More great spots for South-of-the-Border eats

Romesco Baja Med Bistro, Bonita, CA. The suburban San Diego location is improbable. Still, this is the sole north-of-the-border outpost from Javier Plascencia, the mad genius of Baja Med cuisine and the most influential chef in Mexico at the moment. Must-try: Ahi tuna tostada. $$$; 4346 Bonita Rd., 4.3 mi. off I-5; 619/475-8627.

La Super-Rica, Santa Barbara, CA (pictured). Milpas Street’s Mexican dive is famous for serving freshly made antojitos to people who don’t necessarily know what the word means (little portions, aka appetizers). Must-try: La Super-Rica Especial (marinated pork and cheese-stuffed pasilla chile). $; 622 N. Milpas St.; 805/963-4940. 

La Tarasca, Centralia, WA. At this family-run authentically Mexican restaurant, it can be tough to decide between carnitas from the cook’s home state of Michoacán and other must-haves like rellenos or posole accompanied by fresh-made corn tortillas. Must-try: Chile verde. $$; 1001 W. Main St.; 360/736-7756.