In a town full of Mexican eateries (almost about a dozen, much more than a little over a decade ago) there’s a new kid in town. Maize Mexican Grill is located on the northwest corner of First and Green, where Ye Olde Donut Shoppe and Derrold’s used to be. Opened for barely a week it’s been getting steady business.
Since I’ve never had “authentic” Mexican I can’t say I can speak with authority about Maize’s menu. But from the ethnic make-up of the clientele, the food does bring in people who know. Seeing a new place to dine I high-tailed there today with my weekly lunch partner (MWLP).
Maize is very small, more of a take-out place than anything else, but there are countertop space and chairs to sit and eat at. The menu is modest and most items are a la carte, letting diners pick and choose their meal at will. First off we were given a basket of homemade tortilla chips and two kinds of salsa.
Tortilla chips and two kinds of salsa
Since I’m not familiar with the salsa family at large, other than the ubiquitous tomato-based one, you’ll just have to go there and try them. It could be a tomatillo-based salsa or roasted chipotle, not sure. The chunkier one in front is spicier that the creamier one towards the back.
MWLP had two Tacos de Lomo (ribeye taco). Thick slices of presumably marinated meat were served in handmade (and homemade) corn tortillas, with plenty of cilantro. MWLP mainly tasted cilantro and thought the meat lacked flavor.
- Tacos de Lomo at Maize Mexican Grill
As for me I ordered the Carne Asada, which came with a small salad, rice and beans, refried beans, and handmade tortillas. The presentation looked nice, but the meat lacked flavor. It could have used some marinade or more salt before grilling, since the meal did not move me.
Carne Asada at Maize Mexican Grill
We washed down our meal with a bottle of Mexican Coke (for MWLP) and pineapple flavored soda (for me). The people behind the counter were super friendly and the overall experience of our first foray to Maize Mexican Grill was enjoyable. This place has potential and I hope they will make it here in C-U’s food scene.
**** out of *****
UrbanaFare 