Chili's

CUISINE AND ATMOSPHERE: The Chili's at Lakeside Village in Lakeland is nice, clean and relaxing. The interior, a collage of mostly earth tones, is easy on the eyes. There are enough walls and partitions and the booths are high enough to deflect the cling and clang of dishes and silverware. Snazzy music plays throughout the dining area, enough for a little mood boost — but not too loud. The chain, around since 1975, serves a mix of Southwestern and American favorites.

WHAT'S NEW: Grilled chicken salad, $8.79; sweet and spicy chicken, $10.19; chicken club quesadillas, $9.59; 6-ounce sirloin, $10.99; and 10-ounce sirloin, $15.99.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: A guest and I were served by Rania, who was very efficient and every bit as pleasant. We ordered an Avocado Burger, which was just the right size (pretty big) and quite delicious. One of the best things about the burgers at Chili's is they come with fantastic fries. A burger isn't right unless the fries are right, too. We also ordered the Fajita Trio, hot grilled steak and chicken and lime-grilled shrimp. You build your own, and the tortillas were hot. It's hard to say which of the two meals was better.

PRICE RANGE: $7.09 to $17.49.

This restaurant earned:

AMBIENCE: 3 1/2 Stars (out of 5 Stars)

FOOD: 3 1/2 Stars

Service: 3 1/2 Stars