Escondido Tex-Mex

As the name suggests, Escondido TexMax Patio does indeed have a patio, and a big one at that. (Just don’t expect anything too scenic—it’s located in the middle of a strip mall, where you’ll also find an urgent care, a tattoo shop, a pilates studio, and a nail salon, should you be looking to modify or repair your body in any number of ways.)

The menu is pretty simple and standard: there are tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas, a handful of typical entrees like chile relleno and carne asada, plus huevos rancheros that are served all day. Going for brunch with a rowdy group is the move, but it also works for a casual dinner with your folks during the week. Order a frozen margarita or the mezcal mule, and plan on splitting the Tex-Mex pizza.