Caliente is quirky, cozy, and serves up excellent Latin dishes; all in all, it’s sure to charm any date. If the decor of yellow walls, multicolored masks, murals and Mexican tile doesn’t get your attention, the unusual menu will. Get started with the tequila mojo marinated jumbo shrimp or the red chile pork tamalitos (this dish carries the terrific title, “Tamales de mi Abuelita”). Then try to restrain yourself when selecting your next courses.

You’ll be tempted to order everything, but a good strategy would be to choose something from the Fuerte-Entrees list and then ask your companion to pick either enchiladas (like the one with baby zucchini and grilled portabellos) or the tacos with slow-roasted pork in chile pulla. Then divvy up the plates or switch in the middle of the meal; either way, don’t let anything that’s put on your table go untasted by all parties. We don’t advocate thievery, but you’ll certainly be tempted to pocket one of the gorgeous blue-edged frosted glasses. Since you can’t take them with you, just enjoy the sangria that’s poured into them.

Average cost: $21-$30

Centerstage Reviewer: Abigail Derecho