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Mexican standout Guadalupe Restaurant is a culinary

blessing, which is appropriate since the décor is inspired

by the patron saint of Mexico. The mood is set by two huge

candelabras that warm the bright red walls and exposed

beam ceiling. Candlelight flickersoff the mosaic

stained-glass bar whose centerpiece is a crucifix.

The dark smoky seating resembles pews.

A big basket of tortilla chips and “Guadalupe Salsa” – an orange

pepper puree that is slightly spicy and impossible to stop

eating – arrives when you sit down. An inventive bar menu

serves cerveza complemented by house specialties like Sangria

Margaritas.

Guadalupe offers a self-described gourmet menu. The most

popular dish, according to Chef Geraldo Lopez, is the Guadalupe

Camerones, an appetizer of shrimp in mole sauce. Musthave

entrees include fajitas – which serve two – ($16.95) or

the Short Ribs el Diablo served with chipotle mashed potatoes

and garlic spinach ($17.95). It’s one of several truly unique

and mouth-watering recipes that Chef Lopez learned from his

grandmother. To miss them on a visit would be sinful.

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