Hamtramck is known for its
tour-of-the-world cuisine, from pierogi to dal to gaeng masaman…so why
not Mexican?
Enter the Pronkos, poised to open Maria's Comida on Feb. 26 on
Jos. Campau near Casmere. “It’s a family thing,” says patriarch Alan Pronko, currently a
sous chef at P.F. Chang’s in Troy.
He’s not exaggerating: son Fred will manage and daughter (and namesake) Maria
and wife Angela will run the front of the house.
The Pronkos have spent the last month and a half transforming
the former Chavelita’s into a cozy, comfortable family dining spot that seats
43. The cuisine will be traditional Mexican – although there will be twists to
be found, such as a guacamole burger on a jalapeno bun.
Alan says his family was drawn to Hamtramck because it is “a cute little town.”
He says the city’s Downtown Development Authority has been exceedingly helpful.
“They said anything we need, they would help us with.”
Maria’s will be open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunday through Wednesday, and 11 a.m. to midnight Thursday through Saturday. It is located at 11411 Jos.
Campau. Call 313-733-8406.
Source: Alan Pronko, Maria’s Comida
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
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