Overall Rating:

1 out of 5

The Absolute Worst of the Worst., October 22, 2009
By lyselu

"I gave El Zocalo ONE star merely because I did NOT trip on my way into the restaurant. But the events that followed the horrible decision to enter and eat (gasp!) were much, much more painful anyway.

My order was two Carne Asada soft tacos ala carte for $14. I anticipated a quality meal especially because it's quite pricey and the place represents itself as 'upscale.' But instead I had the worst food and restaurant experience in my entire 38 years of life.

The tacos were literally made of gristle. Wads of meat with strings of fat holding it in lumps. I couldn't chew through it. I RARELY complain and am NOT a picky eater but I HAD to say something. Not ONLY for myself but for future patrons. A restaurant with integrity would make sure its customers were happy. They would want the opportunity to right a wrong especially where a customer is concerned, right? I assumed that was common sense and good business practices but I was wrong in assuming.

I advised the Manager of the situation and even showed him the quality of the obviously (even visually) inedible meat. I imagined he'd be mortified that this had come from his kitchen but no, he expressed NO concern. When he did not apologize or offer any type of solution besides blaming the facility that sends the meat to them and stating he would notify the cook, I asked to be compensated.

He took the bill and promptly disappeared into the kitchen and that was the last I saw of him. He never discounted the bill. He wouldn't even consider coming up with a satisfactory compromise. But what he did do is send the server to come to the table to tell me the Manager was NOT giving me a discount. I did NOT hold her accountable at all and made sure she knew that but also expressed how disappointing the entire experience was. I needed to express how disappointed I was with the Manager, especially as the representative of the restaurant. His blatant, bizarre and rude behavior and dismissal of a valid complaint speaks volumes to what little significance is placed on their customer's satisfaction.

I've NEVER had such disgusting food and experienced such an unprofessional place. I have not ONE positive thing to say about this establishment. It's just plain bad business NOT to value your customers. Shame on them.

I recommend the tried and true Serranos across the street from El Zocalo. Better prices, GREAT food, better service and an enjoyable atmosphere. I have frequented this establishment throughout my entire life and I can honestly say I have NEVER had even ONE complaint.... And their salsa and bean dip served with chips is the BEST in the valley! I'd rather Serranos represent this fine city and its Mexican heritage"

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