TAKOMA PARK, MD – Returning from a week-long vacation in Cancun, Mexico to celebrate her friend’s 30th birthday, Margaret Cross was excited to be eating at the new Mexican restaurant, Cielo Rojo, to see if the food was as authentic as her experience at the resort’s all-you-can-eat buffet.
“I heard these tacos are the real deal,” stated Cross. “I consider myself a taco connoisseur after my six day trip to Meh-hee-co. You’re actually not supposed to pronounce the ‘X’, you know.”
Once word got around of Cross’ expertise, she was invited to El Sapo, a new Cuban restaurant in Silver Spring. “I’m really honored to be recognized for my ability to tell if this is authentic Cuban food because I had a layover in the Miami airport on my way to Cancun.”
Cross also has an online blog, “Should I Put This In My Mouth?” which highlights a “spice rating” to help warn Caucasians how spicy their ethnic food will be. Based on a scale of 1 through 5, with 5 being the most spicy, the list states:
1. Mild – No Spice, and no flavor (ideal)
2. Medium – Fresh ground pepper
3. Hot – Contains diced tomatoes!
4. Really Hot – Taco Bell Mild Sauce
5. Ermahgerd! – The color of the food is red!
Cross said she thought Cancun was fun, but had no immediate plans to return. “My boyfriend wants to go to Animal Kingdom at DisneyWorld for Spring Break, so when I come back, I’ll be able to determine the authenticity of Mansa Kunda on Flower Avenue.”
Cross is also planning a trip to Disney’s Epcot Center where she’ll gain even more culinary knowledge to critique the food of Trattoria Da Lina, Middle Eastern Cuisine, and Seoul Food.
