OLD TOWN. You haven't tasted guacamole until you've had it at Adobo Grill. Made tableside, it includes the freshest ingredients chopped right in front of you. It's smooth and tangy and hard to beat. Well-made margaritas abound to accompany the famous guacamole. This very popular restaurant is located in the Piper's Alley building and draws a young, upwardly mobile crowd.

GOLD COAST. Head south of the border at this popular Mexican restaurant / bar. The savory food and the strong tequilas keep locals happy. The walls are adorned with colorful stuffed burros and large sombreros, and bright blue and yellow accents make for a festive environment. Cacti dot the room, and both the bar and the menu are well-stocked with authentic favorites. Burritos, enchiladas, and tacos can be washed down with any one of the numerous Mexican beers available here.

LAKEVIEW. Exposed brick walls and quaint marble-topped tables greet diners at this Cuban-Mexican place. Chipotle-grilled chicken, plantains, tacos, enchiladas, and grilled shrimp quesadillas are just a few of the tempting goodies that figure into the menu. Salsa music plays in the background, perfectly setting the stage for a south-of-the-border experience.

BUCKTOWN. Among the options available at this delightful Cuban restaurant are beef, fish, chicken, and vegetables. Try the house specialty, paella Valencia ­ savory yellow rice cooked with shrimp, clams, fish, chicken, ham, and pork ­ or another standout like breast of chicken steak, chicken fricassee, roast pork, or fried pork chops. The full bar serves drinks like mango margaritas, straight bourbons, and beer.

WEST LOOP. Colorful, loud, and festive, this Nuevo Latino eatery serves up flavorful, spicy food with an extra emphasis on flair and presentation.