Nestled in Pittsfield Township, Maiz Mexican Cantina has quickly become a local favorite for those seeking a genuine taste of Mexico. Replacing the former Brahma Steakhouse & Lounge at 4855 Washtenaw Avenue, this full-service Mexican restaurant and bar opened its doors on January 21st, offering a vibrant and affordable dining experience. General manager Jason Branham, leveraging his expertise in restaurant development, partnered with building owner Demos Panos to bring this exciting concept to life, filling a niche for authentic Mexican cuisine in the area.
Authentic Mexican Cuisine Crafted by Chef Angel Garduno
At the heart of Maiz Mexican Cantina is the culinary vision of head chef Angel Garduno. Originally from Mexico, Chef Garduno brings a wealth of family recipes and regional Mexican flavors to the menu. Jason Branham emphasizes the authenticity, stating, “Mexican food is very regional and we’re trying to cover a lot of the flavors from across Mexico.” Diners can expect dishes made from scratch daily, utilizing fresh ingredients to create a truly homemade taste.
One standout dish, the chili relleno, a roasted poblano pepper stuffed with flavorful fillings, has quickly become a customer favorite. Furthermore, Maiz creatively utilizes the smoker inherited from the previous steakhouse, adding a unique smoky dimension to some of their dishes. This commitment to fresh, authentic preparation and unique flavors sets Maiz Mexican Cantina apart from typical Mexican restaurants.
A Vibrant and Welcoming Atmosphere
The transformation from Brahma Steakhouse & Lounge to Maiz Mexican Cantina involved thoughtful renovations designed to create an energetic and colorful space. While retaining the warm wood accents and dark tones from the previous establishment, Maiz introduced vibrant elements to reflect traditional Mexican artistry. Local Ypsilanti artist Danielle Murphy was commissioned to create two large murals, including an 8-foot-by-5-foot piece depicting a lively Mexican street market in the bar area and another mural above the dining room fireplace.
Extensive lighting renovations further enhance the atmosphere, with multi-colored lights casting vibrant hues across the walls, echoing the traditional colors found in Mexican art. This attention to detail in decor contributes to the cantina’s inviting and festive ambiance, making it a comfortable and visually appealing place to dine and socialize.
A Community Hub on Washtenaw Avenue
Maiz Mexican Cantina strategically positions itself to serve a diverse demographic, including a significant Hispanic community in the Pittsfield Township area. Branham’s market analysis identified a gap in full-service Mexican dining options in this specific location, making Maiz a welcome addition. Located on Washtenaw Avenue, Maiz also benefits from the existing bar scene, attracting a diverse crowd to its full-service bar.
The bar menu features Michigan microbrews on tap, a selection of Mexican beers, and various margaritas, cocktails, and martinis, catering to a range of tastes. With seating for 230 guests and a staff of 26, Maiz Mexican Cantina is equipped to handle both intimate dinners and larger gatherings, further establishing itself as a community-oriented establishment.
Affordable Authentic Mexican Dining
Maiz Mexican Cantina aims to provide an accessible dining experience with 90 percent of the menu priced under $10. This commitment to affordability, combined with the focus on authentic flavors and fresh ingredients, makes it an attractive option for those seeking quality Mexican food without breaking the bank. Offering both lunch and dinner service, Maiz Mexican Cantina is ready to welcome guests throughout the day.
Jason Branham expresses confidence in the dining experience, stating, “people are going to be surprised when they get their food because it doesn’t look like regular run-of-the-mill Mexican food… The food is going to be as beautiful to look at as it tastes.” Early customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the delicious flavors and appealing presentation of the dishes at Maiz Mexican Cantina. For those in and around Pittsfield Township and Ann Arbor seeking an authentic and affordable taste of Mexico, Maiz Mexican Cantina is a must-visit destination.
