One of the first Mexican restaurants to open its doors four decades ago in the Little Village neighborhood, Los Dos Laredos offers a colorful and open atmosphere with seating for 99 and a dance floor and cocktail bar perfect for private parties, banquets and weddings. Serving liquor and open all night during the weekends, Jesus Lopez's restaurant will resume live music in the fall.

Named after two towns named Laredo on both sides of the Rio Grande, where the river splits Mexico and Texas, Los Dos Laredos has adjusted its menu to adhere to customer demand. Tapas de carnitas, tamales and salads are all new, as diners want healthier, smaller options. But the mixed grill platters made for two or four are still the signature order. Bring your spouse and kids, or three pals, and enjoy the pollo rostizado family pack ($12.99) or the popular taquiza ($21.99) or a bounty of meaty choices including skirt steak, beef ribs, pork chops, bacon and Mexican sausage.

Daytime meals are cheap. Breakfast specials go for $3.99 and include huevos rancheros, huevos a la Mexicana and huevos con chorizo. Lunch specials served between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. generally don't exceed $5. Try the giant quesadilla, handmade in a corn tortilla and stuffed with mushrooms and cheese or chicken.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Jacob Wheeler