In the mood for some authentic Mexican cuisine but you’re in a hurry? Grab an amigo and head on out to the corner of Union and Pacheco to El Zarape.

Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, El Zarape serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The first thing you notice is a bright yellow sign offering a burrito or torta with a free 20-oz drink for only $2.99. This is a great deal as their burritos and tortas are a good size and pretty tasty.

Inside, you will find a brightly painted room with a mural of a desert scene and cheerful servers. During lunchtime, it can get quite busy, but service is always good.

If you choose to sit down and enjoy your meal in the dining room, you are served warm chips and salsa and given menus.

With a full menu of classic favorites such as chile verde, enchiladas and fajitas, El Zarape is sure to appeal to anyone looking for south-of-the-border satisfaction.

They also have a value menu with prices ranging from $2.99 to $8.99 and each meal on that menu comes with a drink.

Moderately priced, their regular menu consists of a breakfast menu, seafood, soups, and Mexican platters.

We went for a late lunch, and had the burrito specials. I chose the chicken burrito and my other two guests chose a carne asada burrito. Inside my burrito was rice, beans, chicken, onions and cilantro. Everything tasted fresh and was seasoned to perfection.

Three of us were well fed for under $10. Service was muy bueno and so was la comida.

El Zarape also takes phone-in orders as well as walk-in orders to go. During the lunch rush, it can get quite busy, but they get the orders out quickly.

I have eaten there on many occasions and have always enjoyed the atmosphere, the food and the service.

Bring in la familia, call in an order or stop by to pick it up to go. Either way, this place is worth the trip.

El Zarape is located at 2592 Union Ave.