Maria's Cafe

Reviews

• ★★★★½ A.J Taco (Carne Guisada) Visited Mar 1, 2019

  A True Neighborhood Diner

  This is one of those little neighborhood restaurants that you could easily drive past without giving it a second thought. From the outside, it looks like an old corner building, and aside from a few signs that aren't particularly identifiable as a restaurant. Its only the Cafe sign and the cars parked outside when it's open that its an open business. Honestly, this is probably a place I would never have stopped at on my own if a friend hadn't brought me here for lunch.
  
  Once inside, you'll find a very homey, welcoming atmosphere. The waitresses and cook seemed to know many of the customers, giving the place that genuine neighborhood feel where people come back regularly and are treated like familiar faces.
  
  The menu has a wide variety of items to choose from, and there's more to it than you might initially realize. In addition to the paper menu provided at the table, there's a chalkboard menu on the wall. Apparently, the chalkboard changes frequently, featuring dishes that customers have requested. Some of these customer-inspired creations are eventually added to the menu and even named after the people who requested them.
  
  I had the A.J Taco that had Carne Guisda, Rice, Cheese, & Bacon. It was pretty good, but an odd twist on carne guisada. The tacos were pretty good size, and you barely needed more than one to make a meal.
  
  Portions were a decent size, prices were fair, and the service was good. Parking outside can be a bit challenging because the restaurant gets busy, but that's a good sign for a small neighborhood spot.
  
  Overall, I enjoyed the experience and would definitely return to try more of the menu. It's the kind of unassuming little restaurant that's easy to overlook from the street but worth checking out once someone introduces you to it.

  — Paul