Two drinks: The Comet

The drinks are reasonably priced, and the food is cheap and filling. (Credit: File)

The look: Wedged in a residential area on a busy street, the Comet sticks out at night with its neon pink lights and bright signage. Inside, mood-setting candles light the bar area, which is uniquely decorated with old beer taps and vinyl record covers on the walls. Many people sit at the tables, not the bar itself. There's also a pool table and jukebox, though it was underutilized the night I went.

The crowd: The patrons are definitely the hip, meticulously unkempt folks you'd expect to see at any number of bars in Northside. The difference is that the Comet is where they come to relax. Most people there were quiet, sharing drinks in their own little corners of the rooms. I went on a weeknight, and even though it was moderately busy, everyone seemed like they were there to wind down. The majority of the customers were probably in their 30s but the age range looked anywhere between 25 and 60 years old.

The drinks: They have good beers on tap (there's also a locker of bottled beer) . I went for a Purple Haze ($4.50) for round one. It was pretty mild, with a hint of raspberry. After I got my warm-up drink out of the way, I went for something a little harder: The Comet Spiced Cider ($4.50). Hot cider laced with Grand Marnier and Captain Morgan's makes for a solid drink. It looked and smelled easy enough, but make no mistake; their spiced cider is not for amateurs.

The grub: This is where the Comet shines. Known for its big burritos, the Comet serves affordable, quality Mexican food until 1 a.m. Having already eaten, I went easy on my waistline and just ordered chips and salsa ($3) with their salsa of the month, "orange ginger." Although hesitant at first, I couldn't have chosen a better snack. The salsa, simply put, was awesome - not very hot, but very flavorful. Other menu items include those huge burritos ($5), quesadillas ($4-$5.50) and nachos ($7.50).

The verdict: This isn't the bar for people to come and cut loose. It's a creative blend of good food, friendly workers and a relaxing environment. The drinks are reasonably priced, and the food is cheap and filling. There are plenty of reasons to step away from the rest of Northside and drive a little further out to visit the Comet.