Del Rio Mexican Restaurant

For whatever reason, Leesburg hasn't had a lot of luck with Mexican restaurants surviving long-term (RIP Casa Gonzalez). Del Rio, on the other hand, is a Leesburg institution.

With its extensive menu and lunch buffet, Del Rio is a delicious, economical choice for all of you Mexican food lovers out there. With its bar, margaritas and fantastic drink specials ($2.95 Miller Lights), Del Rio is a great choice if you're looking for a night out with friends.

Del Rio is also home to one of the only local venues for live stand-up comedy. Every Saturday night, the restaurant is rearranged and some of the funniest area comedians come in and entertain the crowd. Kevin Lee from BET's Comic View and Rob Maher from Sirius Radio and 98 Rock are just a few of the comedians who have stopped by.

What makes Del Rio so great is its versatility. While you can certainly have a night out, it's a great place to take the kids as well. When I stopped by this weekend, I did so with my 3-year-old. We sat outside and he entertained himself while enjoying the beautiful weather.

Taking kids out can be expensive, but Del Rio offers a reasonably-priced kids menu: a cheese quesadilla, rice and beans is under $4, and my son ate it right up.

While they have an extensive buffet, I went with a combination platter. The Santa Fe is my favorite, as it gives you a nice sample of different offerings: an enchilada, burrito, and a guacamole taco.

My one complaint is that they don't deliver, which does nothing for my Sunday night taco cravings. However, they have quick take-out, which is almost as good.

All in all, visiting Del Rio just once shows you why they've become one of the premier Mexican Restaurants in Leesburg.