As of this date, there are almost as many Chuy's Mesquite Broilers (nine, with more in the works) in Tucson as there are in the whole state of California (14), so it's easy to see why readers might think Chuy's is a local chain. It's not, but because the fish tacos here are pretty good, we'll let it pass. Order a cold beer and either the mahi tacos or killer whitefish tacos (our readers didn't specify which they preferred) at the counter. Next, grab a bottomless bowl of tortilla chips, your choice of salsas and a table. Then simply take in the calculatingly kitschy atmosphere. Décor is a mishmash of Mexican "antiques," used fishing gear and other funky stuff (mermaid Barbies, who knew?). Within minutes, your tacos will be at the table. Dig in!
The beer-battered Alaskan pollock used in the "world-famous" fish tacos at this national chain is deep-fried, which, for some of us, ruins the flavor of any fish. But topped with shredded cabbage, mild salsa, tangy white sauce and soft corn tortillas, these tacos are pretty darn delicious anyway, and probably the best thing on the menu at this Baja-themed restaurant, which seems to attract a crowd primarily of college students, couples and young families. And the fish tacos will set you back only $1.99 each (or just a buck on Fish Taco Tuesdays). For $2.19, you can make it a fish taco especial, which adds guacamole, cheese, cilantro and onion. It's worth the two extra dimes.
Runner up:
3. La Salsa, Various locations www.lasalsa.com
