With signs shaped like wooden shoes and streets lined with tulips, Orange City’s Dutch heritage is unmistakable. However, the town’s hottest new place to eat is adding a little spice to the community.
Cinco de Mayo, Orange City’s first authentic Mexican restaurant, opened its doors last Thursday. Its owner, Israel Lezama, has a passion for sharing genuine Mexican cuisine.
“I feel [opening this restaurant] is a way of introducing real Mexican food to our children. It’s important that they have a taste of real Mexican food,” Lezama said.
Lezama, who immigrated to the U.S. at the age of 25, has crafted his recipes from years of experience working in Mexican restaurants.
“[My favorite dish] is the Monterrey Salad. It comes in a shell and has steak, grilled chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and mushrooms, and it’s covered in melted cheese,” Lezama said.
Cinco de Mayo serves generous portions of authentic Mexican dishes, including quesadillas, burritos, taco salads, and even a few American options for less adventurous connoisseurs. Vegetarian options are also available.
“They had a wide variety of food to choose from and you get your money’s worth,” said Northwestern freshman Adrianna Noteboom, “I ordered the Vegetarian Fajita. There was lots of unique flavor in the vegetables. They were really tasty.”
Friendly service who greets customers as “amigos” and the comfortable atmosphere make one feel right at home.
“Everyone is sitting together enjoying themselves. It’s chill…This would be perfect for a casual date night,” said Noteboom.
Cinco de Mayo is located on Albany Ave. SE across the street from Don’s Food Center. Students will find many budget-friendly menu items: most dinners range in price from $5-10. The restaurant is open Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday and Saturday 11am-10pm, and Sunday 11am-3pm.
“[Cinco de Mayo] gives people a chance to experience a new culture. It helps the community bring diversity together…And the food is addictive. I have a feeling I’m going to be here again this weekend,” said Noteboom.
Cinco de Mayo is now hiring college and high school students to be cashiers and hosts or hostesses. Interested students may call the restaurant at 712-707-5454 for further information.
