"Julian Medina’s East End venture gained traction from the moment it opened last year. The bar and dining room is often packed, and a DJ draws a late-night crowd on Thursdays. Quesadillas with huitlacoche and black truffle; lobster tacos; chile relleno brimming with summer veggies and quinoa; and duck carnitas with tamarind and chocolate habanero glaze are all worth writing home about." - Beth Landman