nice to see one of the OG spots in Venice coming into a bright light! ... We'll be back for Cuban food, soon - but wanted to leave a nice note about events & their new Tiki bar concept - A...
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