Maria's Cafe

Maria's Cafe

Minneapolis, MN

Reviewed November 2nd, 2004

The restrooms at this Columbian/American (plantain pancakes anyone?) cafe are located near the main side entrance. This poor reviewer was tricked by a key with a long broomstick handle protruding from the keyhole. I thought it was actually necessary to use this instrument in order to gain access. Boy was my face red as I stood there for the better part of 30 seconds twisting this key and trying to turn the latch on the door. I didn't know that all you had to do was PUSH. I am reminded of the Far Side cartoon where a young boy stands outside of the "Midvale School for the Gifted" pushing as hard as he can on the door, but there is a sign on it that reads "Pull". Later on, I sat back down and waited to see others fall for the same trick. They didn't. They figured it out right away. I guess the premise of doors is pretty simple... If you pull and nothing happens; push. Or vice versa. Maybe give the knob a twist if that doesn't work. If's not rocket science. You should gain entry within 2 seconds - maybe 5 if you've ever had to repeat a grade. The whole experience was very humbling to me.

Inside, the lively sounds of the live latin jazz band were soothingly muted. The floors were covered in cliché orange tile, but all the fixtures were in tip-top shape and sparkling nicely.

RESTROOM RATING: 7