Vivo

Frommer's Review

A sure sign that the once-ethnic east side has become a hip Anglo hangout is the fact that Vivo bills its food as "healthy Tex-Mex" and has brown rice and tofu on the menu. But that's not to suggest this place is boring. Far from it. Indoors, the walls are painted bright yellow, purple, and red, and hung with vibrant Mexican art, including a fun version of the usual mounted head of a longhorn bull. Outside, dining is on a deck loaded with tropical plants and a gurgling fountain.

Ah, and the food . . . it may be a little more healthful than regular Tex-Mex, but the cooks don't go overboard with that notion. I, for one, am thankful. For starters, the house-made tortilla chips with the smoky, garlicky salsa made with skillet-blackened serrano chiles is superb. Vivo is known for its puffy tacos: handmade tortillas that puff up when fried (in canola oil, of course). These are filled with spiced beef or another filling, lettuce, and tomato. They're delicious, as are other typical Tex-Mex dishes such as the enchiladas verdes stuffed with chicken and topped with a nicely spiked tomatillo sauce. The service is good and the margarita menu is what I go for instead of dessert. If it's hot, try a paloma, made with tequila, lots of lime juice, and grapefruit soda -- a popular Mexican drink perfect for hot weather. Reservations aren't accepted, but you can call ahead 30 minutes before and they'll put you on the list if there is one.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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