Fiesta Grande Mexican Grill-Never Again

[texasfal]

Went there Firday night for dinner with my husband. Ordered drinks, appetizer and entrees. Ate the chips and salsa. Asked for more salsa - we're from Texas and we like spicy. Roland the waiter said he'd have to charge us $1.50 for more salsa. We protested and asked to speak to mgr. Roland said since we didn't know about the charge he'd give us one more dish of salsa for free. Got the bill and we were charged $1.50. We asked again to speak to mgr. Roland told us he would not come to table. As we were leaving we told hostess we would not be back. Very nice girl said the owner was there and to please let her talk to him. She came back and said that the owner said it was too bad we weren't coming back but that we ate a lot of salsa. (Two little bowls that together didn't amount to 1 cup!) Anyway, guess we're back on the trail of decent Mexican food in Florida.

[jnieman]

That's really strange that they tried to charge you for extra salsa. They have not done that to us and we have been there lots of times. I wonder if it is a new policy. I know sometimes there are communication problems with the staff there not speaking very good English. Hopefully this won't happen again as we also love salsa.

[Bonny]

Hard to imagine that someone would trash a restaurant because they weren't getting more of something for free. Just sayin', it's just my opinion.

[cathyw]

Went there Firday night for dinner with my husband. Ordered drinks, appetizer and entrees. Ate the chips and salsa. Asked for more salsa - we're from Texas and we like spicy. Roland the waiter said he'd have to charge us $1.50 for more salsa. We protested and asked to speak to mgr. Roland said since we didn't know about the charge he'd give us one more dish of salsa for free. Got the bill and we were charged $1.50. We asked again to speak to mgr. Roland told us he would not come to table. As we were leaving we told hostess we would not be back. Very nice girl said the owner was there and to please let her talk to him. She came back and said that the owner said it was too bad we weren't coming back but that we ate a lot of salsa. (Two little bowls that together didn't amount to 1 cup!) Anyway, guess we're back on the trail of decent Mexican food in Florida.

Yes, but how was the appetizer and the entrees that you ordered.
If the food was good, I would definitely go back, regardless if I got extra free salsa or not.

[Trayderjoe]

Sorry to hear about your misadventure. We happen to enjoy Fiesta Grande Mexican Grill and have always had good food there. :mmmm:

I don't know if your issue was a communication issue as another poster had proposed, if a second bowl of salsa is charged for (we usually only use up the one bowl we are given) or if this is a new policy or not. I have been in other establishments where only the first dish of chips and salsa is free and additional of either incurs charges.

The short of it is that the waiter at least informed you BEFORE he brought the additional salsa of the charge, so he did a good job there, although the follow-up may have been lacking.

In any event, good luck in your search for other Mexican restaurants, and if you find something good, please let us know! :)

[keithwand]

Funny; I don't usually like Mexican but have eaten there once and we enjoyed it.
They offered us more chips and salsa and no additional $$ but that was a few months ago.

[Peachie]

Hard to imagine that someone would trash a restaurant because they weren't getting more of something for free. Just sayin', it's just my opinion.


Bonny, perhaps I can help you understand... this is a Mexican restaurant and they most likely buy salsa by the gallons, the cost for a half cup is pennies for them. The OP and her husband ordered drinks, appetizers and meals and they weren't provided another 1/2 cup of salsa upon request, unless they paid $1.50. I don't know if you've eaten at this Mexican restaurant but the salsa servings vary by the server some half full little containers and some quite full. They were denied the ability to speak with the manager, which is recommended by everyone on this forum. Not a great business decision by a Mexican restaurant to charge extra for salsa.

If that isn't enough to help you understand, I'd like to share our experiences at this restaurant which we had frequented often. My husband and I don't order drinks and we don't have appetizers but always ordered the higher end price meals plus a beverage and left a nice tip and are very low maintenance diners.

We went there about three months ago and requested a booth for seating from the woman who was hostessing, (there were 3 open booths at the time). She informed us they kept the booths for larger groups and we could not have one. I explained it was our wedding anniversary and we would really prefer a booth if possible. She said no, took us to a table next to the walkway from the bar and kitchen. We then watched as she proceeded to seat the next two couple to arrive in individual booths, even though tables were open. It was a less than pleasant experience dining where we were seated that evening.

We had gone back again despite that evening until two weeks ago. Once again this woman was hostessing and when we requested a booth, she said none were available. My husband and I discussed it and said we would wait until a booth opens up. We sat down along the wall straight ahead of her stand where she could see us waiting. My husband walked to the men's restroom at that point and there was an empty booth! While he was gone, another booth opened up in the front and was promptly cleaned. A couple walked in a this point and this woman took them to the booth to be seated that had just emptied out. At that point we left and won't be going back.

We had no agenda with this person and were pleasant. We were not demanding or demeaning to this woman, had simply made a request for booth seating. She on the other hand, had plenty of issues. We decided not to return to this Mexican restaurant and weren't going to share this information until we found the OP's opinion being dismissed.

There are many very good restaurants and why should this couple spend their money at a Mexican restaurant that won't serve them a nickel cup of salsa for less than $1.50. And surely you realize this isn't so much about the price of the salsa and is more about the attitude and service at this restaurant; they shared their experience. Other people will make their own decisions where to dine.

