Arroz y Alubias
Let’s Talk “Rice & Beans Restaurant”
Location: Rice & Beans is located in Wesley Chapel, FL right off of State Rd 54. Enough parking for everyone!
Service: “Holá, Puerto Rico”. This place has been on my list to dine for quite some time. I’ve spoken to a few friends who’ve dined here, of course everyone has their own opinion in regards to the food, but most of them have raved about the food. Well, we finally got to indulge in the Latin style restaurant. We were greeted by two pleasant hosts, who escorted us to our booth. My son was given an activity sheet, which had a variety of activities about Puerto Rico. How cool is that? Pretty catchy! Alex, our server was very pleasant and greeted us in Spanish, totally loved that touch. His food recommendations were right on point. Gracias Alex!
Food: Rice & Beans offered that authentic Caribbean cuisine hailing all the way from the island of Puerto Rico! Mé Gusta! Everything on the menu looked delicious. We asked for suggestions and Alex guided me to the Platos De La Casa- translation “House Plates” section..I got the “Arroz mampostiao a lo pobre con bistec encebollado / Mamposteado rice with Palomilla Steak topped with caramelized onions (sautéed island rice with a mixed combination of red beans, sweet plantains, ham & bacon also topped with a fried egg and served with caramelized onion steak and fresh coriander). Hubby was directed to the sandwich section, why? Because of a picture on a sign that was on our booth table😂 . Jibarito / Breadless Jibarito sandwich Bistec / Steak (caramelized onions, spring mix, tomatoes, and white American cheese dressed with our Mayo-ketchup sauce) with a side of rice and beans ofcourse. Let me just say, the meals were filling and were truly delicious. The kids menu had a variety of meals and I did not see any chicken tenders; what you say? No tenders…🤔. We ordered him a grilled chicken with guess what? Yep, you guessed right! Rice and beans..😂 . We ended the afternoon with a dessert, if we are in a Puerto Rican restaurant, you most definitely want to order the flan. I got the coconut flavor and I was not disappointed. Overall, highly recommend and we didn’t need reservations. Great for an afternoon lunch or early dinner. We will be revisiting Rice and Beans soon! Muchas Gracias!
Ambience: When you walk into this restaurant, you really feel like you are on the island of Puerto Rico. As a kid growing up all the way into my adulthood, I’ve spent many summers in Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is truly rich in its culture. The authentic experience of this restaurant will draw you in to the island’s experience. La Música of merengue will take you back to the island flair. The decor represents the Latin culture. I did notice the bongos in an area set up like a stage and according to the sign the restaurant has live music on Wednesday to Sunday. Overall, Rice & Beans is a great hang out spot or for a night out if you want to dance to the rhythms of Puerto Rico or even just have a flavorful lunch.
Price: $$
A Dash of Encouragement: How many of you like to reminisce on childhood? I know I do. Rice and Beans brought me back to my childhood. Travelling with family and friends to the island of Puerto Rico, eating good food and when you are young “not a care in the world“. I visited the restaurant’s website and clicked on history, I just love knowing what’s behind the owners vision and mission and truly the why? I’ll suggest you go on to the site and read the history..totally love dedication to their family. Nearly every summer, we visited Puerto Rico to shop. I do remember places such as Plaza Las America’s and Old San Juan, which is one of my favorite cities of Puerto Rico. Oh, how I just like being reminded of the good times I had as a child. I’m encouraged to be like that child again, travel and make those memories. I am thankful that my mom and dad gave us the opportunities to travel and explore the world. What are you waiting on? I say be like that child again, reminisce and start creating your family memories! Have fun, you only live once! 🤩
A Dash of Life, Laughter & Love!
