This is what fast food ought to be--fast and good, not to mention affordable. Taqueria del Sol resembles an extremely well-dressed taco stand, with inventive tacos, enchiladas, side dishes, soups, and chilis. You put together your own "plate," ordering as much or as little as you like. There is usually only one complete special for lunch and one or two for dinner; otherwise, you're on your own to come up with a creative combination. The lunch and dinner specials might include a southwestern interpretation of a southern dish, such as boneless fried chicken with ancho mashed potatoes, low country gravy, serrano chile sauce, and turnip greens.

But it's more fun to use your own imagination, picking a couple of tacos (the fish taco is a standout), an enchilada, and maybe a side of the addictive jalapeño cole slaw. There are 25 or so different kinds of beer to wash it all down, and a full bar. Don't expect table service, and do expect to wait during prime time, but the inconveniences are small, especially if you can snag a table on the covered patio.