Ever wonder how that plate of crispy tortilla chips and melted queso became the emblem of tailgate parties and late-night dives everywhere? According to historical accounts, the original "Nacho's especiale" were created in 1943 at the Victory Club in Piedras Negras, Mexico, by Ignacio "Nacho" Anaya. Seventy years later, that serendipitous snacktime creation has become a full-blown national obsession! Chris Schonberger traces the legend and lore behind one of our favorite cheesy dishes, on his quest to find the world's best nachos. His ruminations on chips and cheese - and life - may surprise you. Viva los Nachos!

It’s hard to say when my brother, Nick, and I first began our love affair with the nacho, but my best guess is the early ’90s, at a restaurant called Chadwick’s in Washington, D.C. The restaurant had long been a family favorite for its tasty burgers and kid-friendly booths, but once Nick and I tasted the nachos, it became the only place we ever wanted to go.

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Photo by Chris Schonberger