Vibrant, festive atmosphere draws a casual Lakeview crowd to this budget Mexican spot.

The Scene
With its magenta walls, orange stucco ceilings, and colorful mosaic tile tables, this place is a bright, festive oasis. An ivy-covered fountain gurgles, and the two long dining rooms are filled with knickknacks and tiled with cool terra-cotta floors. Service can be on the slow side, especially when it's packed, so if you're hoping to catch a show at the nearby Theatre Building, give yourself plenty of time.

The Food
The standard Mexican fare is plentiful and cheap. Filling combos of quesadillas, enchiladas and tacos with beans and fluffy Spanish rice are all less than $10. Dozens of entree choices include chicken, steak and seafood plates--try the shrimp served with spicy sauce on white rice, or go for a two-fisted ground beef burrito. Dessert offerings include deep-fried ice cream and a fine flan.