Thursday, September 9, 2010

Restaurant Review: TOTS

Last weekend I ran across an article by Joe Marusak describing the offerings at TOTS (Taste of the South).  Offering southern fast food fare, in a more casual setting, this "Healthy in a Hurry" restaurant piqued my curiosity.

Off of exit 33 and located in the old Showmars Building, it's really easy to get to.  So I drove up, parked, and walked in the door.

I've gotta hand it to them, this place is pretty sweet.  In particular, the flat-screens being used as menus really caught by eye.  Is there any way they can deliver those to my home??

After being mesmerized by the spectacular menus (I think I was drooling!), I decided on the Southern Fried Chicken Platter.  This consists of fried chicken tenders, waffle-cut fries and coleslaw.  Unfortunately, they're working out a few kinks at the checkout.  (the cashier ran out of change, and it took a while for the manager to run into the back and come out with the extra change.)  But aside from that, the staff were wonderful, my drink was refilled and my plate was cleared (though I could have done it myself).

The meal was massive and I didn't get a chance to finish it.  But lets look-over the food, shall we?  The chicken was fried REALLY crispy.  The batter was really good, and crunchy -- probably has a fair share of corn meal.  The chicken was quite good, though a little on the dry side.  The waffle cut fries were nice and crispy (not a soggy one in the batch!), and the coleslaw was quite good -- still crisp with a slight tang of vinegar.

After my plate was cleared, I got up to have a slice of their Chocolate Dipped Key Lime Pie.  As I approached the register I noticed the VERY long line that went out the door.  So, not wanting to wait in line for a small order, I walked back to my table to gather my things and leave.  Well, the owner must have noticed my sad face, because he came over and asked if he could help with anything.  I mentioned what I was going to get a slice of Key Lime pie, but wasn't going to worry about it.  He said, "Wait here for a minute."

A few seconds later he appears with a slice of the pie!  This dessert is actually Chocolate Dipped Key Lime Pie on a Stick!  (I LOOOVE food on a stick -- no plates to worry about!) This dessert was awesome.  The chocolate, the filling and the crust were fantastic, and are a MUST if you ever visit this restaurant.

Score:
Atmosphere: 3/5
Food: 4.5/5
Service: 4.5/5
Total: 12/15

Price: $
Kid Friendly: Yes

Conclusion:  TOTS is a notch or two (or three) above the standard fast-food chain.  The army of staff were always busy, and very helpful.  In addition, it was nice to actually meet the owner of a local fast-food(ish) restaurant.  Through him, I learned that all beef at the restaurant is Angus and the chicken is hormone free. In addition, the prices are very cheap.  This place is definitely worth a visit.

Restaurant Info:
TOTS
129 Gateway Blvd.
Mooresville, NC 28117
p) 980-613-0537

4 comments:

  1. Yeah you were right, ABOUT OPENING NIGHT AND THE COUPLE DAYS AFTER THEY OPENED! I'm glad you got great service. But if you go back and eat there again, food is still great, but the service sucks. They're terminating everyone for no apparent reason. They were told they did not meet requirements. But when they go back to TOTS to find out what requirements they didn't meet they have no answer for you. The restaurant is a ghost town. TOTS is also opening up in Charlotte. Sad (not really) to say, they aren't going to last long.

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  2. My name is Eddie Bell and I thought the food was great. I realy liked the bottled beer. I have never seen beer in a bottle that's amazing. Thanks for listening, your friend special Ed

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  3. Is tots open anymore I have called for two days and no one answers. I called Friday the 29 and sat 30 what is up. I really liked the philly cheese steak.

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  4. I went there today and there was a note on the door for employees to pick up their checks so I guess employees didnt know they closed

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