Julie Ann Vera | 210SA Longhorn Cafe has everything fried and then some, but specializes in burgers.

Mmmm, yummy, juicy burgers. Yummy, juicy, inexpensive burgers, even better. Anybody who likes a burger can't pass up the Longhorn Cafe. Under their sign, it says “Big Juicy Burgers.” And they are big. And they are juicy. And they are cheap. Not to mention highly tasty. But burgers aren't all they do; check out the chicken fried steak sandwich, the fried chicken or the grilled chicken Caesar salad. Or you could try the ribeye steak with two sides. Grab a cold beer or a small bottle of wine, and you're all set.

WHAT: Longhorn Cafe

WHERE: The one we tried is at 2501 Pat Booker Road, (210) 658-4222; there are three other locations: 17625 Blanco Road No. 1, (210) 492-0301; 3150 SE Military Drive, (210) 359-6602; 23775 West I-10, (210) 698-7766

HOURS: For the Pat Booker location: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday

TASTE SENSATION: Longhorn Cafe is fried-food heaven. No, really. Some joints do really well on fries and so-so on onion rings; or the tots are good but the fries don't cut the ketchup. This place is good all around, with crunchy-mealy fries and tots you'd want to save in your pocket. The burgers are very good, possibly among the best in the city; when we get through trying every burger in the city, we'll get back to you! For devil-may-care eaters, you can throw down a few more clams for an extra patty, bacon, chili or guacamole on any dish. Having options rocks.

TUMS-WORTHY: Like we said, Longhorn Cafe is fried-food heaven. This is no place for a dieter! Everything is fried or smothered in cheese, chili or bacon. Not that there's anything wrong with that, but if you're watching what you eat, this might not be the place to go, though strong people who can resist the smell of burgers can try a smoked turkey sandwich with no mayo and a side salad and probably do OK. Also, Longhorn Cafe doesn't keep particularly late hours, so make sure to watch the clock if you decide to go.

THE 210 TAKE: In addition to everything under the sun fried (pickles, even) and burgers, Longhorn offers other options, such as fish and a dish called “The Horn,” which is grilled hamburger steak stuffed with jalapeños and cheese and smothered with grilled onions, and available in mild, medium or hot. But the best part is the prices, which are thoroughly reasonable. If you're looking for a casual spot to grab a burger and a beer and catch a game on TV, play some video games or even have a private party (there are two rooms at the Pat Booker locale), this place can't be beat. The cherry on top: the super-friendly staff.

Julie Ann Vera | 210SA