Garibaldi Mexican Restaurant   

This Mexican eatery along busy Highway 436 has a name that sounds more Italian than Mexican. But it is, indeed, Mexican, some of the most authentic you'll find in Central Florida. Garibaldi is packed most nights, with just a dozen tables inside, a dozen more on a makeshift patio. Start with a margarita made with agave wine, less sweet than the Tex-Mex varieties. You'll notice plenty of diners sipping on tall glasses of tamarind juice, and a sweet rice milk concoction called "horchata". The meal starts with a basket of crisp tortilla chips and red salsa -- ask for the hotter sauce and you'll get a delicious bowl of fiery salsa with fresh cilantro. The menu has a number of favorites, ranging from simple tacos and burritos to true Mexican specialties chilaquiles, chiles rellenos and flautas. The house specialty is Pollo Garibaldi, tender chicken breast with ham, sauteed onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, chipotle chiles and cheese. Don't forget to save room for the smooth-as-silk flan. -- Pam Brandon