Nothing frozen and nothing canned. That’s the idea behind the incredible fresh flavors at the Casa Maya Grill restaurant. Opened in August of 2008, this new eatery offers all the charm and warmth of an authentic Mexican restaurant right here in Deerfield Beach. Owner, Emilio Dominguez, has been in the food service business for 21 years and all his knowledge and skill makes this a terrific eating experience.

Chef Roman Hevia, along with owner Emilio, worked together to craft a very creative menu with something for everyone. All the well-known choices such as burritos, tacos, fajitas and enchiladas are included on the menu. You will also find some very innovative dishes that are sure to please.

My husband and I decided to break from tradition and order something other than our customary nachos. The owner suggested we try the panuchos. This dish was created by Emilio and consisted of handmade corn tortillas topped with a black bean spread, chicken, red pickled onions and a slice of fresh avocado. The mild flavors of the black bean spread and chicken blended beautifully with the pickled red onions and avocado. Since the pickled onion is made from a citrus base and not from a vinegar base, the result was a crisp taste without a harsh finish. The most popular appetizer is the ceviche, a fresh fish marinated with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice and a touch of jalapeño. I’m anxious to return to try the homemade guacamole and chips.

For my entrée, I selected the Pipian verde burrito. This burrito was stuffed with lean chicken breast and topped with a roasted organic pumpkin seed, cilantro and green chili tomato sauce. It was drizzled with melted cheese and served with a side of rice and beans. The deep, rich flavors were a creamy blend of a wonderful unique sauce that I couldn’t get enough of. I don’t believe I’ve ever tasted anything quite like it and I can’t wait to enjoy it again.

Although the most popular entree is the Pescado Veracruz (fish filet with a light tomato sauce flavored with capers, black olives, chopped shrimp and cilantro) my husband ordered the steak on grass, a special of the evening. His steak was juicy and tender and served on a bed of spinach. It was presented with a homemade red chipotle sauce and melted cheese. The red sauce was not spicy but added just the right compliment to the steak and spinach to finish it beautifully.

Our waitress, Korbin, was very helpful and offered many suggestions throughout the evening. She suggested we end our meal with a slice of homemade guava cheesecake. This is an original creation of restaurant employee Denise and well worth every calorie! Bursting with flavors of both sweet and tart, the cheesecake was a rich, cool, creamy slice of heaven. Be sure to ask for this when you are dining at Casa Maya Grill.

The menu also offers salads, a vegetable burrito with melted cheese, a veggie or spinach and cheese quesadilla, nachos and guacamole and chips for people who prefer a meat-free dish.

The atmosphere is warm and intimate, done in shades of peach, orange, and black with beautiful starburst lighting. Dine inside or out. Currently, the Casa Maya Grill offers a nice selection of wine and beer but near future plans include the opening of a wine bar/lounge area in the back. Live entertainment is available on Friday night and the restaurant is available for special occasions.

The Casa Maya Grill is located at 301 SE 15 Terr. in The Cove Shopping Center, Deerfield Beach. It’s open seven days from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call 954-570-6101 or visit casamayagrill.com.

When you are in the mood for something different, fresh and flavorful be sure to stop by the Casa Maya Grill. You will love the experience. Until we eat again ...

Becki Coffy