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The current weather in Culebra

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Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Itzander (---.ipt.aol.com)
Date:   04-22-03 08:02

I do NOT recommend Mamacita's restaurant for any visiting tourist, the staff is extremely rude towards the tourist.

I was in Culebra with a large group on Easter. Following a great day at Culebrita and Flamenco Beach, we stopped at Mamacita's (BIG mistake).

First, the waitress refused to put two tables together to accommodate our large group. Her explanation was that she was the only one working and did not feel like rearranging the chairs.

While taking our order, she acted like she was doing us a favor and complained that she already had too many tables to wait on.

This experience left an unfavorable impression on our group, and I hope this is not indicative of the local sentiment towards tourist. We plan on returning to Culebra and would appreciate any recommendations on restaurants with good food that also provide good service.

Itzander

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: juan m carvajal (---.proxy.aol.com)
Date:   04-25-03 21:59

Hi,

thank for your comments about us. I am sorry to what happed in easter week to you but i can promise next time you will be here in culebra this is not going to happen! Right now i am working training some employees to provide better service. I think to qualified a service or quality in one dinner and put mamacitas down like are you doing in this mail will never give the opportunity to mamacitas fix the mistake. Why you do not suggest some ideas how to improve the service and quality and not to try to make my future customer to have a bad experiance instead to enjoy a nice evening in mamacitas. I hope one day to meet you and have the opportunity to give you the best service.

Juan M Carvajal
Mamacita's

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Chan (---.carolina.rr.com)
Date:   04-26-03 17:34

Well worded answer. I will be in Culebra in Mid-May and cannot wait to try out your restaurant. Looking forward to a fantastic experience.

Chan

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Carlos (136.145.49.---)
Date:   04-28-03 09:19

I'm sorry Juan, but Itzander said the true. Mamacita's is a good place for party at night...one of the best of Culebra( the other one is EL BATEY ). I was at Culebra last weekend looking for some fun, sun and the ocean and I find a hard time looking for fresh fish ( fried fish with tostones or something like that ) at Culebra. The first thing is that you have to go early in the afternoon ( 5:00 - 6:00 ) if you like to find ANY food ( I mean...not pizza ). Second, the service, no matter what( eastern, 4 of July or a regular week ) it's not the best...but is ok, I can handle. The young girl that you have for bartender ( the law student ) don't have the best actitud. Juan if you can improve those little problems( and maybe a little expansion of the restaurant ) your place will be the best at Culebra. Maybe next time I don't have to go to TINA'S RESTAURANT hunting for a good dinner.

Go ahead and be the best....
Carlos

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Jayme (---.nyc.rr.com)
Date:   05-04-03 09:30

I just came back from Culebra and the biggest problem there was finding a place that was open to eat. I can tell you first hand how terrible it feels to spend the day having fun in the sun and then not being able to eat. I originally didn't want to go to Mamacita's because of some of the negative feedback I have read here. But I was wrong. Mamacita's was the only place that was open for lunch and offered some kind of fish. Twice my husband and I went there and both times we were seated immediately, served and waited on immediately and the Dorado was great. We were very thankful for Mamacita's since that was the first time we were actually able to eat!!(we arrived on Saturday and went there for the first itme on Tuesday) The only complaint I had was on the second visit, I ordered a coffee and was given sour milk, the waitress looked at me and said sorry and left the coffee with me and even charged me for it! I learned in Culebra that is simply the way things are. I would still recommend that you give them a try, start with lunch and have the Dorado sandwich or salad it really was great.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Anthony Auyeung (---.st-louis-155-160rs.mo.dial-access.att.net)
Date:   07-21-03 14:46

Jayme, I think it is not right for them to charge you for the spoiled coffee. Did you try to talk to the waitress? If she said that is the way they do business. You should not tip her and leave her a note. But then it may spoil your vacation. Now, we know the manager's name. May be you can talk to Juan next time.

P.S. If a waitress is rude, there is not service and let her know by no tipping. It is fair and balance like the Fox News.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: lostsailor (---.internet.com)
Date:   08-07-03 14:44

Oh come on now. Stop complaining, and give them a break. You had a bad experience at Mamacitas. So have I. Big freaking deal. Just get over it. I've had plenty of good times there as well, since they opened 13 years ago or so. Bottom line is that it's a nice place to relax and have a bite to eat. And trust me, you should all be thankful that there are places like Mamacitas around.

When my family first came to Culebra in the late 70's, the closest thing to an eatery was a fly-infested hole-in-the-wall, where stray dogs would run under your table as you waited hours inside a sweltering concrete building, throwing back lukewarm Medallas while your only options - rice, beans and chicken - maybe fish, if you were really lucky - were sluggishly prepared for you. It seems that people have forgotten about this now, as they sit around enjoying a frozen tropical drink, while waiting for fresh grilled lobster.

And while Culebra is a very friendly island, yes, there is some resentment (if you will) with regard to a certain type of tourist that we've been seeing here with alarmingly increasing frequency over the past several years. I speak of the spoiled mainlander, with pie-in-the-sky expectations, and a demanding disposition. They don't realize that this is a small island, and if they do something wrong, or say something abrasive, everyone will know about it in a matter of hours. Perhaps it's possible that someone in your group said the wrong thing to the wrong person?

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Jayme (---.nyc.rr.com)
Date:   08-09-03 22:43

Fresh grilled lobster?!!! On Culebra? Where?

