Fodor's Expert Review La Mariposa

A wrought-iron mariposa (butterfly) overlooks the entrance of this cafeteria-like local favorite. Although it's been popular since the 1940s for breakfast, coffee and cake, or a light Mexican lunch of tacos, tamales, enchiladas, or tortas (sandwiches), the food is underwhelming. Cakes can be stale or simply nondescript, although the tacos are good. It's more of an institution than a culinary experience. Don't plan on this for a main meal.