Armadillo Bar and Grill

Just about anything you order at this Mex-Southwest restaurant is really two meals: one to enjoy at the restaurant, and the other to take home for dinner or lunch tomorrow. “We go through a lot of takeout cartons,” says owner Merle Borenstein, who opened this neighborhood mainstay in the ’80s on a quiet side street overlooking the Kingston waterfront (but not on it). While the portions here are huge, it’s not just the quantity that excites people — it’s the quality of the ingredients and the careful preparation. At $7.95, the charred ahi taquito (rare tuna with avocado, green onions, spicy sprouts, wasabi, and ginger soy dressing) is a customer rave. For a touch of the theatrical, try the queso: three tortillas rolled tableside with choice of vegetable, steak, chicken or shrimp filling ($9.95-14.95). Grilled fajitas ($11.95-13.95) are ever-popular house specialties. Or go for Caesar salad with the twist of a lemon-olive oil dressing, queso blanco, and toasted pepitas ($7.95). “Not many people order dessert; they’re too full,” says Borenstein. But if you’re so inclined, chocolate-topped fried ice cream ($6) is a nice way to go — though takeout is probably not an option here. You must try the brunch. For the flat price of $14.95 you’ll start off with homemade chips and salsa and a drink (the slightly frozen margaritas are legendary). Follow with huevos rancheros or migas (eggs and tortilla chunks mixed up with tomatoes and green chilis). You’ll be set for the day. By the time Cinco de Mayo rolls around in May, the patio should be in full swing, welcoming well-behaved dogs — “We might even poach some chicken for your pooch,” says Borenstein — and their owners to take in the nice weather. Closed Mondays. 845-339-1550; www.armadillos.net