My friends and I have been to Moca Cafe before for poetry night on more than one occasion, and every time, we had a pleasant experience. The staff was courteous, the food was good and the poets were entertaining. In continuing support of Haitian businesses, we decided to try their Zouk night. This was by far not at all what we expected for a girls night out . Ladies get in before midnight which is standard for most night clubs and lounges,but since we arrived early we were not permitted to come inside and sit at the bar, instead we were asked to return closer to midnight, although we had already reserved a table. We sat in the car and when a line started to form we joined it but were rudely greeted by "Mez Security" who told us we had to get in a line and wait to be allowed in. Okay fine, bouncers I'm sure have to show there machismo because they are paid to serve and protect, but a little courtesy to the ladies would have been nice. When midnight finally arrived another stoic face black suit wearing promotor comes around to give us tickets for entry. It would have been too much effort for him to have a pleasant demeanor. One of our friends stepped out of the line approximately 3 feet away to speak to someone and when she returned, the stoic refused to give her a ticket. When we asked for one, he responded, " too bad, she wasn't in line" if it wasn't our friends birthday and the fact that we were standing in line like cattle for 45 minutes we would've walked away. Another promotor collecting the tickets allowed her the free entry but not before warning her of their strict policy of not "stepping out of line"- a warning that we will not be needing because we will never go back for Zouk night. We had little problem paying their measly 10 dollar cover charge, but treating women like they need your business is just bad business. This is where the night went from bad to worse, we reserved a table in their VIP section and paid 100 dollars for hot wine and two of our glasses were broken. Our server was nice and solved the broken glass problem, but we were still left with our hot wine. Around 2 am the place became packed and most of our view from the VIP consisted of couples dry humping or dancing whatever you wanna call it. The grand finale came when a fight broke out and our tough macho security struggled to get the perpetrators out. When things calmed down, despite our disappointment of the entire evening, we tipped our waiter understanding that she was not responsible for the promoters who rent out the space. As we walked to our car, we noticed our courteous bouncers were tending to their wounds with ice packs. Karma? Hmmm. Just maybe!
(1)
Kathi C.
Definitely not a hole-in-the-wall Haitian restaurant. I like the grilled whole red snapper and the oxtail, as well as the plantains. They look like they're pressed and then fried so they look like patties. I splurged once on the cake with heavy rum butter, and that was delicious too. All in all, decent food, but I don't need the 'upscale ambiance' enough to justify the high end prices.
(3)
Renee R.
Yesterday I was over in North Miami Beach, and had to meet up with a friend of mine. We opted to stop in at the newly renovated Moca Cafe. Since this was a lunch after lunch meet, I didn't really plan to look long at the menu. I was actually suggested to have the grilled conch and went with that suggestion. The conch came mixed with green peppers, plantain fritters and some mixed salad. Where I come from we don't really grill conch. As Trinbagonians, especially Tobagonians we usually curry or "stew down" conch to eat with dumplin. Grilled I wasn't really that much excited about it. But this was good. The conch was not dry at all, which was kinda what I was wary about. It was well seasoned and very tasty. The plantain fritters I wasn't really a big fan of. Not that they were not good, but I prefer my plantain a bit moist, lol. It wasn't until I voiced that issue that my friend said I could have gotten sweet plantains instead. I doused that down with a very cold Heineken lite. Service was quite good and pleasant. There wasn't much people there when I got there but at that time most people would be at work. It was way after lunch time and before after work time. I will surely be back to Moca at some point to try other things on their menu!! I give Moca Cafe 5 out of 5 for that visit.
(5)
Kristia B.
First of all, I'm a proud Haitian and I was THRILLED to dine at Moca. I had lunch here on two consecutive days during my brief stay in Florida. I ordered rice and beans with legume, then the next day rice and beans with chicken. I must return for dinner and a show. It's a beautiful restaurant located in North Miami, right at the heart of all the action I hear. Very classy, great food, positive experience. I will definitely be back for more!
(5)
Joseph G.