[JoeC1947]

Yes, but how was the appetizer and the entrees that you ordered.
If the food was good, I would definitely go back, regardless if I got extra free salsa or not.

They filled up on chips and salsa!:1rotfl:

Once I watched a man sample 4 or 5 different cold cuts at Publixs and not buy any. What some will do for a free lunch.

[Bonny]

Bonny, perhaps I can help you understand... this is a Mexican restaurant and they most likely buy salsa by the gallons, the cost for a half cup is pennies for them. The OP and her husband ordered drinks, appetizers and meals and they weren't provided another 1/2 cup of salsa upon request, unless they paid $1.50. I don't know if you've eaten at this Mexican restaurant but the salsa servings vary by the server some half full little containers and some quite full. They were denied the ability to speak with the manager, which is recommended by everyone on this forum. Not a great business decision by a Mexican restaurant to charge extra for salsa.

If that isn't enough to help you understand, I'd like to share our experiences at this restaurant which we had frequented often. My husband and I don't order drinks and we don't have appetizers but always ordered the higher end price meals plus a beverage and left a nice tip and are very low maintenance diners.



We went there about three months ago and requested a booth for seating from the woman who was hostessing, (there were 3 open booths at the time). She informed us they kept the booths for larger groups and we could not have one. I explained it was our wedding anniversary and we would really prefer a booth if possible. She said no, took us to a table next to the walkway from the bar and kitchen. We then watched as she proceeded to seat the next two couple to arrive in individual booths, even though tables were open. It was a less than pleasant experience dining where we were seated that evening.

We had gone back again despite that evening until two weeks ago. Once again this woman was hostessing and when we requested a booth, she said none were available. My husband and I discussed it and said we would wait until a booth opens up. We sat down along the wall straight ahead of her stand where she could see us waiting. My husband walked to the men's restroom at that point and there was an empty booth! While he was gone, another booth opened up in the front and was promptly cleaned. A couple walked in a this point and this woman took them to the booth to be seated that had just emptied out. At that point we left and won't be going back.

We had no agenda with this person and were pleasant. We were not demanding or demeaning to this woman, had simply made a request for booth seating. She on the other hand, had plenty of issues. We decided not to return to this Mexican restaurant and weren't going to share this information until we found the OP's opinion being dismissed.

There are many very good restaurants and why should this couple spend their money at a Mexican restaurant that won't serve them a nickel cup of salsa for less than $1.50. And surely you realize this isn't so much about the price of the salsa and is more about the attitude and service at this restaurant; they shared their experience. Other people will make their own decisions where to dine.

As I said, it was just my opinion & I wasn't rude about it.

[Skybo]

I'm not doubting anyone's negative experiences, but I am surprised. We eat there very frequently and almost always ask for additional salsa, which we've always received at no charge. As recently as a week ago, the waiter walked by our table and offered us additional salsa without us even asking. So this must be a very new policy or else a fluke with the staff that was working.

And for those who've never been there, there is a reason for this whole salsa debate...they bring a big bowl of chips and a teensy amount of salsa .... barely enough for even a third of the chips. It's actually kind of weird. We wonder about it every time we go. But we really like the food and we've always had good service.

[Richard1366]

Perhaps their salsa is home made, much more expensive than the purchased stuff. You must have enjoyed it, why not ask, if it was the purchased stuff find out the brand, buy some then go home and stuff your face with it.

[batman911]

I think most Mexican restaurants offer free chips and salsa to munch on while you wait for you order to be served. I also believe charging for more salsa is a bad business management decision. Why not just raise the prices a little on everything to cover the cost? Most customers do not enjoy being nickle-dimed.

[Mr Hanky]

:ohdear:A Mexican resturant charging extra for salsa would be like an Italian resturant charging extra for bread!:ohdear:

[notlongnow]

Hard to imagine that someone would trash a restaurant because they weren't getting more of something for free. Just sayin', it's just my opinion.


JMO but it is hard to imagine a restuarant, especially a mexican restuarant that would send a customer down the road over a cup of salsa.
I live in Texas and eat at mexican restuarants all the time over several decades and have NEVER paid extra for salsa, no matter how much I ate.
I think most mexican restuarants use the chip and salsa to help keep you busy while they are trying to keep up with orders.
EB

[Golfingnut]

It is all relative. We lived in Wash D.C. so we (AFTER 3 YEARS) still can not believe how inexpensive all the restaurants are here in the Villages. And yet the complaints continue. I wish everyone could realize how fortunate they are to be able to live in a place like The Villages and for that matter even be alive long enough to live here.

GGGGGEEEEEEZZZZZZZ Please count your blessings and let the extra cost of salsa go, always tip at 20 % or more and tell management they are doing a great job on your way out the door. You, the wait staff and the management will all feel better.

[Bonny]

It is all relative. We lived in Wash D.C. so we (AFTER 3 YEARS) still can not believe how inexpensive all the restaurants are here in the Villages. And yet the complaints continue. I wish everyone could realize how fortunate they are to be able to live in a place like The Villages and for that matter even be alive long enough to live here.

GGGGGEEEEEEZZZZZZZ Please count your blessings and let the extra cost of salsa go, always tip at 20 % or more and tell management they are doing a great job on your way out the door. You, the wait staff and the management will all feel better.

