As the diversity of the United States has grown, so has the growth of cultural and ethnic cuisine. Likewise, as Henry County’s population has exploded, the number of restaurants has grown with us.  Look in any shopping district around the county and find a restaurant catering to just about any taste: Mexican, Italian, Chinese, Indian, Thai, and Cuban. I am sure there are some I have missed.

Far and above the Mexican food scene exceeds all others. A person can find authentic Mexican to Tex-Mex. Gabino’s Mexican Grill in Locust Grove is a local restaurant that bridges the gap between the various Mexican styles with upscale and eclectic Mexican entrées.  Occupying a brand-new, well-appointed building at 800 Market Place Boulevard (accessed off Market Place Boulevard behind the car wash), the atmosphere is truly festive and pleasing while the food is delicious. (In full disclosure, I, the author, have been a weekly – sometimes biweekly – diner, depending on the wife’s kitchen motivation for the week).

Gabino’s has many of the same physical features found in other Mexican restaurants but elevates them to the next level with upscale art, a long bar suitable for a Western movie, a huge, nicely appointed patio, and a large fenced artificial turf area for games and gatherings.

Many of the dishes carry the same names found on menus in other restaurants like Monterrey Chicken, Pollo Loco, Pollo Ranchero, Tres Amigos, and of course sizzling Fajitas (chicken, steak, shrimp or combinations thereof) but with a seasoning twist only found at Gabino’s. The menu carries a page devoted to twenty combination dinners and the opportunity to create your own. The signature dish combines shrimp, steak and chicken called “Gabino’s House Special” but the best seller is the Tacos De Birria; a three-beef taco meal with special seasoning.

The difference at Gabino’s is the freshness of the ingredients with employees making two trips weekly to the farmer’s market. All meat is marinated 24 hours before cooking. The extra steps and care in preparation and presentation ensures an excellent dining experience. The extras make Gabino’s stand out from most other Mexican establishments. All meals are moderately priced and cooked to perfection. While waiting for your meal, you can enjoy a cup of delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup, chunky Guacamole, a generous-sized Margarita made from a choice of twenty tequilas, or a cocktail of your choice from a huge variety of spirits from the well-stocked bar.

On any midday, you will see quite a few local workers enjoying a meal from the lunch menu. Customers will also include casually dressed families and business-dressed individuals. The author has conversed with several snowbirds traveling to Florida or back north who make Gabino’s a regular stop on their trips. Even a family member who does not care for Mexican food can find many meals that are satisfactory for the more conventional palate.

You can also enjoy a great Gabino’s dinner in Stockbridge at 1745 Rock Quarry Road and in Jackson at 789 Highway 36 East, Suite B. You will patronize a locally owned business that generously supports the community, local schools, and sports associations.

By Daran Paden