Blanquita’s 2728 E Harrison Ave
Star Rating: 3.5
For all our loyal foodies, it’s been quite a while since our last review. We’ve pushed the date forward several times, and almost decided we were going to deactivate our presence on social media. Why? A streak of bad luck with health - one medical prognosis after another, several deaths in the family, and an economy where the rise of inflation has made it more and more difficult to justify and spend our hard-earned cash/income on food/restaurants that don’t appreciate our business, and rarely make the increasing expense worth the sacrifice!
Despite the valid list of reasons to give up on a venture that doesn’t produce a profit for us – we love “good” food and that rare and glorious experience of tasting a new dish that inspires us to write a review and share it with all those who proudly call themselves…Foodies!
And, as our fans well know, we’re passionate advocates of a job well done; We believe that eating out should be a treat, and if you’re like us, struggling to live within a budget, your hard-earned cash should go towards eating something better than what you can cook and eat at home.
A common phrase used by many restaurants in the RGV is the proverbial “We’re #1 – We’re the Best" - whether it be the best Mexican food, best Bar-b-que, best brisket, best seafood, etc. etc. etc.
That said, we start todays review with a bold statement: Blanquita’s serves the best buttermilk pancakes in all of Harlingen. Period. These pancakes are consistently moist, soft, and fluffy, and when paired with two thick, crisp, salty bacon slices, a sweet and savory combination of flavors that will certainly draw a huge smile on your face - without regret.
We moved to Harlingen in October of 2010. We traveled to and from work on a daily basis. Routinely passing by their restaurant on East Harrison for more than 4 years before we finally pulled into their parking lot. Why did it take so long to pay a visit? Well, when you consider that it has little or no web presence: No official website, an “unofficial” facebook page created in 2010 with no more than 454 followers, and no discernible advertising budget to help promote it – who would even know they were open for business?
We’ve been Blanquita’s loyal customers ever since. Ironically, after 12 years of having options like Cracker Barrel, IHOP, Denny’s, and locals like Lonnie’s Down Home and Koffee Klatch – who’d ever think that a restaurant known for Mexican food (breakfast and lunch) would serve the best buttermilk pancakes we’ve ever had? Here’s the reason: Blanquita’s is CONSISTENT!
Arguably, they may or may not be the best, but whether it be their pancakes, chicken fried steak, or a simple order of eggs and refried beans with their homemade flour tortillas, they prepare “good” meals each and every day – consistently.
So, why is consistency important in the restaurant industry?
Consistency is a foundational goal for any foodservice operation — regardless of service style. It's how operators can guarantee a higher level of food quality with every order, every day. Remember, consistency comes down to the cooking equipment, team procedures, and specific programs at work in the kitchen.
And, what makes a customer loyal to your restaurant? Of course, there are many factors that go into this but ultimately, they’re coming back for the experience and the food. Customers want dependable quality and presentation every time they walk into your restaurant. Having a consistent experience builds trust with your customers and creates a positive reputation for your business. Whereas, a negative experience, whether it’s the service, food or atmosphere, is always a compelling case of inconsistency and a major reason why restaurants lose their loyal customers and ultimately go out of business.
In sum, Blanquita’s is living proof that the American Dream is alive and well, and that success is earned by those who persevere and commit to serving the best.
We encourage all of you to drop by and check out their menu soon!
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Blanquitas-Mexican-Restaurant/105999432775587
