Bites Nearby: Sagebrush Cantina

Sagebrush Cantina, 28 S. Broadway, Lake Orion, (248) 693-0100

Sagebrush Cantina is a big, lively restaurant that is pure fun and unpretentiousness. It dominates its block in downtown Lake Orion, and on a typical evening, most of the tables are filled, with seats at the bar at a premium.

Crowds are nothing out of the ordinary for Dia Zaraga's popular restaurant, which celebrates its 15th anniversary in April in high-ceilinged quarters that were completely rebuilt after a 2004 fire destroyed the original historic building.

The redo took two years, but the customers returned for the festive menu that includes all the Tex-Mex favorites, such as Texas-style chili, flautas, steak tacos and fajitas that come in five varieties, from steak to vegetarian. Fajitas may be ordered individually or for two.

Combo plates are especially popular, and diners may put together their own choices if one of the 15 on the menu doesn't appeal.

The price structure is modest. People dine here very satisfactorily at a price that is affordable. That certainly is part of the attraction of the place, which has a sibling restaurant offering the same menu in Fenton.

Recommended dishes: Pork verde, carne asada burrito, guacamole

Prices: Appetizers $5.95-$8.95, sandwiches and burgers $7.95-$9.95, entrees $8.95-$17.95, desserts $1.95-$6.95.

Credit cards: All major

Hours: 11 a.m.-midnight Monday-Saturday, noon-midnight Sunday (bar open later)