Okay, so where's the "like" button. LOL We need one of them. :icon_wink:

[notlongnow]

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It is all relative. We lived in Wash D.C. so we (AFTER 3 YEARS) still can not believe how inexpensive all the restaurants are here in the Villages. And yet the complaints continue. I wish everyone could realize how fortunate they are to be able to live in a place like The Villages and for that matter even be alive long enough to live here.

GGGGGEEEEEEZZZZZZZ Please count your blessings and let the extra cost of salsa go, always tip at 20 % or more and tell management they are doing a great job on your way out the door. You, the wait staff and the management will all feel better.
__________________


Having said what I said, I can't disagree with any of this quote.
If I knew that from this day on that my trade-off was pay for salsa-live in The Villages I would pay no problem and smile while I was doing it.
That being said, where I live now free chips and salsa are a fringe benefit and I hope it stays that way here.
EB

[texasfal]

I think we were mostly dismayed that the manager would not come talk to us and at being dismissed by the owner. Oh well, guess we're back to Belleview for Tex-Mex. Thanks for the comments.

[BaylorBear]

I think we were mostly dismayed that the manager would not come talk to us and at being dismissed by the owner. Oh well, guess we're back to Belleview for Tex-Mex. Thanks for the comments.

Sweetie, the Hubs and I (in Austin, TX until our home here sells) only eat at our little El Ranchito right buy the post office in La Bodega! Can drive there in the golf cart and the owners and staff are just as fabulous as their food!! Highly affordable, too and no charge for extra salsa; in fact, if they see it getting low, they fill it up with a smile!:mmmm:

[gomoho]

Just exactly where is this restaurant???

[rubicon]

Mexican is my first choice so the chips and selsa issue doesn't disturb me as much as the OP's comments concerning the manager and owner refusing to speak with them I am also more disturbed by Peachie's story of game playing over a booth.

Restaurant hopping is not my thing so when we do go out my expectations are that the restaurant must at least attempt to convince me that they make a good faith effort to provide quality food and service.

[kimball]

Went there Firday night for dinner with my husband. Ordered drinks, appetizer and entrees. Ate the chips and salsa. Asked for more salsa - we're from Texas and we like spicy. Roland the waiter said he'd have to charge us $1.50 for more salsa. We protested and asked to speak to mgr. Roland said since we didn't know about the charge he'd give us one more dish of salsa for free. Got the bill and we were charged $1.50. We asked again to speak to mgr. Roland told us he would not come to table. As we were leaving we told hostess we would not be back. Very nice girl said the owner was there and to please let her talk to him. She came back and said that the owner said it was too bad we weren't coming back but that we ate a lot of salsa. (Two little bowls that together didn't amount to 1 cup!) Anyway, guess we're back on the trail of decent Mexican food in Florida.

Have been there may times. Never experianced any such problem. Aways have as much Salsa and Chips as we care for. Food is good. Service is fine and personnel are pleasant. Prices are reasonable and have never had any kind of problem. Why is it that some Villagers are never satisfied. Got to be more to the story.

[gomoho]

Just exactly where is this restaurant???

Well my curiosity got the best of me so I confirmed this is the restaurant in Colony Plaza. Can't believe anyone would give them a bad rap. Have always had outstanding food at reasonable prices and yes they charge for extra chip and salsas I believe it says so on the menu. Everytime my son comes to visit he requests we go there 'cause we have always enjoyed it so much. Sorry the op had such a bad experience, but have to disagree with their opinion.

[StarbuckSammy]

The comments by Texasfal and Peachie were straightforward and to the point. They made their case and I agree with them. How do you justify the fact that the manger/owner refuse to discuss the matter? And how about the seating in the booth...I would have walked out the first time.

I would have been upset in both of these circumstances. How can you not?

[Serenoa]

They must have been double-dipping their chips. You know.....dip your chip & take a bite.....and then dip the same chip again. If you don't double-dip you stand a better chance of having your salsa & chips come out even......problem solved! :icon_wink:

BTW, don't EVER double-dip when multiple people are using the same bowl of salsa, outside of family of course. It's like putting your whole mouth in it. Yuck.:ohdear:

[missypie]

They must have been double-dipping their chips. You know.....dip your chip & take a bite.....and then dip the same chip again. If you don't double-dip you stand a better chance of having your salsa & chips come out even......problem solved! :icon_wink:

BTW, don't EVER double-dip when multiple people are using the same bowl of salsa, outside of family of course. It's like putting your whole mouth in it. Yuck.:ohdear:

Seinfeld episode.

[gomoho]

The comments by Texasfal and Peachie were straightforward and to the point. They made their case and I agree with them. How do you justify the fact that the manger/owner refuse to discuss the matter? And how about the seating in the booth...I would have walked out the first time.

I would have been upset in both of these circumstances. How can you not?

I'm wondering if it was a communication issue - quite a few of the folks working there don't understand english and need to get someone to help them. Don't know if this is what happened, but a possibility.

[blueash]

I'm wondering if it was a communication issue - quite a few of the folks working there don't understand english and need to get someone to help them. Don't know if this is what happened, but a possibility.

