Candelas

Frommer's Review

This Gaslamp Quarter restaurant will forever alter your notion of Mexican food. If you're looking for tacos and burritos, go somewhere else. But if you're in the mood for a sophisticated, romantic fine dining experience, look no further than Candelas. Owner Alberto Mestre and executive chef Eduardo Baeza are both natives of Mexico City, and brought with them that city's culinary influences, which often blend Mexican and European elements. After all, not so long ago Spanish and French flags flew over Mexico. Look for main courses like baked lamb chops covered with mustard, basil, and garlic crust on a bed of sautéed sweet peppers, and sea bass in grape sauce. The chef's signature creation is langosta Baeza: fresh lobster in its shell, stuffed with mushrooms, chiles, onions, bacon, and tequila. Awesome. Candelas also has a sexy lounge next door.

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