SOUTH CITY. When you tire of what often passes for Mexican food ­ pools of refried beans and cheese ­ head to this adventuresome, authentic Mexican eatery. Ask for a seat on the patio to escape the often-crowded dining room, and then savor dishes like richly textured potato quesadillas, homemade tamales, and escabeche (marinated fish served cold). The restaurant's innovative approach to food draws a varied crowd, from professional thirty-somethings to young couples with grandparents and kids in tow.

SOUTH CITY. Enjoy something out-of-the-ordinary at this upbeat Brazilian joint. Warm wood floors and plenty of exposed brickwork make for a pleasant atmosphere, even when things get a bit loud. Appetizers like broiled French bread topped with parmesan, blue cheese, and onion cream (torradinhas leme) or fried yucca root wedges presage equally unusual entrees: seafood stew in spiced coconut cream broth, shredded chicken in four-cheese cream and raisin sauce, and portabella mushrooms stuffed with cashews in a balsamic reduction. Vegetarians are elated by the quality of meat-free options. Save room for something sweet ­ champagne cookies layered with chocolate and custard await.