Lares

In Short
Stepping into this dimly lit space is like walking into a rustic Mexican adobe. Framed prints of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo artwork hover near the sunken bar made of heavy carved wood, while the roaring fireplace, exposed beams and a white stucco interior make it homey and inviting. (And if that doesn't do it for you, the host's ''Hola, como estas?'' greeting will.) The noise level is conversational; upstairs there's yet another bar and tables that fill up with late-night revelers on weekends. Dishes range from the simple (carnita tacos, cheese enchiladas) to the more elaborate (camarones a la diabla features shrimp wrapped in bacon, then broiled in hot sauce). While many folks say it's the food that brings them to Lares, others argue it's really the warm hospitality that keeps 'em coming back for more.

Hits: On weekends, the roaming mariachis create a celebratory mood; also, the upstairs bar/dining area, which has a floor-to-ceiling window, provides great outdoor views.

Misses: The shrimp soup can be very bland and the chips and salsa taste about two days too old.