This large, busy eatery and bar has been anchoring one end of Moody Street since 2004 and it's still busy on a Friday afternoon, so they must be doing something right. The food is "comfort" Mexican--quesadillas, chimichangas ("chimis"), and the rest. The atmosphere is convivial and youthful, although it doesn't feel overly hip. There are five rooms for eating, as well as the patio. Margaritas is a chain with 28 locations in New England.

Good bets: The guacamole is made fresh every day and the salsa also tastes fresh and zingy. For drinks, they specialize in--what else?--margaritas. There are at least 15 different kinds, including pomegranate and prickly pear. There is, however, also a decent beer and wine list.

Vibe: Sunny, airy, spacious and not too loud.

Cool factor no. 1: The patio, with lots of tables and umbrellas and a sweeping, sunny view of the Charles River. It's cheaper than buying or renting in the adjoining Cronin's Landing and the view is just as good.

Cool factor no. 2: Actually, this is an "uncool" factor: the non-alcoholic drinks aren't exactly a bargain; for instance, it's $3.50 for cranberry juice on ice. The alcohol menu doesn't have prices. Caveat emptor.