Atmosphere: On the day we went to Marcela’s, the sun was actually shining and we were able to sit outside in the sun, which was actually warm. (Sadly, I got a sunburn from just 45 minutes outside. Thanks, Washington.) There was Spanish music playing over speakers and the restaurant was clean, bright and very traditional.

Food: There were tons of choices on the menu, most typical of any Mexican restaurant but also some that I had never heard of (and, since my minor was in French, not Spanish, some that I couldn’t say or spell). I had the taco salad with chicken, and it was really fresh and tasty. It came with sour cream and guacamole on the side, which was nice because I could add the amount I wanted. Our dining group, consisting of our sports reporter and photographer, also had meals that they thought were fantastic.

Service: We were quickly shown our seats and brought water. We were offered more chips whenever our bowl went low and, upon request, quickly given additional types of salsa. Even though it was really busy and the outside was packed, our food was brought out quickly. The only slow part was getting our checks back. We worried something was wrong with our card, but it was just them being busy getting out the food as soon as possible.

Would I eat here again?

Kevin, our sports reporter, has asking me since that day when we could go back. The food is great, so of course I will be heading back up to the Highlands for more delicious Marcela’s Mexican food.

Got a spot for us to visit? Let us know! E-mail Klow@reporternewspapers.com with any suggestions of where we should visit next.