Taco Loco - Somerville

Taco Loco - Somerville
44 Broadway
Somerville, MA 02145-3331
(617) 625-3830

Sometimes, I'm in the mood for a quick, tasty snack. Actually, that sounds like a good idea most of the time. In fact, I'm going to get one. Be right back.

Okay, so since that's done -- Taco Loco serves a fantastic taco, and food in general, for ridiculously little money. Upon walking in, I was greeted by an American television showed dubbed over in Spanish and a long counter where all food is visible. And I liked that. The food, and especially the chicken, looked wonderful and fresh. Behind the counter is a clear view of the pupusas and tortillas being made. Different. And fantastic.

I ordered 1, carnitas taco, and it was $2. This price appears to be the standard single taco price around Boston. Great. What I didn't expect was a freshly made tortilla packed with meat, salsa, cilantro, guacamole, and cheese, with a radish and lime garnish. I'll take it. And 14 to go.

The chicken looked so good behind the counter that I came back for a piece and added guacamole to the order. I believe it cost barely more than the taco. If you're reading this and familiar with this venue, you're probably wondering why I haven't mentioned the burritos. People seem to love these burritos, large and supposedly delicious. I did not try one. YET. But I do believe that if the other, standard fare, is fantastic, then those burritos will be too.

Why it's a gem:

Excellent, fresh Mexican food for little money
Take-out central

Tips:

Although it's great for take-out, they have a downstairs, cellar-like area that is insanely charming, with little TVs playing the same, dubbed over shows. I ate there. And liked it.

Taqueria Mexico - Waltham

Taqueria Mexico
24 Charles Street
Waltham, MA 02453
(781) 893-2205
www.taqueriamexico.com

Greater Boston offers up some tasty Mexican food, but it's hard to find the authentic variety in these parts. Look no further -- I offer you Taqueria Mexico, sandwiched between two houses on a residential, one-way street in Waltham. This simple establishment of deliciousness serves up affordable, authentic cuisine. And the waiter refers to me as "amigo." I like being "amigo."

Chile rellenos, $5 burritos, and whole, pan fried fish, oh my! I have yet to have something here that is bad. Even the very simple, such as the carnitas tacos ($2 each, by the way) are fantastic simply because of the basic flavors and the taste of fresh cilantro. And there are many, many special and combination platters to choose from. Honestly, I say try them all. I dare you.

A note to the spice-fearing soul: many dishes pack a punch in the heat department, so choose wisely. This includes the salsa served with the delicious chips as you sit down. But fear not, you'll still have many choices. And I won't judge you. At least not too much.

Unfortunately, I have yet to detect a margarita (and I'll keep looking -- maybe they're hidden under the tables), but feel free to enjoy a cerveza. I look forward to the summer, sitting on their front patio, cerveza in hand, indulging in the wonderfulness.

When I first went here, on a day off, for lunch, I asked the waiter how long this fine eatery had been around. I was told 22 years. I also noticed a Zagat rating of 22 for food. Not too shabby for a casual, inexpensive restaurant on a side street. I can see why it's been around so long.

Why it's a gem:

Authentic
Spicy when it should be
VERY affordable - $5 burritos (many varieties), $2 tacos (many varieties)
Outdoor patio

Tips:

Don't forget to look at the specials board. The whole, pan fried fish is often up there. And it's awesome, if of course you don't mind your food looking at you.