sarahstierch on Trip Advisor 9 months ago
11/17/2021, 08:56 AM
Solo diner: Yummy dinner and drinks, friendly staff - once I got their attention!
I visited El Jefe's on a Sunday evening. I sat at a video poker free seat at the front bar alone.
I sat there for over five minutes while three staff members, including a manager, buzzed around the bar helping customers and counting inventory. I got up, went to the back bar where the staff were gathered, and told them I was sitting there.
The manager brought me water and a few minutes later one of the bartenders came over to take my order. He was very friendly!
I asked for a mezcal margarita. Instead, he made me the signature Cadillac Margarita with a mezcal floater. I'm not a Cadillac fan, but, the acid and savory nature of the mezcal cut through the sweetness of the OJ. It was so good - I ordered a second!
I ordered the quesabirria (the bartender said it was great and I love it!), however, the kitchen was out (it's a rather special dish, so I wasn't surprised). I asked his other favorite dish and he recommended the Shrimp Diablo Tacos. And yes - he was very genuine in his suggestion.
It was a hearty portion with refried beans, fresh salsa, rice, and two tacos.
I requested chips and salsa twice from the bartender but did not receive them. I love crunch with my Mexican food, and I'm happy to pay extra for chips and salsa. I noticed that folks in the dining room around me were getting complimentary chips. However, I noticed people by themselves weren't. Since I did not receive them from the bartender, I asked the runner who brought my food. He had to go out of his way to ask the manager if he could give me chips and salsa. She said yes.
As a woman who travels around the world alone, nothing annoys me more than being ignored, "missed," or denied the same thing as couples or larger groups. Just give me a smaller portion, fine by me.
Regardless, my tacos were delicious and the chips and salsa were, too.
Overall, I'd visit El Jefe's again. The design was cute, food was good, cocktails strong, and once I got their attention - the staff was friendly and attentive.