Over 4,500 fans on Facebook, 0 Unilocal reviews. Crazy! It’s easy though to see how this place has slipped through the cracks because the shop doesn’t face the main road(US41). But this place is very popular within the Mexican community. According to the gentleman I spoke with, they’ve been open for two years(although the banner outside says Now Open) and on the weekends, there are lines out the door. After visiting, I can see why and I’m sure I’ll be a frequent customer. La Botana is a Mexican dessert shop in a rundown plaza in Gibsonton. To give you a frame of reference, it’s in the same plaza as Portales Restaurant/Super Market but on the right side(review to follow on the market). All kinds of fruity desserts with chamoy. All kinds of aguas frescas(horchata, limon, tamarindo, jamaica and alfalfa(I need to try that as I haven’t had that before)). All kinds of pre-made items too including candied apples stuffed with gummy bears and chili powder on top? Fortunately, they speak English so that they can explain what everything is. I’m not a fan of chamoy so I went with something that didn’t have it… a cocada($ 5) which is basically a coconut smoothie. I couldn’t believe how big it was when they handed it to me. But it was so good that I had no problems finishing it. The orange and umbrella on it were nice touches. The restaurant is very clean, bright and spacious. The service was friendly. My only complaint is the prices aren’t transparent(no prices on the menu). Oh and one cool feature is they have a drive-thru. I don’t believe there’s a menu board outside though so you’ll have to know what you want. Can’t wait to go back and be a little more adventurous!
