We like Changos because it exemplifies what’s great about Mexican food in Austin. The simple tacos and burritos prepared at this fast-food-style offspring of Manuel’s are fresh, cheap, and exceptionally good. From its location at the north end of The Drag, it sends out good vibes; its lime-green floor and beautiful counter of handmade cream tiles are jolly and simple. You won’t find much in the way of barbacoa or lengua, or any other interior-oriented cuisine; instead, the border states and coastlines inform this menu, which includes Tijuana’s famous Caesar salad (more often abducted by Italian-American restaurants).

Changos makes everything from scratch, from the spectacular corn tortillas, to rotisserie-roasted adobo pork that is sweet, hot, and limey. People love the burritos for their generosity and value, but we recommend tacos. The grilled “Del Mar,” with its tender marinated mahi-mahi, spicy pico de gallo, and creamy slaw, is our favorite; but close behind is al pastor, with tangy rotisserie pork, roasted pineapple chunks, plenty of fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. It can come out dry and overcooked once in a while, but when moistened by one of five house-made salsas, it’s anything but bad. And let’s hear it for bottomless fresh aguas frescas, which are all too rare in our fair city.