If Brenda and Fernando lived in Canada or the US you might call them a “power” couple. They own and operate two of the island’s success stories-North Garden and Grill Garden. But if you met them in person, “power” would be the last descriptor on your mind. They are genuine, gracious, down to earth and generous.

Grill Garden has a number of core menu items that have remained constants over the years but they are known to streamline where necessary. I have seen their menu expand and retract again and noticed this evening that there were a number of young families dining early. I think they have attracted a whole new generation of guests. They are willing to accommodate old and young.

On this evening, an old Isla acquaintance of mine and I had a lot of catching up to do. So we ordered a cocktail so that we could stall our dinner decision making a bit. Our server Javier suggested I might want to try a Banana Split Daiquiri. You know what they say? “Life is short, eat dessert first!” And that is exactly what I did.

My friend Marie has an eye for colourful pictures and with Javier’s advice we chose a couple of beautiful dishes. The Tikin -Xic taco was gorgeous. I was lead to believe that Tikin-Xic was unique to Isla Mujeres but my research tells me: “Tikin Xic is not just a dish; it is a representation of Yucatecan culture and tradition. It is often serveduring family gatherings and religious celebrations, showcasing the connection between the land and sea, and the culinary practices of the ancient Maya. Despite its rich history, Tikin Xic has not gained the same fame as other Yucatecan dishes like cochinita pibil, but it remains a cherished part of local cuisine.”

Mahi-mahi had been marinated in achiote sauce and then grilled. It was then gingerly placed over a grilled pineapple. Roasted peppers, tomato and onion leant itself to be wrapped up in the blue corn tortillas but I loved the ingredients so much, that I ate it with my fork and loved every savoury bite. I also read that achiote is a spice native to the Caribbean. It has a mild, earthy and peppery flavour. It had a double use to the ancient Mayans as they utilized the spice for body paint and lipstick!

I have eaten a chimichanga ( a deep fried barrito) just once on Isla. It was at the Sunset Grill based on Mapchicks Laura’s recommendation. So that meant it I had been on a 20 year chimichanga draught. That was really silly because I love them! Grill Garden’s version relies on a cowboy’s rendition of BBQ. The deep fried package was absolutely stuffed with the fixins from a Texas barbeque (I have never actually been to Texas, so forgive me if I am wrong).

Opening the packet, we discovered pulled pork bathed in a delicious barbeque sauce as well as “cowboy” beans and surprisingly mac & cheese! It absolutely worked.

Brenda and then Fernando stopped by to ensure that we were delighted with the food! It was Brenda’s birthday and there was soon to be a celebration occurring in the restaurant. Brenda invited me to join her party and even though I was somewhat shy to do so, I am glad that I did! I met wonderful folk some of whom were regular guests, as well as close friends and family members. Brenda assured me that by way of the invitation, I too was considered family. Once again, I was god-smacked by acquaintances who have become friends and friends who have become family.

Kath’s quote: “The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other’s life.” –Richard Bach

Love never fails.

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