Bites Nearby: El Nopalito Grill

Wheaton has delicious restaurant options galore, but al fresco dining options are scarce. So if the sunny summer weather has you hankering to eat outdoors, El Nopalito Grill in Layhill/Aspen Hill is the place. 

Pull up a chair in the breezy garden patio and order a margarita or a glass of vino from the reasonable but well-chosen wine list. You can also leave your drink choice in the hands of Chef Ismar and you will be rewarded with a beverage which perfectly accompanies your meal for just $6. 

The restaurant bills itself as upscale Mexican, but the menu includes an array of Latin dishes. Argentinian beef empanadas, Peruvian ceviche with shrimp and spicy Spanish patatas bravas all shine. Mexican classics like chiles rellenos, sizzling fajitas and my personal favorite dietary splurge, the decadently fried chimichanga, are some of the best to be found in the county.

Many regulars keep coming back to El Nopalito Grill specifically for the seafood, citing the crab cakes and lobster tail as their dream dinner choices.

In the early evening, the famous patio is ruled by senior citizens and families (kids' meals are just $4 each). After 8 p.m., couples and groups of friends fill the quiet tables until the wee hours. 

Entrees range in price from $12-25. Reservations are accepted by phone and online, but are not necessary.

Before you head over, be sure to "Like" El Nopalito Grill on Facebook and click the Deals tab on the left for a 25 percent off coupon on your total check ($25 max).

2259 Bel Pre Road, Silver Spring, 301.598.1736

Open Monday to Thursday and Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.