Top of the Town 2012

As much as we love a hole-in-the-wall Mexican joint that’s undiscovered by the masses, our latest favorite is not that kinda place. For more than 30 years, Los Arcos has been big, loud, packed, and fun as hell. And the food is pretty damn good, too. After you’ve ordered the requisite house margarita, settle in with the hefty menu, which offers at least a handful of dishes that you’ve likely never seen before. We’re suckers for the Tacaso, a deep-fried taco filled with pork and potatoes, smothered with red chile, and topped with sour cream and guacamole. It’s big enough for two, but you’ll be hard-pressed to share. Instead, have your dining partner order the enchiladas Tapatia, which are stuffed with three cheeses plus beef or chicken and slathered in a thick mole. 4991 W. 80th Ave., Westminster, 303-426-8523; 9045 Forsstrom Drive, Lone Tree, 303-858-8860; arcosrestaurant.com