South of the Border Cooking: In Search of Mexican Dining Treasures

[RVNeophytes2]

An immigrant nation, we've always boasted a treasure trove of little family eateries that feature cuisine of immigrant families' native lands.

While my personal favorites are immaculate Thai and Viet cafes, Mexican food ties with Indian and Italian for Third Place.

With our Mexican immigrants flocking to certain industries where earlier arrivals are hesitant to work, like the meat packing/processing plants of Nebraska, Iowa, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, it follows that some great little grocery stores and restaurants will follow.

Such is the case in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, where Tyson has a large facility.

Los Agaves, at 100 13th Street in the middle of town, looked promising. The parking lot was nearly full at lunch time, two police cruisers amidst patrons' cars and trucks. Sure enough, the place was bustling. We were met immediately and whisked to a table, offered drinks before our bottoms hit the chairs. The menu was daunting: a total of 27 lunch specialities alone!

Service, setting, food, bathrooms all hit 100%.

I always like to ask the age of a restaurant; the new ones lose points, because every restaurant staff strives heroically at first. Like spouses, it's the ones which, after years, are still going strong.

Well, this gem has been in business for two years, long enough to tire themselves. But, there was no sign of that. I give them high marks, and suggest that anyone dropping into Murfreesboro (most likely to visit the stellar and equally exemplary Crater of Diamonds State Park) stop by.

They also have locations in Prescott, Nashville and Glennwood, all small Arkansas towns.

[Thorfinn]

Just added these to our list! Miner's Rock Shop & Campground looks like a nice place to stay for it....

If you are ever in Naperville, IL, Indian Harvest is our favorite Indian. And for an awesome hotdog, you have to visit Happy House Hot Dog Stand - West Chicago, IL est 1973. Outside seating only, and if you have a rig, you can park across the street at the grocer.

Thanks for the suggestions!