by Nick Coons

At first, I didn't know if this was going to be Mexican food, or Irish food, or Mexican Irish food. With a name like Carlos O'Brien's, I picture green-dyed rice, or Lucky Charms served on the side of each meal. But this isn't it at all.

Within minutes of being seated, two bowls of chips and four bowls of salsa arrived at our table. That was enough to occupy us temporarily. Shortly thereafter, our orders were taken. When eating at Mexican restaurants, you always have to be careful of the hot plates. Our meals were served to us with our plates on top of a second set of plates as to make them more manageable for us.

The food was great, and I may be going back. However, I found the service to be a little presumptuous. For our small party of four, the 15% gratuity was included on our bill. The tip amount I leave is based on the quality of the service, and I don't like it being assumed that the service was good enough to warrant a 15% tip, whether it was or not.

Carlos O'Brien's is located at 1125 W. Elliot Rd. in Tempe.

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