First of all, my review is based solely on Moca Cafe and Lounge as a nightlife spot. I have not dined there so I can't comment on the restaurant side of the house. They have been closed for renovations for most of April and May but it was worth the wait because it's much nicer, cleaner, and seems designed to be easier to keep clean. They also added gorgeous white drapery which is decoratively strewn across the 20-30 foot high ceiling giving the main area a clean soft look. Where Moca really caught my eye was with the newly added V.I.P. areas where more white details keep the clean look and feel consistent throughout. They are very good about getting live talent to keep the energy high on weeknights as well as weekends. Check out their Facebook page to get a beat on the live entertainment. I usually go on Thursdays because they host a Latin night on and off. On those nights they had mojitos and rum & coke available for their $5 drink special. If you're on that side of town and looking for something to do, check it out for a drink. For the area, it's pretty good.
(4)
Michelle C.
This spot is the place to be on Thursday nights. Be sure to try a FREE bachata class every Thursday at 10 pm. After the class get ready to just dance the night away with mainly salsa and some bachata music. It's such a great atmosphere. If you go alone it's one of those places everyone is just so friendly and willing to dance with you. No clique needed. I had the pleasure to meet the promoter "Negro Fino" who will be sure to accommodate your night with a bottle if you bring 4 ladies or more. It's a great mix of a crowd from Haitian Americans to of course, Latinos. IF you try their food (before their club hours) it will not disappoint but don't expect stellar service or attention from the bar girl/waitress. I waited awhile before getting my meal and check. Maybe I caught them at a bad time as they transitioned from restaurant to dance/club but it ain't my fault. I would rate that alone a "3" only because their tasty dishes will make up for the poor service - gotta love Haitian food! I had the pleasure of celebrating my birthday this year at this location. Not only did I get a free drink at the bar, a bottle for me and my ladies, but I also had a nice birthday dance - Casino style - with everyone there. Fun experience!
(4)
K P.
I am bias to this restaurant because I am Haitian-American. I am happy to say that I was satisfied. This place made me forget my mother's cooking the whole time I was there (sorry mom). Mocha is just the right setting for a nice treat for special occasions. I invited two co-workers out for some real good Haitian food at a nice restaurant, which is surprisingly hard to find in Miami. I took my guest out during the day so the place was very mellow. But there was still a live band on the scene playing music that sounded like jazz. Unlike traditional Haitian restaurants, Mocha offers an a hip and Americanized experience. I forgot the name of what I had to eat but not the taste, delicious or the service, good. The price was also very affordable and I can't wait to go back. P.s. They accept credit cards!
(4)
Daphney H.
It was a Saturday night and the restaurant was pretty empty. From that deduction I could've assumed this wasn't the place to be. But my family wanted to have some Haitian food while in Miami. Long story short we were disappointed. They don't have boullet on the menu. They didn't have taso to serve (they ran out). They only had 5 fish left to prepare. (We were a party of 15). The rice was dry. The food was mediocre at best. The service was so-so. The young lady assigned to us wasn't old enough to serve us drinks ... But somehow they found a way to get around that. When I head back to Miami - I won't be visiting here for a meal and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
(1)
Nikki C.
After reading all of the great reviews I wanted to come see what all the fuss was about... Called ahead of time to make sure it would be a wonderful night but then the lady that answered the phone told me it was $20pp to enter plus whatever we had for dinner & drinks. Needless to say I won't be in a hurry to try this restaurant.
(1)
mercedes m.
Let's start out with the plus...they hosted the Saturday Night Live Poetry - the staff were polite and they had free parking. The negatives 1 - they ran out of food from the appetizer menu..some people are not looking to eat a big meal at 10pm...just munching to balance drinks...although - I was just drinking sodas today...I wasn't impressed with the chicken nuggets and fries they had as the only options. 2. the entrance was in the back - I parked on the street and had no idea how to get into the restaurant...they need a sign -- someone finally helped - after I considered just going home. 3. etiquette needs work -- staff and customers (clearly these customers never been to a poetry reading) would have full blown conversations while people presented - couldn't they hear themselves interrupting? I look forward to supporting the Poetry/Spoken Word culture - but am not that impressed with the long drive north to wait for two hours before poets begin...I know we are dealing with artists - but some entertainment needs to happen if we are going to have to wait that long ...the entertainment can not simply be - mic check.
