My last post seems to have jinxed spring!  So while we are getting 8" of snow right now I will only say this...We mowed the lawn and planted flowers in the front yard last weekend and are so pleased.  I feel like I'm contributing to the neighborhood finally.  

I have two new (new to me) restaurants to report on, both Mexican.  One is Patzcuaro's on 32nd east of Federal.  The other is La Cocinita on 29th just a few blocks east of Sheridan.  Both are delicious and I recommend them for varying reasons.  One thing in common is that they are very "locals" populated.

The best margarita  I have had in Denver (and I don't say this lightly) is at Patzcuaro's.  There is only one variety and I think only one size.   It costs 4 or 5 bucks and is served in a jumbo goblet.  It is made with a mix that DOES NOT give you heart burn!!! It tastes so good that I had to remind myself to slow down drinking it.  I couldn't stop saying "Wow, this is so good.  Possibly the best.  In fact, the best."  The chips are salty (which I love) and the salsa is awesome.  I can best describe the food as simple and straight forward.  I ordered carnitas taco's and the tampiquena which is a grilled thinly cut steak and includes a chicken enchilada (which was covered in a fantastic enchilada sauce).  The taco's: tortilla & marinated meat, with guacamole and a lime wedge on the side. Simple and good.  The place: lots of wood booths and the walls covered in Mexican Revolution posters.  I didn't notice sombrero's or any other "typical" mexican restaurant decor.  There was a large screen T.V. that was playing college basketball.  It was comfortable and I will be back.  

La Cocinita on the other hand is what I would call a family style place more interested in serving good food than in fancy decorations and furniture.  Not a trendy place whatsoever and thank God for that.  The margarita's are good and cheap... order a pitcher (again, I think only one kind). They are huge and more than enough for two diners.  While the chips and salsa are standard, portions here are generous and the food is yummy.  The menu is pretty extensive and could be overwhelming unless you are me who 9 times out of 10 order the same thing.  There is outside seating in the front but I don't know if I can bring Dylan or not.  My girlfriend and I each order entrees and share a pitcher of Margs, are absolutely stuffed and a bit tipsy, all for $34 bucks.  You heard me.  $34 bucks.  OK, best deal in town. 

Two weeks ago Dylan was diagnosed with some kind of bone disease that eventually goes away but causes excruciating pain for him. We took him in because he started to limp.  We are giving him pain and anti-flamatory pills hidden in peanut butter and he is doing very well.  He is very busy making friends but hasn't had a chance to go out to eat lately (the economy and all).  He is currently in the backyard making snow angels.  Once again I am so glad that we have hardwood floors.  

OK, does Mondo Vino deliver? Perhaps I can get Dylan to pull me by sled for a beer run...