Editors’ Choice
BuenoMalo, Andover
It’s all homemade at this Mex-Cali restaurant swimming in LA vibes. Chef Franco Lozano III, who grew up on the West Coast, learned his recipes from his mom and abuelita, and they would be disappointed if he cut corners. Explore the menu for tasty treats like Mexican Street Corn, a burger blended with beef and chorizo, empanadas, and, of course, nachos. Or get a tray of tacos and burritos—we’re big fans of the fish tacos, and the bottomless rice and beans make it a meal. Not surprisingly, the cocktail menu does amazing things with tequila—but they also have Mexican Coke for the teetotalers. 93 Main St. (interior courtyard), Andover, 978-409-2119, buenomalo.com
Readers’ Choice
Agave Mexican Bistro, Newburyport
More than 125 tequilas to try, and a full roster of classics, from hand-cut tortilla chips to fajitas, keep patrons coming back to this mainstay. 50 State St., Newburyport, 978-499-0428, agavemexicanbistro.com