"You’re looking for a scene, but not so much of a scene that you want to go home early for a long bath and a box of Breyer’s. Just head to Toca Madera. The organic/healthy/lettuce-cups-are-king Mexican restaurant on 3rd Street is a scene, but with food you won’t hate yourself for eating. The space itself is beautiful, you might see Channing Tatum, and the tequila situation is strong. Whatever you do, save room for the churro ice cream sandwich." - jess basser sanders, amy clark, brant cox
"Sit on the patio or saunter into the sultry dining room, where candles and fire will illuminate a menu of sweet and savory options. Order over-the-top dishes like tres leches French toast, vanilla cast iron pancakes, breakfast enchiladas, and truffle quesadillas. Want to order a Wagyu steak with brunch? Yeah, you can do that too. Wash it all down with a morning cocktail." - Janna Karel
"From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily, the bar at this modern Mexican restaurant Toca Madera spices up the afternoon with a discounted menu that includes queso fundido ($10), chicken tinga or short rib tostadas ($12), and fish ($14) or chicken al pastor ($10) tacos. A variety of classic and flavored margaritas (watermelon or guava) go for $13, while wine is $8 and Corona, Pacifico, and Modelo are $5." - Ryan Slattery
"This modern Mexican steakhouse has three private spaces for guests to enjoy truffle quesadillas, A5 wagyu tacos and lobster enchiladas. Glass walls in each of the two smaller rooms enables a full view of the fire dancers and roving live musicians that energize the main dining areas. The Noble Room toward the back can accommodate up to 75 standing guests and has its own bar— making it feel like its own VIP restaurant within the restaurant." - Emmy Kasten
"Celebrate with DJs and fire dancers with Cinco de Mayo specials like lobster enchiladas or stop in for Cinco de Mayo brunch on Saturday, May 4 and Sunday, May 5 for smothered breakfast burritos and vanilla cast iron pancakes." - Janna Karel