Lechonera El Flamboyan

Finally stopped on my way back to the Goula from OS. It had been recommended by a past coworker and I had been itching to try, but I hardly drive out this way anymore. I had an excuse this time and they were open so I went for it. I was worried there was a fire as everything was painted black as opposed to being multicolored in my memories at least. It was late afternoon and was basically empty, but I've driven past when it was totally packed out. We took our time perusing the menu trying to decide on what we wanted. I knew I was going for the mufongo, but had difficulty choosing which version. As she went for the roast pork dinner, I ordered the shrimp in garlic sauce and a papaya? fruit juice. The juice was good but really sweet, which I was expecting. She enjoyed her roast pork, but it was ok to me. There was a flavor I couldn't place that I wasn't vibing with. Not bad, just not what I was expecting. The pork was still tender and juicy though. The rice and peas were slightly bland. The shrimp mufongo was excellent. You could honestly put that garlic sauce on anything and I would eat it. The plantains were cooked and seasoned properly to accentuate the really big shrimp they serve it with. I could only finish half. The outdoor seating area was comfortable, they had several large fans for when that summer heat hits. There was also a pool table to make use of.

This was giving what I thought I would receive. I love hog mawl, but the plate had no addition flavor. I don't like carrots and green onions and things I would get more flavor but that was a no. I cannot remember the name of the side is a root vegetable for when I was told. It is very similar in texture to a potato but not. I did like it though. My lunch buddy said his steak was very tender he cut it with a fork and he enjoyed it. Tried a new drink Tamarind Juice. I've made a sauce with the paste before but never had as drink

The soda cans they served were dusty and dirty. After I told my mother the octopus salad was bland, a female worker passive aggressively mocked me to nearby customers. If you believe that spending your hard-earned money should come with the added insult of being ridiculed during your meal, then this is your fittingly disappointing venue.

The food was delicious. I hadn’t had Puerto Rican Chinese food since I lived in the island and it did not disappoint.

It may be the best Puerto Rican food I’ve had… definitely a hidden gem in Ocean Springs! Don’t be fooled by the look or location. Mofongo is a must. Salsa criolla is delicious. Churrasco was so tasty. I wish I could take some alcapurrias back to Miami!!! It’s only about 20-25 min from Kessler Air Force base.