Restaurante Ayala - SAN PATRICIO

Basic Mexican food, simple. We were there during the slow season so no Jamica made. They have a HOT sauce if you ask for it.

Set conveniently near the entrance to the city's downtown meat and fish market, this cafe serves delicious homestyle Mexican food in clean, cheerful surroundings. We made a substantial lunch of albondigas de res -- beef meatballs -- and fresh veggies in a tasty sauce, with rice, refried beans and fresh tortillas on the side. The slices of beef in our companion's guisado were well-flavored and surprisingly tender. A couple of regulars praised the flan, but we were too full to sample it this time. The aguas frescas make a refreshing accompaniment.