(3)
Karisa L.
This restaurant has a very pleasant yet elegant atmosphere. The Servers are exceptional and the food is equally great. I've been there twice this week; I keep going back for the "grilled goat". It's simply the best I've ever had! Kudos to you guys- tremendous Haitian fierte!
(5)
Empress A.
Moca Cafe is a wonderful commencement to any date, or gathering for celebration. The food is great and the service, good. I took the time to write the review because their service has come a long way, since I the first time I discovered them 2-3 yrs ago. The owners have listened! New wait staff, with training to match! I think the pricey menu is due more to the ambiance, entertainment, and food quality. It is definitely NOT your typical Haitian Restaurant!!! Wednesday "Boukan" nights are great! This middle of the week affair is always teaming with people for a show in the arts, including dance, comedy and music! I personally love performing there...great crowd-and always packed! So come early! Be sure to call ahead, and ask for me by name-Empress Addi, for a sultry night of acoustic jazz! ~One Love
(5)
Patrick A.
Very impress with the Reopening, food is excellent looking forward to go back
(3)
Melissa M.
The food is excellent and so is the service!
(5)
Cozy M.
At last I have found the perfect Haitian restaurant. I just went to the Moca cafe for the first time and WOW was I impressed. The food was prepared like in the highest class restaurants of Haiti served beautifully on the plate. The wait staff was uniformed and very polite and helpful. The ambiance was great and they even keep on upscale Haitian music. I loved it and it is very inexpensive and I cant wait to go back. this is truly a restaurant you wont be sorry going to. Cozy Michaels
(5)
Nelson F.
I Love Their Salsa and Bachata Thursday Nights! I enjoy The Free Salsa Class at 9pm! And I Enjoy The Transformation Afterwards to an Awesome Underground Latin Lounge! The Food is also Amazing! I will Definitely Tell a Friend! Bring a Friend! And Send A Friend!
(5)
Jordan N.
3.5 stars This is a white tableclothed Haitian restaurant - a rarity anywhere in Miami. Food was good, salad was simplistic (typical of cheap eateries), prices higher than other Haitian joints (due to white-tablecloth magic at raising prices? or maybe its prime storefront location on 125th St? Or both?). Nevertheless, I had good service, and this place is well known to be the place to be for Haitian live acts some nights. Call in advance for those special nights.
(4)
Mark C.
Staff is pleasant, food was okay. I continue to read reviews that say the kitchen ran out of food, I can attest to that. My wife and I went with another couple. Server was very nice but when it came to the menu, they were out of everything. 3 of us ordered shrimp and after 10mins the server came back to tell us they only had enough shrimp for 2 order...What the BUMBACLOT? When food finally came, we were subjected to the staff packing up tables all around us, kicking up dirt and dust while we're still eating trying to get ready for their club night. Sorry, will never be going back!
(2)
Rich P.
First time visiting Moca went with a party of 5 and I have to say it was not a good experience. It was a very slow night but still services was very slow, ordered food and dish came incorrect. Some of the items ordered by my guest was not available, but waitress took almost 20 minutes to inform us of this. I was very disappointed, am always looking for a great Haitian restaurant to bring friends from out of town. I know now Moca will not be that place.
(2)
Naty K.
