The Mexican/Spanish restaurant-lounge Senor Fred has cemented its reputation as a Ventura Blvd. hot spot for drinks, but it's also a nice lunch destination for those of you trawling the Sherman Oaks area. The place fulfills at least two requirements of a good Mexican restaurant: spicy salsa that tastes homemade (their version has a nice smoky flavor to it), and strong, simple margaritas. The food is far superior to Mexicali's questionable menu, but about on par with Casa Vega's more traditional interpretations. The ceviche is spicy and tender, if a bit heavy with avocado. For an entree, the cochinita pibil (achoite-marinated, slow-cooked pork) is a winner, while the chile rellanos are a little over-stuffed with cheese. more ›