The decor of Angels and Mariachis is an aggressively assembled affair. Calavera skeletons on the walls, lucha libre masks on the bar shelves and cowboy portraits stare you down from all around, daring you to think of another Mexican cultural touchstone that they have not added to the walls (or tables, in the case of the religious candles). The colored track lights reflect softly off the new painted tin roof, and overall, the effect is certainly immersive, if occasionally over-the-top. While the bar is billed as a rock cantina, the selections on our visit didn't range farther than Johnny Cash and the Red Hot Chili Peppers—rockers, to be sure, but hardly close to mariachis.

The imported beer selection is decent; domestics are $4, while imports are $5. The margaritas are only $6, but out of seven different varieties, six of them are served in small mugs with large amounts of ice. A wide variety of tequilas are served in single shots or in flights, which are presented on a paddle with a shot of sangrita to boot.

The menu keeps the food items to a minimum: quesadillas ($8) and tacos ($2.50 each) dominate the menu. The tables are tall, but the booths are deep; make your taller friends take the booth so that you can maintain eye-level—and keep an eye on those skeletons.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Dan Morgridge