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Rob Fiala (---.proxy.aol.com)
Date:   08-10-03 13:30

I just came back from culebra and visited all the local restaurants, but by far mamacitas was my favorite. It has a real tropical decor and i found the staff to be friendly. I ate fresh lobster and my wife had a fish called dorado on one visit and tropical slamon with crab cakes and my wife had fresh captain fish.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Luis grundler (---.ipt.aol.com)
Date:   08-10-03 17:47

saludos; si vas a culebra no dejes de visitar mamacitas , es un ambiente
sano y familiar usted no tendra problemas con nadie " pues si el servicio
no es lo que usted espera lamentablemente se tiene que adaptar a esto
las personas en Culebra no tienen el ajoro de la gran ciudad tratan de
servir lo mejor posible y no podemos juzgar a nadie por un mal dia
mas cuando un fin de semana cuando viene mucha gente a esta isla
lamentablemente ...nunca nos ponemos en el puesto de un mesero
o de un cosinero que atiende tantas personas ........... no es solo a usted..
recuerde usted esta de vacaciones ......disfrute lo mejor que puedas.....
culebra al natural............................................................

P.D. nadie es billete de $100.00 dolares para gustarle a todo el mundo

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Tomás De Jesús Mangual (66.50.170.---)
Date:   08-16-03 13:13

Greetings... My experience in Mamacita's Restaurant was very dissapointing since I was there with my family and also with us Lt. Robinson, chief of Culebra's Police Department. What hapenned was that after we dinnered we were basically kicked by one of the waitress. First he brought us the pay account without even finish eating and without asking him to bring us the account. Then he came for the second time and asked us to please leave the restaurant, becuase he needed the table, but I looked around and saw 4 empty tables. He came a third time to tell us the same thing. At last we left, paying for nothing basically.

I am a Local Newsreporter and I have visited a variety of Restaurants in many places around the world, and it's the first time that I encounter a situation like this. I think that this was a lack of respect towards my family, the Lieutenant Robinson, and myself. Personally I think that the Local Tourism Office of Puerto Rico should investigate this kind of incidents since this actions harms Local Tourism as International Tourism.


The last thing I will say, and I swear, is that I won't visit this restaurant again. Personally, I don't recommend it.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: John Czapiga (---.pskn.east.verizon.net)
Date:   08-16-03 20:17

In defense of Mamacita's Restaurant, we visited Culebra in February this year, meeting our friends on the Windstar's first visit. Mamacita's was the only guest house/restaurant represented at the reception sponsored by the Tourism Board. The articulate young lady representing Mamacita's was totally committed to promoting Culebra's virtues as well as Puerto Rico.

I can not believe the bashing Mamacita's is taking here! It is unfair! We
travel three months a year and have to say the staff at Mamacita's answered our every question with extended, unpretentious and friendly conversation. We look forward to returning.

The beauty of a forum as this, is that reading between the lines, one can filter the emotion from the genuine. Thank you IslaCulebra.com.

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Thanks IslaCulebra.com
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Michael (---.utaonline.at)
Date:   08-17-03 09:08

Thank you John, for participating!

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Juan M Carvahal (---.proxy.aol.com)
Date:   08-18-03 22:12


Estimado Manguar. Por este medio de comunicacion le quiero dar las gracias por la propaganda que nos as dado: Pero considero que de la forma que nos quieres atacar no es la correcta ni profecional. Primero deberias de ser mas educado y cuando invites a una persona a cenar ala mesa apagues el celular se vio bien horrible que estuvieras cenando con el teniente de la policia y hablaras por celular ala misma ves por un buen tiempo. Segundo mi mesero no te voto del restaurante le pidio de muy buena manera que si podias desocupar la mesa despues de la hora y media de haber terminado de cenar , nosotros somos un restaurante que sirve de 30 a 40 cenas por noche y un 25 de julio fin de semana largo donde teniamos una lista de espera aproximadamente de 25 personas y vendimos sobre 120 cenas. Por lo que recuerdo desde su llegada a mamacitas estuvistes muy contento el lugar te gusto mucho por eso invitastes al teniente a cenar y por un eror que usted considero negligente que a mi me da verguenza ver como una persona adulta se comporte como usted lo hace poniendo en una posicion los trabajos de otras personas en peligro como la del mesero pero dejame decirte que para mi ese mesero vale mas como persona que usted que despues de haber aceptado las disculpas se comportes como una nena chismosa. considero que eres una persona muy ingusta de no terminar de entender que aqui estamos para servirles y que vivan una experiecia muy bonita y no que despues de llegar a culebra se regresen disgustados para su lugar de origen pero de nuevo te pedimos disculpas como lo hizo el sobrino del teniente el dueno de mamacitas y yo tu servidor juan m carvajal y le hago la invitacion a mamacitas para un fin de semana con su familia sin costo alguno ala demenos eso era lo que tenia que haser con usted desde el principio como la mayoria de los reporteros buscan en culebra. gracias

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Juan M Carvahal (---.proxy.aol.com)
Date:   08-18-03 22:20

se me olvido algo mas siquieres te podemos enviar el postre por correo.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Casablancacondo.com (---.tc.faa.gov)
Date:   08-19-03 09:01

All of our businesses in Culebra depend on one another to ensure a pleasurable time for our guests. Our economy and survivability depend on tourism. In my humble opinion, we must consider every single customer feedback in order to better ourselves and reach higher service levels; if we do not take care of our customers, somebody else will and we will all lose.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Hector (---.ipt.aol.com)
Date:   08-20-03 22:18

I enjoy reading IslaCulebra's informative discussion board and feel that the majority of the posting's are honest and fair.

