This was not the case in my experience. I've only flown them once on this MIA - EZE - MIA trip I mentioned. I was served hot meals on all segments, which was decent quality food (better food with better portions than AA), refills on food offered if I wasn't full (which I gladly accepted), and free, unlimited booze in coach.

My flights were all on-time, the flight attendents the best I've ever had, and the comfort was superb. I flew Aerolineas Argentinas on the same trip, which was horrible. TACA must have changed for the worst, or you've just had some bad experiences.