SHEPHERDSTOWN – In December 2008, not long after the financial system nearly collapsed and set off a recession, Maria Allen had just graduated from Shepherd University.
She, along with most other young people, was facing bleak job prospects.
“There was nothing to be had,” the Vienna, Va., native said. “Everybody was scrambling. Even people with masters were scrambling for employment.”
At first, Allen was unable to find work until she had the idea of opening a restaurant.
“I thought maybe I’d be able to do something in Shepherdstown that was small, affordable and recession friendly,” she said. Allen had the experience, working in the restaurant business during her college years.
She found a location close by—right next to her old apartment on E. German Street. “My goal was to provide a cheap product, but also not to compete with anybody in town.”
With a little financial help from her parents, Allen opened Maria’s for business on Jan. 23, 2009. Allen said that her parents had their doubts at first, but believed in her nonetheless. That belief, and hard work, paid off, because within just two months after the opening, Maria’s was turning a profit.
Maria’s thrived at the previous location for five years. Then in October 2013 when a space opened up—previously the clothing shop “Plum”—Allen saw the opportunity for a change. She worked with the building’s owner, Brian Masamer, in making all the necessary changes to what is now the new Maria’s Taqueria, which opened up in mid-January this year.
Besides the obvious changes that came with the new location, more space, and a functional kitchen, the new location has also given Allen the option of hosting live musical performances as well, which she said she wants to do soon. Planned offerings also include a beer and wine menu, fish tacos and fried plantains.
Allen said her newfound favorite thing about running a restaurant is helping her employees learn new life skills.
“I really like working with my staff. I like managing people, and putting them in a position to succeed,” she said.
Allen said she owes much of the restaurant’s success to her family, friends and boyfriend, who have helped out often since the restaurant first opened.
She also expresses her affection for Shepherdstown and its residents:
“I just feel so at home here, but really what makes this place is the people and the sense of community.”
Maria’s Taqueria is at 111 W. German St. and is open to the public Monday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
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