Lola

When Lola moved from Old South Pearl to Highland, it snatched up what would turn out to be a prime neighborhood corner, giving the space a sexy, Mexican-beach-themed makeover that extends from the kitchen to the basement to the long, enclosed patio. Diners come for coastal Mexican food -- dipping into a seafood-heavy menu that also includes such appetizers as the molten queso fundido and Lola?s famous guacamole, made tableside -- but the crowd really packs in for happy hour, when the bar menu runs killer deals on Tecate, tequila and snacks. And in 2011, Lola added a cold bar in a back corner -- with a window to the patio, where there are four prime seats -- where a chef opens oysters, makes ceviche and serves up raw fish. Lola is a prime party place (just about any time you come in, someone is throwing a shower or celebrating a special occasion), but that deck also makes a lovely spot for a solitary drinker to soak up the last of the sun.

• Cuisine(s): Mexican

  Hours: Sun,Sat 10am-10pm, Mon-Fri 4pm-10pm

  Price: $$$

  Payment Types: MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Diners Club, check

• Features: Patio/Sidewalk Dining, Takeout, Private Party, Wheelchair Accessible, Kid Friendly

  Serving: Brunch, Dinner

  Entertainment: Live Entertainment

  Alcohol: Full bar

• Reservations: Accepted, Required for Large Parties, Call-Ahead Seating Available

  Parking: Lot Available, Street