Anna's Taqueria   

To its legions of devotees, Anna's is not just the best Mexican joint in Boston -- it's a near- daily ritual. Drawn by low prices and heavy burritos, throngs of 20- and 30-somethings on a budget make regular pilgrimages to each of its locations, creating long lines that never take more than a minute or two to dissipate, thanks to very efficient service. This college town has several tough burrito competitors (one run by the sister of Annas owner) but Annas fans remain remarkably faithful, maintaining that the food is the most authentic Mexican in Boston. Authentic or not, no one can dispute that it's fresh, satisfying, and at times even resplendent. Choose between a burrito, taco, quesadilla or a dinner plate, choose red beans or black, choose guacamole or no -- it's all good, and quite filling. The salsa is sharp and clean, filled with cilantro, and you can also ask for plain tomatoes, if you want to keep things simple. The carnitas burrito is particularly decadent, and the chile verde shouldn't be missed. The only hit-or-miss choice is the chicken burrito, which can be dry. But that just makes the case for sour cream and guacamole all the stronger.