I recently had my "second" less than pleasant experience at Mamacita's, but I did not plan on publicly acknowledging my frustrations with the restaurant. After reading Juan's (Mamacita's Manager) response to a guest comment, I am inclined to make a few recommendations to Mamacita's.

First: The gentleman posted his comment in English, I suggest responding in English so the IslaCulebra visitors can follow your response.

Second: It is obvious that numerous visitors to you restaurant, both tourist and PR locals (like myself) have encountered discourteous service. Excuses are not the answer, better management and training can turn Mamacita's into the #1 recommended place on this discussion board.

Third: Remember the golden rule in the service/hospitality industry; "The customer is always right". Condescending responses to your patrons are neither professional nor productive.

In my opinion Mamacita's has GREAT food and a GREAT location, with improved service it can become a GREAT restaurant.

Regards,

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Jayme (---.nyc.rr.com)
Date:   08-21-03 15:25

Juan please post your comments again in English this time for all to understand. I plan on returning to CUlebra in February and if you want my business as well as all of the other people who clearly use this forum regularly, you will give us the chance to hear and understand your side. As I stated in my previous post my experience with your restaurant wasn't a totally negative one. However I was there with only one other person and both times were for lunch.

In fairness to Mamacita's, there are very few places to eat in Culebra and the locals really could care less about business, tourists and quite frankly working in general. With very few restaurants to go to on the island, I'm sure it can get very busy and sometimes everything isn't perfect. Understand this is not a resort town. Service is not a priority Thinking of excuses not work and collecting a check from the US gov't is the only priority the majority of these people have. (sorry, can't sugarcoat the truth, try to build a house there, it will take close to 3 years)

Got to Culebra for nature, the incredible beaches, oceanlife, etc. Just don't go for a long time. I went for a week and will not do that again. My next visit will be for 3-4 days only. A human being can only go so long w/o real food!

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Casablancacondo.com (---.tc.faa.gov)
Date:   08-22-03 08:10

Jayme, in defense of the Culebrenses, it is my understanding that the unemployment rate in Culebra is almost zero. The Culebrenses work for the state and municipal governments (schools, ferry service, clinic, police, Department of Natural Resources, fire fighters, etc.), the pharmaceutical manufacturing plant, their own businesses or for some other private business entity (either on the island or the big island). They have to bring workers from Vieques to fill some of the position slots in the manufacturing plant. So, your comments on the strong dependency on “U.S. Government assistance” and laziness are not correct. Culebrenses are proud people and love their island.

Culebra is now on the spot light because of the Travel Channel. I have to admit, that we are on the learning curve when it comes to the service industry and today’s standards are very high (exceeding the five star rating and receiving ISO 9002 quality ratings – just take a look at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai); this is a new ball game for us. But, as I mentioned in my previous message we have to consider every customer feedback in order to improve ourselves and enhance their experience on the island. Feedback alone will not cut it; we have to train and attend seminars on service standards and customer relations. This is one approach that will raise the level of our service industry. My two cents.


John

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Juan (---.proxy.aol.com)
Date:   02-02-04 10:47

Good Points regarding Mamasitas.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: maylenew (---.modem.xmission.com)
Date:   02-09-04 14:27

I know this original post is some-what old, but I just had to reply. My husband and I visited Culebra in November (during the rains!) and had a wonderful time and great experience at Mamacita's. We fell in love with the laid back attitude and we met wonderful people. The locals were warm and friendly. Culebra is not for the average american-tourist. For those who like to experience and absorb wherever they are, you'll love it. By the end of our week, we were eating with the locals, hanging out, enjoying ourselves and the food at Mamacita's is the best on the island. We're already planning our trip back.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: William E. Molina (---.isla.net)
Date:   02-17-04 18:28



Hola :
Fue el mejor fin de semana (Feb 14 to Feb 16 2004) que he pasado en Culebra, Gracias por su hospitalidad, el bar es very nice y todo fue muy bueno (very good)

Thank you Mamacitas por bring me your hospitalitied...


seee you next time wonderful...

William E. Molina
Hatillo, P.R.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: AmyC. (---.avon.com)
Date:   02-19-04 11:14

Probably silly question, but does one need to make reservations at Mamacita's?

Thanks in Advance.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: David (---.prtc.net)
Date:   02-20-04 17:00

Hi,

I visit Mamacitas very often and specialy Saturdays on Conga Nights with Wiki, Jorge and Ruben. One thing I can say is that not only Mamacitas but the hole town is going thru a big transformation and things are not going as well as every person in the place (Mamacitas and the town) wish or expect.

They are doing the best they can and I assure you that things are getting better (slowly - thats the pain in the &#tt).

