In this week’s issue of The Anna News there’s a column by Ken Gaidziunas about restaurants in Anna. He does a good job of touching on the fine Anna eateries that we all drive by day in and day out as we go about our daily business.

Mr Gaidzunas extols the virtues of My Estrella, Angel Wings, The Malt Shop, Grandys, and the rest — all fine restaurants, to be sure, but one of Anna’s hidden treasures is missing from his list.

I knew there was a little place out on 121 at the edge of town. I had heard people talk about it. I had even met the owner - a charming woman named Mary Valverde. I had not, however, thought to venture out her way — at least until tonight.

The Circle V Country Restaurant played host to KAG’s City Council Candidate Rally where the Valverde family served up an enchilada buffet that was nothing short of fantastic. After only a few bites I was chastising myself for never having been there before.

Each of the several types of enchiladas, the rice, and the phenomenal bean soup were so good they made me want to, as my grandmother was fond of saying, “Jump up and slap my mamma.”*

Looking over the menu I find myself surprised at the variety of cuisine available at Circle V. Their breakfasts include standard American fare such as sausage, eggs, pancakes, and French toast as well as Mexican specialties like chorizo and migas.

Similarly, their lunch and dinner items include a wide cross-cultural variety ranging from grilled cheese sandwiches to fajitas. I’m inclined to try them all.

After dinner or after work you can saddle up to the bar and enjoy an ice cold beer or frosty margarita with friends or peruse the (admittedly somewhat kitsch) items in the country store.

If you’re like me, you may never have ventured out north on 121 to the Valverde family restaurant, but trust me - once you do, your first time won’t be your last.

*Please note: I in no way endorse the slapping of mammas. Or really jumping, for that matter.