My experience at HERIBERTOS'

Every so often, you have a great dining experience and this one is no exception. My good friend, Heriberto Simon, who hails from Mexico has a great restaurant in Virginia Beach,Va. In that restaurant, Heriberto and Diana will make your dining experience great. You say you haven't tried Mexican food? Now is a good time to start and Heribertos' is the place!

In his restaurant, the menu has a little of everything. Don't feel like eating pork? Try his vegetable menu. The atmosphere in his restaurant has a taste of Mexico and the waiters' are A1 professional. Heriberto is a humble man, willing to stop by and have small talk. He makes his customers feel at ease with just casual conversation. His wife, always smiling and making sure every thing's alright. You can't ask for more!

Heriberto has had a wealth of experiences working in Restaurants back in New York City. He had worked for a classy French restaurant and learned how to cook all kinds of food. Upon moving to Virginia Beach, He worked for a season at Guadalajara's restaurant as a manager. Guadalajara was and is a popular restaurant, especially around the Oceanfront in Virgina.

I met Heriberto through his wife Diana. Diana was going to our church, frequently, and she brought Heriberto one Sunday morning. Since then, our friendship has grown and when I worked with Verizon, I used to stop by Guadalajara and have myself lunch or dinner. Guadalajara had some great service and Heriberto made sure I was comfortable. At times, he would sit down with me and have some small conversation.

THE DREAM

Then, came the dream. Heriberto wanted to go for his own business.Taking an old Mexican restaurant, he gave it a nice face lift. Naming it EL CAMINO REAL (THE ROYAL PATH), he started to have some customers. We call it Heribertos', because that is his vision. To be his own boss and expand his business. Our church, from time to time, would come in and fill the place.

My favorite food at Heribertos' consists of Mixed fajitas. Fajitas are some sliced meats and chicken mixed in with peppers, onions and spices. It is served with rice and tortillas. Served piping hot, it is a joy to sink your teeth into. Another one, recommended by Heriberto, is Carnitas with Salsa Verde.(Chucks of meat with Green Salsa) Consisting of Pork and pepper, it is another delight, but word of caution, it is very hot! The sauce, itself, will have you drinking gallons of water. I, myself, had a plate of Carnitas. "Sweating bullets" and drinking about a gallon of water, Diana informed me that I had, just, became a "Mexican!"

My wife and I came to celebrate our birthdays. You see, our birthdays are just days apart and our oldest son, Mark decided to buy us dinner. Our daughter, Paloma, tagged along and we had a great time. The food was great and we ate until we were full. If you are anywhere in the Beach, Stop by EL CAMINO REAL(Heribertos')

We have an inside joke. I, always, tell Heriberto that it is dangerous to eat at EL CAMINO REAL. His food can be addictive. It would seem that your car would drive to his restaurant.(Smile) EL CAMINO REAL-A Mexican fantasyland for great food! I have enclosed some links for some great Mexican recipes! Enjoy!