Massive margaritas and affordable Tex-Mex fare combine to yield one of Harvard Square's most popular restaurants.

The Scene
Due to the area's lack of inexpensive dining options, the wallet-friendly Border Cafe is the restaurant of choice among Harvard Square's younger residents. (Translation: expect hour-plus waits on weekends.) Large groups gather at massive tables scattered among the two Southwestern-themed dining levels, while solo diners flock to the tiny bar area and its TVs. At night, indulging in a gargantuan frozen margarita is the favored method of counteracting the high noise levels and hectic environment.

The Food
No one has ever confused the sizzling fajita platters or overstuffed quesadillas with gourmet Mexican fare, but overall quality is good and portions are exceptionally large. (Rare is the table that orders an entree for each diner.) After plowing through a basket of warm tortilla chips and fresh salsa, patrons select from the menu's lengthy listing of standard Tex-Mex (chicken enchiladas) and Cajun (spicy blackened swordfish) dishes.

Hits
Setting the standard for group dining, Border Cafe encourages sharing thanks to huge portions and no plate-splitting fees.

Misses
The menu's Cajun offerings feel misplaced, as it's difficult to enjoy gumbo when nibbling on chips and salsa while surrounded by Tex-Mex decor.