CAPITOL HILL. As twilight falls over the gently sloped streets of Capitol Hill, it's not unusual to see a crowd lingering at Seventh and Logan. Put your name in for a table at this ever-lively Mexican eatery and you'll soon be part of the throng. Happily, food and drink are worth the wait ­ well-stuffed enchiladas, crispy sopapillas with honey, and delicious frozen strawberry margaritas by the pitcher. Friendly, attentive waitstaff move the evening along smoothly, and authentic Mexican fare continues to please Denverites after nearly 20 years. Judging by the hungry crowds every night, Benny's is just getting started.

NORTH DENVER. Café Brazil has been satisfying Denver's need for spicy Latin American food for more than a decade now. Smoked meats, fresh seafood, fried rice, savory sauces, and zesty spices take much of the credit for the menu's success. Notable dishes include arepas (corn cakes) and feijoada completa, a stew of beef and black beans. Consistent cooking and delightful presentation have made this North Denver restaurant a diner's paradise.

WEST DENVER. If you have kids, put Casa Bonita on your list of places to visit! The expressions of awe and excitement will start as soon as you pull up in front of the place, with its huge Aztec emperor statue and 85-foot pink tower topped with a golden dome. Inside, the focus is on entertainment. Cliff divers, strolling mariachis, flame jugglers, and arcade games keep youngsters (and their parents) enthralled for at least two or three hours. Meals include standard tacos and burritos, followed by tasty sopaipillas. But most folks don't come here for food ­ they come for the show!

CHERRY CREEK. A long-time standby, this Mexican restaurant really packs a punch with its tangy salsa, guacamole, and savory pork, chicken and beef tucked into soft tortillas. Self-service is the name of the game, and folks gather to enjoy the tasty fare, much of which features grilled ingredients. Casual atmosphere coupled with low prices makes Chez Jose a great value.

GOLDEN TRIANGLE. This cheery blue house doesn't look like a typical restaurant, and its intensely-flavored cuisine and generously-poured drinks don't make for typical dining. Come early to beat the ever-present crowds and grab a comfy chair on the pleasant stone patio if the weather permits. Start with a pitcher of sinfully good mojitos while you peruse the menu. Ceviches are fresh and inviting; sandwiches and main courses like camarones habanero (pan-roasted black tiger shrimp) provide heartier fare.