Cafe Verde - Lethbridge

I'm very surprised with all the 5 star reviews that say this is authentic Mexican food. The only way you could call it authentic is if you compare it to Taco Ti... read more I'm very surprised with all the 5 star reviews that say this is authentic Mexican food. The only way you could call it authentic is if you compare it to Taco Time. It is a step up from Taco Time, but the food is just an ok fast food restaurant. The restaurant serves buffet style food - you point to the items you want and the staff dishes it up for you. I found it to be confusing, and the staff were cool and not very helpful. My food wasn't hot enough - just luke warm to the touch - and was fairly bland. I like my food hot all the way through and freshly made, but this food has been sitting in buffet pans and not kept at a hot temperature, which concerned me. The restaurant is one big room and doesn't have much atmosphere. The price was ok, the restaurant was clean, and for fast food, the food was fine, but not something I'd look forward to eating again.

Though you may be intimidated by the menu selection and individual options for each menu item Cafe Verde makes it easy. Their approachable staff are happy to he... read more Though you may be intimidated by the menu selection and individual options for each menu item Cafe Verde makes it easy. Their approachable staff are happy to help with any questions you have and the food was created by a Mexican God Incarnate, each choice of meat is so delicious and they have a great selection of salsas from mild and sweet (which are amazing) to Diablo (burn your face off). Lots of toppings and choices. If you want Taco's in southern Alberta this is the place to go.

Our second visit to Cafe Verde. The first was when it opened an my in-laws, who attend the same church as the owner, took us for a meal. The owner was considera... read more Our second visit to Cafe Verde. The first was when it opened an my in-laws, who attend the same church as the owner, took us for a meal. The owner was considerably friendlier that time (I wonder why?) Anyhow, after having the "authentic" pounded into us, I was fairly disappointed and vowed not to go back.Tonight, after work, my family made our second visit. The owner was loud and aggressive, the music was loud and aggressive, and the food was disappointing for the price. It actually seemed that we were bothering him by ordering our dinners. The one highlight was that the guacamole is quite good and could actually be called "authentic". The other highlight is that it is fast.Other reviewers say they've been to Mexico - I have too. I've also eaten authentic Mexican food all over the USA, and this just doesn't compare. Granted, it's better than Taco Bell, or the other Mexican local in Lethbridge, but it's a far cry by the meals I have had prepared for me by Mexicans and the food that is served in many tipico restaurants. The fact that the chips and salsa aren't free is a good hint, folks.

I ordered a vegetarian burrito for $13.65 and found it to be quite pricey for what was included. I also felt they were trying to overcharge me, as there was no... read more I ordered a vegetarian burrito for $13.65 and found it to be quite pricey for what was included. I also felt they were trying to overcharge me, as there was no meat or cheese included in the burrito yet they still charged extra for guacamole.

I had a great experience at this restaurant. The staff was very polite and the set up was assembly line style, allowing me to choose exactly what I wanted in my... read more I had a great experience at this restaurant. The staff was very polite and the set up was assembly line style, allowing me to choose exactly what I wanted in my meal. I opted for the burrito, which was both huge and delicious. Although they did not have tofu as an option, they did offer extra vegetables. I suggested that they consider adding tofu to their menu. Overall, I will definitely be returning to this place whenever I am in Lethbridge.