Best Mexican food over $10: Coyote Cantina
The décor is the first thing to register – art of amorous, sophisticated coyotes dancing, romancing, and driving fast cars, a whimsical visual introduction to a cheerfully eclectic establishment. The classics are here, but so are some items that take Mexican ideas to new levels – brie and mango quesadilla to start, anyone, or perhaps Santa Fe eggrolls filled with chicken, black beans, and roasted corn with cilantro pesto? The mix of traditional and innovative carries right through to dessert, when you can get a slice of bourbon pecan pie or Kahlua mousse torte. Southwestern ideas are used with creativity here – Sonoran ravioli, a turkey jalapeno meatloaf – and a sense of fun pervades the place. It’s a lot of creativity for a reasonable price, in the most stylish of atmospheres.
531 N. PCH, RB (310) 376-1066, www.coyotecantina.net
Runner-up: Palmilla Cocina y Tequila: 39 Pier Ave, HB. 310-374-4440. www.palmillarestaurant.com