La Bodeguita del Medio

Guys' Night Out started the New Year in style with a perfect evening at La Bodeguita del Medio. Happily, Michael was behind the bar and we were able to catch up over a few mojitos before the meal and then over some rum and desserts after dinner.

Michael is a great guy, and his restaurant is even better. With its top-notch staff, fresh entrees and oh too tasty drinks it has been near the top of my list for dining experience since it opened 8 years ago. I must have had 100 meals at LBDM and I haven't been disappointed once.

La Bodeguita del Medio is a perfect spot for a date or entertaining a larger party. If you haven't been, go - and for an extra-special experience, try these tips:

• Gather up a group of 4-8 close friends and make a reservation. LBDM is casual but it is also quite popular
• Arrive a little early and start with a mojito or Hemingway from the bar. Non-rum drinkers should consider a Chimay (on tap) or one of their wines by the glass
• Stay in the bar for appetizers or move to your table. Either way, order empanadas (watch out for the spicy slaw), crab cakes and their unique take on ceviche. Have at least one person try the conch chowder as it is as good as it is hard to find
• Let your mood dictate your entree since they are all delicious. From the current menu, I rotate between the succulent masitas, the flavorful tierra y mar, the decadent ajiaco, the somewhat lighter rum prawns and the always wonderful special fish of the day
• Take a deep breath after dinner; you need to make room for dessert. My favorites are the refreshing key lime tart and the insanely rich Havana bananas
• Retire to the bar (or for cigar smokers, the cigar lounge) for a nightcap. The Ron Zacapa Centenario is fine choice.

Finally, get to know the folks at La Bodeguita del Medio as you will be back again.

Bonus link: drink recipes

La Bodeguita Del Medio, 463 S California Ave, Palo Alto, CA (650) 326-7762