It was only my second day at Charlotte and I was already feeling homesick. I couldn’t handle being apart from my siblings, my own bedroom and most importantly my mother’s delicious homemade food.

I was already over the dining halls and the overly crowded restaurants on campus. After a bunch of whining, over dramatic complaining and countless blank stares at the wall, I decided to look up some restaurants online.

I immediately came across Monterrey Restaurante Mexicano, an authentic Mexican restaurant about two miles away from UNC Charlottes campus.

After gathering a couple of friends, we headed down the road and there it was, on the corner of Town Business Center. We were greeted at the door and seated instantly. We were surrounded by the rich aroma and dark walls covered with paintings. Loud and energetic Mexican music was playing in the background, setting a cheerful tone.

We were presented nachos with salsa right away. Although mild salsa is not my cup of tea, my friends devoured it. I personally prefer spicy salsa, but I understand they serve to the majority and majority of people are not as risky as myself.

However, when it came to my meal I was simple and safe and ordered the Pollo Con Crema, also known as chicken with cream. Pollo Con Crema consisted of chicken cooked with cream sauce, topped with peppers and onions, served along with beans, rice and tortillas on the side. Though for my meal, I decided to substitute the beans for more rice, the beans were delicious according to my friend who also ordered Pollo Con Creama. I particularly like to mix the rice with the chicken and cream sauce because I get the best of both worlds in one bite.

My dish was pretty good. For future references, I may next time get it without onions, or even try something new, which I highly doubt.

After finishing up our meals we were asked if we would care for any dessert and we all mumbled and rubbed our stomach in ache and replied with “No thanks, we are way too full,” as any financially struggling college student would say.

Our checks were presented shortly and our meals ranged from $8.30 to $14.00, mine being around $13.00 since I had a drink also.

My overall experience was delightful, and it definitely met my standards. Although prices are a tad bit high, it’s a great place for fine dining, dates and simple getaway from school food. The location is convenient, the food is pleasant, and the staff is cooperative, which are all key factors to a great restaurant.