Until chef/owner Garbriela Hernandez opened her restaurant almost 10 years ago, authentic Mexican food was difficult to find on the Upper West Side, not to mention most of New York City. Flavors of her native Guadalajara are prominent here; this is not your typical combination taco restaurant. Gabriela's roast chicken is the best -- a blend of Yucatán spices and a slow-roasting rotisserie results in some of the tenderest, juiciest chicken in town. At just $7 for a half chicken with two sides (plenty for all but the biggest eaters) and $13 for a whole, it's one of the city's best bargains, too. All of the specialties on the extensive menu are well prepared, generously portioned, and satisfying. The pozole (a traditional hominy and chicken and pork stew) is a treat, while the fresh, chunky, perfectly limed guacamole is some of the best I've had. Try one of Gabriela's yummy fruit shakes (both mango and papaya are good bets) or tall agua frescas (fresh fruit drinks), which come in a variety of tropical flavors; beer, wine, and margaritas are served, too.

A second location, further downtown at 75th Street is also quite good, but I'm partial to the original, uptown restaurant, which is large, bright, and pretty, with a pleasing south-of-the-border flair, and the service is quick and attentive.