Maplewood Grille / Bandeja Paisa

A couple of recent Dining threads have called attention to some local stand-outs that others may be missing, and I'll add the Colombian bandeja paisa at the Maplewood Grille to the list. After meaning for a while to try the new Latin fare, I finally got there, and wasn't disappointed. A slab of grilled carne asada, a substantial chorizo, a thick slice of fried pork belly, plus beans, white rice, half an avocado, a fried egg, plantains and yucca -- not for the faint of arterial passage, but delicious. Arrive hungry.

The owner was friendly and fun to discuss the food with. He said he also aimed to be community-minded, and one way was featuring a different local artist on the walls each month. In May, he plans to display works by CHS students. I look forward to returning.

And for those of us who miss the fare rendered to our plate and palate by Steve Crane at his deli........         that glorious contribution to the couch potatoes among us...........the "Sloppy Joe".  My companion thought   it to be so food packed it would have fed both of us.......so of course I ate the whole thing myself.               Comes with your choice of roast beef or turkey .   A delicious meal in itself and don't plan to eat for a while afterwards