The Curious Critique - TOP 5% GOOGLE REVIEWER
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Gone are the days of the old Tortilla Joe’s, which was once the go-to spot for Mexican cuisine in Downtown Disney. With the arrival of this new restaurant, a refreshing change has taken place, elevating the dining scene to new heights. This modern Mexican restaurant has become a standout centerpiece in Downtown Disney, undoubtedly one of the area’s crown jewels. After the disappointing renovation of Jazz Kitchen, this place has quickly risen to the top of my list.
The restaurant exudes an authentic Caribbean-Southern American style atmosphere, making it not only a place to eat but an experience in itself. The ambiance is warm, inviting, and vibrant, perfectly complementing the high-quality food that follows. The food was delivered with impressive speed, yet it didn’t sacrifice an ounce of flavor or freshness. The chips were perfectly crunchy and fresh, and the salsa—while tasty—left me wishing for a few more options. A variety of salsas, perhaps with different consistencies, would make the experience even more dynamic.
We started with a classic Old Fashioned, which didn’t disappoint. The drink was crafted well with great flavor and a generous pour, setting the tone for the rest of the meal. For the main course, we opted for the Carne Asada tacos. The sirloin steak was perfectly seasoned and tender, paired with the perfect balance of onions and cilantro, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. The Burrito Norteño was another standout, packed with flavorful braised beef, crispy Mexican cheese, pinto beans, rice, sour cream, avocado, and queso fresco, all encased in a perfectly grilled flour tortilla. Both dishes were packed with vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and plenty of heart.
What really made this dining experience shine, however, was the service. Our server, Bernardo, went above and beyond to ensure we had a fantastic meal. He was attentive, friendly, and exuded a pleasant, upbeat personality that made us feel right at home. The wait time was around 20 minutes, which, given the busy nature of the location, felt reasonable and worth it.
While the pricing is on the higher end—something to be expected from a tourist-driven area like Downtown Disney—this restaurant offers quality and service that justifies the cost. Whether you’re visiting the Disney parks or simply enjoying Downtown Disney, this is an ideal spot to enjoy flavorful, well-prepared Mexican cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere