Pancho's Cocina Mexicana & Grill, Sacramento

It’s not unusual to find Pancho himself waiting tables at Pancho’s Cocina Mexicana and Grill, flashing smiles as he watches his customers enjoy his food. His vast menu of Mexican eats is also known for its mountainous portions of food, easily serving two people with small orders of pozole or feasting up to three with a single platter combination. He also fills pitchers to the brim with cold beers and frosty margaritas to help wash down servings of marinated steak, spiced beans, and soft rice.

Inside the restaurant, potted vines climb the walls, clinging to the frames of painted villas and ranches. Not all the decor takes its imagery from south of the border, though. Above the bar, Pancho reserves three shelves and several nails for pure basketball memorabilia, including 15 bobbleheads of great players.