Wow, I am pumped! After hearing a live band for about 2 hours, I am full of energy! If live music helps you unwind after a long Friday at work, then you should give Moca a try. It's a mixed crowd -- mostly suits, with some women in dresses, and a small amount in jeans with nice tops. I bet many of the men come straight from work, based on their suits and ties. Most people seem to be in their 40s, and most are Haitian. The band playing was named Kingdom G, I could not find a website, unfortunately, although they said they're on Facebook. I got the impression that they are the house band, at least on Fridays. They played old school R&B ("Just the Two of us", "Best of My Love"), and smooth jazz although there was a singer for some of the songs, most of them were instrumental, with a guitar player, bass guitarist, drummer, keyboardist, and sax player. They were great, very talented, and never missed a note. They even put a smooth jazz instrumental twist to "Crazy" by Gnarls Barkley. There were lounge couches and the place was dimmed down with green lights, but my friend and I sat at the tables and ate dinner while listening to the band. The sax player was very lively, and interacted with the band, he went to many tables, and stood next to me playing. Very cool. Several of the ladies were celebrating their birthday, and he held their hand and played for them. They draw the curtains so that people from the outside cannot peek in, very VIP-like. There was also a DJ playing music, mostly the same type, with an emcee/host talking and hyping up the crowd. He was very animated and had a very smooth, deep voice, calling us all the "intellectual crowd". For dinner, my friend copied me and also ordered the Kalalou with beef (okra with beef). It is basically a tender beef stew with strips of okra. The okra becomes tender as it stews in the heat with the meat. They also add hot pepper to give it a kick. It is similar to a gumbo I guess. Rice and peas (beans) were served on the side. The food was excellent, and the lemonade I ordered was sweet and with pieces of pulp. For dessert, we were offered a bread pudding that contains ginger. I had never tried ginger in bread pudding. There were still pieces of fiber from the ginger inside the bread pudding. It was good, not overwhelmingly sweet, and spicy, thanks to the ginger. We both left our plates (including the dessert plate), spotless. The only peeve was the service - the waitress not only did not speak English, only Creole, but I think that she was also enjoying the music too much -- so much, that service was rather inattentive. It did not bother me but I thought it'd be worth mentioning for people like my friend, Mr. Impatient, that kept complaining to me about the absent waitress -- I was just sitting back in my chair, tapping my foot and nodding to the rhythm, oblivious to the world. This would make a great place to bring a date, not a first date because the music is so loud you'll have a hard time talking and getting to know that person, but someone you feel comfortable with, someone you can just snuggle up with and look into their eyes and groove to the music. I'd like to come back again on a Friday. This place reminds me a bit of the now-defunct Crescendo, minus a cover charge. We need musical variety and live music, I'm down for supporting this place as much as I can.
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Specialities
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : No Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Romantic Noise Level : Average Good For Dancing : Yes Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes
Beulah G.
My friends and I have been to Moca Cafe before for poetry night on more than one occasion, and every time, we had a pleasant experience. The staff was courteous, the food was good and the poets were entertaining. In continuing support of Haitian businesses, we decided to try their Zouk night. This was by far not at all what we expected for a girls night out . Ladies get in before midnight which is standard for most night clubs and lounges,but since we arrived early we were not permitted to come inside and sit at the bar, instead we were asked to return closer to midnight, although we had already reserved a table. We sat in the car and when a line started to form we joined it but were rudely greeted by "Mez Security" who told us we had to get in a line and wait to be allowed in. Okay fine, bouncers I'm sure have to show there machismo because they are paid to serve and protect, but a little courtesy to the ladies would have been nice. When midnight finally arrived another stoic face black suit wearing promotor comes around to give us tickets for entry. It would have been too much effort for him to have a pleasant demeanor. One of our friends stepped out of the line approximately 3 feet away to speak to someone and when she returned, the stoic refused to give her a ticket. When we asked for one, he responded, " too bad, she wasn't in line" if it wasn't our friends birthday and the fact that we were standing in line like cattle for 45 minutes we would've walked away. Another promotor collecting the tickets allowed her the free entry but not before warning her of their strict policy of not "stepping out of line"- a warning that we will not be needing because we will never go back for Zouk night. We had little problem paying their measly 10 dollar cover charge, but treating women like they need your business is just bad business. This is where the night went from bad to worse, we reserved a table in their VIP section and paid 100 dollars for hot wine and two of our glasses were broken. Our server was nice and solved the broken glass problem, but we were still left with our hot wine. Around 2 am the place became packed and most of our view from the VIP consisted of couples dry humping or dancing whatever you wanna call it. The grand finale came when a fight broke out and our tough macho security struggled to get the perpetrators out. When things calmed down, despite our disappointment of the entire evening, we tipped our waiter understanding that she was not responsible for the promoters who rent out the space. As we walked to our car, we noticed our courteous bouncers were tending to their wounds with ice packs. Karma? Hmmm. Just maybe!
