Fajitas is a trendy new Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurant that recently took over the beautiful two-story building that once housed the Black and Tan Grille (215 S Memorial Drive). We went on a Friday night, showing up at 5:30 pm with reservations (good idea). We encountered fabulous food, excellent service, and remarkably low prices for such quality and ambiance.

They have a lot of favorites Americans are used to, plus some real authentic Mexican dishes such as puerco pibil. I tried an authentic but difficult-to-pronounce Yucatan dish, a tender grouper wrapped in banana leaves and rice, with a delightful spicy orange flavor. Wonderful! My wife's fish tacos were good. I also sampled some of steak "fajita burrito" dish one of my sons ordered. Tremendous flavors, carefully cooked and seasoned.

What surprised me was the low prices. Our dishes ranged from $9 to $13, but had the quality I'd expect in a much more expensive place. And the atmosphere is pleasant in the elegant old home that has been remodeled into an exciting restaurant.

Our waiter was especially good. A friendly, articulate, intelligent student at Fox Valley Tech who comes from the city of Toluca in central Mexico. A very impressive young man who did a great job in serving us and answeing our questions.

One of the best Mexican experiences I can remember. I'll be back!

Fajita's Mexican Bar & Grill is open for dinner only right now, but in a few weeks will be open for lunch also. They will also be open for brunch on Mother's Day. Call (920) 968-0833 for reservations.

Tell them Jeff (el gringo alto) sent you.