Oh, I don't know about that. I tried ordering in Spanish and they had NO idea what I was saying.

[Serenoa]

Seinfeld episode.

Sorry, couldn't pass that one up. Wondered if there were any other Seinfeld
fans on here. But at least I did embellish it somewhat.:icon_wink:

[perrjojo]

:undecided:
I guess I am just wondering; in the big scheme of life, how important is this?

[CarolSells]

I called the restaurant and spoke with the hostess. I inquired about their chips and salsa policy and I quote, "Two baskets of chips and two dishes of salsa per table are on the house. Additional servings are $ 0.75."

Me: "Is that every day at any time?". The hostess "Yes".

Time of call - 6:45 p.m. on 01/02/2013.

I realize that food isn't free for the restaurant but I have to say that I don't think I've ever seen an actual charge for the chips and salsa but I would imagine that the idea is to turn tables and serve menu items and drinks.

Just my $.02.

[Peachie]

:undecided:
I guess I am just wondering; in the big scheme of life, how important is this?

perrjojo, I'm sure in the scheme of your life our treatment at that Mexican restaurant that evening meant nothing. But after dressing up a little bit to enjoy an exciting anniversary evening together following a very difficult, grueling year and being in a very happy mood, the incident took the glow off the celebration. To receive the same treatment from this woman, who by the way spoke perfect English, the next time we were to be seated by her finished it for us. We had forgotten about the incident with her until she began the same tactics at this last visit which was the first time she saw us again.

We were baffled by her treatment, we're moving on. When we drop over $50. for our next Mexican meal, it won't be there. And if the OP and her husband dropped $50. to $60 dollars on food and beverage, perhaps the restaurant could have been gracious enough to provide them another 1/2 cup of salsa. This appears to be a case of "my ox isn't being gored so get over it". Just sayin......

[perrjojo]

perrjojo, I sure in the scheme of your life our treatment at that Mexican restaurant that evening meant nothing. But after dressing up a little bit to enjoy an exciting anniversary evening together following a very difficult, grueling year and being in a very happy mood, the incident took the glow off the celebration. To receive the same treatment from this woman, who by the way spoke perfect English, the next time we were to be seated by her finished it for us. We had forgotten about the incident with her until she began the same tactics at this last visit which was the first time she saw us again.

We were baffled by her treatment, we're moving on. When we drop over $50. for our next Mexican meal, it won't be there. And if the OP and her husband dropped $50. to $60 dollars on food and beverage, perhaps the restaurant could have been gracious enough to provide them another 1/2 cup of salsa. This appears to be a case of "my ox isn't being gored so get over it". Just sayin......

I understand your frustration but after just reading that one of our TOTVs 17 year old grandson is in a coma and on life support with no signs of brain activity, it just reminds me that we ALL need to learn to let some things go. Don't go back to the restaurant if you so choose but don't let it spoil your day.

[casita37]

Oh, I don't know about that. I tried ordering in Spanish and they had NO idea what I was saying.

Reminds me of a humorous experience...once, in Puerto Rico, I went into a fast food burger joint. I asked for a "hamburguesa con queso, por favor". The young man didn't understand me, so I asked about 3 or 4 more times, getting slower and louder, lol. I finally walked over to the menu board on the wall and pointed to the cheeseburger.

I was lamenting my treatment to my husband. He, the eternal optimist, suggested, gently, "Perhaps he didn't understand your southern accent??"

[buggyone]

I have been to the Fiesta Grande restaurant. Personally, I do not like the taste of their food at all. The tomato sauce is too sweet (the manager said they add sugar) and the ground meat did not taste fresh. Since I did not like the taste of the food, I am not going back. However, that is my personal view on the flavor of the food.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion.

[sueandskip]

WOW ! I have eatin here many ,many times and have requested special seating and have never had any problems.... I am not sure what is going on ,but on another related note maybe it's a budget thing....Olive Garden no longer gives free wine samples, so all you wine haters that take the free sample to fill up Aunt Marthas glass to give her a free glass of wine , the game is over....Just sayin , maybe this is there way to save a little, but the seating thing is rediculous...

[champion6]

There seams to be a pattern. We had a similar experience at this restaurant about 6 weeks ago.

My wife ordered chicken quesadilla which was served with a small cup of sour cream on the side. When she had eaten about half of the serving, she realized that she was almost out of sour cream and asked the server for more. As anyone would expect, he brought her another small cup.

When the check was delivered, I was surprised to see a $0.75 charge for the extra sour cream.

End of story... I paid the check and we left.

[janmcn]

It was reported on the news earlier today that McDonald's, Wendy's and Burger King are slowly phasing out their dollar menus. It seems that the price of food is causing certain deals to be discontinued.

[Barefoot]

[QUOTE=Peachie;602760]
They were denied the ability to speak with the manager, which is recommended by everyone on this forum .

Actually, complaining to the manager isn't recommended by everyone on this forum. We expect that we'll love some places and not others. Some of us vote with our feet, and simply avoid places where we've had an unhappy experience.

[Mr Hanky]

There seams to be a pattern. We had a similar experience at this restaurant about 6 weeks ago.

My wife ordered chicken quesadilla which was served with a small cup of sour cream on the side. When she had eaten about half of the serving, she realized that she was almost out of sour cream and asked the server for more. As anyone would expect, he brought her another small cup.

