Chimi's Mexican Food, Tulsa

Sometimes old gems need a polish to restore their sparkle. Chimi's Mexican Food was one such gem. It had been around for nearly a quarter century when Brandon Fischer bought it in 2007. Immediately, according to an interview in Tulsa World, he set about bringing back the luster to his favorite Mexican chain in town. "I can’t think of one thing (on the menu) that isn’t new or hasn’t been tweaked,” he said.

Fajitas loaded with grilled veggies and seafood, as well as tamale pie in crisp tortilla bowls, speak to Brandon's efforts. The more adventurous of taste can even crank their dish's capsaicin level up to 11 by requesting it by served "Diablo style." And if it gets too hot, there's nothing to fear: margaritas wait to extinguish mouth fires and their salt-rimmed glasses ward off bad luck when thrown over the shoulder.