Tucson is a Mexican food town. It's really no surprise, since we're just an hour or so north of the Mexican border. Lucky for us Tucsonans, we get to experience some of the most authentic and fantastic Mexican food in the country, right in our own backyard.

There are hundreds of Mexican restaurants in town, and some have trouble standing out from the rest. But the margaritas and carne seca at Leo's Mexican restaurant have made a name for themselves among us Leo's devotees (warning: both are genuinely addictive).

It's not easy to find Leo's - it's literally hidden in a small strip mall on the southeast corner of Speedway and Rosemont - but once you do, they'll seat you quickly and get a menu in your hands in no time.

The first order of business is to order a house margarita. I'll be honest - I'm typically not a big fan of margaritas. I generally stick to wine and beer and shy away from the rest. But all it took was one of Leo's margs to make me change my tune. It's strong - one is plenty! - but it tastes fantastic, and it goes great with the most popular food item on the menu: carne seca.

Carne seca is dried beef flavored with garlic, lime and spices. It's typically served dry, but at Leo's the carne seca is moist, smoky, and incredible. You'll crave it in your sleep.

Every time I eat at Leo's, I get the same thing: A house margarita, and a carne seca cheese crisp with all the fixings (green chiles, fresh tomatoes and onions, cheese, guacamole and heaping bites of carne seca). If you ever give Leo's a try, I'd suggest starting with that.

Leo's Mexican Restaurant
5114 E Speedway Blvd
Tucson, AZ 85712
(520) 325-9180