Although service is friendly and accommodating, unfortunately me and my partner came down with food poisoning shortly after eating here. Otherwise, the portions are nice and large, but the food itself was mostly average in taste; the salsa(s) particularly bland. The tortilla chips were store-bought.
I suspect the food here will be wholly acceptable to many - and under the right circumstances I could see why - but given all the local competition, the health concerns, and lack of flavorful options, I will have to pass on El Tlaxcalteca in the future.
EDIT: in response to the restaurant's reply, I'm genuinely sorry my review has upset you. In reality, whether you accept my critique or not, the issue with the food being underseasoned is not an uncommon issue mentioned in reviews here - in particular the salsas.
The tortilla chips were obviously store-bought - the difference between homemade and purchased chips is not hard to notice in terms of flavor and texture.. Which, frankly, is fine - many places do that. It's simply not my personal preference. I know you also offer homemade chips as well, because one of the sides came with (only) a few on the side, and those were good. The baskets served were not the same. In fact, even if they weren't store-bought and I was mistaken, the issue then remains that what you are serving tastes like a bitter, bland grocery store chips (and salsas for your food). What's worse - that you are buying store-bought, or don't know how to make a quality product to begin with? Does it matter?
One of the difficult things about running a restaurant is that you can't always make everyone happy. Some people simply won't love your food for one reason or another. Sometimes it will be warranted, and other times, maybe not. What would matter to me is that I had a customer that chose my restaurant over all the others in MKE, and left disappointed in the taste of the food and (whether true or not) believing it was so bland that it couldn't be house-made. I would be concerned with that over a review that - despite getting sick with their partner after and not finding the food particularly great - still gave it three stars and not one.
As for the food poisoning, by all means, please let me know if you'd like me to get tested for food poisoning and get the health dept involved. Otherwise, despite my personal experience, I wish your restaurant all...
Read moreEl Tlaxcalteca is that hidden gem 💎 Total hole-in-the-wall energy in the best way - no frills, just unbelievably good, authentic Mexican food… an immediate yes!
We ordered the Combo #3: 3 quesadillas + 8oz consomé, and wow 🔥 These were next level - cheesy, juicy, perfectly seasoned, and paired with rich, flavorful consomé that pulled it all together. Easily one of the best bites we’ve had in Milwaukee.
We also tried the chicken mole, and I’m still dreaming about it. The mole has a sweeter profile than most — layered, complex, and absolutely delicious. If you’re a mole fan (or even if you’re not), this is a must.
This place isn’t flashy, but the food speaks for itself - bold, comforting, and clearly made with love. I feel fully confident saying this is some of the best Mexican food in Milwaukee!
Go now, thank me later 😏
Also big shout out to the owner for bringing us a birthday treat! Literally the...
Read moreThe food was good and most of the staff were friendly and accommodating. However I unfortunately will not return due to the poor attitude and treatment by the gentleman who took our order. I was charged for extra toppings on the taco dinner but only got cheese and talked back to by him when I asked about the toppings, however other staff happily corrected the order. Other dine-in guests were given a bottle of salsa de verde and a bottle of salsa de rojo, however we were given none and when I asked for some he gave me one little to go container of each and when I asked for more he argued that our order was supposed to be for to go even tho I informed him we were dining in. Additionally I ordered for a family of 5 and spent over $50 but expected only one to go cup of each salsa to cover the whole meal? Again another staff member corrected the...
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