Bites Nearby: Miguel's Cantina

Miguel's Cantina, 870 S. Rochester Road, Rochester Hills (248) 453-5371 

Co-proprietors Michael Versaci and Reynaldo Paez  met when both worked for a chain Mexican spot, and after several years, they decided to move beyond the corporate approach and open Miguel's Cantina. It debuted early last year.  

They emphasize fresh, local ingredients and a from-scratch kitchen and they've taken the same approach with the bar, where the Margaritas made with agave tequila, and sangria are mixed to order with fresh fruit juices.  

The reasonably-priced menu offers just enough choices, most of which are from the familiar lineup of enchiladas, tacos, fajitas and quesadillas, but there are other dishes too, including carne asada, camarones rellanos and carnitas with salsa verde.  

The brightly decorated, high-ceilinged space has a lively sports bar feeling. Service is friendly, and some of the servers are bilingual, a nice touch.

Recommended dishes: Made at the table salsa, tortilla soup, Mexican-style tacos on soft corn tortillas 

Prices: Appetizers $5.50-$7.95, soups and salads $3.50-$9.95, combo plates $7.95-$9.95, entrees $7.95-$14.95, desserts $5.95 

Credit cards: All major 

Hours: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Mon.-Sat., noon-9 p.m. Sun.