I'll take cheery and homey over elegant and stuffy any day. That's why I'm usually at Dos Gringos on the weekend. A sweet little breakfast/lunch spot in the heart of Mt. Pleasant, Dos Gringos brings in the crowds with its veg-embracing, hearty menu. This is place that was green before it was trendy- chipped pottery dishes, a no cellphone policy -- take it outside, folks -- and no plastic. Here's another 'new' thought:  running out of stuff isn't bad. That's what happens at Dos Gringos in the afternoon, because they don't want to throw things away.  In our chain infused economy, not having every product on hand is almost outrageous.  Would Subway ever run out of Black Forest Ham?  Probably not.

My friend ordered a cafe con leche, which made its entrance in a huge porcelain mug.  Makes you wonder: who thought of coffee to go?  Let's be nostalgic and sit down.

Food is simple and earthy.  Picture bean mashes, chicken salads, tofu scrambles, lots of avocado.  But even your most belligerent meat eating friend will be charmed by the earnest appeal of Dos Gringos.  It's not snotty and holier-than-thou, it's welcoming and fun!

The only caveat are the crowds.  With counter service and tables you bus yourself, turnover is somewhat slow, especially with large groups.  Go with just one friend and you won’t have a problem.  And if you’re looking for an alternative, Pupuseria San Miguel is just down the street with some mighty tasty eats.