Look closely because you just might drive past this little gem in a strip mall near main in Santa Ana. Despite its unassuming exterior, this restaurant offers flavorful Mexican cuisine at a reasonable price inside. \r
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The chile verde offers moist pork in a tangy tomatillo sauce with a delicious blend of garlic and spices. There's something a little different about the sauce that I can't quite put my finger on -- perhaps they add regular tomato to sweeten it (?). In any case, it is not to be missed.\r
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Tacos are a little messy to eat but well worth the effort with deep fried corn tortillas filled to the brim with your choice of meat, lettuce, tomato and salsa. The restaurant does an above average job on enchiladas, tamales and chile rellenos. And rather than simply being fillers, the beans and rice serve as tasty accompaniments to complete your meal.\r
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Of all the Mexican eateries I've tried in OC -- and I've tried quite a few -- I really enjoy the salsa that comes complimentary with chips as you're perusing the menu. It is a deep rich tomato sauce spiced with enough peppers to give it a kick and have you reaching for your drink to cool down your mouth.\r
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The Little Onion gets very busy at lunch time during the week and is closed on Sundays. Service is fast and efficient, and the decor in this two-story hidden gem is dark and comfortable. For lunch, try arriving at 11:30 or 1:00 pm to avoid the wait. This will quickly become one of your regular haunts.
Pros: quality of food, flavor, preparation, fast and efficient service
Cons: gets very busy -- long wait for table -- if you arrive right at noon during the week
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