We’ve been three times so far, attracted by this small restaurant’s reputation, location and décor. We’ve experienced two hits, and one unfortunate miss.
Not much to look at from the outside (especially in winter), but the décor within is colourful, funky and unique. There’s enough in the way of Latin-American-style knick-knacks and ambient eye-candy to keep you from tuning out. This is not a place to go for quiet, one-on-one dining; in fact, it can be rather noisy for a small restaurant. Groups of friends, however, may like this, though you may sometimes have to raise your voice to be heard. Tables are grouped in the common rather than separated by dividers. It’s meant to be an invigorating atmosphere, and it works.
As to the food, it’s a somewhat Canadianized notion of Mexican food, but really quite tasty. The actual menus – a bit garish to read, but fun – are available for viewing at their website (something I wish more restaurants would do). In all, the offerings are fairly priced, and the portions reasonable. For the most part, we’ve been pretty happy with anything we’ve ordered.
The first time we went, the restaurant was full, but the service remained quite good. Our orders were correct, and did not take long to arrive. Our second visit was just for drinks, and again the service was fine. Unfortunately, the third time, we ran out of luck. Though our meal was fine for the most part, it was difficult to get attention paid to our table, the last one down at the end. We were not asked about drinks, nor did our server drop by to ask how everything was. We had to wave our arms about to snag any attention at all. In the end, while contemplating dessert and a second drink, we were left completely alone.
Receiving the bill - and then paying - proved especially challenging. By this time, our server had vanished, apparently for a chat in the kitchen. An item that had been replaced had been added onto the total. With no staff at all in the dining room, I finally left to start the car, while my wife went off to track down Houdini. Disappointing, especially since we’d enjoyed the restaurant so much in so many other ways.
Every restaurant has its off-nights, though, so we’ll likely try again—maybe in summer, when the deck (under a thatched-style roof!) finally re-opens again. The food is good after all, and this looks like a fun place for friends.
910 Victoria Avenue, Saskatoon (Two blocks off Broadway at Main Street)
http://www.laspalapas.ca/contact.php
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