El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant, Papa Grande’s Coastal Taqueria, Santa Fe Mexican Grill and Agave Mexican Restaurant: Best Ethnic, Mexican

EDITORS’ PICKS, UPSTATE
One word: carnitas. At El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant, the delicate seasoning is sublime. You’ll find all the traditional items and outstanding margaritas in an airy, family friendly atmosphere. Go Friday nights to hear strolling mariachis. Try the Aljambra platter. 1700 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington, 791-9566, eltapatiode.com

EDITORS’ PICKS, DOWNSTATE
It’s not strictly authentic at Papa Grande’s Coastal Taqueria—we give you scrapple-apple tacos—though you will find plenty of authenticity in items like Mexican street corn. That’s OK. We like it when truffle meets queso. 38929 Madison Ave., Fenwick Island, 436-7272; 210 Second St., Rehoboth Beach, 212-2409, papagrandes.com

READERS’ PICKS, UPSTATE
Santa Fe Mexican Grill 190 E. Main St., Newark, 369-2500, santafemexicangrill.net; Santa Fe Wilmington 2006 Pennsylvania Ave., Wilmington, 425-5200, santafewilmington.com

READERS’ PICKS, DOWNSTATE
Agave Mexican Restaurant 137 Second St., Lewes, 645-1232, agavelewes.com