Although the unusual name may turn some customers away, as soon as diners walk into Mash’d they’re greeted with a fun filled, laid back environment.

Mash’d is a relatively new American restaurant with only two locations, one in Fort Worth and one in Frisco on Preston Road. Diners can reserve a table online or walk in. On two separate visits, the wait was minimal, being seated almost immediately.

Diners are greeted with great service and waiters with the food arrives only about 20 minutes after being ordered.

The actual food, however, is where Mash’d falls short, except for a few miracle dishes.

The fried chicken was the highlight of the night. It was boneless, warm, fresh, and basically melted in your mouth. It is one of the most talked about dishes. If diners want some good chicken and, this is the place to get it. This is probably the only thing that will prompt another visit.

Other dishes such as the Avocado Bomb Salad with salmon fell way short. While it’s wasn’t awful, there’s a good chance your mom or somebody else at home can prepare a tastier piece of fish.

Going beyond the menu, on one visit, the mac and cheese was tried. It’s exclusive and isn’t on the menu, but if you ask, they can still make it for you. After having it, it’s easy to understand why it was taken off of the menu. While the mac and cheese itself was okay, the added corn and peppers gave it a bad taste and an awkward crunch that disturbs the creamy goodness of classic macaroni.

While waiting, entertainment is displayed on a television screens placed throughout the restaurant. They display a series of videos from a Youtube playlist. The ambiance consists of dim lighting, background music, and loud talking. This is definitely not the place if you want to go on a date with quiet conversation.

Students should definitely bring their parents on a trip to Mash’d since it is a sports bar-like environment, however families and children are welcomed. Food prices range from $9 to $30 between appetizers, entrees and seafood.

This place is loved by many, but diners need to be sure to look at what is most recommended in order to get the best tasting dishes on the menu. If not, they may regret it.