What's the best thing about El Cid? The fabulous food? The rock-bottom prices? The incredibly friendly and helpful service? The charming patio in the back? Take your pick. Excellent Mexican cuisine at prices that won't have you saying aye caramba take the plate at this family-owned eatery, famous for its fish tacos, which it seasons and grills with onions and cilantro.

The dining room sets the tone for fiery fare with splashy orange and yellow walls accented with rainbow-colored serapes. The menu is extensive, with everything from tried-and-true carne asada tacos to exotic items like coctel vuelve a la vida (oysters, octopus and shrimp in cocktail sauce).

And don't be afraid to put out the fire; El Cid offers a full menu of beers, wines, sangria and margaritas in four flavors of margaritas in sizes ranging from nine to 16 ounces. During the summertime, the back patio opens up giving customers a chance to bask in the sun while sipping on a cool margarita served straight from the patio's own margarita bar.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Keith Ecker