CARTERVILLE - Owner Ramiro Garcia was previously in the landscape business but decided he and his family could give the restaurant business a shot.

"We would like to offer a Mexican meal to people," Garcia said. "We think we can do something better."

He runs Garcia's with help from his wife, Maria, and sons Ramiro and Esteban. The restaurant, which opened about two weeks ago, is located at 707 S. Greenbriar Road, just across from John A. Logan College. The younger Ramiro said that of the authentic Mexican food diners can find at the restaurant, he especially recommends the chimichangas.

The Garcia family is originally from the Guanajuato region of Mexico and has lived in Southern Illinois for the past 15 years. The elder Ramiro said one of the best parts of the restaurant so far has been meeting people and knowing they're walking away happy.

"I see a lot of pretty good faces," Ramiro said. "Some people came in five times in two weeks."

While there are various meat dishes available, Garcia's also has a vegetarian selection. To add a bit more convenience to the customer, they also have a drive-thru.

The family said the experience has been a good one so far and have appreciated the business. The younger Ramiro said he just hopes people will keep coming back and that the restaurant will thrive.

"We hope to make it grow more, make it expand and provide a good service," Ramiro said.

codell.rodriguez@thesouthern.com

351-5804