Welcome back to Southeast-Brewster Patch's (SBP) business feature. This week's installment is a preview of sorts on Las Mañanitas Mexican restaurant (located at 1250 Route 22 in Southeast), which will open within the next few weeks, according to owner Luis Sanchez.
The following was submitted by Ray Ruyack, president and treasurer of the Putnam County Independent Business Alliance.
Disclaimer: The opinions contained herein are solely mine. I’m no food critic but I know what I like and what I don’t.
Monday night, the last night of winter 2011/2012 at 75 degrees, found us outside on the veranda having grilled quesádos, fresh salsa and freshly made guacamole. Five stars on that.
The interior of the restaurant is magnificent, with hand-made wooded table tops (black walnut trim?). Mexican décor abounds with new tile and other “south of the border” treatments. October’s storm took a few trees down towards the Southeast enhancing the already spectacular views of the reservoir and its surroundings. I think I studied the front door for five minutes looking at the woodwork.
The chef had a change of menu from buffet style to single plates showcasing some excellent Mexican specialties. Black beans and onions, shrimp (Veracruz?), chicken in a perfectly done molé sauce (reconstituted ancho chilies with chocolate are just some of the ingredients) preceded by a verdant salad had everyone smiling.
Margheritas were on the rocks and done right. If you stayed a bit, more chips and guacamole were brought out to go with the "after meeting” margheritas.
Service was excellent as it always is at his other location. Granted, the place wasn’t at capacity, but knowing Luis and his staff, the way things flow at I can’t imagine it would ever be a problem.
The restaurant is not yet open to the public — it should be with 1-2 weeks. This was a private dinner for members and guests of the Putnam County Independent Business Alliance, an organization dedicated to empowering local businesses throughout Putnam County, www.PCIBA.org.
I give it five stars out of five.
— Ray Ruyack
I have never run a restaurant. But nor have I ever (1) been made to feel so completely unwelcome, and (2) been the recipient of a tirade from a restauranteur about how difficult his evening has been. We probably won't ever come back. The only person who would read this as good news is their overworked valet, who was trying to handle an overabundance of cars in an inadequate parking space. Notably, he was the ONLY person there who smiled at us. He got the best monetary tip; the owner's tip should be to get OUT of the dining room, because he's driving customers away. Dana Haviland, Brewster NY
I love the place, food is great , drinks are great and they are all very nice people and very hard working, at least someone isn't afraid to open a GOOD place in Brewster ! Cheer to them.
The only Mexican restaurant that I've liked is in downtown Brewster. Its called La Guadalupana
Food: DELISH Service: Not 1 unfriendly or unhospitable employee when our party of 7 were there Ambiance: Awesome genuine authentic Mexican decor. Not over done or tacky either. Classy. THE BEST PART WAS THE MILLION DOLLAR VIEW of the RESEVOIR. All I can say is BREATHTAKING!!! I mean, a bunch of us were talking about how perfect the view was for getting engaged, or for a romantic anniversary. That's how beautiful this view was!!! I can only assume the disgruntled reviews above must be by a competitor. There is no way customers could walk out unhappy here!!! We ALL gave it 5 stars and we ALL will go back!!!