Mayas Restaurant and Bar:
If you like Latin and Caribbean food, you'll love eating at Mayas. This fairly new restaurant, located in the trendy Lower Garden District, is fast becoming a favorite with locals, so you know it's good. The cuisine is Central/South American/Island fusion with a flair, unusual and delicious. The atmosphere and service, which is friendly and attentive, enhance the dining experience. I've been there twice this week already, with two sets of friends, so I 've had an opportunity to sample more entrees than usual.Appetizers:
The Sampler, for two, is an example of how these two somewhat diverse cuisines go great together. It includes spring rolls, Jamaican tostones, yuca, coconut tempura shrimp, chicken croquetas and a half sesame seed soft-shell crab. You can get larger portions of these individually, or you can try the fresh guacamole dip. Special appetizers are also offered.Entrees:
Arroz, Mayas' paella filled with mussels, shrimp, and vegetables, is a must-have. Arroz Valencia, offered as a special, includes chicken and a delicious Chorizo. The serving is huge, easily enough for four people. We split it among eight as a side dish, along with our other entrees. The lechon-roasted pork is so tender and tasty, you'll be tempted to order it every time. But then, you might miss the Carne Asada, marinated grilled beef and onions over rice, or Pinchos, Central American-style skewers of steak or chicken. Copan Ribeye is another specialty. Coconut curry shrimp and Caribbean fish carry the Island touch.Dessert and Drinks:
The Tres Leches cake is moist and delicious, while the Bananas en Gloria sounds a little like Bananas Foster. Baked bananas with rum, butter sauce, and cinnamon, served over ice cream -- can it get any better? The bar serves beer from Nicaragua, Argentina, and Mexico, as will as several domestic brands. The wine list includes offerings from Chile, Argentina and Spain. Many people seem to gravitate toward the bar, where the personable owner, Trinity, is pouring. He likes to visit each table to make certain that your meal is everything you expect it to be.Where and When:
Mayas is located at 2027 Magazine Street, in the Lower Garden District. The local number is (504)309-3401, or visit the website at www.mojitoland.com. It is open from 4-10pm on Tuesday through Thursday, 4-11 on Friday and Saturday. Sunday Brunch is served from 11am-3pm.
