How does a great Cuban restaurant get such a low ranking - it is rather easy actually - service. One of the great things about Tampa Bay is that you can get Cuban food on just about any street, so to be excellent - you must be excellent in all aspects. La Cubanita (Valrico) has all of the obligatory items and the food is always fresh, hot and seasoned just the way it should be. The interior decor is well above average and the location is adequate; portions are larger than normal and the price point is well positioned. But all of this can be oversshadowed in a moment with a bad experience with an employee. The intersting point is that the other La Cubanita in brandon always has superior service with friendly employees; and the majority of the employees in Valrico are friendly and helpful. The problem lies with someone that appears to be the owner, he is brash and abrasive - almost to the point of making you feel not welcome. I have been back several times and his attitude never changes (although he is not always there). Like I said before, the food is great and generally the atmosphere very welcoming but with so many choices out there in Cuban food sector, this one falls short in the overall category.
Pros: Good food, nice portions and a strong value
Cons: Inconsistent service
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