St. Norbert Times

Issue date: 2/23/09 Section: Entertainment

Media Credit: Samantha Christian [Click to enlarge]

Chicken, chicken, chicken. When going to a restaurant I always end up eating the same thing time and time again. If I go to Olive Garden, for instance, I'm always eager to eat one of my two favorite dishes, chicken alfredo or chicken parmigiana. It's true, I'm not a very adventurous eater and don't like to take chances on new dishes just in case they are not satisfying to my taste buds.

However, after eating at such venues as Olive Garden or Texas Roadhouse too many times within the last year, I wanted to finally try something new. I wanted to go somewhere that I hadn't really heard of and try to get out of the realm of Italian food, which is my favorite (Yes, I am part Italian).

After thinking of all the endless dining possibilities in the De Pere/Green Bay vicinity, I couldn't decide where to eat, and instead drove around De Pere to find someplace that caught my eye.

Finally, it hit me! As I was on the hunt for food, I noticed a quaint little Mexican restaurant on Lawrence Drive over by Scheuring Road called El Maya. I was a bit skeptical at first; the restaurant was connected to a gas station, which contained an Arby's on the other side, drawing comparisons to a roadside diner. However, as I made my way to El Maya's entrance, my doubt subsided.

The restaurant, though small, was nicely decorated with colorful tables, chairs, and booths. The pictures on the wall, along with the ceiling décor and authentic Mexican music, made me feel like I was actually south of the border.

The menu contained all sorts of Mexican meals, including enchiladas, chalupas, burritos, or tacos. As I was deciding on my meal of choice, the waiter brought out some chips and dip to appease my hunger until the main course arrived. If I finished my chips and dip, not a second later the waiter would return bringing more. I found such service at El Maya to be spectacular; in fact, after only 20 minutes, my main course was served. The staff was accommodating and truly made you feel welcome.

I ended up ordering the chicken burrito, a semi-safe choice, still a bit worried about diverging in a new culinary direction. It was covered in a spicy sauce and tasted great.

For those who may be afraid to try new things, El Maya has burgers and fries that are sure to leave you satisfied. I also hear their margaritas are legendary, and I hope to return to El Maya next October once I'm 21 to see what all the fuss is about.

If you are looking for friendly staff and wonderful service, along with good food at a reasonable price, check out El Maya in De Pere over by Wal-Mart. Even if trying new foods may not appeal to you, there is something for everyone, and you are sure to find something you will enjoy. A hidden gem in a town filled with tons of eating options, I would recommend El Maya to anyone and will definitely return there soon.

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