Maria's Mexican Kitchen Odessa — Restaurant in Odessa

I'm very mixed on my review. I want to give it a better review, but this restaurant is still a work in progress. We've dined twice. We've have some great dishes but there is a lot left to be desired.

The chips and hot sauce are a mixed bag. The chips are fantastic but the salsa is a tad spicy and not the greatest flavor. I like the guacamole but it's a small portion for $15. It's just enough for two people.

The tostadas are very good except the small jalapeño which personally is my least favorite thing about this restaurant. They are small, hard to spot, and incredibly spicy. I let my wife finish the dish.

For entrees, we've had the huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, carne asada, and pacific mahi. The first three options were all very good. I wished the carne asada came with tortillas because all the amount of peppers and onions was hard to eat by itself. It would have much better on a tortilla. The pacific mahi turned about to be tacos. I'm still not sure if my order was correct or the item description is just poorly written. Anyway, it was (3) tacos with dreaded small jalapeño and cabbage dressing. I ended up just eating the fish because the jalapeños are hard to spot.

For desert we've tried the churos, flan, and tres leche. The churos are the best thing we've tried by far. Unfortunately, they sell out. The other two deserts are good but nothing compared to the churos.

The wait staff is attentive but you will notice they are still new and learning and not completely knowledgeable about everything on the menu.

Also, there is a terrible bottle neck seating section by the kitchen exit that was terribly designed and is an accident waiting to happen. I would wait for another table then sit there. It's the seating in the small hallway leading to the kitchen parallel to the restrooms. The amount of hard braking that occurs there by wait staff is incredibly nerve wracking.

Side note: the menu is ~60-65% alcohol. I don't drink, and they have one non alcoholic beer on the menu. As much room as they devote to alcohol, a mocktail or two would be nice, e.g. a non alcoholic margarita. It's West Texas. I get it. But Cowboy Prime even has a few options - same hospitality group.

I'm going to wait a few months to go back, and until then I'll probably just get some churos to go. Cowboy Prime, same hospitality company, had a learning curve too. Some great menu items and lots of potential but be patient this restaurant is still a work in progress. Also, if you can't handle fresh jalapeños, ask your server. You will...

From the moment we walked through the doors of Maria’s Mexican Kitchen, we knew we were in for something special. The vibrant atmosphere, the warm welcome, and the irresistible aromas drifting from the kitchen immediately set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience.

Let’s start with the food—wow. Every bite was a celebration of authentic Mexican flavors with a creative, gourmet twist. The carne asada was perfectly grilled and seasoned, the enchiladas melted in our mouths, and the street tacos? Little bites of heaven! The guacamole was the freshest we’ve ever had—creamy, zesty, and clearly made with love.

The drinks were just as impressive. The house margaritas were flawlessly balanced—just the right amount of tart, sweet, and kick! Their signature jalapeño-cucumber margarita is a must-try for anyone who likes a bold twist. We also sampled the sangria and a smoky mezcal cocktail—both absolutely divine.

Then came dessert, and if you think we couldn’t be more impressed… think again. The churros were golden, crispy perfection, served with warm chocolate sauce and dulce de leche that made us swoon. And don’t skip the flan—it’s silky, rich, and utterly dreamy.

But what truly elevated our night was the incredible service from Kyle. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive without being overbearing. He made perfect recommendations, anticipated our needs, and genuinely made us feel like honored guests. Kyle’s warmth and professionalism made the whole experience even more special—we’re already requesting him for our next visit!

In short: Maria’s Mexican Kitchen is a must-visit. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, treat yourself to this gem. Come for the food, stay for the drinks, indulge in dessert—and give Kyle a big...

First time trying, not bashing anyone but this isn’t for me. I understand the culinary attempt of what is considered a traditional Mexican meal but the food lacks a certain authenticity and seasoning. The beans are just beans and the rice is spicier but nonetheless just rice with some corn. The carne asada tacos were not something I’d order again. The meat is a higher quality meat, and cut, but has no flavor or seasoning, at minimum salt. I also wasn’t a fan of the sauce that comes with the tacos. The queso is not good. The ground beef that comes in the queso, again, has no seasoning or taste. The chips are ok. The flautas lack seasoning or flavor it’s just chicken rolled and fried. I shouldn’t have to add something to my food to increment taste. I should be able to pair my food with something to complement the taste since this is a “finer dining” option. Service was GREAT! 0 complaints. Music makes me feel like they don’t understand that reggaeton isn’t Mexican music. I’m wondering if it’s because the music is in Spanish it is assumed it’s Mexican music… I digress. This restaurant and the F1 bar and grill restaurant down the road have disappointed so far. Maybe FAR OUT hospitality should consider some adjustments because the competition is serious and there are “better” attempts at authentic Mexican cuisine here in Odessa. Regardless I wasn’t enthusiastic about returning but I always give second and third chances and will be back. I comment as someone who has traveled to many places of the world and has enjoyed many wonderful meals. I can say I prefer not to conform when it comes to home especially when there’s...