Not always you will find heaven in the paradise, so next time you visit paradise, try to enjoy it. Anyhow, for every table some people decide not to take, there's another for someone that wants to give the place a try.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Michael (---.kilng01.ct.comcast.net)
Date:   02-21-04 10:12

I had dinner last Friday night. The tuna was excellent and the service was fine. We had a great time.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: niamh (---.thomsonmedia.com)
Date:   02-24-04 08:26



i wholeheartedly agree. i was there earlier this month mamacita's staff were rude and at times clueless. and the "mixed" drinks contained no alcohol.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: jennifer (208.220.124.---)
Date:   02-24-04 13:41

We just returned from Culebra and ate at Mamacita's four times - twice for brunch, twice for dinner. It was lovely each time and the food was excellent. After reading some of the critical comments on this forum we were braced for bad service and poor food, but tried it anyway since there are not many restaurants on the island. I wish we were back there today eating churrasca and drinking pina coladas and watching the boats in the harbor - thanks Mamacita's!

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Connie (---.cybermind-usa.net)
Date:   02-29-04 14:47

I plan on being on Culebra the week of March 29th and will definitely be giving Mamacita's a try. I lived in Mexico for ten years, including living in a town whose only restaurant was someone's dining room. The food there was marvelous and the meat was handground in front of you. There was only one thing on the menu...whatever they had on hand! I have also traveled extensively in the back waters of many Spanish speaking countries. If the service is great, that's well and good, but the most important things are a) that the traveler is fed and b) that you don't get sick. I'll be back with my comments when I return in April. Hasta entonces y buen provecho.
Connie from Michigan

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: shelby (129.170.125.---)
Date:   03-03-04 16:08

a friend and i had a wonderful experience at mamacita's restaurant last week in culebra island. the food was spectacular and the help quite friendly. it was our favorite place to eat all week - lunch and dinner.
thanks for a great, memorable trip!
shelby

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Deniusz Kutylowski (---.wre.adelphia.net)
Date:   03-06-04 14:09

I don’t expect 5-star service, but neither do I expect a “not, my job, man” attitude. I thought the motivation for acceptable level of service by wait staff is a good tip. Restaurants are in the hospitality business. I would imagine being hospitable would be important. If there are so few eating establishments and no real competition for customers, it’s like the dining car of a railroad train. If you don’t like the service what is your alternative? Culture is different from place to place and country to country. All I can say is I prefer societies in which the people make guests feel welcome. I will be able to give my report on Culebra based on my own observations soon, after my first visit coming up in late April or early May. I hope it will be a positive experience.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Kenny Bradley (---.ipt.aol.com)
Date:   03-06-04 21:58

Anyone who raves about mamacitas on this site was not there when we were there last week. The service was rude, as noticed by several patrons other than myself. The food is good, but the service stinks. I would have to imagine only the locals are posting anything positive on this site.
-KB

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: mamacita's staff (---.prtc.net)
Date:   03-07-04 16:53

Hi, Kenny

We're sorry, But as a member of Mamacita's Staff, my question is when(time wise) this happend. We just want to know, so next time we'll try harder to please our costumers, we just don't want to make the same mistake twice...

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: alicia (---.prtc.net)
Date:   03-07-04 17:12

Well Kenny problably you're right, but only because we look at them as people and not as serving, plesing, all god bless every one... slaves. Kenny, I'll bet every thing I have that, ones you have been rude to others, and you have stink more than ones in you're job. Yes, shitt happens. So be, and let others be... humans after all.

Alicia

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Frank and Vida (---.dialsprint.net)
Date:   03-07-04 19:45

We returned yesterday, (March 6, 2004) from our one week stay in Cuelbra. Although we were quite disheartened by the current sewer construction in town we found Mamacita's to be an oasis. The food was top notch, the service was good. We had to wait for a table but what good restaurant is not crowded, and... what's the hurry? Its a beautiful setting to wait, the staff was kind and informative and our overall experience was postive. We ate dinner there three times and when we stopped in during the afternoon when they were closed, the staff gave us two cups of coffee at no charge. Our only criticisms would be that there is not enough alcohol in the mixed drinks and they would be well served to provide whole milk or cream for the coffee. But if they stayed just the same, we would go back again.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: pedro (66.50.189.---)
Date:   03-10-04 08:28

who are you, are you from culebra,do you hate your life or what , what a stupid message you tried to give.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: pedro (66.50.189.---)
Date:   03-10-04 08:31

the message is for alicia

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Ruth (---.wma.east.verizon.net)
Date:   03-14-04 07:58

I've had dinner at Mamacita's several times and felt sad for the islanders reading the criticism of some of the guests. When traveling in a different culture I try to maintain a realistic attitude with regard to expectations. I found Mamacita's one of the best places to eat on Culebra and remember loving the crabcake appetizers. Service was adequate and our waitress friendly.
The reason I go to Culebra is NOT for the food, but for the peace and quiet, beaches, breezes, views, and snorkeling. If you are used to big city, mainland dining in world class restaurants and expect to find the same on Culebra you will likely be disappointed. Take what the island does have to offer with gratitiude. Maybe visit the fish market and cook your own dinner. Culebra is all about relaxing and slowing down, not nit-picking and griping.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Jackson (---.rasserver.net)
Date:   03-15-04 21:13

Alicia, you need help!