(1)Kathi C.
Definitely not a hole-in-the-wall Haitian restaurant. I like the grilled whole red snapper and the oxtail, as well as the plantains. They look like they're pressed and then fried so they look like patties. I splurged once on the cake with heavy rum butter, and that was delicious too. All in all, decent food, but I don't need the 'upscale ambiance' enough to justify the high end prices.
(3)Renee R.
Yesterday I was over in North Miami Beach, and had to meet up with a friend of mine. We opted to stop in at the newly renovated Moca Cafe. Since this was a lunch after lunch meet, I didn't really plan to look long at the menu. I was actually suggested to have the grilled conch and went with that suggestion. The conch came mixed with green peppers, plantain fritters and some mixed salad. Where I come from we don't really grill conch. As Trinbagonians, especially Tobagonians we usually curry or "stew down" conch to eat with dumplin. Grilled I wasn't really that much excited about it. But this was good. The conch was not dry at all, which was kinda what I was wary about. It was well seasoned and very tasty. The plantain fritters I wasn't really a big fan of. Not that they were not good, but I prefer my plantain a bit moist, lol. It wasn't until I voiced that issue that my friend said I could have gotten sweet plantains instead. I doused that down with a very cold Heineken lite. Service was quite good and pleasant. There wasn't much people there when I got there but at that time most people would be at work. It was way after lunch time and before after work time. I will surely be back to Moca at some point to try other things on their menu!! I give Moca Cafe 5 out of 5 for that visit.
(5)Kristia B.
First of all, I'm a proud Haitian and I was THRILLED to dine at Moca. I had lunch here on two consecutive days during my brief stay in Florida. I ordered rice and beans with legume, then the next day rice and beans with chicken. I must return for dinner and a show. It's a beautiful restaurant located in North Miami, right at the heart of all the action I hear. Very classy, great food, positive experience. I will definitely be back for more!
(5)Joseph G.
First of all, my review is based solely on Moca Cafe and Lounge as a nightlife spot. I have not dined there so I can't comment on the restaurant side of the house. They have been closed for renovations for most of April and May but it was worth the wait because it's much nicer, cleaner, and seems designed to be easier to keep clean. They also added gorgeous white drapery which is decoratively strewn across the 20-30 foot high ceiling giving the main area a clean soft look. Where Moca really caught my eye was with the newly added V.I.P. areas where more white details keep the clean look and feel consistent throughout. They are very good about getting live talent to keep the energy high on weeknights as well as weekends. Check out their Facebook page to get a beat on the live entertainment. I usually go on Thursdays because they host a Latin night on and off. On those nights they had mojitos and rum & coke available for their $5 drink special. If you're on that side of town and looking for something to do, check it out for a drink. For the area, it's pretty good.
(4)Michelle C.
This spot is the place to be on Thursday nights. Be sure to try a FREE bachata class every Thursday at 10 pm. After the class get ready to just dance the night away with mainly salsa and some bachata music. It's such a great atmosphere. If you go alone it's one of those places everyone is just so friendly and willing to dance with you. No clique needed. I had the pleasure to meet the promoter "Negro Fino" who will be sure to accommodate your night with a bottle if you bring 4 ladies or more. It's a great mix of a crowd from Haitian Americans to of course, Latinos. IF you try their food (before their club hours) it will not disappoint but don't expect stellar service or attention from the bar girl/waitress. I waited awhile before getting my meal and check. Maybe I caught them at a bad time as they transitioned from restaurant to dance/club but it ain't my fault. I would rate that alone a "3" only because their tasty dishes will make up for the poor service - gotta love Haitian food! I had the pleasure of celebrating my birthday this year at this location. Not only did I get a free drink at the bar, a bottle for me and my ladies, but I also had a nice birthday dance - Casino style - with everyone there. Fun experience!
(4)K P.
