Riques Regional Mexican Food   

People beyond the Uptown neighborhood are finally discovering this unpretentious and moderately priced Mexican eatery in Uptown. Rique's, which doesn't skimp on flavor just because it's a little neighborhood joint, offers generous portions and unexpected flavors. You'll find only about 55 seats crammed inside this intimate space, yet owners keep it warm with vivid Mexican colors, artwork and music. Fans have fallen for such specialty items as the torta ahogado (a sandwich layered with marinated, grilled chicken, lettuce, refried beans, sour cream and soaked in a chile sauce), chicken Tinga, achiote marinated whitefish with in a chipotle-tomato sauce, and a chicken breast in a tomatillo-pumpkin seed sauce. For vegetarians, there is a dish called Rajas con Hongos y queso. Come back on Sunday for an alternative to the usual brunch, as Rique's features such mouth-watering selections as the eggs chorizo, chilaquiles with grilled chicken and stuffed brunch burritos (with eggs, cheese and meat). On Sundays, you'll also be treated to fresh papaya and warm Mexican cookies.