After marketing in Chinatown we walked down on Hotel Street in hopes of having lunch before the downtown crowd hit. Oh, I should admit that I was actually trying to steer my husband away from suggesting a Chinese lunch. As we walked down Hotel Street, we were tempted by brick oven pizzas, Korean Fusion, Asian Fusion, American, Japanese Yakitori and Mexican.
Oh yeah...the thought of authentic chile rellenos, enchiladas, burritos or tacos drew us to Maria Bonita's open door. Ah, but at 1045, they weren't open yet so we just waited outside like two begging dogs scratching at the door until 1100.
We were greeted by a friendly and smiling man, Diego, who we found out was the owner. Both Diego and his mother immigrated from Acapulco, Mexico many years ago and have stayed in Hawai'i since. Diego has been at this location for the past 15 years and named it after his mother who inspired him in cooking authentic Mexican cuisine and the restaurant business.
Service was efficient and casual. We placed our order at the counter after perusing the menu board then took a seat. As we waited for our orders, I thought that we'd be uncomfortable since there was no air-conditioning but only a couple of room fans running in this small restaurant. But, not so, I think the high ceiling and open door allowed for comfortable air flow.
Diego brought out a bowl of house made tortilla chips and salsa in a plastic molcajete. Whoa..the first dip and taste of the salsa was indeed spicy but in a "good way" as I wasn't expecting it. As we continued munching on the chips and salsa, the heat subsided. The chips and salsa are complimentary when you dine in.
FOOD:
- Chile Rellenos plate was served with rice, beans and shredded lettuce and fresh cut tomatoes. The chile was tender and stuffed with cheese. Its egg batter coating was light and its texture led me to believe that the chile relleno was pan fried rather than deep fried. I wished that the shredded cheese that was atop the chile relleno was melted but nonetheless, the generous portion was delicious and filling. $11.99
-Street tacos (lengua)filled with beef tongue. The street tacos were at least 3" diameter but was mounded with tender cooked beef tongue. The tongue was so tender that it seemed to melt in the mouth good. There were fresh lime wedges that we squeezed over each taco which seemed to "brighten" the flavors and complement the fresh cilantro. I think, er, know that I could've eaten these 3 tacos by myself. $9.00
Most of the other street tacos cost $7 for a plate of 3. Given the flavor of the beef tongue, we'll be back for more of the other taco options.
There's a beverage refrigerator from which you can choose your Jarritos brand soft drink, iced teas, sodas or sports drink to accompany your meal. You pay at the register/counter after eating.
Parking can be an issue since Maria Bonita is located in downtown Honolulu but you'll probably be able to find metered street parking or park in any one of Chinatown's Municipal Parking Lots.
CONCLUSION:
Maria Bonita is an authentic Acapulco-style Mexican restaurant. They do get busy so if you're pressured for time, you should call in your order and take it to go. Just be aware that the restaurant is small, dimly lit and not air-conditioned. It's not much to look at but it's comfortable and clean. However, the flavors and "loving" care that Diego and his staff put into making the deliciousness that is served is worth coming back for more. read more