Real Mexican food is generally an anomaly beyond the Western Hemisphere. Rounds of naan or pita masquerade as tortillas, and sweet, tangy curd substitutes for sour cream. But the Arizona-style Mexican preparations at the Lazy Gringo on Jawalakhel Chowk, albeit more Southwestern than 'south of the border', break substitutions with beef options and seasonal luxuries like jalape�os and guacamole (if you're lucky), prompting this born-again reviewer to rallying cries of refried goodness: "Si, se puede!"

Dry-erase markers and laminated order sheets are charming, inviting customers to build their own burrito. But for the lazy gringo, the menu offers typical New Mexican fare served on flour tortillas including tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas and even gorditas (puffy tacos).

The Stuffed Gringo, a wide mouthed burrito packed with rice, sour cream, salsa, guacamole (sadly unavailable at the time of review) and choice of beef, chicken or 'bean only' is a testament to the hearty appetites of the Southwest US.
Alternatively, if you're a believer in 'everything is better fried', indulge in the chimichanga, a fried, crunchy version of the burrito. Stuffed jalape�os with white cheese, battered and fried are a hit on the specials.

But the fry fiesta isn't over yet. For dessert sample the sopapillas, fried tortillas dusted with powdered sugar and served with honey, or the fried ice cream (yes, you read right), an invention only an American could conjure. And thick Oreo or Snickers milkshakes and root beer floats point friendly fingers to its American owner.

The Lazy Gringo could well be a happy hour haunt where patrons could unwind to chips and salsa mellowed by a refreshing margarita. Unfortunately, the cantina's dry: no cervezas or tequila-based concoctions to slake your fix. Noteworthy, however, the server kindly offered to purchase a bottle of brew from a corner shop. But it's just not the same.

For speedy service, a colorful setting, decent prices and a tasty trip to the Southwest, the Lazy Gringo deserves more than just a sombrero tip but a full on hat dance.

On your way to the city zoo, track back on the roundabout 270 degrees to the gringo, enter through the back and up to the first floor.