Every time my parents are in town, I stay far away from having meals on campus.This is the opportune time for me to show them the diverse selection of restaurants in town. By diverse, I mean the many different “authentic” Mexican restaurants in Searcy. There is something about a bed of rice and chicken with cheese dip on top that keeps me coming back.

If you aren’t familiar with the town of Searcy and only want to stay on Race Street, you’re in luck because there are four Mexican restaurants to choose from.The restaurant with a lot of student traffic is Mi Pueblito. The most popular item to order is “Arroz Mi Pueblito,” which is a bed of rice topped with chicken or beef and white cheese dip. If you are feeling creative, you can order the plate mixed, which would include both chicken and beef. If you want to add some nutrition, ask for fajita vegetables. If you want to feel like you are a regular there, ask for a side of tortillas.

Across the street from Mi Pueblito is another Mexican restaurant from the same owner called El Almacen, or in English, “The Warehouse.” Thisis the upscale version of Mi Pueblito, but it includes the same menu and prices. It also offers a more authentic menu like the “Enmoladas,” which are chicken, beef or cheese enchiladas topped with mole sauce, a traditional bittersweet sauce most commonly served in Mexican weddings. Other unique features include a second floor for dining and a VIP room for large parties.

Another restaurant on Race Street is Los Montano’s, uniquely attached to the Days Inn. If you are looking for a meal similar to “Arroz Mi Pueblito,” order the “Ranchero Special.” Instead of chicken or beef, it comes with chicken or shrimp and fajita vegetables. Another delicious item served there is the fried icecream. The last Mexican restaurant on Race Street is ElParaiso Acapulco. A delicious item to order is “Tacos Al Pastor,” thinly shaved pork tacos marinated with pineapple. My favorite thing to order is horchata,a sweet rice milk beverage.

Other Mexican restaurants in town includeCasa Brava and San Diego, both located on Beebe Capps.

Whichever Mexican restaurant you choose in town, you can’t go wrong. Each has its own unique atmosphere, and there is always something for everyone.