Sandbar

Where: 514 State Street, 966-1388, sandbarsb.com.

What: A lively restaurant/night club and tequila bar.

How Much: Appetizers: $6.25-$9.25; burrito verde: $7.25; happy hour: two-for-the price-of-one drinks, 4-7 p.m. daily.

The Dish: Sandbar’s highly social atmosphere is kept alive by its open-air patio, tasty tequila, vibrant music, and hearty Mexican fare. Located on the lower section of State Street, where foot traffic and people-watching are at their highest pulse, Sandbar provides a lounge for home-style Mexican cooking. Twenty plasma TVs are for sports viewing, and a small stage is for dancing, deejays, or live music. Strung bulb lights overhead and a fire pit help illuminate the outdoor patio, which is open day and night. On the menu, appetizers include tortilla chips and warmed three-cheese queso, nachos de la casa, and Cajun-spiced shrimp quesadillas. Fajitas from the grill sizzle, served with refritos, arroz, tortillas, pico, sour cream, and fresh guacamole. Tacos, taquitos, flautas, and charburgers are among the enjoyable entrées. Burritos are a restaurant favorite—try the burrito verde, made from shredded pork, green chile sauce, beans, and cheese. Whether you’re looking for a spot for dining or dancing, Sandbar is an inviting venue that is easy to stumble upon.