Just in time for the Halloween season, Comida is open for business.

Renny Waldron of Cambridge, MA, is the proprietor. His inspiration for opening the taqueria came from his time working at Ole Mexican Grill in Cambridge, as well as his experience managing other restaurants.

"I knew there was an unmet need here for Mexican food, so I thought it would be cool to bring something like this to Salem. I have spent time working in Mexican food, so that is why I opened this," Renny Waldron said.

Patrons enjoyed free food and music from Mariachi Palenque from Boston. Locals danced in the street, but the mariachis never lost sight of what the real entertainment was supposed to be: the food.

Comida means food, after all.

"There are free samples inside. Go inside and try the food," the lead singer bellowed between numbers.

Waldon said all food at Comida is fresh.

"We make the salsas from fresh ingredients in-house. We don't do any of the pre-made stuff. It is more labor intensive this way, but it is worth it," Waldon explained.

According to Waldon, "the keys to a great taqueria are fresh salsas, sauces and marinades."

Keeping in style with a classic taqueria, the food is served to go (there is little seating room) and authentic Mexican art lines the walls. A brightly painted mural creates an illusion of the outdoors coming inside.

Mexican artist, Juan Flores, who painted the mural that lines the walls of Comida, drew his inspiration from the Mexican legend of Popocatepetl and Iztaccihautl. According to legend,  two star-crossed lovers were turned into neighboring volcanoes. Now living in Miliwaukee, Juan Flores visited Salem just to paint this mural.

Comida, located at 131 Essex St., is open Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. and Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. The restaurant menu is available at: www.comidasalem.com.