LONG BEACH. Baja Fresh Mexican Grill serves up your standard variety of Mexican dishes with one unique quality-it's healthier than most. Baja owners proudly proclaim, "No Microwaves, No Can Openers, No Lard, No Freezers, and No M.S.G," ensuring a high-quality Mexican meal with only the freshest ingredients. Translation: don't feel guilty about ordering a couple of extra burritos or splurging for a second vegetarian quesadilla.

PASADENA. As the name suggests, this East Del Mar grill specializes in Mexican food prepared with the freshest-available ingredients. Although a chain, Baja continues to earn nods for its quick and tasty burritos, tacos, and salsa - all of which are made on the premises each day. The place tends to stay hopping, especially at lunch, so be prepared to wait in line.

SANTA MONICA. You may be familiar with this restaurant's owners from their "Too Hot Tamales" cooking show. If not, then you're in for a treat. Border Grill's menu of lighter, authentic Mexican cuisine suits even the most finicky palates. The biggest surprise for some diners is that not all Mexican fare is super-spicy and loaded with cheese; this food is full of complex flavors and fresh vegetables and fruits. Alongside meaty tacos and burritos, you'll find an assortment of vegetarian and seafood options. Exceptional dishes include achiote-marinated pork and seasoned carnitas on corn tortillas. Mojitos and margaritas made with premium tequilas pack a powerful punch ­ bring a designated driver!

VENICE. If you're a fan of the movie "Casablanca" (which is set in Morocco), you'll likely be a fan of this restaurant, too. The décor and ambiance pay homage to what some call one of the greatest movies of all time, but the cuisine is straight Mexican. While that seems a strange combination, the end result works quite well. Handmade tortillas are prepared fresh daily, in the center of the dining room no less, and the calamari is reputedly the best in town. Live music is featured most nights, and the tequila list is vast.

EAST HOLLYWOOD. Enjoy the strains of live guitar music as you dine on authentic Mexican specialties, including enchiladas with a delicious house sauce and crispy chips and guacamole. Wash it all down with one of their signature frosty margaritas. The ceiling is dotted with brightly colored sombreros that combine with neon lights and metallic sculptures to add a festive feel to the place.