Mexican Gardens Restaurant — Restaurant in Southgate

RESPONDING TO THE OWNERS RESPONSE; (11:30 am) "she apologized that you were unaware" - THAT'S NOT AN APOLOGY.

She should have apologized for the lack of communication either via the menu, or the server about this situation. You words are correct though. She apologized that we didn't notice something- PURE passive/aggressive!!! When asked where on the menu the price was for additional sides she got nasty, when I mentioned the server never mentioned anything she was simply annoyed we were still there.

I already acknowledged the dish doesn't come with SC, there was a breakdown somewhere about noting on the menu about how MUCH this condiment would cost, and mid-meal, the server should have mentioned it; especially since we ordered THREE more. $1.39? maybe next time someone will get soaked unexpectedly for $2.79 each, or possibly $3.99 (EACH) - of course I expected to be charged extra, not $1.39 for what amounted to a tiny melon-baller sized amount of sour cream, (sticker shock)

It's bad business and terrible customer service with the managers poor/combative attitude. A waiter having a bad day, or maybe a dish that isn't quite what I hoped for is forgivable, and would give a place a 2nd chance. Managerial attitude like what we received....? You guys can't come back from that. Will NOT be returning.

Also: a bar that doesn't carry lemons, never heard of that before, you guys are certainly "one of a kind".

Original review (9am) This place has certainly slid downhill post pandemic. This was our GO-TO place for Mexican whenever we were within 10 miles of the location. The food WAS excellent, and at a fair price as well. This all changed on our recent visit (6/2/24) - we will NOT be returning.

Ordered the usual botanas, still extremely good, those flour chips are unique and really make the dish. Unlike previous times, no sour cream or salsa on the side. The waiter bring out some sour cream, he brought the smallest container possible, enough to maybe cover a couple of chips. So later on I said, bring us 3 more, which he did.

When the bill came, I was charged $1.35 for each sour cream, that's over $5 just for sour cream!

I mentioned this at checkout, the cashier abruptly stopped my conversation, and got the manager.

Manager informed us that the dish no longer comes with sour cream, (inferring that it used to) and that it would be extra. I mentioned that the price of the 'extra" was neither mentioned on the menu, or by the server, and that the size of what was brought out was laughably small.

Her dismissive attitude was "well now you know when you come back next time" to which I replied, 'there won't be a next time'.

My gripe is that it is customary for the dish to come with SC, but if they want to cut back and not include it, that's their choice, but when asked for specifically, it should be on the menu, or if mentioned mid-meal (after menu's are gone) the server should be mentioning this.

In addition, they could have charged anything they wanted, I probably would have been good with $0.79, or maybe even a buck, if the size of what was brought out was larger. In addition, I asked the manager did they just make up that number, maybe next time they'll charge $3.99 each, and no one will know until the bill comes.

You can go to the grocery store and buy a LOT of sour cream for $5, and these restaurants get it wholesale. In addition, we ordered a diet Pepsi with lemon on the side, and were informed "we are out of lemons". How does this happen, when you are low on lemons, you have someone run to Meijer and get a bag of lemons.

The manager acted in a way that is textbook "how to NOT act like a manager", blaming the customer when the initial inquiry was made on the charges. She acted defensive and confrontational rather than working towards a resolution to the issue , like a singular charge for 1 SC- not times FOUR

They may have gotten their extra $5, but they lost 2 customers that went there 2-3 times a year.

Very...

So unfortunate. The experience we had tonight was definitely our last. Our 2 and 3 year old daughters were in the hospital all week so we decided to go out to dinner because we didn’t have time to grocery shop or the energy to clean up from dinner. We get to the restaurant and it was the worst experience and service we’ve ever had. They sat our family of 6 at a booth which may have been fine for some people… however, we asked for a table instead so we could hang costs on the back of chairs and have enough space for all the plates, diaper bag, kids stuff, etc. The girl seating us then begins to argue as to why this booth will work just fine (even though there were plenty of open tables and we did not mind waiting for one)…. Then the booth they sat us at was sooooooo wobbly and the kids waters were spilling on the table. The waiter but in the wrong order for the kids, no biggie mistakes happen…. But didn’t even apologize he argued instead that he insisted he put in the correct order lol. I know what I ordered my kids. We didn’t get the items we asked for on the side. The waiter acted (from the beginning) as if we were an inconvenience to him….. other things happened as well…. When we asked to talk to the manager the manager didn’t even apologize or offer to discount anything (not that I was asking or expecting that but it would have been a nice gesture)…. Instead he talked about his high google reviews and that they have been voted best of for whatever categories multiple years in a row lol. Great! Good for you…. That didn’t change our experience. Then he began giving an excuse that the server was going through a rough time in his personal life. I’m sorry for whatever he is going through…. Maybe offer a leave of absence. Or atleast offer to “make good” on a negative experience that your customers are having largely because of your staff.

As always? The food was yummy. Unfortunately due to all of the things (some not even mentioned in this review) we lost our appetite and boxed up most of our meal and left. Then received our $87 bill. Never again will I visit this restaurant...

Mexican Gardens Restaurant is an absolute gem! From the moment you walk in, you're welcomed with vibrant colors, festive decor, and the irresistible aroma of authentic Mexican cuisine. It's the perfect spot for a cozy dinner with family or a fun night out with friends.

I recently had the pleasure of dining here, and I was blown away by the entire experience. The food is simply outstanding! I particularly love their Botana and Mexican Combo. The Botana is a true delight, bursting with flavors and a perfect mix of textures. It's an ideal dish for sharing, though you might find yourself reluctant to share once you take your first bite. Every ingredient is fresh and perfectly balanced, making each mouthful a joy.

The Mexican Combo is equally impressive. It's a feast of all my favorites—generous portions of enchiladas, tacos, and tamales, each cooked to perfection and packed with rich, savory flavors. The combo plate is perfect for those who can't decide on just one dish, offering a little bit of everything, and every bite is a testament to the chef's dedication to authentic Mexican cooking.

Beyond the incredible food, the service at Mexican Gardens is top-notch. The staff is friendly, attentive, and genuinely passionate about providing an exceptional dining experience. They go above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. Whether you need a recommendation or have a special request, they're always eager to help with a smile.

The ambiance of the restaurant is warm and inviting, with a lively atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The vibrant decor, coupled with the upbeat music, sets the perfect backdrop for an enjoyable meal.

Overall, Mexican Gardens Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious, authentic Mexican food. With its fantastic dishes, wonderful atmosphere, and outstanding service, it's a dining experience that you won't want to miss. I can't wait for...