L is for Left at Albuquerque

Where: 700 State St., 564-5040, leftatalb.com.

What: Colorful Southwestern cuisine and a tequila bar.

How Much: Starter plates $3.99-$15.99, burritos $10.49-$11.99, margarita pitchers $19-$28.

The Dish: With a menu inspired and focused on vibrant Southwestern cuisine and a tequila-packed bar, Left at Albuquerque, part of a small chain with sister restaurants in Campbell and San Francisco, is constantly brimming with a festive crowd. An enclosed State Street-facing patio space is the perfect tequila-sipping/people-watching spot with its bar-style seating gazing outward at the sidewalk. The focus is on a diverse and eclectic collection of Southwestern cuisine, with bold and exciting flavors and colors flash-fried and roasted to spiced perfection. The menu style caters to gatherings, with many of the dishes created for sharing with a group. Filling starters to color the table include flash-fried calamari, Santa Fe nachos, and a hefty serving of guacamole. A diverse collection of entrees range from the popular green monster chicken enchiladas, a baked wet burrito, and cilantro lime shrimp tostadas to the juicy Albuquerque burger. More than 75 brands of tequila line the walls of the lively and spacious bar.

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