I want to take a little break from immigration reform, water scarcity and activism alerts to share a dining tip with those of you traveling through Mexico. But first, I want to get something straight. When I say Mexico, I am not referring to the white, sandy beaches of Cancun. I am not referring to the Mexico where everyone speaks English. I am not referring to the Mexico where the most successful industry is diamond sales to cruise boat travelers.

No, no. I am referring to the back roads. I am referring to the Mexico of mariachis, tears in your tequila, macho camaraderie, and good, old cantinas. Ahhh yes, smoke-filled, raucous-raising cantinas.

This tip is mainly for the men out there. Although illegal, there are still a number of cantinas that do not allow women, much to my dismay. Why? To avoid “problems.” Many believe that cantinas are the last vestige of the endangered Macho mexicaniferous, more commonly referred to as the macho man. Ladies beware: if you do venture in, you may find yourself with nothing but a humble, little urinal right next to the bar.

Now I’ll tell you why the cantina is the best place to dine. Botana. That’s right folks, free bar food. Free bar food here does not necessarily mean peanuts and pretzels. It can mean small shrimp cocktails, crab soups, and tacos of every variety. And as long as you’re there for the long haul, you can keep eating botana. So, ¡salud! Here’s to seedy cantinas and their bountiful botana!