Mexicantown provides authentic color, flavor, food

DETROIT - Whether it be Chinatown, Little Italy, or Greektown, little ethnic slices of every city have essentially the same person ... re-creation. People native to that country attempt to add a little bit of culture and flavor to an already expanding metropolis. Areas in Detroit are no exception.

Detroit's Greektown is probably the most famous for its food and atmosphere. Right down the road, however, is Mexicantown - another quaint little area that has lots to offer. Located at the corner of Verner and Clark streets, Mexicantown has a little bit for everyone.

But at first glance at Mexicantown upon arriving could give the traveling student the wrong impression. Approximately a third of the buildings located on Verner Street in the heart of the area, are barred and locked up. Several other structures are run-down, and have their paint peeling off. Master locks dangling from the doors also are common.

But look past those things, and you get something very special and something very important to the city of Detroit. Little markets litter the area, accompanied by an occasional bakery. A host of restaurants also abound. There is a little bit of culture in every place you find, even the laundromat which has a sign that reads "Se Habla Español Only Spanish spoken here." Be careful though, every load is two dollars ... ouch!

Located on the corner of 4300 Verner St. is a prominent pastry shop and market called the Mexican Bakery. The outside it features a nice shade of purple, and inside you will receive the most mouth-watering aromas on this side of Michigan. Through the glass display case, the possibilities are endless, from homemade fruit pastries, chocolate-covered brownies in the shape of mice, and tasty pink and white sugar cookies that sell six for $1. The sweets are well priced too. Pastries range from 95 cents to $2.25, while a whole cake will cost anywhere from $7.95 to $10.95. Not bad!

The bakery also sports a wonderful stock of Mexican foods. Dozens of different kinds of chips are stocked neatly on the shelves, and in the back is a dairy and meat case. In it you will find several kinds of cheeses and chorizo, a very spicy sausage that is very delicious. Imported CDs and magazines can also be found. In addition to all this, another great feature here is the service, and a friendly smile to go with it. While in Mexicantown, be sure to stop by and check this place out.

When it comes to restaurants, one of the places definitely to look out for is "Armandos." Located at 4242 Verner St., it features truly authentic Mexican food. The lighting is dimmer than normal, perhaps to create a romantic mood for the patron. Dinners not only include the usual Tex-Mex fare such as chimichangas, wet Burritos, and tacos but other items such as "Camaron al Mojo de Ajo" (Garlic shrimp), "Tampiquena" (a type of enchilada), and "Milanesa" (deep fried breaded steak or chicken). Also look for botanas and panchitos. The daily specials are only $4.75, while dinners range from $5.95 to $8.95. Party trays also available for about $20.

Travelers to Mexicantown should also be on the lookout for the Las Palmas market, a small grocery store worth seeing not only because of its flashy exterior, but also because of its coziness. Owned by one of the most friendly people you will meet. They carry both American and Mexican food products with the

Oct. 1: Mexico in less than an Hour

What: Mexicantown Neighborhood

Where: Detroit

How: Take I-94 East to I-96 East. Stay in one of the

freeway's right two lanes that become I-75 South. Take I-75 to the Clark Street exit. Abundant parking is available off of Clark Street near Verner Street.

How Long: 35-45 minutes depending on traffic.

What's There: Authentic Mexican neighborhood that is as small and unheralded as it is colorful and unique. Come to Mexicantown for the bright urban artwork with a Mexican flare - stay for the excellent and cheap food, friendly people and loads of interesting stores and other venues.

Next Week's Excursion: Frankenmuth, MI

10-01-98