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: shirley (64.17.248.---)
Date:   03-18-04 15:28

I liked mamacta's. My husband and were there for 7 days we left last wed. We had a great time. We had lunch at Mamacita's a couple of times. We sat at the bar. Mario was the bar tender , He was great. He was friendly, had a great attitude and poured a great drink. We enjoyed it there he even took our picture for us! We didnt sit in the dining area at all, but the waitresses around seemed friendly to me. The food was good too.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Chris (---.us.infonet.com)
Date:   03-19-04 17:28

Chan,
Maybe I will see you there. We will me at Mamacita's mid may also. I had a long conversation with a woman that worked at Mamacita's when I made the reservations and she was EXCEPTIONALLY helpfull and friendly. I think we will have a blast there.
Chris

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Rich (---.dsl.scrm01.pacbell.net)
Date:   03-20-04 19:47

Has anyone had the chance to stay in one of the rooms lately? I am planing a trip and was woundering how they are.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: RICK THOMPSON (66.152.240.---)
Date:   03-21-04 14:54

My wife and I had a very unpleasant experience with Mamacita's. We took a weeks vacation last month and spent 5 days on Culebra. We booked a stay at Flemingo Beach Villas, and two nights at Mamacita's. It sounded like a fun place and they were the only place you could book on Expedia.com. Problem was when we got dropped off for our stay, they said they had no room. I had a reciept from Expedia saying I had booked a room more than a month before. They told me they could not honor it. They then said they could get us a place for one night, and then we would have to move to another place for the second night- if they could find on. I was very angry, and we did get some help from another hotel, who spent 30 minutes calling everyone he knew until he found us lodging. I don't have the name of the hotel or owner that was so helpful, but will post that info when I find it- it is important he and his business get the credit for going out of his way for us. It is the place next door to "Dingy Dock". We never set foot in Mamacita's after that, and likely will not on our future visits.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Jennifer (---.c3-0.nyr-ubr2.nyr.ny.cable.rcn.com)
Date:   03-21-04 23:50

2 weeks ago I returned from Culebra, and we spent each night at Mamacita's. It was crowded, and the bartender was fast and excellent. The people there, both locals and other tourists, were great to chat with and the location was ideal. I will definitely return to both Culebra and mamacita's.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Michael (---.kilng01.ct.comcast.net)
Date:   03-22-04 10:24

The place next to the Dinghy Dock is Villa Boheme

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: steve (170.148.92.---)
Date:   03-29-04 10:16

everyone stop complaining...or rather keep complaining so i can have culebra to myself. its not about the food or the service.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Nakina (---.prtc.net)
Date:   04-06-04 13:48

Hola a todos


Cuando voy a un restaurante, tienda, lo que sea, si no estoy contenta con el trato que se me dio, (no puedo esperar buen trato si soy grocera verdad), le digo en el momento al supervisor inmediato, con la persona pesente. No me voy a escribirlo en un foro donde todo el mundo lee y puedo danar a personas sin necesidad o solo por el amor al arte. No digo que todas esas malas experiencias sean mentiras, pero, por que no hicieron algo en el momento? La razon de ser de estos lugares, son los turistas. Por lo tanto, en el momento, siempre sera agradecida cualquier critica constructiva, no dos meses despues.

La falta de buena comunicacion verbal, es la razon por la cual tantas cosas malas suceden a nuestro alrededor.

Recuerden todos, que somos clientes, pero no duenos de las personas. Nos sirven, pero no son nuestros esclavos.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Frank (142.167.68.---)
Date:   04-15-04 11:37

Steve is right!

I have been to Culebra every year for the past seven years. Someday I will move there ... once my kids are grown!

Everytime I go I have to laugh about the complaints from spoiled tourists. I love to hear people complain about Culebra, because I know that the more people that visit Culebra, the better chance it will be ruined for what it is.

My last visit in February we had no electricity for 36 hours. No gas for two or three days. Few, if any, restaurants open one night. No milk one day.

Our group of 3 families just dealt with the reality of the situation and had a great time. And we rejoiced knowing there were people griping and threatening never to return. Good! Who needs 'em anyway?

Culebra has changed quite a bit in the last seven years. If it keeps changing, it won't be Culebra anymore.

My advice to Culebreans? Appreciate what you have ... and be careful what you wish for. The rest of the world ain't all it's cracked up to be.

Regards,
Frank

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: sue (193.133.138.---)
Date:   04-16-04 10:25

totally agree - the waitress we had looked as though she had swallowed a lemon - whole, pips and all! almost had our food thrown at us! it could be a fantastic place with the right attitude.
second time we went it was 2.35 (hours of business said 11h30 to 15h00). we asked if we could eat - no. what time are your hours of business - 11h30 to 15h00 - but it's only 14h35. chef's gone home, kitchen has been closed, so we're closed - shoulders shrugged. very rude.
dont know how some of the places stay in business.
dinghy dock wasnt much better at lunch time though we had a fair meal there one evening.
we ended up eating at a roadside place opposite the airport - food was brilliant.
so, be warned. if you havent sat down by 14h30, you are likely to go hungry!

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Sam (---.sav.bellsouth.net)
Date:   04-21-04 08:51

I have no experience at Mamacitas. Haven't visited you yet. Any well heeled traveler would not let these postings interfere. I am a baker/chef, have done it for five star snootie resorts as well as owned my own bakery. It is so hard to find resorts that exude such personality, most have a cookie cutter effect. When my wife and I visit, I would be honored to help at Mamacitas, wash dishes even. Great website

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: sue (---.urmc.rochester.edu)
Date:   04-21-04 12:58

We were in Culebra last week, and ate at Mamacitas on Tuesday evening-4-13-04, it was fantastic and everyone was very attentive and friendly.
The food was excellent. Don't let one persons experience-keep you from visiting. For all of you who couldn't find places to eat, you didn't do your homework before you arrived to the island-there are many places to eat regular meals that are open. Please just look at this website for information. I feel sorry for you complainers!!! Be fair !!

