Hours of Operation: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily
4121 North Marshall, Scottsdale
(480) 990-9844 • frankandlupes.com
Entrée Price: $ (under $10) • Dress Code: Casual • Need a Reservation? No
It's always unpleasant to have a disappointing meal, but it is especially so when diners come with high expectations. Frank and Lupe's has been awarded for its delicious Mexican cuisine for years, as can be seen by the certificates adorning its walls. Unfortunately, my experience there was little deserving of praise. Dining at Frank and Lupe's only left me irritable and unimpressed, albeit it with a full stomach.
Frank and Lupe's is a small restaurant with two adjoining rooms and a larger, more boisterous patio around back. The place looks cheery, festive and cozy upon initial appearance. However, seating in the front room leaves diners feeling left out in the cold, positioned inconveniently between the kitchen and the front door, where small tables and nighttime breezes give the illusion of being sent to the kids' table at Thanksgiving dinner.
Service only exasperates this feeling, with curt treatment and little extra attention. Water glasses were kept brimming by courteous busboys, but servers were not quick to their tasks and tables often felt neglected. Our order was both taken and delivered painfully slowly, to the point where the lull between appetizers and entrees was too long to be pleasant and rather dulled the appetite, making the entire meal less enjoyable.
As for the food, once it arrived, it seemed hit-or-miss. In addition to complimentary chips and salsa, our table ordered guacamole, which was well presented in crisp tortilla, cups and served with bean dip. But, while the addition of the slightly spicy refried bean dip was a tasty surprise, the amount of guacamole provided was disappointing. The guacamole itself was even more dissatisfying. The texture was runny and the flavor was bland.
Entrees were more pleasant. The enchiladas are made with thick, moist tortillas and topped with egg, which adds great flavor and texture. The red- and green-chili sauces are both zesty and well-spiced. Most dinners are served with warm, doughy sopapillas and a side of honey. The crisp chimichanga was also good, but not easily discernable from the average chimichanga. Rice and beans are unremarkable. The stuffed poblano pepper sounded better on the menu than it was on the plate, with dry chicken and an absence of flavor beyond the subtle spice of the poblano leaving taste buds wanting something stronger.
What can be appreciated about Frank and Lupe's, however, are the reasonable prices. Entrees are sizable and most are under $10. And unlike many Mexican restaurants, garnishes like sour cream and guacamole are inexpensive to add. The menu is conveniently numbered so ordering is quick and breezy — once your server arrives, that is. Frank and Lupe's can also be commended for their list of tequilas and beers, and it can be noted that service seems to improve with every drink order.
Frank and Lupe's could be worthy of a try if dining was only about the food. Unfortunately, today's diners expect a bit more from their experience. The poor service, disappointing appetizers and somewhat uncomfortable atmosphere equate to little reason for a return visit.
