There's been a lot of buzz around about our new restaurant, El Rayo. Rave reviews, excitement! Thrills!

Well, I can't say I concur, unfortunately. Don't get me wrong-- it was fine. I liked the space, it's nice that they have margaritas, and I ate some little fried potato things that were fairly tasty. But honestly, I thought it was a bit overpriced, and you get a lot better of a meal at Loco Pollo on Washington Ave.

At El Rayo, a single fish taco was $3.95, and it was not particularly generous in the amount of fish provided. I'm also pretty sure the tortilla was not handmade. The hot sauces were pretty tasty, though.

At Loco Pollo, they now serve three tacos for $7, and they're chock full of filling and flavor. The handmade tortillas are authentic and soft.

I'll probably go back to El Rayo occasionally, since it's close to my house and decent. But if I want a more filling, tasty, and authentic meal I'll go to Loco Pollo. (And hope the pozole is on the menu. Boy, is that good.)

But really what I'll dream about is the beef tacos from the groceria/taqueria across from my apartment when I lived in Wicker Park (Chicago) years ago. Nothing but a tortilla, grilled beef, cilantro, and onion. Hit it with a little lime squeeze and a dash of hot sauce. $1. (I'm not joking when I say I still dream about those tacos, ten years later. They were simply perfect.)

Loco Pollo: 52 Washington Ave, 899-4422
El Rayo: 101 York St., 780-TACO