If the set designers of From Dusk Till Dawn and Colonial House got together, the sexy Bodega Negra would be their love child. Part Mexican cantina, part lounge, a wall of biker chains interlaced with guitars and stocks (as in stocks and shackles) separates the bar of many tequila and mezcal shots from the dining room. Though being connected to the Dream Downtown does bring in some families, mostly Millenials dot the booths and tables for the antojitos, ceviches, soft tacos, tostaditas and requisite guacamole. While most Mexican spots will try to "get you" with the ubiquitous dip, Bodega's really will; their warm and just salty enough tortilla strips and disturbingly addictive guac could be the crack-cocaine of the avocado world. Other tasty bits include the grilled corn salad, which with its lime and chopped jalapeno, delivers a little summer in a bowl; the Peking duck tacos, just right with the kumquat jelly; and their most popular item, the grilled fish tacos with tomatillo salsa and crunchy chayote jicama. It would have been easy for this dimly lit hipster spot to turn out so-so fare, but Bodega Negra does not. The setting is lively but the food is also truly enjoyable. The room seems to attract mostly groups which works for the substantial dessert servings of such options as a tres leches cake and strawberry shortcake biscuit. We lingered, and you will want to as well.

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