Mangu Latin Cafe Tampa

So it was hard to communicate because their primary language is Spanish. I'm talking thinking they understood me because she was smiling lol. So this place is getting a four out of five not because of the language barrier but because the food wasn't all that. There were a few that understood English better so I was able to order. I got oxtails, red beans, beans and rice and some plantain mash. I'm not a big plantain person but I got to just to try it. I will say this took two or three bites and threw it away. It was giving me lumpy mashed potatoes vibes. The oxtails was my first time trying it. It has a tomatoey flavor but bland. The best thing about the plate was the yellow beans and rice. Yum. Then I got the lunch special the black beans and rice with pulled pork. Delicious pork. Beans and rice were good too but again kinda bland. I got roasted potatoes which has a miniscule hint of butter or garlic otherwise bland. I think with my family being from Louisiana and transplanting in California I'm used to flavor and salt. So for that it's okay. But I also ordered a beef empanada 🥟. First one ever. It was good! So if I go back I'm definitely getting empanadas, pulled pork and the yellow rice. The staff's kindness was better than the food. I prefer Jamaican oxtail so far. I love Florida

Swung by here with my family on the way to Orlando. Right off the bat I noticed it was full of Spanish-speaking locals so I knew it was going to be good and authentic. The place delivered! A huge variety of options, savory plates and generous portions. My family of four ate their fill (plus had leftovers to take away) and we sample four different Latin canned drinks (the Yerbe Mate was my favorite, the Kola Champagne was my little one’s favorite) and the total bill was only $36! I highly recommend you try this place out in your road trip instead of settling for generic franchises or fast food.