Mi Casita: A New Mexican Restaurant in Crofton, MD

Those of you who were fans of Rick's American Grill may be disappointed when you come to Crofton and see its replacement, Mi Casita. There is nothing American about it. This restaurant features borderline authentic Mexican food, including tacos, burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas and fajitas. There is also a section of the menu entitled "dinner specials" that features unique items such as a "Mexican Sandwich" and grilled chicken with ranchero sauce.

Upon entering the restaurant, you will notice some similarities to Crofton's other local Mexican offering, La Fiesta. The dining room is rather small and is decorated in a Southwestern style, with such features as a cactus and coyote motif on the booths and posters of Mariachi musicians. You will be greeted almost immediately by one of the friendly hosts. If there is a wait, you are invited to sit at the bar. The only problem with this is that there are only four stools, and other waiting patrons may give you dirty looks if you occupy them.

The drinks, such as of course the staple Margarita, are tasty and relatively strong. Don't expect a lot of fancy garnishes or presentation though. Mi Casita's focus is on the food. They don't seem to have anyone too excited about being bartender.

Once you get a table, which should not take long, you will first receive a carafe of salsa and a bowl of chips, which is good because it supplies enough of the dip to keep the salsa fiend at the table happy while also leaving enoughfor the rest of your party. The salsa tastes homemade and includes chunks of tomato and onion. They seemed to have switched to a milder recipe since the grand opening. Apparently Crofton residents do not have hardy taste buds.

There is not a long wait for your entrée, unless you happen to show up on one of the very busy nights, such as a Friday. I assume this is because the restaurant is newly opened and they are experiencing some growing pains. All of the food I've had has been fresh and delicious. I would recommend the bean burrito or beef fajitas. Or order a combination meal and get a taste of everything, but be aware that they will not make substitutions to the preset menu for these. There are also daily specials featured on an insert in the menu. Be sure to ask for a bowl of homemade hot sauce if you like things a little spicy. It is excellent, with a chipotle flavor and just the right amount of kick. However, it is not for those who thought the salsa was spicy.

Mi Casita is located in Staples Center, at the corner of Routes 424 and 450 in Crofton. Lunch prices average around 8 dollars; dinners around 12 dollars. They open at 11 a.m. on weekdays and 12 p.m. on weekends.