Mexican newcomer in RVC: Chichen Itza

The name of the new Chichen Itza in Rockville Centre refers, ostensibly, to the Mayan pyramids in Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula. But there’s another meaning, says chef-owner Marcos Merino, who translated the appelation literally as “good food in the mouth of warriors.”

Armed with a healthy appetite, I hit the place for lunch, which began auspiciously with a lively and colorful bowl of chicken avocado soup ($6). What the soup really had going for it was lots of tender poultry – dark as well as white meat.

Following that, though, came  barbacoa ($12), beef marinated with chilies and slow-cooked in plantain leaves, which didn't lack  zing but was really chewy. On the other hand, a friend’s shrimp in garlic sauce ($14) hit all the right notes.

Chichen Itza is at 212B Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre, 516-766-3419

Above: chicken avocado soup at Chichen Itza