Alvarez Mexican Restaurant

I've been coming here about 20 years and seen it's ups and downs. It has improved in recent months and feel it deserves a fresh look. The wait staff is young, fresh and attentive. The food is authentic and reasonable and you can't beat a $.99 import draft! The chips and salsa ar fresh and lively and the fajitas are a value.

It was Friday evening, but the place was not busy; it got busier before we left. The hostess gave us chips & salsa. Our waiter took our orders soon after we were seated and brought our beverages-so far, good. It took longer than expected to get our food, but we were in no hurry. Once the dinners were served, our waiter never came by to see if everything was satisfactory-it was not. My steak & shrimp fajita dinner ($15.99) arrived quite plain - aside from the grilled steak, shrimp, onions & peppers, there was only a tiny bit of shredded lettuce and chopped tomato. But the biggest shock was that they only served two small flour tortillas. After several attempts, we flagged down our waiter, who apologized and said that he could only offer some salsa that they serve with chips and he’d bring more tortillas. I accepted his offer–and waited while my dinner became stone cold. We managed to stop him again (as he was hurrying to & from the kitchen always with his head down) and inquired about the salsa and tortillas–he brought the salsa and went to the kitchen to see where the tortillas were. He came back to say that he had told the cook, who left and did not tell his replacement, but they would be out soon. Too long later, he delivered the tortillas, at that point, I asked for a to-go box and we left. The Alvarez is not new to us. We dine there when we’re in the mood for Mexican food. It’s definitely not the cheapest or cleanest, but usually the food is good and service varies, but not to this extreme. The atmosphere is old dingy Mexican and we often notice unusual electrical plug shortage solutions, using power strips draped along the walls. Participation of Alvarez in the iDine absolutely influenced our decision to go there the last two times. Previously, they got 4-stars…this time they do not deserve any stars. We’ll probably go to Applebee’s (or any other place) in the future.

As far as Mexican food goes, I would have to say that Iams or Eaukanuba probably tastes better. Dog food for non-picky Canines. I brought home a doggy bag, and my dog turned his nose at it. No exaggeration. I honestly can't see how they stay in business with food(?) this bad. If you really want good Mexican food, try Carmelita's in St. Petersburg.