Packering Them In, Part 2
July 17th, 2007 by Brian Ries in Chefs, Gossip, Openings/Closings, Restaurants, TampaJust had a scouting report on Rand Packer’s Mariposa from our own wine maven Taylor Eason (as well as this blurb from the Times). She’s not too impressed:
“Didn’t eat there since it really looks like an upscale Tijuana Flats (and we wanted sit down, upscale service that night)… You order at the counter and they bring it to you. He spent a fortune on décor but uses plastic trays, forks, etc. Kinda shocking actually… But maybe it reflects what he wants at this stage in his career…”
I guess you can’t blame a guy for wanting to take a more casual route. She could at least have tried one of his popsicles.
July 18th, 2007 at 3:52 pm
Food is excellent, Rand and his chef Brian are doing an excellent job. Food is not served on plastic nor are plastic utensils being used. I will definately be going back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
July 20th, 2007 at 5:53 pm
You missed out on a great meal! Guarantee it was better than the dinner choice you decided on because you were afraid to order at the counter. Incredible service for a place that just opened! It is one of my favorite new restaurants. I’ve been four times already. It tends to get busy early, but worth the wait! I love that it’s family owned and not a franchise like almost everywhere else in Tampa! And there is no plastic… it is apparent that every detail was considered and no expense was spared!
July 21st, 2007 at 1:48 am
I went to Mariposa on the 17th for dinner and it was busy! I did have to wait a while but once the food came out the flavors were very exciting and fresh. The service was good for a fast casual dining. The Sangria was yummy! Oh, and the silverware was real if Taylor wanted to know. Sorry that you missed out on a flavorful meal. The grilled wahoo tacos are killer!