There are a lot of Mexican restaurants in South Lake Tahoe, but few can compare to the warmth of Margarita’s Mexican Café. Long-time residents Rafael and Gabriela Aguirre have been preparing home-style food here for some 14 years and are joined by their three children in the operation of the business. The oldest, Rafael Jr., is the manager and is proud of the authentic ingredients and flavors to be found in their meals. He notes that what they cook at the restaurant is the same food they have at their own family parties, and he recommends the Chile Rellenos topped with fresh green salsa. Since most of Margarita’s business comes from word of mouth, one insider tip for the place is that they have a happy hour with specials on their popular enchiladas and tacos as well as on their favorite beer, Tecate. The café is also happy to make large to-go orders for parties.