When the check was delivered, I was surprised to see a $0.75 charge for the extra sour cream.

End of story... I paid the check and we left.


I have heard enough to make an informed decision . I will NOT be going to this eating establishment. Thank you all for your most valuable input.

[keithwand]

RJ Gators (LSL) charged extra for more tartar sauce for my fish and chips. Seriously?

Another time they tried seating us outside around the corner almost to Cody's and all by ourselves.

We walked out and voted with our feet.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

It was reported on the news earlier today that McDonald's, Wendy's and Burger King are slowly phasing out their dollar menus. It seems that the price of food is causing certain deals to be discontinued.

Here's what I saw earlier in the news today re: Wendy's. They're not phasing it out per se - just revamping and expanding on the concept:

Wendy's Dollar Menu Set to Expand | TIME.com (http://business.time.com/2013/01/03/wendys-doubles-down-on-dollar-menu/)

As also noted in the above article, Mickey D's did something a bit similar back in the 3rd quarter, focusing more on marketing their lower priced items in an effort to improve profitability.

Haven't heard/read anything lately specific to Burger King on the topic.

Bill :)

[USSGompers]

Sweetie, the Hubs and I (in Austin, TX until our home here sells) only eat at our little El Ranchito right buy the post office in La Bodega! Can drive there in the golf cart and the owners and staff are just as fabulous as their food!! Highly affordable, too and no charge for extra salsa; in fact, if they see it getting low, they fill it up with a smile!:mmmm:

I second that!!! Love it there. Margaritas are Super, too.

[BobnBev]

I have heard enough to make an informed decision . I will NOT be going to this eating establishment. Thank you all for your most valuable input.

That makes 2 of us.:spoken:

[applesoffh]

Try Azteca restaurant on 301 in Wildwood (in the small shopping center where the post office is). Great, home-made Mexican food...with homemade salsa and chips, too. Really, really good food.

[Sanibel7]

Bonny, perhaps I can help you understand... this is a Mexican restaurant and they most likely buy salsa by the gallons, the cost for a half cup is pennies for them. The OP and her husband ordered drinks, appetizers and meals and they weren't provided another 1/2 cup of salsa upon request, unless they paid $1.50. I don't know if you've eaten at this Mexican restaurant but the salsa servings vary by the server some half full little containers and some quite full. They were denied the ability to speak with the manager, which is recommended by everyone on this forum. Not a great business decision by a Mexican restaurant to charge extra for salsa.

If that isn't enough to help you understand, I'd like to share our experiences at this restaurant which we had frequented often. My husband and I don't order drinks and we don't have appetizers but always ordered the higher end price meals plus a beverage and left a nice tip and are very low maintenance diners.

We went there about three months ago and requested a booth for seating from the woman who was hostessing, (there were 3 open booths at the time). She informed us they kept the booths for larger groups and we could not have one. I explained it was our wedding anniversary and we would really prefer a booth if possible. She said no, took us to a table next to the walkway from the bar and kitchen. We then watched as she proceeded to seat the next two couple to arrive in individual booths, even though tables were open. It was a less than pleasant experience dining where we were seated that evening.

We had gone back again despite that evening until two weeks ago. Once again this woman was hostessing and when we requested a booth, she said none were available. My husband and I discussed it and said we would wait until a booth opens up. We sat down along the wall straight ahead of her stand where she could see us waiting. My husband walked to the men's restroom at that point and there was an empty booth! While he was gone, another booth opened up in the front and was promptly cleaned. A couple walked in a this point and this woman took them to the booth to be seated that had just emptied out. At that point we left and won't be going back.

We had no agenda with this person and were pleasant. We were not demanding or demeaning to this woman, had simply made a request for booth seating. She on the other hand, had plenty of issues. We decided not to return to this Mexican restaurant and weren't going to share this information until we found the OP's opinion being dismissed.

There are many very good restaurants and why should this couple spend their money at a Mexican restaurant that won't serve them a nickel cup of salsa for less than $1.50. And surely you realize this isn't so much about the price of the salsa and is more about the attitude and service at this restaurant; they shared their experience. Other people will make their own decisions where to dine.

That is one of the reasons why I do not go out to eat. I would rather make my own food and know that I would not be disappointed. You never know what will happen and how good the food will be. Too many people will not let the resturants know how disappointed they are and if they did maybe there will be an improvement.

[jbdlfan]

WOW ! I have eatin here many ,many times and have requested special seating and have never had any problems.... I am not sure what is going on ,but on another related note maybe it's a budget thing....Olive Garden no longer gives free wine samples, so all you wine haters that take the free sample to fill up Aunt Marthas glass to give her a free glass of wine , the game is over....Just sayin , maybe this is there way to save a little, but the seating thing is rediculous...

HAHAHAHA! That absolutely made my day!!! "If it ain't free, they don't come." Our mantra in The Villages!

[Peachie]

HAHAHAHA! That absolutely made my day!!! "If it ain't free, they don't come." Our mantra in The Villages!

"If it ain't free, they don't come." Our mantra in The Villages!

Absolutely made your day? Sounds like good times may be hard to come by at your house, jbdlfan.

