The sunshiny building of Ernesto’s Mexican Food appears to be a beacon of happiness with its festive outdoor patio that overflows with guests drinking colorful cocktails garnished with fruit. Inside there is an explosion of paper art streamers and mariachi music. The menu here matches the vibrancy of the restaurant with spicy seafood specials, such as the Veracruz shrimp (tiger shrimp in a citrus spicy chili) a shrimp ceviche appetizer and a Los Cabos soup made with shrimp, zucchini, mushrooms and carrots in a spicy broth. It has traditional tacos, burritos, chimichangas, tamales and meatless dishes, including Frida’s fajitas (a medley of vegetables served with guacamole and tortillas). If you ask a server about the house specialty, you’ll be directed toward the carnitas that come stuffed in burritos, layered in tacos or tossed in a salad. Pair up any one of these platters with an award-winning margarita and toast to Frida Khalo and Diego Rivera, whose paintings are part of the rustic charm. Cindy Arora

Insider tip: Live mariachi from 8–10:45 p.m. on Fridays.

Reservations: Recommended on weekends

Payment methods: Amex, Cash, Discover, Visa, Mastercard

Alcohol: Full bar

Hours: Monday–Thursday: 11 a.m.– 10 p.m. br> Friday: 11 a.m.–midnight
Saturday: 9 a.m.–midnight
Sunday: 9 a.m.– 10 p.m.