Hidden along U.S. Highway 27, Mi Ranchito provides a break from the predictability of eating at chain restaurants. Since it’s only about 10 minutes from campus, it’s a great spot to unwind after class or after studying for long hours – or even if you’re skipping class and trying to remain incognito.

Locally owned, Mi Ranchito has been providing authentic Mexican dishes to the community for more than four years. It offers a bright, festive atmosphere and fun music to help take your mind off studying.

The large menu makes deciding what not to eat, but the free chips and salsa make the process more bearable. After much deliberation, I chose the vegetarian fajitas ($7.99) with bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, squash, mushrooms and zucchini.

The fajitas were a great choice because the cooks didn’t skimp on the vegetables. My friend tried the Ranchitos burrito, a flour tortilla filled with beef and all the toppings ($6.99), which he absolutely loved. The restaurant also serves up specials every day of the week.

Of course, patrons can order margaritas and Corona. During happy hour (3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday) margaritas are $2.25 to $5.99 and Coronas that are six seven-ounce bottles for $6, or six 12-ounce bottles for $12. Friday and Saturday nights, a pitcher of margaritas is $10.99 – a great way to end the school week.

Spring break might be weeks away, but Mi Ranchito offers an instant escape that won’t leave you broke.