Stumbled across this place while playing with the nearby button on Yelp. This is a very nice little restaurant serving some tasty authentic Colombian favorites. The even have a swell little grocery area next door selling many of their goodies.
Inside is set up with the theme and colors of the county of Colombia. You will see many decorations on the walls that are unique to their culture and way of life. Puts you right in the mode for some excellent food that will make you smile.
Ordered the Delicious Bandeja Paisa plate on my first visit. This is always one of my favorites and a good test for authenticity. It was very tasty and made me want to come back for more. Tried out the Carne en Bistec on my next visit with a Arepa con Queso on the side.
Food is very good and has a nice flavor profile. This place is a true one of a kind in this part of town. I've been to a similar restaurant in NW PHX and La Tiendita Cafe is definitely going to be on my new Mesa rotation list.
Service is extremely friendly. Really enjoyed talking to the gentleman that works during the lunch shift. He was very polite and spoke excellent English. It was fun talking to him about tamales and how they wrap theirs in banana leaves. I wanted to try some but he said they only make them during special times of the year.
Looking forward to trying out the Roasted Chickens and several other dishes that they thoroughly enjoy making. Liked the Chorizo so much that I had to pick up some from their grocery store. Brought them home and cooked them up for my wife.
Parking is a little tricky and they are somewhat difficult to see from the street. There is still a lot of heavy lite rail construction in front of the complex at the moment. Just take your time and you will not be disappointed. ¡BUEN PROVECHO!
4.25 STARS