Yolanda's Mexican Café — Restaurant in Ventura

I've always gone to Yolanda's over the years, but as they've grown, they've gotten worse. But I've stuck with them, and I tried to support them during this pandemic going way more often than I did in the past. But I won't be returning, and I would recommend anyone reading this review to find other places in the area. And if you're just looking for take-out, there are even more choices.

I went this last Friday to pick up an order. I always get the same thing with the same simple instructions: Ranchero Burrito with an additional small side of ranchero sauce.

Now, before I continue I do need to note that I have always had to be very careful with my instructions when ordering, and even what I order. I generally like to get a pint of salsa and a large bag of chips. But if I get that with my regular order they always then skip the "complimentary" small bag of chips and one small cup of salsa. Call me crazy, but as I'm being charged the same price for take-out as if I was dining in, I think the least they could do is still include those two items.

But back to my order. Those were my instructions. I even heard the server repeat my order back. She never said "no sauce on the burrito." But when I picked up my order, I got a dry burrito. When I asked for them to correct it, one of the attendants then began to argue with me. "The sauce is on the side." I then repeated what my order was. I made it clear I did not order a dry burrito. So her solution was to go back, dump the sauce on and throw a clump of cheese on and push me out the door.

Now, I get mistakes happen. I am honestly not mad about that. I take issue with her attitude and the way she handled it. It was appalling. I wasn't rude to her, I didn't raise my voice, I just wanted to get what I ordered. Instead she just chose to fight and argue with me.

So I left and called and spoke to a manager. I gave her a chance to refund me my order instead of issuing a chargeback with Amex. I know chargebacks are a hassle and cost the company extra money. The manager stated she would give me a refund, yet here I look at my statement with the full charge still there.

Over the years their prices have gone up dramatically (well over inflation); the quantity and quality of the food has gone down; the service has gotten poorer; and their managers lie.

Stay away...

We have eaten at Yolanda’s for many years and have always enjoyed it. Sometime after the remodel, the food changed. When our meals are delivered to the table nowadays, there is a strong smell of something like bouillon, maybe powdered tomato flavoring? The combo meal of cheese enchilada, chile relleno, rice and beans (our standard choice) is memorable.

But this last visit I tried steak fajitas. What a mistake. It wasn’t sizzling. It looked like a saucy mess. Really, it looked like chop suey! The onions and bell peppers were way overcooked to tastelessness and soggy. I ate a couple bites and decided to just eat the rice, beans, guacamole, and tortillas, which were yummy.

Then, because it was my birthday, and I was very disappointed, a photo was taken. (I had left my phone at home and asked a nearby diner to take the photo.) Of course, that caught the attention of the server and the manager. They suggested replacing the meal. I told them it wasn’t necessary. (I had lost my appetite.)

They brought a replacement meal anyway. It was sizzling. But it still was not up to the quality so loved at Yolanda’s. I didn’t eat it, but did box it up, planning to give it to my sister’s doggies.

I was brought a birthday flan/dessert and sung to. That was very kind. They removed the charge for my meal. That was appropriate. They were very attentive during the whole meal. True Yolanda’s service.

But something has changed. Is it a cook? Somebody tell me, please! We’ll be trying the Oxnard location soon. Hoping for the best.

P. S. When someone asks for salsa that isn’t so spicy, don’t bring plain tomato sauce....

We have been to several Yolanda's now but usually only come here on special occasions as they are a bit pricey and since there are a lot of great Mexican places around here that have great food with more affordable pricing,we spread the love around.

Today we met up with our friend Dave, so here we are. The staff was on point very attentive the chips a salsa was never empty nor were or drinks.

I had ARROZ CON POLLO - With shredded chicken, tomatoes, black olives and onions served on a bed of rice, covered with ranchera sauce and melted cheese. normally served with corn or flour tortillas I don't use um don't send them out to me. Served with albondigas soup or a fresh green salad. I chose the soup it was very good too

My friend Dave BURRITO RANCHERO - It is a behemoth flour tortilla filled with beans and cheese, with a choice of chicken, pork, beef or veggies topped with sauce and melted cheese. Served with rice, sour cream and guacamole. one got chicken and one got beef neither could finish them

My wife had the CANCUN BURRITO -A flour tortilla filled with a blend of the fresh catch of the day, shrimp, lettuce and pico de gallo. Topped with a pineapple sauce, cheese and avocado. Served with a side of rice. (with out the pineapple salsa)

Great food and service cool...