Got a craving for tacos this Tuesday? How about two fajitas for the price of one on Wednesday? For a laid-back, friendly, Cal-Mex meal, I recommend heading over to Zim Zari California Coastal Grill. Located in the Southgate shopping center on Merrick Road in Massapequa, Zim Zari offers traditional Mexican dishes with a Cali and even Asian infusion. For Fresh Starters, I recommend the Habanero Edamame or Fresh Guacamole. For those who are sometimes turned off by the possible blandness of edamame, the salty, spicy, lime kick that is given may be the trick to falling in love with this high protein, low-fat powerhouse food.

Even though it’s hard to resist an offer of more addicting chips and salsa, try to save room for the main courses and dessert. My personal favorite is the Pineapple Shrimp Quesadilla. Cheesy, sweet, and a little spicy, this dish satisfies every taste bud. A close second are the Zimzaladas, a Zim Zari twist on an echilada. The Filet Mignon Zimzalada comes with portobello mushroom, caramelized onions, red bell peppers, and garlic tomato salsa. While some may salivate at the ingredient list, I also salivate at the price of $12.95.

This is a restaurant where vegetarians do not feel that they have limited options. Meatless delicacies include the Sonoma Vegetable Quesadlla, California Tropical Salad, and the Vegetable and Bean Burrito. The staff is very accomodating and willing to modify any item to the diner’s preference.

Zim Zari also includes an Asian flare with their Napa Bowls. These stir-fry options include Stir Fry Shrimp , Teriyaki Steak, and orange Chicken. With ingredients like fresh vegetables and whole grain noodles, the Napa Bowls offer a healthy option when dining out.

After all that healthy food, I recommend finishing it off with Chocolate Chip Flautas. Cookie dough in a fried crispy shell with chocolate syrup and whipped cream-enough said. For those in a more traditional Mexican mood, you can never go wrong with churros, flan, or fried ice cream.

For a restaurant that welcomes flip-flops, sunburns and ripped jeans, go to Zim Zari. The laid-back, warm atmosphere can be the cure to anyone’s winter blues.