Red Mesa is the one spot in the Bay area that serves Mexican cuisine with a little upscale style, while Tenampa is a classic combo-plate joint. But don't judge a book by its cover — the best tacos in town can come from most low-down spot and fussy food doesn't always equal success. So which taco deserves to move up to the Savory Sixteen?

I'll reveal my pick tomorrow, but you still have a say. Vote below for your favorite in this taco-a-taco showdown and we'll track the results in our readers' poll. Who knows, maybe you guys have the refined taste and exceptional skill to match my critic's picks. And if you haven't tasted these two worthy competitors, this is a perfect excuse for an extended, taco-tasting lunch.

Check out all of CL's Tournament of Tacos coverage here for both future matchups and daily results, until the tournament ends April 1.

So who wins: Red Mesa or El Tenampa Mexican?Check out the full Tournament of Tacos bracket after the break:

This article appears in Mar 11-17, 2009.