I think that shot is unfair to the OP and other Villagers. The OP and her husband did spend plenty of money for drinks, appetizers and meals. They now know the policy of this Mexican restaurant to charge $1.50 for approximately a 1/2 cup of salsa. They won't return and will let you and others dole that money out if you and they find it to be good business practice.

There may be some Villagers that are very cheap. We are, after all, part of the real world where there are also "cheapskates". Some Villagers need to be very frugal but manage their money in a dignified manner as they struggle to make ends meet while trying to enjoy their "golden years". I don't think they should be labeled for doing so. And others, like my husband and I, are more fortunate to not worry from month to month on how to make ends meet. When we do spend our money for a night out, we want to be around good-natured, pleasant people which enhances the great lives we're living in this community. Thus, we will not return to this restaurant either.

In closing, some people won't buy a home if it "ain't" a foreclosure. Does that mean they're looking for freebies born of another's difficulties or does that mean they are savvy and not foolish with their money? All things to ponder and I truly hope your day gets even better than that earlier mantra that made yours. There is a very good side of The Villages to be enjoyed.

[Penguin]

Oh, I don't know about that. I tried ordering in Spanish and they had NO idea what I was saying.

Now thats funny:1rotfl:

[n8xwb]

I am writing this as we sit at Fiesta Grande finishing our 2 for 1 happy hour drinks. We had 2 orders of chips with salsa .... no extra charge. We shared the fajitas brocheta.... no extra charge. We asked for 2 extra tortillas (you only get 4).....no extra charge. We asked for a side of sour cream and lettuce......75 cents extra charge. The food was great, the service was great, we agree with Bonny...I wouldn't complain about something that is offers for free. And did I mention, the salsa is really good so we asked for 16 ounce take out .....$3.00! Not a bad price,a pint of "fresh" salsa at Walmart is more than $4.00. We will come back, no we are not texans!

[hunt9791]

Had the worst meal I've had in the Villages at that restaurant. The wait staff was quite nice however...

[skip0358]

Ate there the other night 40 minute wait. Food was great, couldn't finish it all. Margaretta's were very good. Will be back.

[tainsley]

Had dinner at the grille Saturday. As always it was delicious. Waited ten minutes. Wait staff very friendly and cheerful. And we were not charged for more salsa! And the Dos Equis weren't bad either! We like this place!

[FoodBuff]

You have to give credit to these boys trying to run a big fancy eating place because its hard work! Unfortunatley and fortunatley all of these comments are right on,, good and bad. The people that got unlimited salsa and chips at no charge were nice to their server, probably frequent customers and had the same server. I have gone to this resturaunt and been charged and then not charged dependeing on the server I had and if you complain you will be charged from that point on! Then it becomes a management issue hiring workers that are uncomfortable working in an english speaking enviornment. The owner needs to tell his employees to take the chips off their shoulders when they come to work and put them on the table for the customers to eat so they leave full and want to come back. I will actually walk out if i think i will be served by a rude, short, impatient server rather than be reseated.What is worse the management doesn't realize behavior like this is killing his business.

[FoodBuff]

You have to give credit to these boys trying to run a big fancy eating place because its hard work! Unfortunatley and fortunatley all of these comments are right on,, good and bad. The people that got unlimited salsa and chips at no charge were nice to their server, probably frequent customers and had the same server. I have gone to this resturaunt and been charged and then not charged dependeing on the server I had and if you complain you will be charged from that point on! Then it becomes a management issue hiring workers that are uncomfortable working in an english speaking enviornment. The owner needs to tell his employees to take the chips off their shoulders when they come to work and put them on the table for the customers to eat so they leave full and want to come back. I will actually walk out if i think i will be served by a rude, short, impatient server rather than be reseated.What is worse the management doesn't realize behavior like this is killing his business.

Pardon My spelling:)

[Golfingnut]

I would like to hear from the Manager before I vote on this one. Two sides to every story. I also feel we the customers have some responsibility in how we conduct ourselves while dining out.

[Golfingnut]

[QUOTE=Peachie;602760]
They were denied the ability to speak with the manager, which is recommended by everyone on this forum .

Actually, complaining to the manager isn't recommended by everyone on this forum. We expect that we'll love some places and not others. Some of us vote with our feet, and simply avoid places where we've had an unhappy experience.

Ditto:

[JoeC1947]

I would have spoken with the manager.

[Here2Stay]

Sorry, I am still going BACK, I fully understand after that first bowl of Salsa they offer when I arrive is FREE, I don't expect to ask more more and NOT expect to pay extra....EXTRA usually means EXTRA. Why do folks think it should be FREE after the first bowl!

[coffeebean]

Went there Firday night for dinner with my husband. Ordered drinks, appetizer and entrees. Ate the chips and salsa. Asked for more salsa - we're from Texas and we like spicy. Roland the waiter said he'd have to charge us $1.50 for more salsa. We protested and asked to speak to mgr. Roland said since we didn't know about the charge he'd give us one more dish of salsa for free. Got the bill and we were charged $1.50. We asked again to speak to mgr. Roland told us he would not come to table. As we were leaving we told hostess we would not be back. Very nice girl said the owner was there and to please let her talk to him. She came back and said that the owner said it was too bad we weren't coming back but that we ate a lot of salsa. (Two little bowls that together didn't amount to 1 cup!) Anyway, guess we're back on the trail of decent Mexican food in Florida.

