Fodor's Expert Review Viva Mercado's Mexican Bar & Grill

Although popular namesake and founder Bobby Mercado is enjoying his retirement, Bobby's sister Carolina is the new owner and operator of this Mexican restaurant that’s been a steady draw with locals and visitors in one location or another since the early 1990s. This colorful, comfortable spot (with patio dining when the weather's pleasant) features 10 house-made salsas and a well-executed, seafood-heavy menu. Dishes include a shrimp ceviche salad; tostadas with shrimp, langostino, tilapia, calamari, and avocado; and Ensenada-style fried fish tacos; plus steak picado and veggie fajitas.