Located steps from the Cleveland Park Metro stop, Alero is more of a neighborhood restaurant than a destination. The crowd draws from young career-oriented families, so expect to hear lots of legal talk at surrounding tables.

Located just a block from D.C.'s largest movie screen at the Uptown Theater, Alero is a natural stop for a cold Corona and light bite or a quick dinner.

Decorated in typical "Mexican" motif, Alero unfortunately is producing food as uneven as the rickety trellis wall leaning over the restaurant's outdoor deck.

The food at Alero can be wonderful or bland. Try the fajitas (despite their addition of celery) and chimichangas and request the black beans instead of the boring refried version. Skip the nachos and the watery margaritas.

Maybe not the best Mexican in the District, but Alero definitely has its following among Cleveland Park locals thanks to its fast, friendly service and low prices.

-- Christopher Green