La parrillada colombiana — Restaurant in New York

Tried this place out because it appeared as "new" on the map. Called ahead to ask at what time the kitchen closed, and I was told at 10-10:30 with the entire restaurant closing at 11. Decided we would go ahead and try it out. We got there 9 P.M., there was 1 table finishing off their meal, and 2 men who seemed to be in charge of service. The dining room was empty, and we took a seat in a table in the back. First, look at the menu, and it was severly overwhelming. There are so many options that you cant help to get exhausted, and the menu I recieved didnt match the menu the person I went with received. Finally settled for the 1/4 rotisserie chicken with beans, rice, and sweet plantains, but was told there was no more chicken. Ask for a cocktail drink and was told the bartender had left for the night. We eneded up getting a beer, fried calamari, and french fries. As i mentioned before there were no other cutomers in the store as our order was placed, they had 2 walk ins but thats all, and our food ended up taking over 20 minutes to reach us. Food was okay, nothing special about it. Decided it was time to leave and asked for the check. They guy comes over and brings the card reader, presses buttons and then taps my card and says thank you good night. I was a little confused because i was never told my total, and i wasnt shown a reciept, so i asked for one. Upon inspecting the reciept i saw the total for the food, and tax and then an 18% service charge. We had left the restaurant by the time I inspected the reciept, so I called the restaurant to ask what the "service charge" was. The man told me that that was the tip, that it was automatic but optional. I asked how so? He said that customers choose if they want to leave it or not. I was disappointed. Ive used those card readers before, everyone has them everywhere, and i know the tip is chosen before the card is tapped. He chose to leave himself an 18% tip. My total was $44 and change, with the tip he gave himself my total came up to almost $57, and the service wasnt the best. I will not be giving my money to this dishonest establishment again and I hope they change their ways. A...

I’m giving this place 1 star only because I can’t give zero.

From the moment we arrived, the service was disappointing. After sitting down and receiving our menus, we were bombarded by the server multiple times while we were still deciding on our order. When we finally placed it, I specifically requested a small plate since my partner and I like to share and eat off each other’s plates. Despite asking six times—and speaking to two different servers—my request was completely ignored.

Service was non-existent after that. No one checked in on us, refilled our water, or asked if we needed anything else. For restaurant-level prices, I expect at least the bare minimum of hospitality.

As for the food, while it looked great, the taste did not match the presentation. The beans were plain, and the meat was dry. To top it off, they automatically added a 20% gratuity to the bill—completely undeserved given the poor service.

The pricing here is outrageous for what they offer. For the same cost, I could have gone to a much better spot in Astoria, and I regret not doing so. Save yourself the disappointment and...

We ended up at this Colombian spot on Metropolitan after finding out one of our favorite Mexican restaurants had closed permanently (RIP). But honestly, it turned into a happy accident.

From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by a super friendly server. The AC was blasting (God bless) and the menu was beautiful. We ordered frijoles con garrita and the Hawaiian chicken, both absolutely delicious. Portions are huge, so show up hungry or bring a friend who eats like one. And yes, they have a full bar, so you’re covered whether you want a cold beer or a cocktail with your meal.

Now… here’s the scandalous part: they charge ¢60 for each to-go container. And listen, I actually agree with it , we should all use fewer containers buuuuut it just looks ugly on the bill. My advice? Sneak it into the menu prices so it’s hidden like a little fiscal Easter egg.

Overall, great food, great vibe, and worth a return visit. And yes, I’ll still pay the container fee. Those frijoles deserve...