Even people with excellent taste in food sometimes eat at national fast-food chains when they want something quick, tasty and cheap. Lucky for Santa Fe that we have two locations of Bumble Bee's, locally owned joints where you can get a big, fat burrito or a heaping shrimp salad at the drive-up window, without spending a ton of money or lowering your high standards. Inside, the décor is bright and lively (love those bumble bee piñatas), while the outside patio is kid- and dog-compatible. Friendly counter workers take your order and your money, then deliver the grub to your table. In the meantime you can snack from the chip and salsa bar. Mahi-mahi tacos come nestled in soft corn tortillas, topped with a sprinkling of cabbage, pico de gallo and an herbed mayo. The hefty burritos are filled with your choice of beef, chicken, mahi-mahi, shrimp or lamb. But even committed carnivores will be tempted by the meat-free offerings, including the burrito de Thomas, filled with grilled asparagus and avocado. For a quick to-go meal for two, try the tender rotisserie chicken dinner-it comes with beans, cilantro rice, tortillas, chips and salsa. Whatever you order, be sure to hit the chip and salsa bar again for an extra slathering. The smoky roasted tomato salsa is irresistible.
301 Jefferson St., 820-2862.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. $
3777 Cerrillos Road, 988-3278.
Lunch and dinner daily. $
