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| - The food at Bandera was very good. I was with a group, and we shared a couple starters that were all delicious: the corn bread was flavorful and beautifully presented, and the "duo-dip" (guacamole, and a cheese-type dip) were seasoned perfectly. For the main course, I had roast chicken and it, too, was delicious.
So, why only 3-stars??? My issue goes beyond the food and drinks, I had a very strange experience at Bandera - one that I've never had at any other restaurant. I was with there for a business dinner, and we weren't sure if 6, 7, or 8 people would be joining us. First, our group encountered a lot of resistance to us sitting at ANY table if we weren't exactly sure how any people would be there, despite the fact that when we arrived, the restaurant was nearly empty. (Being fare to Bandera, they did draw a very nice crowd, just a little bit later). We ultimately sat at a table for 7, and of course, our 8th person arrived. Even though we made room by squeezing in - and we were ok with that - the wait staff hurried over to let us know we had to split up into two tables. We reiterated that we were fine, but it was made clear that 8 people at this table for 7 was NOT ok..... Our business dinner ended up split between two tables. Very odd.
Sadly for Bandera, the people at this dinner were influential local and national business leaders who dine out frequently. After dinner, many of us commented that this restaurant did not seem to be amenable to accommodating our group, and most of us won't be returning for future business dinners.
Here's the thing: if you go to Bandera, expect good food, but only go with a smaller group. (And, by the way, the largest table they have seats 7, so let that be your guide).
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