"The lights aren’t dim during the day, but this upscale Mexican restaurant in Midtown still dials up the gloss with an intricate black and white star-patterned floor and plush emerald chairs. Beams of sunlight stream onto the sea-green ceramic tiled bar, giving El Valle a summery energy that says “it’s never too early for tequila.” Toss back a Bonita y Mentirosa, a crisp and fresh cocktail, as you decide between the light but flavorful risotto with scallops or the mole de ajo negro, which reminds us of one of those generations-perfected family pot roast recipes." - juli horsford, jacinta howard