• Oliver Parini

El Cortijo Taqueria y Cantina — In the historic space that once housed Oasis Diner, El Cortijo now exudes that classic diner feel: fun and fresh, casual and consistent. The downtown Burlington eatery hits the spot for lunch, dinner and late-night bites — and has earned a combo platter of Daysies wins: best Mexican restaurant and best taco. A combo platter is also the way to go at El Cortijo: Pair your chorizo, carnitas or frijoles tacos with sides such as Spanish rice and greens with citrus vinaigrette. The especiales board showcases even more creative options and local ingredients. If the booths are full — as they often are — park yourself at the beautiful, handcrafted bar. Three sips into your blood-orange margarita, you might wish you had more votes to throw at this charming cantina.

Other Finalists

• El Gato Cantina
• Esperanza Restaurante
• Julio's Cantina
• The Mad Taco