Restaurant of the Month: T.G.I.FRiDAY’S

Each month Yucatan Today visits a restaurant in order to describe what it has to offer. This is not a review; it is a summary of the menu, service, ambience, prices, and opening hours.

July 2009

When you are in the mood for a festive atmosphere in a busy, lively restaurant, and a large menu with lots of choices, T.G.I.FRiDAY’S is definitely the place to go. Drop in to their restaurant on Prolongación Montejo and see why “Every Guest Leaves Happy”.

T.G.I.FRiDAY’S is a chain of American restaurants with a focus on casual food, with over 800 restaurants in more than 50 countries, with its first location opened in New York in 1965. Of course its name comes from the popular expression “Thank God It’s Friday!” and there is a feeling that it’s always Friday here. The signature Tiffany lamps and memorabilia décor give it a special ambience.

T.G.I.FRiDAY’S Montejo location opened its doors on August 29, 1994, and has become a favorite for many Mérida families and young people. It is celebrating its 15th anniversary in Mérida with plenty of promotions. Some examples include the 6th meal free when you purchase 5 for home delivery; dessert minis; Sunday breakfasts from 38 pesos; the 69 pesos value lunch; daily specials from 99 pesos; 19 pesos for national beers and liquors; and large salads and pastas for the price of medium. One of the most popular promotions is the frequent customer card. People like to give T.G.I.FRiDAY’S gift certificates, especially for birthdays, and you can celebrate your birthday as many times as you want during your birthday month, with discounts each time you come in. There is a special area for children called the Kids Club.

T.G.I.FRiDAY’S ample menu is divided into sections. Appetizers include their traditional Buffalo Wings, Fried Mozzarella, Loaded Potato Skins, Spinach Dip, plus appetizers to share. Jack Daniels’s Grill items are seasoned with Cajun spices, and then grilled with their famous Jack Daniel’s Sauce. Choices include Steak, Shrimp, Chicken, Salmon, and the oh-so-tender Baby Back Ribs. There is a separate steak menu as well. Soups include French Onion and Broccoli Cheese. The Southwest menu includes Chicken Quesadillas, Sizzling Chicken and/or Beef Fajitas, and Extreme Buffalo Chicken Tacos. The Chicken and Seafood menu has lots to choose from. Burgers are grilled and made from 100% ground beef, served thick and juicy on a toasted bun. They come with grated lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and crispy French Fries. The Jack Daniel’s burger is mouth-wateringly delicious. There are various chicken and beef sandwich options as well. Pastas are all variations of chicken, but the 6 choices are all unique and freshly made. The salads also include various types of chicken, including the new Shanghai Chicken salad. For those looking for health options, the Lifestyle menu includes various options from the chicken and seafood choices, including Bruschetta Grouper.

Perhaps one of the most popular pages on T.G.I.FRiDAY’S menu is the dessert page! Brownie Obsession, Chocolate Oreo Mint Crunch, Strawberry Parfait, and Tropical Delight are a few of the decadent options. Can’t decide? Try the dessert minis: one for 25 pesos, or share three for 59 pesos, or five for 95 pesos. And T.G.I.FRiDAY’S has a kids’ menu, of course.

T.G.I.FRiDAY’S is located on Prolongación Montejo No. 469 at Calle 39. Tel. 944 8828. They offer home delivery in the north part of the city. Their hours are 1 pm to 1 am. www.fridaysmerida.com.mx