El Porton Mexican Restaurant   

Next time you've got a hankering for a south of the border experience, bypass Cancun for an evening at El Porton. The popular University of Memphis eatery is a staple for fans of spicy-hot Mexican cuisine and ice-cold margaritas. Though it's located in a strip shopping center on Highland Street, the ambience at El Porton manages to transcend its earthly bounds. Ask customers what they like about this spot, and you'll get various answers: It's a romantic sanctuary for young lovers, a party spot for hip singles and a welcoming family restaurant. What everyone does agree on is the food. From the grilled polo fundida (chicken smothered in bell peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes and cheese) to the rib eye ranchero (served with rice, beans and tortillas), not to mention all the burritos and chalupas in between, El Porton serves up a mouthwatering variety of traditional Mexican fare that pleases every time. -- Andria Lisle