By Audrey Wong | Daily Republic | September 12, 2008 12:46
Isilda Bosch, manager of Maya's Mexican Food, sits in the dining room of the downtown Fairfield restaurant. Photo by Brad Zweerink
FAIRFIELD - Raul and Vidal Castro have transformed the former Barb's Deli downtown to an eatery where families can dine on authentic Mexican food and adults can sip margaritas while watching sports at the bar.
The brothers helped operate their family's two restaurants in Mexico. The Castros are from the Mayan region of Mexico, hence the name of the business -- Maya's Mexican Food.
'Mom and dad started the business and we kind of continued in the same tradition,' said Raul Castro, co-owner and manager. 'We like to continue with a new shot out here in the states . . . Now we are kind of like spreading our wings by trying it ourselves.'
The owners of Barb's Deli sold the restaurant in 2006. Complications with contractors, floor plans and the architect stalled the opening of Maya's for months, although the place was furnished and neon signs hung in the windows.
The brothers hustled to launch their restaurant in time for the Tomato Festival in August. They aim to cater to both families and adults. Cooks whip up authentic fare from southern Mexico, but they plan to incorporate deli food for fans of the old Barb's Deli.
The roomy space with picture windows is available for private events. The Castro brothers also book bands, so they can arrange for music for any event. The bands range from Mexican and Spanish bands to jazz and country. The brothers prefer to book dance music.
See the complete story at the Daily Republic online.
Maya's Mexican Food
Who: Raul and Vidal Castro
Where: 735 Texas St., Fairfield
Hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily
Info: 399-9696
