Festival Mexicano (CLOSED)

Sandwiched between a bar and a lounge, this humble joint, brightly adorned with colored blankets on the walls, is often overshadowed by its nearby South-of-the-Border competitor El Sombrero. And though its sleepy service and air-conditioner-free digs might not attract its rival’s margarita-fueled party-goers, you can sate your hunger’s rumble here with crunchy fried tortillas topped with moist ground beef and shredded Muenster cheese or a bowl of soothing Ranchero chicken soup topped with creamy avocado wedges. Entrees tend to be lackluster takes on Tex-Mex fare, such as chicken enchiladas, which, though daubed with a smooth-tart tomatillo sauce, are overwhelmed by a pool of cheese and bland chorizo tacos. Still, portions are gargantuan and you can indulge your sweet tooth with piquant Mexican hot chocolate.