I am bias to this restaurant because I am Haitian-American. I am happy to say that I was satisfied. This place made me forget my mother's cooking the whole time I was there (sorry mom). Mocha is just the right setting for a nice treat for special occasions. I invited two co-workers out for some real good Haitian food at a nice restaurant, which is surprisingly hard to find in Miami. I took my guest out during the day so the place was very mellow. But there was still a live band on the scene playing music that sounded like jazz. Unlike traditional Haitian restaurants, Mocha offers an a hip and Americanized experience. I forgot the name of what I had to eat but not the taste, delicious or the service, good. The price was also very affordable and I can't wait to go back. P.s. They accept credit cards!
(4)Daphney H.
It was a Saturday night and the restaurant was pretty empty. From that deduction I could've assumed this wasn't the place to be. But my family wanted to have some Haitian food while in Miami. Long story short we were disappointed. They don't have boullet on the menu. They didn't have taso to serve (they ran out). They only had 5 fish left to prepare. (We were a party of 15). The rice was dry. The food was mediocre at best. The service was so-so. The young lady assigned to us wasn't old enough to serve us drinks ... But somehow they found a way to get around that. When I head back to Miami - I won't be visiting here for a meal and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
(1)Nikki C.
After reading all of the great reviews I wanted to come see what all the fuss was about... Called ahead of time to make sure it would be a wonderful night but then the lady that answered the phone told me it was $20pp to enter plus whatever we had for dinner & drinks. Needless to say I won't be in a hurry to try this restaurant.
(1)mercedes m.
Let's start out with the plus...they hosted the Saturday Night Live Poetry - the staff were polite and they had free parking. The negatives 1 - they ran out of food from the appetizer menu..some people are not looking to eat a big meal at 10pm...just munching to balance drinks...although - I was just drinking sodas today...I wasn't impressed with the chicken nuggets and fries they had as the only options. 2. the entrance was in the back - I parked on the street and had no idea how to get into the restaurant...they need a sign -- someone finally helped - after I considered just going home. 3. etiquette needs work -- staff and customers (clearly these customers never been to a poetry reading) would have full blown conversations while people presented - couldn't they hear themselves interrupting? I look forward to supporting the Poetry/Spoken Word culture - but am not that impressed with the long drive north to wait for two hours before poets begin...I know we are dealing with artists - but some entertainment needs to happen if we are going to have to wait that long ...the entertainment can not simply be - mic check.
(3)Karisa L.
This restaurant has a very pleasant yet elegant atmosphere. The Servers are exceptional and the food is equally great. I've been there twice this week; I keep going back for the "grilled goat". It's simply the best I've ever had! Kudos to you guys- tremendous Haitian fierte!
(5)Empress A.
Moca Cafe is a wonderful commencement to any date, or gathering for celebration. The food is great and the service, good. I took the time to write the review because their service has come a long way, since I the first time I discovered them 2-3 yrs ago. The owners have listened! New wait staff, with training to match! I think the pricey menu is due more to the ambiance, entertainment, and food quality. It is definitely NOT your typical Haitian Restaurant!!! Wednesday "Boukan" nights are great! This middle of the week affair is always teaming with people for a show in the arts, including dance, comedy and music! I personally love performing there...great crowd-and always packed! So come early! Be sure to call ahead, and ask for me by name-Empress Addi, for a sultry night of acoustic jazz! ~One Love
(5)Patrick A.
Very impress with the Reopening, food is excellent looking forward to go back
(3)Melissa M.
The food is excellent and so is the service!
(5)Cozy M.
At last I have found the perfect Haitian restaurant. I just went to the Moca cafe for the first time and WOW was I impressed. The food was prepared like in the highest class restaurants of Haiti served beautifully on the plate. The wait staff was uniformed and very polite and helpful. The ambiance was great and they even keep on upscale Haitian music. I loved it and it is very inexpensive and I cant wait to go back. this is truly a restaurant you wont be sorry going to. Cozy Michaels
(5)Nelson F.
I Love Their Salsa and Bachata Thursday Nights! I enjoy The Free Salsa Class at 9pm! And I Enjoy The Transformation Afterwards to an Awesome Underground Latin Lounge! The Food is also Amazing! I will Definitely Tell a Friend! Bring a Friend! And Send A Friend!
