Lopez Bar & Grill   

The best of the Tex Mex standards are all here on the Lopez menu: guacamole, steak enchilada, duck quesadilla. Duck quesadilla? That's right. This spicy odd duck is prepared "barbarosa," meaning barbequed over an open flame, and represents Lopez's desire to add the occasional twist to classic Mexican fare. A customer favorite is another out of the ordinary hybrid: Mexican lasagna, prepared with layers of tortillas, chicken, chilies, an abundance of cheese, and topped with fresh avocado. Lopez is an arty and slightly upscale spot. The wildly hued Mexican movie posters on the walls may be a nod to the nearby Cedar Lee movie theatre, since there is a steady stream of movie patrons that stop by pre- and postshow. Of special note, this restaurant offers the best margaritas, if not north of the border, than certainly east of Terminal Tower. Patrons at the bar may also partake of a Lopez perk, complimentary homemade chips and salsa. -- Marie Andrusewicz