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Q
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Natalie (---.ok.ok.cox.net)
Date:   05-23-04 18:18

I couldn't agree less with the poor posts about Mamacitas. I ate dinner there with my husband and son in late April. The food was wonderful, and the service was excellent. Eric, our waiter, was attentive, helpful and smiling. The food was some of the best (my husband thought it was the best) we had in our week long stay in Puerto Rico. As mainlanders you have to be prepared for a much much slower pace. It's not like being in mainland USA. After all isn't that the point of going to Culebra?

The pork chops and chicken alfredo pasta were both good choices!

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Art (---.proxy.aol.com)
Date:   06-06-04 20:30

To those that may visit Culebra in the future and miss a chance to eat and drink at Mamacita's should just continue by Culebra!!!!
Anybody missing a chance to visit Culebra should just stay home!!!!!!!

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Shawn (---.proxy.aol.com)
Date:   06-06-04 22:16

I just returned from Culebra, Loved The Island did not like the service at Mamacitas on two occasions. I think the locals must be the ones pumping this board with the praises.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Grace (---.isp.broadviewnet.net)
Date:   06-07-04 16:43

I cannot wait until I go to Culebra at the end of the month, and Mamacita's seems to be a great place acc. to several guide books. Most of you talked about their food / drinks / service, what about their accomodations / guesthouse?? Any one stayed there before, and what do you think?

Grace

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Andre (---.ipt.aol.com)
Date:   06-07-04 23:39

Mamacita's has great food but poor service. Don't expect good service and you won't be disapointed. The Bushwackers are to die for!

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Todd (---.aa.wl.com)
Date:   06-12-04 16:42

My wife and I just returned from Culebra and I read this thread before going, so we had to visit Mamacita's. We thought that the service was great! Frankie at the bar was a blast to talk to and all of the locals that came in for drinks were very friendly. The food was delicious and they even opened up the kitchen a little early for us when we arrived before dinner started. I really didn't know what to expect of Mamacita's after I read this thread, but after walking in I realized what the problem was. Mamacita's is not the place to go if you are expecting an experience like that of a resort. Mamacita's is the place if you are looking for a relaxed atmosphere and a friendly chat over drinks. My wife and I loved it and look forward to returning for a rinse from the hose. Besides, there are all of the "Frankie's Specials" that we still have to try!

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Pietra (---.who.int)
Date:   06-14-04 10:02

First of all, to the few people who suggest that it's the locals putting praises on this site because no one from the US could possibly say anything good about mamacitas-- It is ridiculous for you to think that just because you happened to have one or two bad experiences in Culebra, that no one in the history of Mamacitas has had a good one. Secondly, it is complete ignorance to think that true locals waste their time stocking tourist forums with positive comments to get rude people like you to come and invade their island. If you had opened your eyes to pay attention to anyone but yourself during your stay in Culebra, you would have noted that the majority of the true locals (not transplanted American ex-pats living off of trust funds or owning the tourist joints) probably don't have a PC and are probably not posting things on the internet.

Culebra is a beautiful island and a tourist destination. But please when you visit, remember that it does not exist solely for the pleasure of tourists. As someone pointed out way above, the majority of local people do not depend on the tourism industry for employment (in a narrow sense-- I acknowledge that in the broad sense, everyone on Culebra does). Most of the owners of businesses targeting tourists, and many of the employees, are American or Puerto Rican (from the Big island) ex-pats. Culebrans are working for the municipality, for the factory, or in local businesses like grocery stores and the hardware stores. This is a town where people, normal, ordinary people like you and me live, work, raise their families. This is not an all-inclusive compund of a resort like Palmas del Mar or the hotels at Dorado. Even the people you see working in tourism-- Ruben, Wiki, Digna's daughter who often makes & serves the sandwiches on Saturdays, have other jobs during the weekday and do the tourism stuff on the side. I am not a local, and I do not live in Culebra, but I have spent quite some time there and have gotten to know many of the people there very intimately, as friends, by respecting them as people.

And as for restaurants and businesses closing early. The volume of tourism in culebra at certain times of the year (Feb & March, November) and at certain times of day (late lunch, 2pm to 5 pm, when most people are at the beaches and not making the trek back into town just to eat) are too low for it to be economically viable for restaurants to stay open when the tables are empty and there is likely to be at most one more table during that service. I am sure that this is what happened to the person who complained that the kitchen was closed at 14h35. It is unfortunate, but needs to be expected in a place as small as Culebra. In those cases, you just have to go to the Superette Mayra/Casa de Cheli and buy yourself some bread, cookies, ham, & cheese and have a picnic somewhere. If you are not a flexible traveler and are expecting 3 star meals with exceptional service, Culebra is not for you.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: dr950 (209.32.6.---)
Date:   06-15-04 09:52

I agree with Pietra. I have traveled abroad several times. I always consider myself as a guest. People need to educate themselves about where they are traveling. Learn about the culture, the people, and the country. It's naive to think that just because things are different from what you are accustomed to, it makes them bad. That is why when we visited Culebra in April we could not find one thing to complain about. When you travel you need to adapt. I feel that "bad service" at Mamacitas is a matter of interpretation.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Laura (---.brickmangroup.com)
Date:   06-24-04 12:15

Pietra is absolutely correct. Many people are completely wrong when visiting Culebra and expecting to find El Conquistador or something like it. I am a local recently relocated to the state of Ohio not because there is anything wrong with the island but because I have a young son that deserves the best education (which is somewhat lacking on the island) and I also needed to continue mine. That is the only reason I left and I must say I miss my people very much. I miss the relax lifestyle and I must certainly miss having lunch on fridays with my co-workers at mamacitas. I encourage people to visit mamacitas. Visit Culebra. But I must remind that it will be a visit like any other. Your experience will be like an other. Open your eyes and your mind and learn to appreciate the good things in life. Culebra island is one of the few unspoiled jewels in the caribbean. I dont know what will happen to it in the near future but if it were up to me I wouldn't change one bit of it. Not the people, not the restaurants or hotels or waitresses!