(5)Jordan N.
3.5 stars This is a white tableclothed Haitian restaurant - a rarity anywhere in Miami. Food was good, salad was simplistic (typical of cheap eateries), prices higher than other Haitian joints (due to white-tablecloth magic at raising prices? or maybe its prime storefront location on 125th St? Or both?). Nevertheless, I had good service, and this place is well known to be the place to be for Haitian live acts some nights. Call in advance for those special nights.
(4)Mark C.
Staff is pleasant, food was okay. I continue to read reviews that say the kitchen ran out of food, I can attest to that. My wife and I went with another couple. Server was very nice but when it came to the menu, they were out of everything. 3 of us ordered shrimp and after 10mins the server came back to tell us they only had enough shrimp for 2 order...What the BUMBACLOT? When food finally came, we were subjected to the staff packing up tables all around us, kicking up dirt and dust while we're still eating trying to get ready for their club night. Sorry, will never be going back!
(2)Rich P.
First time visiting Moca went with a party of 5 and I have to say it was not a good experience. It was a very slow night but still services was very slow, ordered food and dish came incorrect. Some of the items ordered by my guest was not available, but waitress took almost 20 minutes to inform us of this. I was very disappointed, am always looking for a great Haitian restaurant to bring friends from out of town. I know now Moca will not be that place.
(2)Naty K.
Wow, I am pumped! After hearing a live band for about 2 hours, I am full of energy! If live music helps you unwind after a long Friday at work, then you should give Moca a try. It's a mixed crowd -- mostly suits, with some women in dresses, and a small amount in jeans with nice tops. I bet many of the men come straight from work, based on their suits and ties. Most people seem to be in their 40s, and most are Haitian. The band playing was named Kingdom G, I could not find a website, unfortunately, although they said they're on Facebook. I got the impression that they are the house band, at least on Fridays. They played old school R&B ("Just the Two of us", "Best of My Love"), and smooth jazz although there was a singer for some of the songs, most of them were instrumental, with a guitar player, bass guitarist, drummer, keyboardist, and sax player. They were great, very talented, and never missed a note. They even put a smooth jazz instrumental twist to "Crazy" by Gnarls Barkley. There were lounge couches and the place was dimmed down with green lights, but my friend and I sat at the tables and ate dinner while listening to the band. The sax player was very lively, and interacted with the band, he went to many tables, and stood next to me playing. Very cool. Several of the ladies were celebrating their birthday, and he held their hand and played for them. They draw the curtains so that people from the outside cannot peek in, very VIP-like. There was also a DJ playing music, mostly the same type, with an emcee/host talking and hyping up the crowd. He was very animated and had a very smooth, deep voice, calling us all the "intellectual crowd". For dinner, my friend copied me and also ordered the Kalalou with beef (okra with beef). It is basically a tender beef stew with strips of okra. The okra becomes tender as it stews in the heat with the meat. They also add hot pepper to give it a kick. It is similar to a gumbo I guess. Rice and peas (beans) were served on the side. The food was excellent, and the lemonade I ordered was sweet and with pieces of pulp. For dessert, we were offered a bread pudding that contains ginger. I had never tried ginger in bread pudding. There were still pieces of fiber from the ginger inside the bread pudding. It was good, not overwhelmingly sweet, and spicy, thanks to the ginger. We both left our plates (including the dessert plate), spotless. The only peeve was the service - the waitress not only did not speak English, only Creole, but I think that she was also enjoying the music too much -- so much, that service was rather inattentive. It did not bother me but I thought it'd be worth mentioning for people like my friend, Mr. Impatient, that kept complaining to me about the absent waitress -- I was just sitting back in my chair, tapping my foot and nodding to the rhythm, oblivious to the world. This would make a great place to bring a date, not a first date because the music is so loud you'll have a hard time talking and getting to know that person, but someone you feel comfortable with, someone you can just snuggle up with and look into their eyes and groove to the music. I'd like to come back again on a Friday. This place reminds me a bit of the now-defunct Crescendo, minus a cover charge. We need musical variety and live music, I'm down for supporting this place as much as I can.
(4)