La Nopalera

La Nopalera Restaurant Review:

Sometimes nothing else will do. You just have to hunker down over a big platter of beans, rice, tortillas and meat---preferably enhanced with gobs of cheese, salsa and sour cream and guacamole. And when the urge strikes, there's no better place to indulge than La Nopalera. Although this down-home Mexican restaurant has sprouted several locations about town, the big no-frills venue at the edge of San Marco remains the best. Quick-fix lunches of beans, rice and tacos, plus tea and tip, can be had for under $10. But don't be afraid to venture into less predictable menu areas. The eatery makes good carnitas, plus fat, tender tamales and first-rate shrimp quesadillas. The restaurant also serves a wine-based frozen margarita that, while not as lively as the tequila version, can add a festive touch to a quick, cheap meal.