I’ve been wanting to explore some new HR options throughout the city but I haven’t had time to go very far. (I will gladly take any suggestions.) So I jumped into my carcancha this weekend to see what could be seen. And then as I was ready to ferret through some lonely streets of East LA I came across this place I’d been meaning to try out, and its quite conveniently located in my neighborhood of Lincoln Heights. Well that will bring a quick stop to my ramblings, besides I have things to do. Might as well try it now while I can.
The truth is I feared that with such an absurd name like “Maracas” this new eatery would be one of the usual Mex-American places with the antiquated menu of combo items smothered in cheese. Might as well call it Fiesta Loca Mexicana. Or Paco’s Taco’s. You know, one of THOSE names. It’s okay though, surely they would have Huevos Rancheros in the morning. A quick glance at the menu and I was getting scared this visit would not be for an HR review, they were nowhere on the menu! Oh wait, they are under the section “Eggs with a Side of Your Choice” under the Ranch Style option. How odd. I wonder if “Mexican Sausages” means Chorizo, which ain’t exactly a sausage.
I had to ask, but the response was in the affirmative, yes, they do have HR’s. Ok then, make it an order. Soon enough a complimentary basket of chips and a decent tomato-based salsa comes my way. Don’t mind if I do.
I like the spot near the door, a good view of people coming into or going out of LH. I’ve been here before, back when it was still Top Video and even after it became Villa Restaurant. Will it stay Maracas for long enough to make an impression on LH? I guess we will see.
Our HR’s. Not covered in a tomato-chile sauce as one would hope but with a solid coat of Jack cheese instead. I am not a fan of lots of cheese on HR’s. But the lack of a proper sauce is the greater transgression. A wisp of sauce is present but it ends up reminding you that its almost not there. They also go the chunky sauteed bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes route which somehow has become a popular interpretation, even though I fail to see why that would be a good idea. Blend the tomatoes and onions and save the bell pepper for something else. They include some maiz tortillas underneath the decent eggs, so the breakfast makes an ok meal. But it’s far from being a good example of the dish.
Maracas (or “Maraca’s”)Â 866.676.0732
3300 N. Broadway
Lincoln Heights, 90031
www.maracascafe1963.com
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From the photos, I can see that the HRs are indeed a culinary letdown. However, it also appears that Maracas more than makes up for their mediocre work in the kitchen with a vibrant charm and a perfect location. You must have enjoyed the view. What a vibrant corner of the world! I would love to go there and just while away an afternoon.
How do these restaurants (and society in general) expect me to bring my kids up right?!!
Mexican cooking is NOT smothered in cheese and crema, it is light and delectable, and oh-so good for you! Ay, chihuahua!
In the category of lame name awards,we’ve got a place here named “Sangria’s” some kind of spicy- lite concept. Gracias pero no gracias
They dropped off some coupons for February 27 (I think) at Sloan’s. It was a meal for two for something like $2.
Bring back Top Video!! I still have some of there movies! My friend worked there for years. Maracas is ok for people who don’t like to cook at home!