Wedged for prime traffic between Lincoln and Western in downtown Lincoln Square, this late-night taqueria used to be the filthy, but wholesome Mexican joint in the 'hood, both with a full bar and under $10 takes on house-made corn tortilla taco and burrito dinners.

Popular enough, anyhow, to continue its stronghold with a much needed face-lift, lofting the ceilings and breaking the wall that divided the bar from the dining room that rivals the comfort of North Side staples like Lazos.

Most of the changes being aesthetic, the menu differences can be counted on one hand, all apps – flautitas, tortilla soup, a ceviche and some black frijoles sprinkled with chorizo. Otherwise, the much lauded lengua en salsa verde (tongue in green sauce) still wins hearts at the same price point ($11.75), alongside $4 imported beers and party pleasing steals on margaritas.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Gavin Paul