My husband and I have dined in this Mexican restaurant several times. We have never been charged for additional chips or salsa. I'm a bit confused about this.

[coffeebean]

perrjojo, I'm sure in the scheme of your life our treatment at that Mexican restaurant that evening meant nothing. But after dressing up a little bit to enjoy an exciting anniversary evening together following a very difficult, grueling year and being in a very happy mood, the incident took the glow off the celebration. To receive the same treatment from this woman, who by the way spoke perfect English, the next time we were to be seated by her finished it for us. We had forgotten about the incident with her until she began the same tactics at this last visit which was the first time she saw us again.

We were baffled by her treatment, we're moving on. When we drop over $50. for our next Mexican meal, it won't be there. And if the OP and her husband dropped $50. to $60 dollars on food and beverage, perhaps the restaurant could have been gracious enough to provide them another 1/2 cup of salsa. This appears to be a case of "my ox isn't being gored so get over it". Just sayin......
Peachie...
I would have been livid if hubby and I were slighted as you were by this hostess. Just curious...after watching other couples being seated in a booth that you had been waiting for, did you question the hostess as to why she gave those other couples a booth that you had been waiting for? Did you speak to a manager about this? I certainly would have.

[coffeebean]

[QUOTE=FoodBuff;613620]You have to give credit to these boys trying to run a big fancy eating place because its hard work! Unfortunatley and fortunatley all of these comments are right on,, good and bad. The people that got unlimited salsa and chips at no charge were nice to their server, probably frequent customers and had the same server. I have gone to this resturaunt and been charged and then not charged dependeing on the server I had and if you complain you will be charged from that point on! Then it becomes a management issue hiring workers that are uncomfortable working in an english speaking enviornment. The owner needs to tell his employees to take the chips off their shoulders when they come to work and put them on the table for the customers to eat so they leave full and want to come back. I will actually walk out if i think i will be served by a rude, short, impatient server rather than be reseated.What is worse the management doesn't realize behavior like this is killing his business.[/QUOTE

How is management going to be informed of the inconsistencies if they refuse to speak to their customers?

[coffeebean]

Here's a good one for you...

Today, I ordered the deep fried beef Chimichanga. This was served with the beef surrounded by an extremely soft tortilla. I mentioned to the server that the Chimichanga is supposed to be crunchy like a taco shell is crunchy. He responded that the Chimichanga was soft because of the melted cheese on top. I've had this dish in other Mexican restaurants and it has always had a very crunchy texture with the melted cheese on top. Needless to say, I did not go any further with this and just ate the Chimichanga with the very soft tortilla but was disappointed in the dish. I guess I'll just continue to order my usual when I go back...the Beef Fajitas.

[nonseniorresident]

I love this place! I was drawn to this post because I frequent this establishment and laughed when I saw WHY it was titled "never again." They had to start charging for extra salsa because people took advantage and would fill up on chips and not buy entrees or appetizers, or maybe share one. Sure it may be pennies for the salsa but they lose much more than pennies when giving it away costs them sales of other items that they rely on to stay in business. Honestly they probably didn't care to lose your business because they can not stay in business if they give away food. When we go, we sometimes get a second helping of chips/salsa and they don't charge us because we always get drinks and meals and tip at least 20%. That is the business.

[Bonny]

:BigApplause:

[Peachie]

I love this place! I was drawn to this post because I frequent this establishment and laughed when I saw WHY it was titled "never again." They had to start charging for extra salsa because people took advantage and would fill up on chips and not buy entrees or appetizers, or maybe share one. Sure it may be pennies for the salsa but they lose much more than pennies when giving it away costs them sales of other items that they rely on to stay in business. Honestly they probably didn't care to lose your business because they can not stay in business if they give away food. When we go, we sometimes get a second helping of chips/salsa and they don't charge us because we always get drinks and meals and tip at least 20%. That is the business.


NONseniorresident, I suggest you read the very first post which began this column. The OP's did exactly what you did regarding purchasing meals, drinks and they included appetizers and were charged for the 1/2 cup of salsa. You were not charged so your ox wasn't being gored, right? Next time perhaps this restaurant will charge you for your excess salsa and you can happily pay it or not go back because surely they wouldn't miss your business.

I was asked why we didn't approach the manager regarding the booth situation the first time we went in and the hostess behaved as she did. I was exactly 1 month post cardiac surgery and if you don't think we were happy to be celebrating our wedding anniversary, you're mistaken. The last thing I wanted to do that evening was complain to the manager. In fact, we have never had to complain to a manager of a restaurant. As I stated earlier, we're low maintenance diners. We're just taking our money elsewhere. We shared our experience at this establishment simply because of the OP being "trashed" for sharing their frustration at the treatment they received. People share their experiences on this forum and as another poster so nicely states it: I opine, you decide.

*As a side note... my husband and I went to a different Mexican restaurant 2 weeks ago. We walked in the door and the pleasant hostess asked, "would you like a booth?" My husband winked at me, we chuckled, had a delicious dinner and beverages, were offered more chips and salsa which we declined and listened to soft laughter and banter from the kitchen while our meals were prepared. What a great evening! (I am not stating where we ate lest we be accused of trying to promote another restaurant with our post.)

