Bites Nearby: Agavero Cantina

When it comes to Mexican food, it's a good bet that most of us have our favorite spots, and if you're as set in your ways as I am, you may be reluctant to try something new. So I had driven past Agavero Cantina on Lawrenceville Highway for years. Until this week.

Walking into Agavero, I liked the brick, wood and stucco interior, decorated with photos, momentos and relics from Mexico, past and present. There's a wall made of kegs in which tequila was aged -- where else can you see that?

The menu offers all the familiar favorites -- I was especially pleased to find chimichanga listed. And then there are the specialties, including the chef's ribeye dish and one with tilapia and shrimp. But what stood out for me was the seemingly unending variety of ways to combine everything you love about Mexican cuisine on your plate.

I had the enchiladas supreme dish ($8.25), which has four enchiladas: chicken, beef, cheese and bean, thinking it would give me a good overview of the food. It was ok -- not great, not bad.

But a couple sitting next to me said they are regulars at Agavero, and avow that the place has the best tacos around. They also love the chile relenos, the chalupas and the beef burritos.

And here are some refreshing rarities: There are 10 vegetarian options and six on the kids' menu.

There's a bar area that's cozy and set apart from the restaurant, so if you're just in the mood for a margarita, they've got a wide variety, including fruit-flavored.

The waiters are friendly and attentive.

Put this on your calendar or consider yourself warned, according to your taste: Thursday night is Mariachi night at Agavero.

Agavero Cantina is located at 4140 Lawrenceville Highway in Lilburn, across from the Kroger shopping center. Click here for opening hours. Prices are moderate, starting at $4.75 for lunch to $14.95 for the most expensive single-serving dinner option on the menu.