La Sandia Mexican Kitchen and Tequila Bar

La Sandia Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar

Address: 8340-1690 E 49th St.

Cross Streets: Northfield at Stapleton

Phone: 303-373-9100

Price: $$

Reservations: Yes

Hours: L-Mon-Fri: D-Daily

La Sandia is Wow!!! Richard Sandoval (Tamayo and Zengo) again brings the most exciting décor and food to Denver----this time in the new Northfield development. The place is gorgeous. It is big with high unfinished ceilings painted bright colors and softened with dropped pressed tin ceilings spaced throughout to generate more intimate areas for dining. Color is everywhere with the basics of blue, dark red, sand and accents of all colors featured in acrylic panels that recreate the mystical and magical folklore stories of Mexico. Tile around the open kitchen, a huge bar/lounge area, and an exciting patio add to the scene. The food is as exciting as the décor. Start with salsa and chips served to each table. The guacamole arrives portioned correctly, served so the guests can "make their own." You must have the queso fundido where Oaxaca, Chihuahua and Gouda cheeses are melted and served with flour tortillas and a spicy tomatillo dip. The combination is extraordinary and puts any grilled cheese sandwich to shame. Other great choices for appetizers include the chicken tamal, ceviche, and beef sopes. Tortilla soup, Mexican chicken soup and several salads make a great second course. Tacos come in many forms: Baja with battered tilapia, chicken, carne asada, pork, and vegetarian. You might opt for chicken pibil, mole, enchiladas or Milanese. Some seafood choices include snapper Veracruz, seafood mariscada and shrimp skewers. A la carte accompaniments include rice and beans, Mexican zucchini, chile poblano potato, and sautéed chayote, mushrooms and bacon. The only problem is deciding on what to order. Don't miss dessert: crepes with Cajeta, a brownie sundae with cinnamon ice cream, churros and tres leches cake. The Mexican hot chocolate is sinful. Along with wine, try the super lime, mango or hibiscus margarita. Service is as terrific as the food with friendly, helpful staff to make your visit very enjoyable. La Sandia is worth the trip from any area and brings new excitement to the Stapleton area. It definitely has it all.