By Mary Eileen Gallagher

The real taste of Mexico is not on the corner of Huntington Avenue and Forsyth Street. Yes, I am referring to the ever so convenient Qdoba, and no, that is not authentic Mexican food. However, while the actual flavors of Mexico may be over 3,000 miles from Boston, there are some local hot spots worth trying that put the grand back in grande.

Mexican and a movie

A trip to Loew’s Theatre on the Boston Common just wouldn’t be complete without a dine-in experience at Fajitas and ‘Ritas. This fresh Tex-Mex style restaurant pulsates with energy and verve as diners munch on free tortilla chips and swap the weekly scandals.

Upon entering this hidden gem, the graffiti-inspired walls are attention-grabbing, encouraging your inner child to grab a pen and add your own personal message to the colorful walls without punishment.

The unique style of ordering at Fajitas and ‘Ritas is worth the experience. Diners fill out their own menu like a check-list. Not only does this ensure a mistake-free order, but deliveries enter the kitchen quickly and simply.

Although Fajitas and ‘Ritas is typically crowded, the wait time for a table is minimal, and the walls are not the only things that can be decorated. Paper-lined tables topped with personal paper towel dispensers invite more fun doodle activities for hungry guests. However, don’t expect to be idle long. Dinner arrives within 10 minutes, carried out on large platters by waiters, palms up.

Diners can build their own nacho platters starting at $3, salivate over tequila-marinated chicken wings or sample various quesadilla combos. However, the signature fajitas should not be passed up. With choices of steak, chicken, vegetable, shrimp, or scallops, they are both filling and fabulous. And for the light appetite, try a garden tostada salad served in a fried flour tortilla with a bowl of chunky chili.

So whether before or after you’ve finished that box of popcorn at the movies, don’t forget to check out this exciting Mexican eatery where great atmosphere, along with tasty food, is served hot and sizzling.

Bananas for Anna’s

Being a college student often equates to living on a budget. However, for the Hungry Husky with a huge appetite, sometimes budget eating just won’t cut it. Allow me to add Anna’s Taqueria to your Mexican repertoire of restaurants.

What this cozy, adobe-tiled restaurant lacks in ambience and accessories is compensated many times over in price and taste.

A $5 bill will satisfy your stomach without emptying your wallet.

The menu is simple: burritos, super burritos, tacos, quesadillas and fajitas. Once you have selected one (or two) of these, choose your staple: chicken, steak, chili verde or grilled vegetables. Then, add the fillings: beans, rice, cheese, salsa or hot sauce.

The employees behind the counter are extremely fast and friendly, serving big smiles with their salsa and chips ($1.50). Anna’s success is not only driven by speedy service, but also relies on the fast-paced customer. Because it is such a popular place for students, locals and tourists, lingering over chip crumbs is not advised. Sit down, enjoy your meal and vacate your table for the next hungry customer; you’ll appreciate it when they do the same for you.

This humble establishment has garnered the “Best of Boston” honors for years, and for good reason. Anna’s Taqueria not only serves the best Mexican food in Boston, but also dishes out the best price. A burrito for $3 that you may have to finish at home is food at its finest.

Yo quiero taco Tuesday

Don’t let anything stop you from enjoying a fantastic Mexican fiesta. If you are low on cash, or there is a blizzard outside, there is nothing keeping you from enjoying a taco or two. The solution: Heat up the stove and have your very own Taco Tuesday. Round up your amigos, divvy up the tasks and spend an evening together cooking, dining and enjoying. Have each person bring a part of the meal: chips and salsa, a can of beans, a box of Mexican rice, a bag of tortillas, a package of chicken breasts, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, mushrooms, etc. And don’t forget the Mexican music to set the mood!

If your Tuesdays are booked, reschedule and call it a Fiesta Friday. And if you are still way too busy, just call your amigos on Tuesday and head on over to Qdoba and order a taco.

Anna’s Taqueria 1412 Beacon St. Brookline 617-739-7300 Hours: Every day, 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Price: $1-$4

You’ll be sorry if you don’t try: The Super Burritos. Whether chicken, chili verde, steak or veggies, these burritos are sure to transform you into a regular. And at only $3.75, they may just force you to move in next door.

Let the Hungry Husky suggest: A large bag of chips is only $.75. Add salsa for $.50, add guacamole for $.75. If you can spare the extra three quarters, spring for the guacamole. The avocado paste will surely transport your taste buds to a Mexican open street market. And in nifty containers, you can pack some to go for your fridge.

Fajitas and ‘ritas 25 West St. Boston Common 617-426-1222 Hours: Mon. – Tues., 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Wed. – Thurs., 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. Fri., 11:30 a.m. – 11 p.m. Sat., 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sun., Noon – 8 p.m.

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