Perhaps the world’s only burger joint owned by a vegetarian, Bobcat Bite (420 Old Las Vegas Hwy., 505/983-5319, 11 a.m.–7:50 p.m. Wed.–Sat., $7) doesn’t seem to suffer from the proprietor’s preferences. Burgers, from freshly ground sirloin, are plenty thick, piled high with chopped green chile and oozy cheese. Berkshire pork chops and rib-eye steaks are on the menu too for heartier eaters. It’s well worth the drive out this way (Old Las Vegas Highway is the frontage road on the north side of I-25) and the wait in line—try to go near the end of typical lunch hours to avoid the crowds.

For dessert, you’ll want to head back toward town and Harry’s Roadhouse (96-B Old Las Vegas Hwy., 505/989-4629, 7 a.m.–10 p.m. daily, $7), where chocolate mousse, lemon meringue, and coconut cream pies could be crowding the pastry case at any given time. And if you’re looking for a reason to spend even more time on the shady front patio with a great view across the valley, the rest of the menu is solid, too: cold meat-loaf sandwiches, catfish po’boys, lamb stew, and shrimp satay, not to mention tasty margaritas and an awe-inspiring breakfast burrito.