TABLE TALK: Plenty of Mexican food near VCU

If you have a craving for Mexican food, you don't have to go far if you're a Virginia Commonwealth University student or in the vicinity.

A couple of weeks ago, Chipotle opened in the new shopping center at Laurel and Grace streets, and now there is also a Little Mexico outpost a block away at 308 N. Laurel St.

The restaurant, which does brisk to-go business but also contains several booths for those choosing to eat in, offers a quick version of the menu available at its full-service location at 1328 W. Cary St.

On this menu: burritos ($5.89), quesadillas ($4.99-$6.10), nachos ($5.49-$5.79), salads and bowls.

And, don't forget about the Qdoba around the corner at 935 W. Broad St., nestled among fast-food row (Extreme Pizza, Tropical Smoothie Café, Jersey Mike's, etc.).

Also new to the Laurel and Grace shopping center: Panera, which opened Tuesday.

If you think the traffic congestion in the area is aggravating now, just wait until the fall semester begins.

. . .

Sad news from The Beach House Bar & Grille in the Shoppes at Innsbrook.

Bar manager Jared Busch, an integral part in starting the restaurant last year, died last weekend.

To assist his family with bills, a bikini contest will be held Saturday at 9 p.m.

Chris Stewart, co-owner of The Beach House, said they'll cover the patio with sand and offer more than $1,000 in cash and prizes.

Admission is $5, with all proceeds benefiting Busch's family.

For details, visit http://www.beachhousebar.us or call (804) 612-6116.

. . .

On Wednesday, Sushi-O (1228 Alverser Plaza) will host a sake-tasting, featuring five styles of sake and five petite food pairings.

The cost is $25 per person.

Space is limited. Call (804) 897-9878 for reservations.

. . .

Sin é (1327 E. Cary St.) is now offering a daily "Green Plate Special" that includes a selected meal, beverage and tax for $8.50.

The specials vary each day and are available weekdays from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

. . .

Zuppa, the soup-centered fave in Shockoe Bottom, will soon move to Rocketts Landing, where it will occupy space in the 210 Rock building.

. . .

Closed: The windows and doors of Bagel Czar (929 W. Grace St.) are covered with brown paper wrapping, and the phone is disconnected.

Closed for now: A sign at Rivers Ridge Bistro (403 N. Ridge Road) advises that the restaurant will be closed "for reorganization" until Aug. 1.

If you have a tip for Table Talk, call (804) 649-6120 or e-mail . The deadline to receive items is noon Friday one week before publication.