Best Tex-Mex

One of the great mysteries of life in Atlanta is how so many people seem to find their way six nights a week to the desolate stretch of Chattahoochee that is home to NUEVO LAREDO. Is this place ever not busy? Folks keep coming back for the easy-going, quickly served food that pleases every palate. Make your way through the crowd and order a Texas-style margarita to make the wait whiz by. Hone in on the vegetarian chili rellenos, shrimp fajitas and tamales made in-house. Cebollitas (grilled scallions) and smooth guacamole make great starters. Good luck parking when the joint is really hopping. “1495 Chattahoochee Ave., 404-352-9009. www.nuevolaredocantina.com” less...

Across from an all but clandestine Pepsi bottling plant, the throngs nevertheless find middle-of-nowhere, south-of-the-border NUEVO LAREDO CANTINA and keep it hoppin’ nightly. The chile relleno (both meat-filled and vegetarian), shrimp fajitas, and brisket barbacoa are standouts. Isn’t it a welcome change of pace to eat Border food that isn’t from a friggin’ chain? Come early or late - waits can be tedious. In-towners are eagerly awaiting the opening of a second location in Inman Park. “1495 Chattahoochee Ave. 404-352-9009. www.nuevolaredocantina.com.” less...

1495 Chattahoochee Ave. 404-352-9009 http://www.nuevolaredocantina.com This restaurant is an obvious labor of love for its owner. Located in a cottage on the outer edge of a warehouse district near Buckhead, it is pure lovable kitsch, with a menu of Tex-Mex and Mexican cuisine that packs the crowds in night after night. The chicken mole is our favorite, but you can’t go wrong with anything you choose. less...