"Decatur's Casa Balam usually has a crowd on weekends, when it's best (but not necessary) to have a reservation for this upscale Mexican restaurant. But during the week, walk-ins are the norm. Enough people are forking through plates of flaky, miso-marinated sea bass to prevent that awkward too-quiet ambiance when things are sparse. Even if you come with a crew (your starting friends lineup and maybe a few subs), you’ll still be able to walk right in for a table in the chic dining room. Share some platters of citrusy ceviche, but hog the fried fish tacos to yourself. And don’t forget to try mezcal-heavy cocktails like the bright blue El Azul." - juli horsford, nina reeder, jacinta howard