With the big lunches we’d been eating, we managed to have only one evening meal out during our stay. It’s a shame then that we picked Tio Lucas at Mesones 103. Part of the decision was forced upon us, as it was Good Friday and many other places were closed.
As you approach, the effusive welcome from the owner, the lively atmosphere, and the promise of "Las Mejores Carnes" all promise a good night out.
On first look, the interior open courtyard, with its overhanging tree dressed with glowing red lamps, appears inviting, but the overall, quality of the food is very average, and again, the place is full of Americans. The only vaguely "Mexican" experiences to be had are the chips, spicy salsa, and excellent guacamole. They also serve an interesting but delicious pina colada.
There‘s plenty to watch as Caesar salads are carefully prepared by waiters at your table in oversized salad bowls (114ps for two people). Initially, it’s quite a display, but after 5 minutes (and the salad is still not complete), the novelty wears off.
I chose the pollo limon (92ps), which came with boiled vegetables and a jacket potato. I was starting to think that I was back in England eating a school dinner, such was the blandness and distinct lack of lemon taste. My husband had the equally unimpressive chicken fajitas (92ps). The red meat and seafood dishes run at around about 100ps, and perhaps they’re worth the extra money, but we didn’t stick around to find out.
Overall, it was just way too cheesy, with everyone around us (including the waiters) speaking English. Obviously, this is ideal for some, but it’s nice to experience something different to your native culture and cuisine when you travel abroad. The final insult was the crazy improv Jazz guitar trio who started up just as we were leaving thankfully.