/ Reviews / Mexican
by Stephanie Sherrill
on Monday, November 17, 2008 12:00 AM
I've finally found a place to satisfy my home-style Mexican food cravings. Located in the French Concession, Maya is serving authentic Mexican flavors with a California flare. From the buzz of patrons in the dining room on a Wednesday night, I am not alone in my desire.
Chef Brad Turley's menu contains some classic Mexican dishes as well as some with interesting California twists that only a Latin-food-loving gringo could create. For example, compare two typical Mexican appetizers: tamales and chili rellenos. Maya's Shredded Chicken Tamales (50RMB) served with salsa verde crème are traditionally prepared resulting in moist, flavorful tamale. On the other hand, the Pumpkin and Goat Cheese Chili Rellenos (48RMB) are anything but typical. The tart pomegranate reduction and pungent goat cheese mixed with buttery pumpkin makes this dish extraordinary.
We settled on entrees of Roasted Chicken (130RMB) and Sea Bass Grilled in Banana Leaf (125RMB). We found the Sea Bass to be fresh and delightful. It's served with a mango sour orange sauce and coconut sweet potato. The succulent Roast Chicken is served on top a traditional chilaquiles and alongside green chili butter and jalapeno cream corn, giving it that expected Mexican spicy kick.
We couldn't resist Maya's desserts. The decadent Mayan Chocolate Lava Cake (60RMB) left a surprising hint of chili lingering on the back of my tongue which mingled well with the cool cajeta flavored condensed milk ice cream. Their Churros (45RMB) are playfully served with dipping sauces of hot chocolate syrup, strawberry sauce and whipped cream.
Maya is only open for dinner. Call ahead for reservations or you might find yourself in the bar. On the other hand, sitting at their community tables would make a perfect beginning to a casual night with friends, enjoying Mexican margaritas and snacks. The Scallop Cerviche (68RMB) was fresh and tangy with mangos, scallops, chilies and lime. For the Taco Combo (65RMB), a selection of tilapia, shredded lime beef, and shredded cilantro chicken, was a hit.
