Mi Ranchito (887 Kingsland Avenue, University City; 314-863-1880)
Tucked away in a strip mall just north of the bustling Delmar Loop, Mi Ranchito features a lengthy menu boasting many of the standard Mexican dishes, from burritos, tacos and enchiladas to even heartier plates of carnitas and chile colorado. But you'll probably want to first order one of Mi Ranchito's legendary mammoth margaritas. During the day, stop by for the lunch specials (available every day but Sunday from 11 a.m. till 2:30 p.m.), particularly the chori pollo, a grilled chicken breast topped with chorizo and melted cheese, wrapped up in a soft flour tortilla.
See also: - Gut Check's Guide to Drinko Cinco de Mayo in St. Louis
Milagro Modern Mexican (20 Allen Avenue, Webster Groves; 314-962-4300)
Boasting something a little different, Milagro offers thoughtful and unique presentations of traditional and contemporary Mexican fare. Favorites include the roast chicken smothered in a complex mole poblano, mahi mahi in a bright mole verde or salmon simply dressed in a salsa of mango, cilantro and annatto oil. Simple dishes spiced-up in creative ways, like the Huitlacoche, a Mexican delicacy, add to the fantastic quesadillas tradicionales. Another standout is a tostada appetizer featuring pulled duck meat in a blood orange habanero sauce. Oh, and the top-shelf margarita is topnotch with the tequila of your choice (Don Julio, Patron, Tres Generaciones or Rio Azul), shaken with agave nectar and freshly squeezed lime juice.
See also: - Milagro Modern Mexican's Craig Bielke: Featured Bartender of the Week - Best Tequila Selections in St. Louis
