Former Pasadena mainstay heats up Melrose with hearty Nuevo Latino cuisine and amazing mojitos.

The Scene
Xiomara's Hollywood outpost is more modern than the Old Town original, but lush foliage, decorative wrought-iron details and an earthy palette evoke an inviting island vibe. The dining room hums with cheery Cuban music and the whir of fresh sugarcane being juiced at the bar. Glowing candles line a stairway leading to loft tables. Servers know the basics, but need more training to meet the high expectations of Xiomara Ardolina's dedicated fans.

The Food
Like the Pasadena restaurant, the menu features elegant Cuban and Latin cuisine with Asian accents. Tangy seviche with plump shrimp is a memorable starter, as is the mound of flavorful shredded duck ropa vieja served on a manchego corn cake. Equally compelling entrees include the fall-apart tender lamb shank served tableside from a cast-iron pot, and a more casual Cuban sandwich served with crisp fries. The souffle-like chocolate bread pudding is rich and light and fluffy--a truly decadent end.