Mariscos

I decided to go to Mariscos for lunch on a Friday afternoon. I'd read good things about it on a local food discussion group, so I figured why not? This outpost of Mariscos (which also has El Abulo y Yo in its name), is on a busy, industrial stretch of Kedzie at 38th St.

The interior of the restaurant is bright from the abundant natural light which streams in courtesy of the corner location. Each table is adorned with a surprisingly large  assortment of good hot sauces (El Yucateco, Tamazula, Salsa Huichol, Valentina, Tapatio, etc.). When you are seated, you'll be given a small plastic cup with a tasty shrimp consomme.

The menu given to me by the server seemed to be geared toward the dinner crowd. I ordered a  tostada topped with s generous portion of shrimp ceviche. It was tasty and was a bargain at only $2.50.  While I prefer a little more acid to my ceviche, they did provide a bowl of fresh limes which I took immediate advantage of.

I had read about their fish tacos, but saw no trace of them on the menu. The server said that it would be no problem to prepare them (at about $2.00 each). The fish was piping hot and fantastic, served on corn tortillas. They clearly know how to prepare seafood here.

Based on the food, I would give Mariscos a solid 4 stars, especially considering the relatively low price. Note: the standard dinner items may be less of a deal, as it would be hard to find an entree under $13 here.

Alas, the service I was given could best be described as supreme indifference. Upon completing my meal, I had to wait 5 minutes or so for her to make eye contact with me long enough to take away my plate and another 10 minutes before she allowed me to request the check. And this was in a lunch service with only one other table occupied.

I don't take to being willfully ignored gladly, so I won't be making a return visit. Still, I certainly won't disparage the food at all. It was very tasty.