By DOUGLAS W. MOTLEY – Senior Writer

“Oh my gosh,” I thought to myself as I entered Oscar’s Mexican Grill, next door to Magic 7 Market in Valley of Enchantment on the evening of Saturday, April 15. Someone obviously had a great sense of humor when they painted OMG on the front door of this longtime VOE restaurant, a locals’ favorite that has seen numerous incarnations ever since its humble beginning as Sy’s Sandwich Shop back in the 1970s.

As it turns out, OMG is no laughing matter, since the restaurant was named in honor of owner Marco Avila’s brother who, sadly, passed away about two years ago. Avila, who also owns the Mexican restaurant located within the Valero/Depot gas station in Rimforest, was unavailable for comment at press time.

Rhea ordered the California burrito, while I had the two-taco combination plate.

Upon entering this eatery that I had frequented many times over the years for breakfast, lunch and dinner, my wife and I were warmly greeted by Xochitl (pronounced SoShe – Spanish for “flower”). She immediately recognized Rhea and me as Rim school district teachers she had known back in the ‘90s. After some small talk about “the good old days,” Xochitl brought us some chips and salsa, then took our orders, which consisted of a California burrito served with guacamole, sour cream, cheese, pico de gallo and French fries for Rhea, while I ordered the two-taco combination plate with rice and beans. I had a choice of asada soft tacos or shredded beef hard tacos, so I opted for one of each. Our meals were served promptly, with a warning that the plates were hot.

Candace Pearson is about to devour her shrimp and fish taco plate and her companion, Dave Phelps, is ready to eat his OMG omelet.

Seated nearby were Valley of Enchantment residents retired Fire Capt. Scott Carpenter and his wife, Diane, who said, “We have been here several times. The food is great, the service is wonderful and people are friendly. We’re still enjoying trying the various menu items.” Also seated in at nearby booth was Dave Phelps, who said he was waiting for his OMG omelet. His companion, Candace Pearson, ordered shrimp and fish tacos. “We’ve been here several times for breakfast and lunch,” said Phelps.

Clean and comfortable seating is available throughout Oscar’s Mexican Grill.

Rhea and I enjoyed our meals immensely and you can rest assured that we will returning soon to try out some of the over 40 breakfast, lunch and dinner meal choices, ranging in price from $3.99 to $15.99.

Oscar’s Mexican Grill is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 8 p.m. To order in advance or for take-out meals, call (909) 589-0307.