Want Something for Everyone? Make Mazatlan Your Choice

When it comes to Mexican food, I am a bit of a snob since some of the most amazing meals I've consumed have been in a variety of tiny restaurants in Mexico. However, I realize this is not Merida or Mexico City and it definitely isn’t as warm. So when that craving comes along and I need a quick “fix,” I will usually stop in at a local Mazatlan Restaurant.

The one thing about this restaurant chain is the consistency of its food. The at 951 Roosevelt Ave. E. is not much different than all the others except it is newer and has a fresher look. The service is fast and friendly and always offered with the casual question, “Can I get you a margarita or cerveza today?” Ah yes, my kind of restaurant.

The one thing that amazes me is the efficiency and speed of the food delivery to the table. Usually just two sips off the drink and the food arrives steaming hot on an even more searing plate. I typically opt for the chicken chimichanga or beef fajita Mazatlan and I'm never disappointed. The chimichanga is perfectly deep-fried with an abundance of dark and white chicken and the fajita's steak meat is always tender with more than enough to take home.

Mazatlan features something for everyone. For a little privacy or some time with friends, the bar features a daily Hora Feliz (Happy Hour) from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. with great specials from 9 p.m. to closing. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and is very family-friendly. Lunch specials are served Mondays through Fridays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner is available from 3 p.m. to closing. An awesome deal for kids is the Monday special in which children younger than 10 eat for just $1! Time to pack up the kids, Martha … we got some food awaitin’.

So if fast, fresh and plentiful is in order, then Mazatlan should be the place for a bite. And speaking of order, it also has food to go which is just a phone call away. Prices are reasonable with the average lunch about $8 per person and dinner averaging about $12 to $15 without beverages. So what are you waiting for? A little piece of Mexico is just waiting for you at the base of the mountain. Hasta la proxima -- adios!