Where Ya Gonna Eat: Parker

Not far north up Highway 95 from Quartzsite lies the county seat: Parker. A wee bit bigger than Quartzsite --depending on how you look at it, Parker does boast two big grocery stores (Bashas and Safeway) and a casino. Parker also has one of the few affordable chiropractors in the area--those down in Blythe are priced for rich Californians. Some folks trundle there way up there from QZ to take advantage of these outfits, but where to eat?

First, let us strongly recommend avoiding the food at the casino. Yes, we know there'll be a few boos and hisses at our "non-endorsement." We've tried eating at the Blue Water several times, and sad to say, it ain't getting any better. In one humble opinion, the quality of the food is rated as "good" only by those who have lost their sense of taste. Into Chinese? OK, lots of folks swear by Parker's one Chinese joint, and while it did beat the Chinese food served in Quartzsite, it's still way less than stellar. Call it, "No amount of MSG will make the flavor reveal itself."

Having kicked up as much dirt as we can, the flesh-eater of the family can make one endorsement for a Parker purveyor of palatable provisions: Ruperto's Mexican Restaurant on Highway 95.

Ruperto's isn't long on ambiance, but simply food: The food's durn good. The combo plates offered here run the usual Mexican fare that could be found in any mexi-joint. But when you notice the huge packs of construction crew trucks and RVs piled up outside Ruperto's the question is: What are they eating? The specialty must be the special burritos and tortas.

This carnivore highly recommends the Arizona Burrito: A big old humongous giant sized tortilla, rolled up and stuffed with carne asada, spuds, and cheese. Or try the Texano: Pollo (translates "chicken" to the uninitiated), sour cream, cheese, and potatoes. How about the "Veggie" (Am I really talking about this?) Rice, beans, guacamole, cheese, sour cream, lettuce, salsa....oh my! It's almost enough to make even me think twice about my meat-eatin' ways.

And the prices? Hey, the exchange rate is good! Combos start at less than $5, the special burritos run from $2.75 to $3.15. Wash it all down with your favorite Norte Americano soda pop, or go native and buy a true Mexican fountain drink. Ruperto's is even worth making a special trip just for lunch.

Ruperto's is on Riverside Drive and Hopi Street.