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: x (---.res.east.verizon.net)
Date:   06-25-04 18:50

Without intending to sound smug, one does need to remember it's midtown Dewey, not midtown Manhattan.

I remember being on Culebra during a popular holiday weekend, frustrated we weren't being seated at Dinghy Dock while there were empty tables, until the host explained they had to make sure the kitchen even had food left to serve after the earlier rush before they would seat new tables.

ok, that I can understand. happily we did get seated - with patience.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: JoseG (66.50.233.---)
Date:   06-29-04 18:13

Culebra is a small island and its resources are mainly for the locals, when culebra is full resturants go out of food, the gas station empties out, etc. and now that culebra is under construction is very hard to get around. ITS HELL so my recommendation is to lay off culebra for a while until its finished.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: x (---.res.east.verizon.net)
Date:   06-29-04 18:57

I certainly wasn't complaining, I thought it was very polite to not seat me if they weren't sure they could serve me.

but you bring up a good point about resources, if one goes on a big holiday weekend, the atm WILL run out of cash. Plan accordingly, it won't get re-filled anytime soon. Heck, take a wad of cash with you it's not like you'll be mugged.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: kc (205.204.242.---)
Date:   06-30-04 07:50

JoseG--you say Culebra is under construction? Is it really bad? We're going soon for our first time and hope we'll be able to get around. What's so bad about it right now?? And, is the terrain really hilly? I'm picturing really flat land.

Thanks for any info you can share!

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: x (208.16.143.---)
Date:   06-30-04 09:16

I can't speak for the construction, but it is sort of hilly, Dewey itself is fairly flat, but once you get out of town, there are a few rises

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: casablancacondo.com (---.tc.faa.gov)
Date:   06-30-04 09:52

KC, some of the major structures under construction in town include: the ferry terminal, plaza (next to the terminal), tourist info center, and road to get out of that area. Other new construction includes the new school and city hall, which are a few blocks from the ferry terminal. Other than that it should be fine. It could be a pain to drag a lot of luggage on this road, but if you rent an SUV they usually pick you up at or near the ferry terminal. Some restaurants and gift shops are in the zone while others are outside the construction zone. But, do not let progress stop you from visiting Culebra. Flamenco Beach will relax you and remove all of your worries. BTW, Culebra is hilly.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Kimberly (---.cst.lightpath.net)
Date:   07-06-04 12:27

I went to Culebra by myself in Mid May. I had a wonderful time! The locals were very friendly and a blast to talk to. I had most of my meals at Mamacita's and the Dinghy Dock. Mamacita's was awesome. The atmosphere was just so laid back and chill. The bartender was cool--I think it might have been Frankie...hmmmm...a local guy who's mom lives next door--HAHA! Anyway, they were just great! The chef cooked some mean tostones and some veggie pasta--OuCh! The drinks were sweet and above all--I felt incredibly comfortable on this trip alone--only I really wasn't - I was invited to a birthday party on my first day out there.
The construction was a bit messy, but hey--ya gotta do what you gotta do to make the town great! I've been visiting family out in the mainland all of my life (Rincon, PR) and I've got to say, there was nothing like Culebra!
I would go back any time!! Hell, I'm down to move out there in a few years!

I'm saving my pennies!
_Kimberly Torres

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Suhale Ramos (66.50.159.---)
Date:   07-14-04 12:14

Hello,

I've been reading for about an hour about the mamacita's expieience and I must say it's a little worrying.

I will be visiting Culebras for te first time this coming weekend with my extended family and freinds. Although we'll only be there over the weekend and we have where to stay, I was hoping to find something to do since our age groups vary (like a hang out or pool tables or even dancing).

So far I have Mamacita's and El Batey. Anyways if anyone has any recomendations on what to do after the days with the sun and fun, I would appreciate the input.

I must say that all the feedback about Mamacita's (good & bad) has me curious to visit during the weekend just to see for myself how we are treated. You see, we're coming from Rincon which is also a small, unspoiled and absolutely beautiful town. We are also used the the laid back style a small town has, but I am sure that our fellow "boricuas" will treat not only us, but everyone with the same courtesy and attention that we would if they were to come to visit us in our beloved Rincon, or anywhere else on the entire island for that matter.

Awaiting and appreciating any responce,

S. Ramos;

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Doug (---.tdktech.com)
Date:   07-15-04 11:15

I'm not a pool shooter, so I'm working from fading memory on this. I'm pretty sure there are pool tables at El Batey and at Happy Landings, next to the airport. I have danced at Mamacita's when the rumba boys played, and also to the jukebox at El Batey.

