Spacious and sporting bright orange walls and lime green posters displaying photos of el suizo tacos, El Famous is the kind of place you frequent because you love the food and value, not the unadorned ambience.

But that doesn't mean simple doesn't have its charms. Black-and-white pictures of old Mexico and charros lend a vibe of authenticity to the joint.

The front counter allures with its colorful menu listing solid, if unimaginative range of options (burritos, tacos, tortas, breakfast, tostadas and vegetarian options), along with churros and caramel- and toffee-colored Mexican sweets (dulce surtido).

El Famous Suizo ($4.75 for junior and $5.75 for senior) - a burrito stuffed with beans, lettuce, tomatoes, mild sauce and melted cheese, covered with sour cream - is king here, followed by fish tacos and various dinner plates, such as chilles rellenos ($8) and steak fajitas ($8).

Specials of the evening include two tacos with rice and beans ($6); flautas with rice and beans ($6), both price conscious if not too out of the ordinary. Vegetarian choices number eight, and like the rest of the menu, don't depart from standard Mexican fare, from avocado burrito ($5) to cheese enchilada ($2.20).

Bebidas, like everything here, are minimal. Horchata comes in medium ($1.35) or large size ($1.89), and there's Jarritos, flavored Mexican sodas, in lime, tamarind, and mandarin variety ($1.45), and non-alcoholic sangria ($1.45).

Patrons range from the German-speaking woman trying to keep her brood of three blond, French fry-eating children in tow, to locals popping in for quick and cheap fare.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Marla Seidell