Los Rancheros
172-37 Hillside Ave., Jamaica Estates 739-9815

Cuisine: Mexican

Hours: Monday to Thursday, 2 p.m. to 12 a.m., Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.

When I heard that there was a "new" Mexican restaurant in Jamaica, I knew I had to investigate.

But as it turned out the restaurant was not that new after all, just remodeled to meet the changing face of Jamaica.

"Los Rancheros" Mexican restaurant has been around for the last 25 years, but you would not know it once you enter.

As you walk into the restaurant, you are assailed by the decor of the place.

The surroundings are traditional yet elegant with Sombreros and Panchos hanging on the side of pristine walls.

The tables are arranged to accommodate parties of four and lounge seats can easily accommodate parties of six and eight.

Beginning with the "Aperitivos" (appetizers) which range between $4 to $7 and consists of orders of "Tostones Rellenos," fried green plantain stuffed with a choice of chicken or seafood (shrimp, crabmeat or fish),

"Quesadillas," flour tortilla stuffed with cheese and choice of meat (chorizo, beef, or chicken), and "Guacamole," mashed avocado with garlic and onions.

The main dishes range from $8 to $14.

Some of the dishes include "Fajitas," which are marinated steak or chicken strips grilled and served with onions, peppers, re-fried beans, jalapeno, sour cream, and warm tortillas, and "Bistec Ranchero," grilled shell steak topped with ranchera sauce and served with re-fried beans and yellow rice.

I finally settled down with an appetizer of "Taquitos," which are small tortillas stuffed with beef, then deep-fried and served with guacamole and sour sauce.

Although the small serving consisted of two "Taquitos," they were excellent and left me craving for more.

As for the main course, I tried a plate of "Carnita De Puerco," which consisted of marinated slices of pork in lemon juice and served with re-fried beans, warm tortillas and yellow rice.

My experience at the new "Los Rancheros" was extraordinary.