Casa Maria

What is better than some spicy tacos, rice and beans for a few bucks and a Wednesday lunch?

Not much.

Close to work is another regular spot where the prices are killer and many people order the Speedy Gonzales before hurrying back to desk life.

The only thing I’m sad I don’t bring when I head here is a sombrero. Last time I was in Mexico I wanted to get one so so so so badly. Without it, it’s still a good time. But it is a little wanting.

When you eat here you get the basics: ground beef, that real white Mexican cheese, rice with a little spice, sprinkle with lettuce and tomato then roll it into your favorite dish. Also, the chips and salsa are so tasty you might not have any room left for food.

The only difficulty you’ll have is trying not to fill up on all the hot and tasty chips and debating whether or not you should shell out for the rich and tasty queso. Maybe you should save your appetite for carne asada fries or a big margarita? It’s only $5 for one at lunch.

But we have to go back to work, so maybe not.

What I really Like About Casa Maria

Last time I asked for hot sauce, the waiter asked which kind. Hot sauce options?! This is gonna be good. Ok, if I’m being honest I lean a little on the Tex Mex side. And here’s the thing. I love burritos. I do NOT like soft tacos. Always crunchy guys, c’mon. I have some strong preferences. I’ll gauc it out when I feel like paying extra. I looooooove cooking Mexican food. Enchiladas are pretty much my fave dish, and I like to get one cheese and one meat one (chicken or beef depends on my mood). ALWAYS get a cheese one though. Oh and I like it covered in red sauce and yellow cheese. So those are my preferences, but add enough hot sauce and everything’s amazing. Amiright?

The chips though have a great crunch and are hot, fresh and salty. Oh, and the queso is yummy.

Casa Maria meets my requirement for tasty lunches to be hot. You get a break from sandwiches and leftovers from the night before. And you can take a whole crowd out for the fiesta! Add cheap prices and a Cholula sauce and it is on. The margaritas aren’t bad either and come in oversized martini glasses. I wouldn’t recommend having more than one.

This place also holds a spot in my heart because I’ve gone there for many a work lunch. These lunches are somewhat rare and totally tame, but it’s a reserved space where I have gotten to know my coworkers a little bit better and moved one step closer to making Jax like home.