Meet Ya at Yxta

Yxta is one of the many non-divey Mexican restaurants popping up all over Downtown, albeit Yxta's location is not quite Downtown proper.

In fact, Yxta is sort of in a not-so-great area, so drive your junker.

The inside of Yxta looks like it belongs elsewhere (i.e., not in this neighborhood).

The patrons are not from this neighborhood either. Most are thirsty yuppies seeking post-work refreshment.

This thirsty yuppie came for happy hour with several friends.

Yxta Margarita ($5).

Refreshing but not strong enough. Not surprising for just $5.

Guacamole -- Hass avocado, red onion, cilantro ($6).

Fresh and very very good. Really liked the topping of sunflower seeds.

Tacos de papa -- spicy mashed potatoes, cabbage, crema fresca, quesco fresco ($6).

The shells were beautifully golden and crunchy, but the potatoes were sorely lacking in flavor. The tacos sat atop even more flavorless potatoes. Spicy? Not even close.

Tacos al pastor -- marinated pork, pineapple, red onions, cilantro ($6).

Best of the bunch. Well-spiced and paired creatively with sweet and tangy pineapple.

Tacos de carnitas -- slow-cooked pork, guacamole, onion-cilantro mix ($6).

Tasty but nothing beyond your usual carnitas.

Tacos de tinga de pollo -- pulled chicken with chipotle ($6).

These had a decent kick. The tacos de papa could learn a thing or two from these.

Sopes de tinga, carnitas, calabacitas, chorizo, pastor with cabbage, crema fresca, frijoles olla, queso cotija ($6).

I wanted to love this, but there was just too much going on. It is a great deal, though, if you're just looking for sheer quantity of food and bang for your buck.

Chipotle wings ($6).

Gross. Not chipotle-like at all. It was like goopy nacho cheese.

As we left, the restaurant looked like this.

Yxta is a pleasant place to meet for happy hour after work. The food didn't impress me enough, however, for a full-meal return visit.

If I'm going to the 'hood, the food has to be good.