04/22/04

East Bay college kids swear by this small local chain that serves fresh, generous portions of Mexican fast food.

by Contributor

The Scene
Long a favorite with families and college students, the cafeteria-style service is quick and kid-friendly. The place has a festive air, with wooden chairs and tables lacquered in primary colors, and the open kitchen lets you watch the cooks power-chop an assembly line of tomatoes. Mealtimes are almost always busy, and the noise level increases accordingly.

The Food
A massive menu of fast-food renditions of Mexican dishes offers plenty of variety for big and small appetites. Fat foil-wrapped burritos are loaded with a choice of beans (black, pinto or refried), salsa and nine meat, seafood or vegetarian fillings. The nutty, spicy pollo con mole rojo is one of the more inventive choices. Messy, overstuffed tacos are served in soft, warm corn tortillas. A favorite, the sweet husk-wrapped corn tamales with fiery poblano chilies are surprisingly authentic. Enchiladas, tostadas, nachos--whatever you order, count on fresh ingredients and generous portions.