LARA’S Theme ...A Restaurant Review

I entered the courtyard of Los Mayas through an arched doorway at 409 West Water Street. Though it was cold outside, I mentally noted that the outdoor patio would be an inviting place to gather on a warmer Spring or Summer afternoon or evening. I could almost here the guitar playing in the corner with a fire glowing in the Kiva Then I entered the door to the main restaurant and immediately my mood was uplifted with the bright colored cloths and napkins that graced the tables in waiting for the noon customers.

I was expecting my friend David to arrive, and since I was among the first there I had my choice of tables. I chose a table for two in a cozy little side room with a view of the front door so I could easily see David when he arrived. I heard the fire crackling in the fireplace in the next room and two elderly ladies enjoying the warmth and a laughter as they attempted to pronounce the food items on the menu.

The strains of music started and the enchanting voice of Placido Domingo touched my very soul and set the tone for me to enjoy this warm and charming place. Each evening live music is presented by noted musicians in the area, including the owner who plays guitar on Monday and Tuesday evenings.

My next delight was when the waiter came to attend to my wants. This young gentle man was so handsome that I thought I was in Hollywood....and I was, right here in Santa Fe. As I enjoyed the casual but romantic ambiance the owner Senor Fernando came by my table to greet me and welcome me to his restaurant. This gracious and confident restaurateur seems to have his eye on every part of his business as I casually reviewed his going about from kitchen to table tops.

I reviewed both the dinner and lunch menus and found it difficult to make a selection since all the food offered looked inviting .The menus were a varied and nice combination of authentic Southwestern and Mexican foods.

I made my choice from a luncheon combination offered called “build your own temple.” David had arrived and quickly assessed the menu and had no problem choosing his fare, nor polishing off the plate of tamales and enchiladas, accompanied by the customary rice and black beans. We both agreed that the food was beautifully presented, all delicious, hot and promptly served by our well-trained and courteous waiter.

The piece d’ resistance was the flan we ordered for dessert. We were both sufficiently full from our lunch but decided that a bite of shared dessert would be appropriate. Expecting a small cup, we were surprised when the 4 inch square flan arrived. The creamy custard was ringed with whipped cream, drizzled with chocolate and garnished with a strawberry.

Not one bite remained as our spoons clicked for the last bite on the plate. We had the pleasure of sharing our little room with a visiting couple who were enjoying their time in Santa Fe. Obviously a time of romance and surprise for the lady as her husband left briefly and returned with a bouquet of roses. It was a lovely finale to our lunch.

I recommend this delightful restaurant for any tourist or local that might want a cozy place to experience the true gracious Mexican culture so nicely presented in a reasonably priced restaurant. Our lunch for two, including dessert, was less than twenty dollars. You get a lot of ambiance and good food for the money. As we left the restaurant I noticed that most of the tables were full of seemingly happy customers. No doubt Dr. Zhivago would approve!

Lara Lauder is a writer and nationally recognized award winning image marketing consultant. Her interests are in alternative health care, good food and helping individuals, businesses, and corporations find there marketing niche. She resides in Santa Fe and may be contacted at 505-660-4564.