La Palapa Grill & Cantina

The Scene
Set amid rolling hills and bubbling creeks, La Palapa feels more like a quaint Southwestern lodge than a typical Mexican eatery. Inside, a central fireplace, warm yellow walls and copper decor add to the rustic apres-ski feel--although instead of hot chocolate, customers get warm drinking flavored margaritas and sangria. A popular separate bar has several pool tables and a tiki-style stage for DJs and live music.

The Food
Standard Mexican fare is given a hearty boost via diverse preparations. The enormous pork burrito is simmered in a tangy green tomatillo sauce; the classic quesadilla gets a seafood double whammy with both fresh crab and shrimp. The sticky sauce overwhelms the meat in the chicken mole entree, but generally, everything from super-spicy chile con queso to American fare like a hamburger satisfies contrasting tastes.