[nonseniorresident]

NONseniorresident, I suggest you read the very first post which began this column. The OP's did exactly what you did regarding purchasing meals, drinks and they included appetizers and were charged for the 1/2 cup of salsa. You were not charged so your ox wasn't being gored, right? Next time perhaps this restaurant will charge you for your excess salsa and you can happily pay it or not go back because surely they wouldn't miss your business.

I was asked why we didn't approach the manager regarding the booth situation the first time we went in and the hostess behaved as she did. I was exactly 1 month post cardiac surgery and if you don't think we were happy to be celebrating our wedding anniversary, you're mistaken. The last thing I wanted to do that evening was complain to the manager. In fact, we have never had to complain to a manager of a restaurant. As I stated earlier, we're low maintenance diners. We're just taking our money elsewhere. We shared our experience at this establishment simply because of the OP being "trashed" for sharing their frustration at the treatment they received. People share their experiences on this forum and as another poster so nicely states it: I opine, you decide.

*As a side note... my husband and I went to a different Mexican restaurant 2 weeks ago. We walked in the door and the pleasant hostess asked, "would you like a booth?" My husband winked at me, we chuckled, had a delicious dinner and beverages, were offered more chips and salsa which we declined and listened to soft laughter and banter from the kitchen while our meals were prepared. What a great evening! (I am not stating where we ate lest we be accused of trying to promote another restaurant with our post.)


I don't know what you are talking about as far as the booth stuff but I honestly wouldn't boycott a restaurant over $1.50 especially one I liked. Yes they haven't charged us yet but if they did I wouldn't care especially because it says they do on the cover of their menu. Good for them for sticking to their guns unlike most places in TV all someone has to do is complain about nothing to get something free.

[StarbuckSammy]

Nonseniorresident...read all the postings...then you may wish to comment...Peachie, you are right on. But what the heck...tell us where you dined last.

[nonseniorresident]

Nonseniorresident...read all the postings...then you may wish to comment...Peachie, you are right on. But what the heck...tell us where you dined last.

No thanks, don't care to. I was just responding to the original post, not the any other tangents other posters decided to rant on about.

[Indydealmaker]

Reading all of the posts will often clarify the continuity of a problem thus making an OP less guilty of just "being picky". Not to mention, reading all of the posts cuts down on the "beating of a dead horse".

[texasfal]

No thanks, don't care to. I was just responding to the original post, not the any other tangents other posters decided to rant on about.

Dear Non-resident - I am the original poster. I said never again because of the attitude of the owner and the fact the mgr would not come to our table. To me that is bad service and I don't encourage bad service. I'm glad you enjoyed your food. & welcome to The Villages.

[NANCY58]

We won't go back either. My food was cold when I received it, sent it back, and everyone at the table was done eating when mine finally arrived. Also, didn't think it was all that good! With so many good places to eat, why go to the ones that we don't like?

[mfearn285]

Went there Firday night for dinner with my husband. Ordered drinks, appetizer and entrees. Ate the chips and salsa. Asked for more salsa - we're from Texas and we like spicy. Roland the waiter said he'd have to charge us $1.50 for more salsa. We protested and asked to speak to mgr. Roland said since we didn't know about the charge he'd give us one more dish of salsa for free. Got the bill and we were charged $1.50. We asked again to speak to mgr. Roland told us he would not come to table. As we were leaving we told hostess we would not be back. Very nice girl said the owner was there and to please let her talk to him. She came back and said that the owner said it was too bad we weren't coming back but that we ate a lot of salsa. (Two little bowls that together didn't amount to 1 cup!) Anyway, guess we're back on the trail of decent Mexican food in Florida.

this is a nice little mexican restaurant that caters to the villagers that enjoy a good meal at a decent price... never had an issue with servers or managment or food.... sometimes it takes a former waiter/waitress to appreciate good service knowing the obsticles .......

[Down Sized]

Went there Firday night for dinner with my husband. Ordered drinks, appetizer and entrees. Ate the chips and salsa. Asked for more salsa - we're from Texas and we like spicy. Roland the waiter said he'd have to charge us $1.50 for more salsa. We protested and asked to speak to mgr. Roland said since we didn't know about the charge he'd give us one more dish of salsa for free. Got the bill and we were charged $1.50. We asked again to speak to mgr. Roland told us he would not come to table. As we were leaving we told hostess we would not be back. Very nice girl said the owner was there and to please let her talk to him. She came back and said that the owner said it was too bad we weren't coming back but that we ate a lot of salsa. (Two little bowls that together didn't amount to 1 cup!) Anyway, guess we're back on the trail of decent Mexican food in Florida.

Was the salsa good?
Sounds like a lot of head ache For $1.50???? :mmmm:

[coffeebean]

The salsa is delicious as I don't like salsa that has smoke coming out of my ears. The heat is just perfect for my taste. Their regular Margaritas are delicious too, including their frozen Strawberry Margaritas. Hubby and I like this restaurant and plan to go back.

[tkret]

Sorry, couldn't pass that one up. Wondered if there were any other Seinfeld
fans on here. But at least I did embellish it somewhat.:icon_wink:
double dip - YouTube