3 words: Life-altering food.
My three-decade pilgrimage for authentic Mexican cuisine is finally over!
I was headed down Hulen to sup at one of my favorite Italian eateries when I happened upon Meso Maya. An apparent time machine vehicle that whisks you away to central and southern Mexico in the early 1500's - the driver, and culinary savant, none other than Chef Nico Sanchez. I approached the beautiful edifice with intrigue: "Why hadn't I heard of this place? When did they build it?" My trance was broken by a question from the hostess, "Have you ever been here before?" Some how, it felt like she was asking about the Motherland. Within seconds of sitting down, my waitress Axel (ask for her, she's stellar in every way), provided a brief history lesson, her personal favorites (one of which I ordered, more on that later), and mind-blowing chips and salsa.
Chips and Salsa
The whole-in-one of chips and salsa. Chips and salsa are a staple at any Mexican restaurant, and one of which I use to gage first impressions of my eating experience. Flavored with pride, attentiveness to details, and tradition - 6 bowls in, Meso Maya gets all of the stars. A must try.
Appetizer
I played it safe and went with the Queso Poblano, a house speciality. Roasted poblanos meet fresh corn, and the creamiest offering of white cheese from the dairy Gods. If decadence and swoon had a love-child, it would be the Queso Poblano. Highly recommended.
Lunch
Carne Asada, to me, is another litmus test of a Chefs' skill-set and the restaurants authenticity. It was the first offering my brilliant waitress Axel (again, ask to sit in her section) prescribed and she said these words, "The steak is perfect, the black beans are amazing, and the sweet corn tamal is the best thing I have ever had." Curious, I bought in. Top 5 best decisions I have ever made! The first bite forced me to close my eyes and indulgently embrace the time-travel trip. I saw a beautiful, beautiful unknown land. I saw four Abuelas huddled in a kitchen talking about life, while preparing life-altering food. I saw a golden altar erected to sweet corn tamals. Each successive bite took me there again and again until it was over - brain matter splattered all over the place - the mind-blowing experience was over. The steak, perfectly cooked and perfectly charred. The black beans, amazingly textured and contrasted with the queso fresco. The sweet corn tamal...the only food I've had good enough to run for President. Highly Recommended.
Closing remarks
Meso Maya in Fort Worth is at the head of a movement. There is heart and soul in the food; the servers operate like a fine tuned clock; the manager, Salvador (ask for him - he is top notch) was warm, knowledgeable, and very welcoming. If you are looking for a sensational experience - time travel included - look no further than Meso Maya.
P.S. I've finally found a place worthy to take my mole-genity! Headed back some time this week. :)