Fresco Tortillas

A northern outpost of a mini chain of “Tex-Mex express” eateries begun by Chinese-born Rose and Deshi Zheng in New York City back in the ’90s, this tiny storefront across from the Vassar College campus opened in 2004 and has been drawing hungry students, starving artists, and Mexican food lovers ever since. You can dine in if you like, though there are only a couple of stools and a high counter, but most people opt for takeout, which is lightning-quick, as the staff grills up tortillas, tacos, enchiladas, and more on the spot. And talk about cheap. One regular, a Vassar professor, recently remarked, “I feel like I can walk in here with $20 and buy out the place.” Mix and match a bunch of cute little eight-inch soft flour tortillas priced from $1.50 (black bean) to $2.80 (grilled steak and guacamole) and you’ll have a mini feast for under 10 bucks. Delicate as finger sandwiches and cut into quarters, petite quesadillas come in a variety of priced-right combinations, from Jack cheese ($3.12) to Jack cheese with shrimp ($4.75). Side orders range from warm and salty tortilla chips ($1.50) to chili tofu ($2.48). The tasty tostada salads are served in a crisp tortilla with lettuce, jalapeños, tomatoes, and cheddar, and begin at $5.50, depending on toppings, which include grilled chicken, guac, and ground beef. Closed Mondays. 845-485-6650