Jose's Mexican Cafe & Cantina

Jose's Mexican Cafe & Cantina
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Phone (808) 732-1833
Address 1134 Koko Head Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
 
Authentic style Mexican food for lunch and dinner.

Features
• Food Types: Beer / Cocktails • Food Types: Mexican • Payment: $$ - Average - $15 to $30 • Meals: Dinner • Meals: Lunch
• Service Type: Table

Jose's Mexican Cafe & Cantina serves up all of the classic Mexican menu items. Enchiladas, burritos, tacos, combination plates, plenty of appetizers, it's all here. I had high hopes for Jose's but was ultimately disappointed.

The food wasn't bad, I actually enjoyed it and would eat it again if it was in front of me. I just wouldn't pay for it again. The problem is that it just isn't anything special and there are so many other and better options out there. It's also a bit on the pricey side for what you get. I paid around $17 for a 3 item combo plate with a cheese enchilada, two shredded beef tacos, rice, and beans. Not enough quantity or quality for an almost $25 meal with tax and tip.

The enchilada was good but tiny. The tacos were also small, tasty, and maybe a little on the greasy side. I liked the rice even if it was just average. The beans were a little sub-par. Nothing was bad, but nothing really special about any of it either.

The restaurant itself feels old and outdated. There is a bar inside and feels more like a neighbor hang out than a restaurant that is inviting to newcomers. The service was pretty slow since they had only one waitress who was also the hostess and bartender. It wasn't her fault, she was constantly busy and moving around, but it led to slow service. That soda refill took a while and I never did get a refill on the chips and salsa.

So there you go, I ate here so you don't have to. You can do better elsewhere.