DINING OUT:Tequila's is best this side of border

Let's face it, no matter where you travel this summer in the United States, you will find, even in some of the smallest mid-Western towns, a Mexican restaurant. I have tasted some of the best enchiladas in Ohio and fajitas in Kansas. There is something comforting about cheese enchiladas, warm refried beans and Spanish rice, especially when you are on a long road trip.

Fortunately, you do not have to go that far to find sensational Mexican food. Burbank has some of the best cuisine from south of the border. So, put the car in reverse. Toss the luggage back in the closet. And take a walk over to Tequila's Bar & Grill Restaurant in Burbank.

The best way to judge a Mexican restaurant is by its salsa. Along with the tortilla chips (which should be fresh, warm and lightly salted), salsa is one of the first things brought to your table. Here is when first impressions really do matter. The word salsa is Spanish for "sauce" or "gravy," but most of us know it as the dipping sauce for tortilla chips. In the United States, it now outsells ketchup as a condiment. The best salsa is made with fresh tomatoes, onions and either green chili peppers or jalapeno peppers.

Every restaurant has its specific recipe for salsa. At Tequila's, there is a balance between the sweet tomatoes and the heat of the chili peppers. The chunky tomatoes and bits of onion give your chips something to hold on to. I like the blend of sweet, spicy and salty all in one crunchy bite. Since this is summer, order a watermelon margarita (on Mondays they are $1.99 all day) and the wait for your entree will fly by before you know it.

Tequila's has a wonderful atmosphere that makes you feel like you are in a cantina. The hand-painted murals on the walls create a festive ambience. The bright colors and comfortable booths make this an ideal place for a leisurely meal.

I have had dinner at Tequila's several times. I admit, I am working my way through the menu as a sort of personal culinary challenge. The portions are always generous. I have yet to clean my plate. Everything from the enchiladas to the chimichangas so far has been prepared with fresh ingredients, perfectly seasoned, and well cooked.