Leonor's Mexican Food

11403 Victory Blvd, North Hollywood, 818/980-9011 Leonor's #2 -- 12445 Moorpark (just east of Whitsett), Studio City, 818/762-0660

The biggest zero ever for decor and ambience (bright flourescent lighting, stark booths, bright Mexican novelty art at Leonor's #2, dark, dank, looks like a former bar at #1 - though I haven't been to the latter in a some time so perhaps it's redone...), Leonor's makes some fine grub for the vegetarian set. They have a Joy's Golden Nugget Sandwich with tofu in place of chicken and tofu-cheese with avocado, onion and tomatoes that even a vehement meat-eater could enjoy. The bread is homemade; a hard, dense roll with a soft middle. They make exceptional carrot juice and make it to order so it's damned fresh.

They also make a mean quesadilla with a soft, thick tortilla, tofu cheese and a large large quantity of guacamole. If you're unsure try a burrito -- they're HUGE, with beans, rice, tofu cheese and avocado. Your wallet won't be as happy as when you go to Del Taco -- the sandwiches and burritos go for about $5.75 --, but your tummy will love you. Best bet: take it home, light candles and make your own atmosphere.

UPDATE: how did I go so long without mentioning the AMAZING pizza -- on a honeyed wheat crust, it's just great and anyone, fussy or not, loves it. They make splendid fake-o chicken nuggets -- great for kids or people who eat like kids. They also make a salad is so high on the plate that it defies gravity -- until you take a fork to it and get it everywhere. Beware: beets stain!! Take it home, dump it in a mixing bowl and enjoy.

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