Mi Cocina   

Surroundings are bright, colorful and stylishly contemporary at this popular local chain. This particular Mi Cocina outpost is also a favorite among Highland Park's beautiful people, so expect air-kisses all-around from the exquisitely turned out crowd. Still, down-to-earth devotees of Tex-Mex will be comforted to find all their favorite entrees on the menu -- enchiladas, fajitas and wonderful crunchy tacos. But you'll also find more adventurous selections like the Queso Con Hongos, a popular appetizer consisting of mushrooms surrounded by melted peppery cheese and served with tender tortillas. The food is served in generous portions that burst with flavor -- no blandness here. And while most of us are content with the typical appearance of Tex- Mex -- a large, hot platter piled with mounds of food and covered with melted cheddar cheese -- Mi Cocina pays careful attention to presentation with plates of food that are colorful and artfully arranged. Service is typically efficient and friendly. Once you're seated, it's not unusual to have your drink and food within 15 minutes. Children are welcome, though many prefer to leave the little one's at home and linger at the see-and-be-seen upstairs bar. -- Becky Belew