I think a lot of the hoopla about Mamacita's service (and Dinghy Dock's), is a tempest in a teapot. There are folks who approach everything as if they are the center of the universe, and that the world should jump when they snap their fingers. They will never know the pleasure of leaving stress, frustration and ulcers behind. I love to eat at Tina's, the local creole spot. A couple years ago, when the island was very crowded with vistors, we went by there three nights in a row, only to find that she was out of ingredients to serve dinner. We were disappointed, but we managed to get a great smile from the personable Culebrense bartender who took pride in pulling Presidentes out of the cooler that were so cold they had a block of ice formed around the outside of the bottle. He'd tap them with his opener to be sure they hadn't frozen inside. Every place you go, there are characters to enjoy talking to, and things to see and learn. Had I not been disappointed by Tina's being out of food, I wouldn't have learned that they cook up some fine creole at Happy Landings.

To people who can't be happy unless they have tuxedoed sycophants hovering and attending to every whim. I'd suggest, "Go somewhere else".

Doug

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: S. Solá (---.coqui.net)
Date:   07-15-04 23:59

Mensaje para el Sr. Carvajal.
Estimado Sr. Carvajal....estube hace un año en su preciosa Isla de Culebra.
Conosco los esfuerzos y el trabajo de los culebrenses para poder mantener sus negocios. Nosotros , los de la Isla Grande, debemos de sentirnos orgullosos por el esfuerzo que uds hacen al recibirnos a nosotros en su bella islita.
Desgraciadamente, tambien existen personas que tienen problemas de actitudes y se dirigen a su islita con caracter de exigencia, como si estubieran en el Caribe Hilton....y tenemos que comprender que hay que ser pascientes y reconocer el esfuerzo de uds. en su restaurante...muchas personas llegan a los lugares y porque estan pagando su dinero exigen, lo que no esta mal....pero, hay formas y hay formas............
Tenemos que querernos mas como puertorriqueños que somos todos...y cooperar, no esperar trato preferencial y estar consientes de que como puertorriqueños tenemos que cooperar y ayudar a los nuestros...no seamos altaneros, porque nos estamos tirando nosotros mismos....total...
Culebra es Culebra y vamos ahi a disfrutar sanamente...recuerden que esto es de Puerto Rico para los puertorriqueños....no nos estemos tirando los trastes a la cabeza...mucha gente de otros paises tambien leen estos mensajes...FOMENTEMOS LO NUESTRO CON ORGULLO...Y SEAMOS MAS CONCIENTES.....NO SEAMOS TAN ARROGANTES...!!
Eso es como ir a la casa del pobre exigiendo cable t.v.
a usted señor Carvajal...siga adelante con "MAMACITAS" le auguro mucho exito....entrene a sus empleados a saber manejar este tipo de clientes, aunque como comerciante yo se tambien...que no es facil.
pero se puede...Si vuelvo a Culebra, espero saludarle y conocerle personalmente....Saludos desde Caguas, P.R. y ADELANTE, MUCHO EXITO!!

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Tracy (207.43.195.---)
Date:   07-21-04 16:40

I know the waiter you are describing. He is no longer at Mamacitas. Come back. You will be impressed with the change in service.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: T (---.samhouston.army.mil)
Date:   07-22-04 10:58

We just returned from a trip to Culebra in June- loved it! We had great service at Mamacita's. The waiter even made sure that he brought my young son's food out early. Great place and great location.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: melina (205.246.136.---)
Date:   01-12-05 19:18

The service has improved, I did not receive the same attitudes from the wait staff that I experienced last year.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: David Streever (---.hsd1.ct.comcast.net)
Date:   01-02-12 11:59

I'm always blown away by the negative reviews of Mamacita's.

I've eaten there almost nightly every time I visited Culebra--the staff was always really friendly, although at times busy and a bit stressed.

What does one expect? The price isn't high, so they aren't making lucrative salaries. They can't hire the most professional waiters in the world.

I eat at high-end restaurants at home where plates cost twice as much, and yes, the service is impeccable. They are paid to be--that is why it costs 40 for a plate.

At Mamacita's, the staff certainly doesn't seem to be living large, and they are extremely friendly & helpful when they aren't dealing with a ton of rude diners.

Even if a waitress was rude one night, you know what? She is a person too--she may just be having a terrible day. Does it stink that she took it out on you? Sure, but I suspect if you were a little more polite and understanding, you would have had a much better experience.

I really don't understand the sense of entitlement that people have over the level of friendliness from a food server. Get over yourself. You aren't paying top dollar, and Mamacita's isn't advertising a "silent service" with suited waitstaff that reads your every intention.

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Frank (---.static.gwi.net)
Date:   01-03-12 16:07

This may set a record for time elapsed between posts. Almost 7 years between post #71 and #72.

Suffice it to say that the new management of Mamacitas has been in place now for quite some time and any comments above have nothing to do with the restaurant as it is now consituted.

It's had it's ups and downs over the years, but the current management is doing an excellent excellent job, and has shown remarkable consistency for the island of Culebra.

I would recommend Mamacita's in 2012 without reservation.

Frank

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Re: Mamacita's Experience
Culebra, Puerto Rico
Author: Bill Saxton (---.hsd1.ca.comcast.net)
Date:   01-03-12 21:29

We just visited you Culebranese folks for 10 days. Mamacita's was our favorite spot in town. Terrific cooking, bright waitpeople who gave us lots of great tips on ways to enjoy the island, and it was where we got together with awesome fishing guides Chris Goldmark and Sebastian.

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