El Cholo + + + + $

Who? CASA, and Steve
Where? Western and 11th

Great Mexican place, lively atmosphere, excellent food, big portions. Fajitas are very tasty. Carne Asada is excellent. Margharitas are strong and very good. Show USC ID for half-price entrees Mon-Thu. Parking a problem during peak times - park on adjoining side street.

La Taquiza + + $

Who? Jenn, Siao, Chris+Michellios, Andrew, A.Lok, Howie

La Barca * * *

This is more likely a 3.5 star place, but we haven't invented decimal grades yet. And imagine that I don't really like Mexican food. The value for money ratio is excellent in this hidden small gem right on Vermont near usc. Happy hours give away drinks for $1.95, while the setting resembles nothing like what's going on outside.

Who? Themo, Sotiris, Savvy, CostasX, ...
Where? Vermont and usc

Border Grill * * * / +

Who? Andrew and Themo
Where? Santa Monica
How much? $32
Zagat: * * * *, $30

Themo's Take: This is a Mexican restaurant with meals around $20-$30. Go there for the enviroment and the people. The raw materials they use are fresh and good, altough the food quantity you get is does not agree with the price. If I even remotely liked Mexican food anyways I would give this guy 3 stars, but I'll stick to 2 for the time being.

Andrew's Take: Overpriced and not of good quality. I've had better Carne Asada at taco stands. And the Margharita was blah. Pretty decor though - looks like a kid painted it. Go to Olvera street in downtown for Mexican food - where the waiters will sing to you.