Carne Asada, Cancún
Type: Classic Mexican
Rating: 4
Price: $8.59/plate
Somehow mini-tacos make you feel as if you haven’t blown your diet. Cradled in double corn tortillas, the grilled beef has a pleasant kick, no salsa needed, but you’ll definitely want to pile on the side of grilled onions. 7905 University Ave, 806-687-9048. Sun–Thur 11–10, Fri & Sat 11–11.


Brisket, El Paisano
Type: Modern American
Rating: 4
Price: $2.49
You’ll vie with the regulars for a spot in this strip-mall hole-in-the-wall, but it’s worth it for the savory slow-cooked brisket served on a corn tortilla with lettuce and tomato. Ask for lime, onion, and cilantro. 1301 Fiftieth, 806-771-2773. Sun, Mon, Wed & Thur 7–3, Fri & Sat 7–8.


Lubbock tacoAl Pastor, Taqueria Jalisco
Type: Classic Mexican
Rating: 4.25
Price: $2.29
The tacos at this nice restaurant are all delicious, but the al pastor beats the carne asada by half a length. Generously spooned onto thick homemade flour or corn tortillas, the smoky-sweet pork is perfectly seasoned, then topped with the requisite onions and cilantro. Add green chile salsa if you dare. 221 Ave Q, 806-763-7605. Daily 7–10.