Trago Mexican Kitchen, Olympia

When discussing his innovative Mexican dishes with a reporter from Northwest Military, Chef Michael Beierle explained, "I want to open people's eyes to what food can be." Seeking to shatter perceptions of Mexican cuisine as lackluster combinations of rice and beans or Chinese takeout furtively stuffed into a tortilla, the skilled chef folds fresh ingredients into a variety of authentic tacos, enchiladas, and tortas. He douses overstuffed burritos in zesty red and chili colorado sauces before sprinkling on fresh cheese and pico de gallo. To craft his specialty camarones al mojo de ajo, he sautés plump gulf prawns with mushrooms, garlic, and white wine. For dessert, Michael drizzles creamy avocado cheesecake in strawberry-tequila sauce with a hint of roasted jalapeño.

Diners can enjoy their meals at high-top tables in the elegant dining room, their faces illuminated by the flicker of candles. Others can choose to curl up in cushy booths beneath the hushed glow of overhanging lights and fireflies working double shifts. Behind the handsome wood bar, bartenders fold top-shelf liquors into a variety of imaginative cocktails, including a margarita with real jalapeño and sangria with fresh fruit.