Rocco's Tacos

Reviews

Name: Jose Lambiet
Occupation: Journalist, Palm Beach Post
Favorite Restaurant: Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar
Reviewed Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar: May 14th, 2008

The entire experience was positive, which is why I keep going back. It’s hard to find in the West Palm area a restaurant that’s not too expensive, reliably good, not part of a chain, and located downtown. The shame of it is the wait, but that’s not even that bad because folks can go across the street to Vince Neil’s Dr. Feelgood’s for a cold one while they wait. The service is a tad slow, but rush hour there lasts until 11 p.m. on weekends. I love the barbecued pork, Tijuana steaks (basically a deep fried steak, no more than once a year) and the burritos, which are well stuffed with healthy veggies and dry cheese. At dinner, they’ll come to your table and prepare guacamole. Real Mexicans do that, so it’s probably the only genuine item. Meanwhile, the decor is pretty cheesy, like a cheap Mexican movie, but it’s part of the whole experience. The margaritas are really strong. The bartenders there don’t scrimp like almost everywhere else. Tables are close together, so if you don’t like contact with other human beings, stay away. Otherwise, it’s always pleasant to talk to diners at their tables. Most people know each other in there. Strangers may feel a little left out, the same as you would from an inside joke, but that won’t last too long. P.S. The dinner-ending espressos aren’t great.

Name: Julia Yarbough
Occupation: News Anchor, NBC6
Lives In: Pompano Beach
Favorite Restaurant: Canyon Café
Reviewed Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar: May 3rd, 2008

I didn’t know what to expect when I arrived at Rocco’s Taco’s & Tequila Bar, but based on the name alone, I suspected it was a fun-loving, full-of-energy kind of watering hole. The hostess staff was very friendly and accommodating, and seated my party rather quickly, which came as a surprise. The front of the restaurant is an open bar type of situation, so although one can be sitting under the roof/overhang, you still feel as if you are outside and can people-watch the activity on the street, which is a nice touch. Very relaxing. I instantly realized this location is perhaps known for its party atmosphere… perhaps even more than the specifics of its food. I was impressed with the fresh Guacamole and the large, heavy, stone bowls it was served in. It gives it a very authentic feel, and the FRESH flavors were a treat, especially given the rest of the food tasted rather generic and un-memorable. For someone leaving the beach or wrapping up a day of shopping or other activities, I would say, this is a great spot to stop in for a bowl of chips and dip, and maybe a beer, but I cannot say I would order a full meal here, especially for the price, which I thought was extremely high for such generic food and flavors

Name: Paul Castronovo & Ron Brewer
Occupation: Talk Show Hosts, Paul & Young Ron Show
Lives In: Ft. Lauderdale/Parkland
Favorite Restaurant: Café Maxx
Reviewed Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar: May 7th, 2008

Paul: I parked conveniently across the street—my party was already at the restaurant and seated. As I walked in the door, the manager saw me looking around and said, “You must be Paul, your friends are already seated right over there.” As soon as I sat, the “guac” man began making guacamole tableside. I was very impressed, and it was delicious. The waiter came over, very friendly and I said point blank: “If you could only eat at Rocco’s one time in your life, what is the one thing you would eat?” With enthusiasm, he smartly described two dishes and let me make the choice. I went with the enchiladas and he said, “That’s my favorite.” First, though, I ordered a shrimp app. that was a daily special. Spicy, smokey and delicious. I could have made that my entrée. Then my pulled pork enchiladas came out. They were delicate and smokey as well. It wasn’t needed, but the waiter offered up some of their homemade hot sauce; I am glad I did. Great place.

Ron: It’s in a lively area where people are relaxed and enjoying themselves, can be somewhat crowded for parking. The restaurant felt warm and friendly and the food was perfect for a quick bite while shopping and seeing the sites. Great service, x-tra large portions in a unique setting.

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