This bright and cheerful minichain serves up some of the best "fast food" in the city. In fact, Burritoville fare doesn't deserve to be called fast food. This is forward-thinking Mexican, all prepared with the freshest and healthiest ingredients -- including garden-fresh produce, brown rice, and black beans -- using no lard, preservatives, or canned goods. Even the tortillas are pressed every day. Options range from well-stuffed tacos and quesadillas to only-at-Burritoville creations such as a spicy white chicken chili with cumin, salad burritos, and a number of choice wraps. The huge menu offers a wealth of options for vegetarians, as well as anyone looking for a quick, healthy bite. Another nice thing about Burritoville is their flexibility -- you can make substitutions and special requests without a problem, and usually without an extra charge. Tip: The green salsa is hot, the red salsa (made with open-flame-roasted tomatoes) is not.

In addition to this location (a short walk from Battery Park and the Statue of Liberty and Staten Island ferry landings), a second lower Manhattan location is in the Financial District at 20 John St., between Broadway and Nassau (tel. 212/766-2020). Additionally, there are 11 more Burritovilles throughout the city, most with attractive decor and good table seating that makes Burritoville more attractive and comfortable than your average fast-food joint, too.